Book NowCall Now

Home  ›  Fishing Articles  ›  Species of Fish Commonly Found on Tampa Bay Inshore Fishing Trips

Fishing Charter Tampa Fishing

Species of Fish Commonly Found on Tampa Bay Inshore Fishing Trips

Published March 6th, 2025 by Steady Action Fishing Charters

Tampa Bay's inshore waters hold an amazing variety of gamefish throughout the year. From the hard-fighting snook to the powerful redfish, each species offers unique fishing challenges and rewards. Local anglers target these fish based on seasons, locations, and specific fishing methods that work best for each type.

Popular Gamefish Species

The "Big Three" inshore species draw most anglers to Tampa Bay's waters. Snook, redfish, and spotted seatrout can be found year-round, with each having peak seasons for best results. These fish often share similar habitats but require different approaches to catch consistently.

Primary Target Species

  1. Snook:
    • Found near structure and mangroves
    • Most active spring through fall
    • Feed on mullet and pinfish
    • Night fishing around dock lights
  2. Redfish:
    • Prefer shallow grass flats
    • Active year-round
    • Target crabs and shrimp
    • Best fishing during falling tides
  3. Spotted Seatrout:
    • Live on deeper grass flats
    • Morning and evening feeds
    • Like live shrimp and artificial lures
    • Good winter fishing

Seasonal Visitors

Several species move through Tampa Bay waters during specific times:

  • Spanish Mackerel (Spring/Fall)
  • Cobia (Spring)
  • Tarpon (Late Spring/Summer)
  • Jack Crevalle (Year-round)
  • Sheepshead (Winter)

Where to Find Each Species

  1. Shallow Water Species:
    • Redfish on oyster bars
    • Snook along mangroves
    • Trout over grass flats
  2. Deep Water Areas:
    • Mackerel in channels
    • Cobia near markers
    • Tarpon in passes

At Steady Action Fishing Charters, we help anglers catch their target species year-round. Our local knowledge and daily fishing trips keep us informed about fish movements and patterns. We focus on putting clients on the fish they want to catch, whether it's snook, redfish, trout, or seasonal visitors like tarpon and mackerel. Contact Steady Action Fishing Charters at 813-727-9890 to plan your next Tampa Bay fishing charter and experience the variety of gamefish our waters offer.

‹ Back