Tampa Bay is a fishing paradise for locals and visitors alike, offering everything from shallow flats to deep offshore runs. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, knowing where to go—and what kind of boat to use—can make all the difference. From redfish and snook to grouper and kingfish, Tampa Bay’s diverse fishing grounds have something for everyone. Let’s explore the top fishing spots in the area and match each one with a boat that’s built to perform there.
Top Fishing Spots in Tampa Bay and What to Fish Them With
1. Fort De Soto Park
A haven for inshore anglers, Fort De Soto offers everything from kayak launches and wading flats to long casting lines off the pier. Its shallow, calm waters are prime territory for redfish, trout, and snook, making it a top destination for those who love light tackle and quiet surroundings. To make the most of this environment, you need a boat designed to handle shallow waters with ease.
2023 Sportsman 212 Open – Starting at $68,500*
With its compact 21-foot frame and shallow draft, the Sportsman 212 Open is designed for precision in tight coastal areas like Fort De Soto. A 25-gallon livewell supports serious anglers, while the boat’s nimble handling makes it perfect for navigating mangrove cuts and shallow flats where redfish and snook thrive. It comfortably accommodates up to 9 people, making it a great fit for solo trips or group outings in Florida’s backwaters.
2. Skyway Fishing Pier
The longest fishing pier in the world, this former bridge offers deepwater access without needing to leave the dock. Fish here for mackerel, grouper, snapper, and tarpon. But if you want to explore the nearby structure-rich waters by boat, you’ll need something that can handle depth and tide shifts.
2025 Sportsman 231 Heritage – Starting at $104,640*
With offshore-ready features and rock-solid stability, the 282 Open is built for serious fishing adventures. It comes equipped with dual 10-gallon livewells, multiple rod holders, rocket launchers, and plenty of rod storage. Comfort is a priority too, with a cushioned helm, self-bailing cockpit, and optional Seakeeper ride system for smoother trips. This boat comfortably accommodates up to 12 people, making it a top choice for group fishing outings or offshore cruising.
3. Weedon Island Preserve
A favorite among kayak and flats fishermen. Fish here for redfish, snook, and spotted trout. Weedon Island is best explored by boats that can get into shallow and quiet waters. Ideal for sight casting along mangroves.
2025 Sportsman 232 Open – Starting at $118,415*
The 2025 Sportsman Open 232 Center Console is a boat designed for both fishing trips and family outings. At 23 feet long, it’s easy to handle but still has plenty of space on board. It comes with a large hard-top for shade, a built-in Garmin GPS and fishfinder, and a roomy layout with seating in the front and back. There’s a 25-gallon livewell for keeping bait fresh, plenty of rod holders, and extra storage under the seats and in the console. With space for up to 10 people, it’s a great option for cruising the coast or heading out for a full day of fishing.
4. Gandy Bridge
Bridge fishing is best at night or early morning when baitfish gather under the lights. Fish here for snook, black drum, and mangrove snapper. You’ll need a boat with stability for anchoring near structure, and the ability to handle current.
2025 Monterey M-255 - Starting at $143,467*
With a raised deck and 360-degree fishability, the M-255 is built for anglers who want comfort and performance. Its spacious layout, dual livewells, and excellent stability make it ideal for fishing near bridges or coastal structures. The tempered glass windshield offers a clear view ahead, while the layout easily accommodates up to 12 people, making it great for both fishing and cruising.
5. Cockroach Bay
A quiet, shallow estuary near Ruskin with narrow channels and oyster bars, perfect for small boats or experienced inshore anglers.Fish here for redfish, snook, and tarpon.
2025 Sportsman 262 Open - Starting at $191,145*
The 262 Open blends shallow water access with the power and range needed for more adventurous trips. Its spacious layout, smooth ride, and fish-friendly features—like twin aquarium livewells at the transom, a fishing-ready cockpit, and cockpit bolsters for added comfort—make it an excellent choice for experienced anglers exploring remote inshore zones like Cockroach Bay. This boat accommodates up to 12 people, offering plenty of space for both fishing and relaxing on the water.
6. Egmont Key & Offshore Reefs
At the mouth of the bay, Egmont Key serves as a gateway to offshore fishing. Fish here for grouper, cobia, kingfish, and tarpon. These waters are home to larger species and require a boat with range, power, and fishability.
2025 Sportsman 282 Open – Starting at $274,695*
Designed for offshore fishing, the 2025 Sportsman 282 Open comes equipped with dual-engine power, flush-mount gunwale rod holders, and bow and cockpit bolsters for extra comfort while reeling in big catches. With seating for up to 12 people, it’s a great choice for anglers who want performance, comfort, and reliability on open water adventures.
Seasonal Fishing Tips in Tampa Bay
Spring: Redfish, snook, and speckled trout fire up in the shallows. Flat fishing is at its peak.
Summer: Tarpon show up near the Skyway and Egmont. Kingfish and mackerel move offshore.
Fall: Great time for nearshore fishing; look for cobia and big reds.
Winter: Sheepshead and snapper stick around piers and deeper structures.
Choose the Right Spot—and the Right Boat
Fishing in Tampa Bay isn’t just about where you go; it’s about how you get there. Whether you're hitting the flats of Fort De Soto or dropping bait near offshore reefs, the right boat can elevate your day on the water. Ready to take your Tampa Bay fishing adventures to the next level? Visit Thunder Marine to explore our inventory, or call 727-381-4444 for personalized assistance and exclusive offers. Our expert team is here to guide you. It's not just a boat, it's a lifestyle!
*Prices can and may change at any time without notice.