Offshore Grouper Fishing in St. Pete Is On Fire This Season

Fishing days

Spanish Mackerel Fishing

Tampa Bay Fishing Report

Come to St. Petersburg, Florida, and treat yourself to a true fishing adventure with Playin' Hooky Charters. Captain Adam Homan has been fishing his entire life and loves sharing his passion for fishing and has what it takes to make your trip productive. His experience and knowledge of Florida waterways help him put you on the fish. Your journey will take place on a beautiful 27’ Cape Horn Center console originally built in 2021. The vessel is spacious enough to accommodate all passengers while they are fishing. The fishing boat is equipped with all state-of-the-art electronics, tackle, and safety gear. With her powerful twin 200-horsepower Suzuki engines, she gets you to fishing grounds quickly—so you can spend more time on the water. Whether you spend a lot of time bottom fishing or trolling (sometimes) depends on the kind of trip you choose. Bottom fishing along the coast is a great way to catch lots of different reef fish. A typical charter can catch between 10 - 15 different species. The most common fish on the 4 - 6 hour trips include the following: grey snapper (grunts) porgies, trigger fish, sand perch, lane snapper, small red, gag and scamp grouper, black sea bass, Spanish mackerel, puffers and many other species. The trophies include Goliath Grouper, King Mackerel, Bonita, Great Barracuda and a variety of sharks ranging from 6- 8 feet! Heading further offshore (10-12 hours trips) enables you to catch a greater variety of fish including, mangrove snapper, blackfin tuna, red grouper, amberjacks and red snapper along with other reef snapper. The charter (can) include snorkeling equipment for all guests if you plan on doing a little shelling and island hopping after a couple of hours of fishing. We will head to Egmont Key or Shell Island. The captains will be happy to accommodate any special requests you may have. You are welcome to bring your children, as there's a life jacket for every size. The fishing tackle you’ll use is all high-quality equipment made by Penn, FinNor and the big Reels Eat My Tackle. The charter will clean and fillet your catch at the end of each fishing trip, so you can enjoy a delicious meal upon returning home. Come and spend an idyllic day with Playin' Hooky Charters exploring a marine wonderland, where you can test your strength against some of the sea's famous giants.

EPSG:4269

Gag Grouper

Grouper Bites Heating Up Offshore
Anglers targeting grouper in St. Petersburg, Florida are finding solid action offshore this week. With warming water temperatures in the mid-70s, red grouper and gag grouper have become more active along ledges, rock piles, and reef structures 20 to 50 miles out from the coast. Most successful catches are coming from depths between 80 to 150 feet.

Live pinfish, threadfin herring, and squid have been the top baits, with many anglers also finding luck on jigs and slow-pitch setups. Grouper are striking aggressively in the early morning and late afternoon, making these prime windows for booking charters or planning trips.

Tackle Tips and Seasonal Trends
Heavy-duty bottom rigs with fluorocarbon leaders are recommended to prevent breakoffs on rocky terrain. Gag grouper are showing up closer in, particularly around natural bottom and artificial reefs, and we're seeing a few fish over 20 pounds being boated. As the summer approaches, expect the bite to continue improving, especially for red grouper in deeper zones.

Whether you're a seasoned bottom fisher or new to targeting grouper, St. Pete’s offshore waters are delivering dependable action right now. Booking a guided grouper fishing charter in St. Petersburg is a great way to learn the area and maximize your catch rates.

Some days are tough others are on fire!!  Yesterday was all about the big ones!! Perfect weather and an awesome group of guys!! These are the days I dreamed of as a little boy in Indiana who wanted to be a captain in Florida!!   Hats off to this crew!!  As always best fishing Captain Adam.

Spanish Mackerel

This photo is from last weekend. This group is from Minnesota and has reached the King Limit!! The story is that they had gone drinking a few weeks ago and after waking up the next morning they all booked tickets to Florida! The weather was perfect and the fishing was great! Non-stop action the entire trip.

Red Grouper

King Mackerel

Once a year, something magical happens in Tampa Bay. Hundreds of kingfish come to migrate, and the Grouper follow close behind. For a few months, these fish fill the bay, making it a fisherman's paradise. If you're looking to snag a big one, now is the time to book a Tampa Bay fishing charter with us. You won't be disappointed!
 


4 big fish caught while fishing in St. Petersburg

4 small fish caught while fishing in St. Petersburg

4 Blackfin Tuna fish caught while fishing in FL

A lone angler reeled in a 19-inch fish in sunny FL

4 barred sand bass caught while fishing in St. Petersburg

Red Grouper, a large fish caught while fishing in St. Petersburg

Check One Off Your  St. Petersburg Bucket List With Me!

Ready to escape the stress of daily life? Book now with Playin' Hooky Charters, where Captain Adam Homan will take you on a relaxing fishing adventure in the beautiful waters of St. Petersburg, FL. Don't wait - treat yourself to some well-deserved downtime and book your trip today!

Playin' Hooky Fishing Charters, led by Captain Adam Homan, delivers top-tier fishing experiences along the Gulf Coast of Florida, with a focus on Naples and St. Petersburg. Captain Adam brings years of local knowledge and fishing expertise, offering guided inshore and nearshore trips tailored to anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're after snook, redfish, sea trout, or grouper, his trips are designed for success. Each charter is customized based on season, tides, and fish patterns to give you the best opportunity to catch quality fish in the vibrant waters of Southwest Florida. Captain Adam’s approach blends professionalism with a laid-back style, making each outing both productive and enjoyable. From navigating mangrove shorelines to targeting structure-rich zones just offshore, he uses proven techniques and high-quality gear. Playin' Hooky Fishing Charters is not only a great choice for serious anglers but also for families and visitors looking for unforgettable things to do in St. Petersburg or Naples. With a strong local reputation and a focus on customer satisfaction, every trip is designed to leave you with memorable catches and a deeper appreciation for Florida’s saltwater fishing scene.

Playin' Hooky Charters: The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from St.Petersburg, FL

Purchase A Playin' Hooky Charters Gift Card today!

Easily change trip dates, times, or trip type by contacting Playin' Hooky Charters from your receipt or right from our website! We look forward to fishing with you!

Purchase an E-Gift card and your loved one will apply that unique confirmation code to the booking at checkout from: https://www.playinhookychartersfl.com/

Playin' Hooky Charters: The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from St.Petersburg, FL

Captain Adam Homan’s journey in fishing began in the lakes and rivers of northeast Indiana, where he spent his childhood hunting and fishing for sustenance on his family’s farm. Raised alongside his twin brother, Aaron, fishing became a way of life for Adam, fueling a lifelong passion that eventually led him to Florida in 1999. In St. Petersburg, he wasted no time diving into the local fishing scene, even prioritizing the purchase of a boat before settling into a permanent home. His commitment to the sport was clear—his love for angling ran deep, and it was this passion that would guide his path in the years to come. After relocating to Florida, Adam quickly transitioned to saltwater fishing, a challenge he embraced with enthusiasm. He dedicated countless hours on the waters of Tampa Bay, studying the local fish species and refining his fishing techniques to suit the unique conditions of the Gulf. Weekends were spent navigating the bay, fine-tuning his skills and establishing himself as a skilled angler and captain. Today, Captain Adam is known for his dedication to providing both beginners and seasoned anglers with a memorable fishing experience. His ultimate goal is to help others experience the thrill of catching their first saltwater fish, sharing his expertise with anglers of all ages. In 2012, Adam solidified his passion by earning his U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s license after completing rigorous training at a recognized Nautical School. His professional credentials extend beyond this, with certifications in CPR, towing, and federal reef permits—critical elements for safe and successful offshore charters. Captain Adam’s commitment to safety ensures that every trip is conducted with the utmost care and professionalism. He believes in providing an exceptional fishing experience that is not only memorable but also accessible. For him, success is measured by more than the catch; it’s about the camaraderie and joy that comes from sharing the day on the water with friends and family. <h3>The Boat: Playin Hooky Fishing Charters</h3>When you step aboard Captain Adam’s boat, a well-maintained 27’ Cape Horn Center Console, you’ll experience a fishing vessel designed for comfort, efficiency, and performance. Built in 2021, this boat is equipped with everything needed for a successful fishing trip. Whether you’re targeting inshore species or venturing offshore, the boat offers ample space for up to four passengers to fish simultaneously. With state-of-the-art electronics, tackle, and safety equipment, you can rest assured that your fishing experience will be both enjoyable and safe. Powered by twin 200-horsepower Suzuki engines, the boat ensures a smooth and quick ride to the best fishing grounds, giving you more time to reel in the big catch.

Meet Captain Adam Homan: Your Expert Guide in St. Petersburg, FL

Things To Do

Things To Do In St Petersburg FL

Licensing

<h3>St. Petersburg Fishing Charter Rates and Trip Options</h3>Inshore and Nearshore Fishing Trips in St. Pete, FLAffordable Fishing Charters in St. Petersburg, FloridaHalf-Day and Full-Day Charters with Captain Adam Homan <h3>1. How much does a fishing charter cost in St. Petersburg, FL?</h3>Fishing charter prices in St. Petersburg typically range from $400 to $900, depending on trip length and type. At Playin' Hooky Charters, half-day trips start around $450, with full-day and custom trips available at competitive rates.<h3>2. What’s included in the price of a fishing charter?</h3>All Playin' Hooky Charters trips include fishing licenses, tackle, rods and reels, bait, and bottled water. Captain Adam also provides fish cleaning and filleting at no extra charge.<h3>3. Are there extra fees for more people on the trip?</h3>Yes, charter prices are generally based on two anglers, with an additional fee per extra person, up to the boat’s capacity. At Playin' Hooky Charters, each extra angler typically adds $50 to the trip price.<h3>4. Do kids cost extra on a fishing charter?</h3>Children 12 and under often fish free with a paying adult on select charters. Playin' Hooky Charters encourages family-friendly fishing, with special rates and accommodations for young anglers.<h3>5. Is tipping included in the charter price?</h3>Gratuity is not included but always appreciated. A 15–20% tip is standard for excellent service and a great day on the water.<h3>6. Do I need a fishing license in Florida for a charter?</h3>No, fishing licenses are included in all Playin' Hooky Charters trips. Captain Adam is fully licensed and insured, so you’re covered legally when fishing inshore or nearshore.<h3>7. How long are typical fishing charter trips?</h3>Playin' Hooky Charters offers 4-hour (half-day) and 6–8-hour (full-day) trips. Custom durations are also available for anglers with specific goals or group needs.<h3>8. What is the best value fishing trip in St. Pete?</h3>The half-day inshore charter is the most popular and best value, offering plenty of fishing action while staying budget-friendly. It’s perfect for beginners or families with kids.<h3>9. Can I bring my own gear or food?</h3>Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks, drinks, and personal gear. However, Captain Adam provides everything you need to fish successfully.<h3>10. How do I book a fishing charter with Playin' Hooky?</h3>Booking is easy—just call, email, or use the online reservation form on the Playin' Hooky Fishing Charters website. Advanced bookings are recommended, especially during peak fishing seasons.