BigBendFishing.Net

Hi Everyone,

A few of my high school friends from Chicago and I are descending on Tampa in a couple weeks and we are looking to charter a boat and guide. I have never been offshore and am looking for some general information.

-What are our chances of getting offshore in late October off of Tampa Bay?

-Does anyone know of a good guide down in that area?

I found tons of people on the internet, but a personal reference goes a long way.

I figure we will set up an offshore charter and try to get an inshore guide if the winds kick up.

Any information you can provide is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

-Bill

Good moring Doc. I'm sure that you'll end up with some personal referrences from someone on this site and like you said that goes a long way towards making a decision. As a fall back position, here is a link to an operation that has been in business a long time in that area. It's a head/party boat operation, but they offer everything from a 1/2 day trip to a 34 hour over nighter and some individual charters as well. Just thought I'd offer it just in case nothing else better comes along. Good luck, hope it turns out to be a great time for your group. http://www.hubbardsmarina.com/overnight.htm.

Tom Stephens, Jr., Top Notch Charters is a great inshore/nearshore guide in Sarasota. If he can't put together the kind of trip you want, I'm sure he could give you some good recommendations. Here's a link to his web site -- http://www.topnotchfishing.com/

Thanks for the input guys!

-Bill