Florida's Gulf Coast is popular for anglers who enjoy deep-sea fishing. Grouper, amberjack, king mackerel and snapper are common catches for deep-sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. If you live in the Sunshine State, you might want to buy your own boat, but visitors can find plenty of offshore charters in the St. Petersburg area.
Licenses Required
You don't need a license for deep-sea fishing if you fish off a commercial charter boat in St. Petersburg, because Florida requires the boats to be licensed and registered. If you plan to fish off a friend's boat, you don't need your own license if the owner has proper licensing. You can obtain your license online, at a local county office or most any store that sells sporting goods. An annual non-resident saltwater license cost $47 in 2010 and a resident license costs $17. Permits or tags are required for specific type of fish during different seasons. Ask your charter boat captain or check Florida fishing regulations for specific permits needed.
Equipment
Deep-sea fishing requires different types of rods, reels and tackle than freshwater fishing. If you plan to fish off a charter boat in St. Petersburg, equipment most often is provided--either included in the price or for an extra fee. Deep-sea fishing gear is bigger, sturdier and made to withstand the saltwater, which can be corrosive to most metals and materials. Standard equipment needed includes a rod, reel and pliers or a hook removal tool.
Booking a Deep-Sea Charter
There are hundreds of deep-sea charter boats around St. Petersburg. Don't be shy about asking about a captain's licensing, experience and certifications. You want to ensure that you are safe. The charters offer half-day excursions, full-day or overnight deep-sea fishing trips. Ask if there is a charge for someone who is not fishing--usually there is, particularly during busy months. Rates for half-day excursions range from $120 to about $500.
Party Boats and Fishing
Whether you own your own boat or rent a charter, deep-sea fishing can be expensive. Another option is to book a spot on one of the many "party boats" around St. Petersburg that include fishing. These boats can be found at local mariners at the Pier marina downtown, John's Pass or Clearwater Beach. The boats will not go far from shore, however, so don't expect the same type of experience as a deep-sea charter. Rates, however, are more affordable, running about $50 and up for a half-day excursion.
Guide vs. Charter
Before you choose a boat, decide what you want from your deep-sea fishing experience. A fishing guide generally has only two or three people on a tour, and fishes inland and coastal waterways. Charters will take you offshore, usually about 35 miles, giving you the chance to catch larger fish. Party boats take out larger numbers of people and fishing might not be the main focus. Those types of boat usually stay closer to shore or on the intercoastal areas.
Tips
Even if the charter includes your fishing gear and tackle, don't come empty-handed for your deep-sea fishing trip. Don't forget to pack a camera. But also bring along motion sickness medication, particularly if you've never been out in open water. Sunscreen, sunglasses and hats are a must for the Florida heat. Ask if water or other drinks and snacks are provided on board or if you are allowed to bring a cooler. Most charter boats also will clean your fish if you wish to keep it--though catch and release is also popular.
References
- Visit Florida: Deep-sea Fishing
- "St Petersburg Clearwater Visitors Guide"; "Fish Tales"; Doug Sease; 2010.
- Take Me Fishing
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