What would you recommend to anglers fishing in St. Petersburg, Florida for the first time?

The captains all have a strategy for the best outcome given everchanging weather conditions, and tides. They are not magicians. If the charter involves spinning gear, then KNOW how to use it BEFORE your trip !

Ask alot of questions before you book. What you can and can't keep , if you have a certain fish you want to catch if it is in season ask if your Charter has the proper license and tags for what you are fishing for.

We fished for Amberjack even though we couldn't keep them, it's a blast having to reel in a fish for 15-20 minutes. Pure power for most of these species. It isn't like fishing from the lake or pond back home.

Early morning before the wind comes up. Offshore is a blast if conditions are right. Otherwise you can’t miss w/ inshore fishing. Snook, snapper, sheep head, redfish a plenty

If you have motion sickness take a ginger supplement for 5 days before you go. Tip from the captain

Seek out a reputable captain and connect with them early and often. Plan according to weather reports, i.e., calmer seas.

These are the folks you want to contact whether you’re first timers or ardent fishermen…they are wonderful people!

Book Captain Mark for a great experience and successful fishing trip with over 40 fish caught and am excellent action packed day.

Be ready for anything and get ready to have fun because it’s impossible not to! Book a trip asap!

Find a captain who has a lot of experience fishing the waters you intend to fish.

3 hour trip was perfect for our first time out but will do a longer trip next time. We had a great time and Captain Joe was awesome.

I am an experienced fresh water fisherman, but I highly recommend a guide to teach you the ways of the Ocean. Some skills transfer, some new techniques are definitely needed.

I would definitely recommend people get in contact with Lock It Down charters, if they plan on fishing in St.Pete for the first time

Captain Greg definitely take care of his clients, and make sure to the best of his abilities, you get what you ask for. Calls and talks to the day before.

Offshore for Hogfish was our goal and we got a bunch of them! Alot of grouper also but they are not in season due to spawning this time of year.

Make sure you feel good overall; you are miles from the shoreline;go to the restroom before you get in the boat. Have some snacks with you and water.

Water was great. After the red tide it is taking the fish somwtime to move back in. With that being said we caught fish and had fun doing it. Saw a few dolphins and rays around the Bay

Start out with fresh cut bait and if you land a ladyfish use her as cut bait they hit that every time it hit the water

In some spots the fish were practically jumping on the boat and in other spots we couldn't catch anything. Be patient.

Get out there by boat!! The shore is really over fished and unless it's running it'll be pin fish and cat fish for sure. Use a great guide and get out there and have a great experience.

keep in mind that the number and size of the fish available are reduced because of the red tide of 2018, especially the in-shore fish like snapper, sea bass, snook etc. still very much fun

Weather in March can be a little chilly on the open water, but really warm by the mangroves so definitely dress in layers. Book it...it's worth every penny!

The weather is always changing so be prepared to modify or reschedule your trip.

The captain makes all the difference. If they know where to go, there are plenty of fish

Don't pick a weekend warrior! Pick a full time guide. You won't be disappointed with

Book a private charter. It’s a much better experience than a big boat with lots of people.

Book Inverted Fishing with Captain Martin Lane. Very professional and great boat and gear!

Make reservations at restaurant day before you fish so you have a spot at a table same night!

Do some research about the fish you want and when the best times to go during the year.

Give it a try, it's fun and a great way to explore the bay and all the amazing wildlife.