Charter Types

Aquatic Escapes runs private Tampa Bay fishing charters and boat tours out of Ruskin, Florida, putting you within easy reach of the grass flats, mangroves and open Gulf water that make this stretch of coast one of the best fisheries in the country. Whether you’re chasing redfish and snook on the inshore flats, running offshore for red snapper and amberjack, snorkeling for bay scallops, battling sharks and tarpon, or cruising out to a sandbar for sunset, Captain Jarrod and the crew build every trip around what you actually want to do on the water. Every charter includes bait, tackle, ice and hands-on instruction, so first-timers and seasoned anglers are equally welcome aboard.

Angler holding a large redfish on an inshore charter

Inshore Fishing

Redfish, snook and trout in Tampa Bay’s grass flats and mangroves, backed by our No Fish, No Pay guarantee. We fish the bay inlet, backcountry creeks and Tampa Harbor channels, adjusting the game plan to the tide and season. Half-day, 3/4-day and full-day trips are all available, plus a dedicated Kids Trip for young anglers.

Angler holding two red snapper offshore

Offshore Fishing

Run out to the deep blue Gulf for red snapper, amberjack and kingfish, big water, bigger fights. Our full-day trips head to the reefs and wrecks where trophy fish live, with all rods, bait and ice included. It’s the trip for anglers who want to test themselves against the Gulf’s toughest species.

Two guests holding a bucket of bay scallops on the bow of the Aquatic Escapes boat

Scalloping

Snorkel gin-clear springs and hand-pick your own bay scallops for an unforgettable summer haul. Trips run to Crystal River, Homosassa and Tarpon Springs, where shallow seagrass flats make for an easy, beginner-friendly hunt the whole family can join. Scallop season runs July 1 through September 24, so it books up fast.

Angler holding a king mackerel in the Gulf of America

Sport Fishing

Go toe-to-toe with blacktips, tarpon and kingfish, Tampa Bay’s most legendary fights. These trips target the Gulf Coast’s biggest, hardest-pulling species, from spring and fall kingfish runs to the summer tarpon migration. Expect long, drag-screaming runs and a true bucket-list battle.

Friends relaxing on the bow of the boat at a sandbar on an island hopping cruise

Island Hopping & Sunset Cruises

Sandbars, dolphins and golden-hour views, the laid-back side of your Aquatic Escape. Cruise out to Beer Can Island, Egmont Key or a downtown Tampa tour, with tubing available for an extra dose of fun. It’s the perfect low-key option for families, groups or anyone who’d rather relax than reel.

Woman holding a shark she caught on a night shark fishing charter in Tampa Bay

Night Fishing

Snook, redfish and sharks after the sun goes down. Our Night Fishing trips work lighted docks, bridges and mangrove shorelines under the Tampa Bay night sky, and Night Shark Fishing trips bring heavy tackle and big runs after dark.

Guests on the sandbar at sunset during an island hopping charter

Special Events

Bachelor and bachelorette parties, corporate days on the water, charity fishing tournaments, birthdays and family reunions. Six guests per boat, and we run as many boats as your group needs, so everybody goes out together.

Not sure which trip is right for you? Families often start with an Inshore Fishing charter or an Island Hopping & Sunset Cruise, while serious anglers head Offshore or book a Sport Fishing trip to target trophy shark, tarpon and kingfish. Summer visitors shouldn’t miss Scalloping season, when Florida’s Gulf Coast springs turn crystal clear and scallop hunting becomes the whole family’s favorite way to spend a day in the water. Browse the six charter types above, then pick the Tampa Bay adventure that fits your crew and book your Aquatic Escape today.

Ready for your Escape

The fish are out there, just waiting to chomp on some bait and tug on your line… #YourFishIsOutThere

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Questions or dates? Call or text 656.242.7172.