Embark on an unparalleled offshore fishing adventure with Reel Lucky Fishing Charters! Captain Joseph, a seasoned angler with a lifelong passion for fishing passed down from his father, leads the way. With decades of guiding experience under his belt, he's a treasure trove of knowledge. Our charter holds federal permits, allowing us to venture beyond the 9-mile mark into federal waters, where the colossal catches await. Our vessel, a 35' Marlago by Jefferson Yachts, draws inspiration from the iconic 33' Cigarette wide body crafted by the legendary Don Aranow. It boasts a pad hull and a step transom, ensuring a swift, comfortable, and stylish offshore journey. The boat is equipped with state-of-the-art Garmin and Simrad electronics, featuring satellite radio, satellite weather updates, a 14-speaker stereo system powered by an 860-watt 5-channel amplifier, Bluetooth connectivity, fish mapping capabilities, radar autopilot, and more. Accommodating up to six guests, our vessel ensures a comfortable experience. Additional amenities include a freshwater shower, saltwater washdown, and a spacious swimming platform with a convenient ladder for easy access to and from the water. June and July mark the prime season for Red Snapper and the beginning of Gag Grouper's emergence. It's the most sought-after time for offshore fishing enthusiasts. Once you've reached your Red Snapper and Grouper limits, you can shift your focus to trolling for pelagic species such as Blackfin Tuna, Wahoo, and even Sailfish. Alternatively, explore wrecks and offshore freshwater springs for a chance to reel in remarkable catches like massive Amberjack, Goliath Grouper, Mangrove Snapper, Yellow Tail Snapper, African Pompano, Barracuda, Sharks, Wahoo, and a variety of exotic fish. Secure your spot with Reel Lucky Fishing Charters today, and set your sights on landing the trophy fish of a lifetime!

Blackfin Tuna

8hr Reef and Wreck Offshore

King Mackerel

Greater Amberjack

Hogfish

Autumn has arrived, bringing lower water temperatures and prompting fish to move closer to shore. It's hogfish season, and various other species like snapper, grouper, mackerel, kingfish, Blackfin, Hogfish, cobia, and greater Amberjack, are also abundant. This time of year, with its cool weather, is my preferred season for filling a cooler with a diverse catch.

EPSG:4269

A single fisherman casting a line in the waters of St. Petersburg

1 Blacktip Shark, fishing tour in St. Petersburg

Two grey snapper fish caught in St. Petersburg

Two people fishing on a sunny day in Florida

Two people fishing with a big catch in Florida

Two large fish caught during a fishing tour in Florida

A snook fish caught during a fishing tour in St. Petersburg

Two anglers reeled in big fish during a fishing tour in Florida

Gag Grouper fish caught near FL while fishing

Three people fishing with two big fish in St. Petersburg

Stop dreaming about the "big one" and start reeling it in with Reel Lucky Fishing Charters right here in stunning St. Petersburg, FL!Claim your spot on the deck today to experience the adrenaline-pumping thrill of a legendary Gulf adventure that your family will talk about for a lifetime!

Experience the ultimate offshore fishing trip in St. Petersburg, FL, with Reel Lucky Fishing Charters, where every journey is tailored to provide a world-class adventure for your group. Specializing in private deep sea fishing charters in St. Petersburg, FL, Captain Joseph DePhillips utilizes decades of local expertise to lead you to the most productive ledges and wrecks in the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you are hunting for trophy Gag Grouper, battling heavy Amberjack, or timing your visit for the peak Red Snapper season, our trips are designed to maximize your time on the water. We prioritize guest satisfaction by combining elite-level angling with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, making us the top choice for those seeking a professional and productive day at sea. Our family-friendly trips are perfect for all skill levels, offering an educational and exciting environment where kids and beginners can land their first big catch alongside seasoned pros. We understand that the best time for offshore fishing in St. Petersburg, FL, varies by species, which is why we offer flexible scheduling to ensure you are hitting the water when the bite is hottest. From premium tackle and licensing to expert fish cleaning at the dock, we handle every detail so you can enjoy a stress-free experience. Don't miss out on the peak seasonal runs—book your fishing trip today and secure your date for an unforgettable St. Pete offshore experience!

Find answers to your most common questions about private deep sea fishing charters in St. Petersburg, FL, from booking requirements and safety gear to what to bring for a successful day on the Gulf of Mexico.

Fishing isn't just a profession for Captain Joseph DePhillips; it’s a lifelong legacy. Born and raised with a rod in his hand, Joseph’s passion for the water was passed down from his father, instilling in him a deep respect for the Gulf of Mexico from a very young age. With decades of guiding experience navigating the intricate local waters of St. Petersburg, he has transitioned from a curious young angler to a seasoned master of the offshore bite. His approach to guiding is built on a foundation of patience and shared knowledge, ensuring that every person who steps onto his deck feels like a seasoned pro by the time they return to the docks. What truly sets Captain Joseph apart is his relentless dedication to his craft and the safety of his passengers. As a USCG-licensed captain with full federal permits, Joseph has the rare authority to take his guests beyond the 9-mile state line and into the deep federal waters where the truly colossal catches live. His expertise isn't just about finding fish; it’s about understanding the complex patterns of the Gulf, from the subtle shift in seasonal currents to the hidden offshore springs that hold trophy Amberjack and African Pompano. He prides himself on being a student of the sea, constantly updating his tactics to ensure his guests are always positioned for success. Beyond his technical skill, Joseph is known for his friendly, easy-going demeanor that makes a long day offshore feel like a trip with an old friend. He understands that for many, a private charter is a bucket-list event, and he takes that responsibility seriously. Whether he’s helping a child land their first ever fish or guiding an experienced angler through a grueling battle with a Goliath Grouper, his focus remains on providing a stress-free, educational, and safe environment. His goal is for every guest to walk away not just with a cooler full of fish, but with a deeper understanding of the Florida ecosystem and a genuine excitement for the sport of fishing.<h2>The Reel Lucky Vessel: Power, Precision, and Comfort</h2>The "Reel Lucky" is a masterclass in offshore engineering—a 35' Marlago by Jefferson Yachts that draws its high-performance DNA from the legendary 33' Cigarette wide-body design. Engineered with a pad hull and a step transom, the boat is built to slice through the Gulf chop with incredible speed and stability, ensuring your journey to the deep water is as comfortable as it is stylish. The helm is a command center of modern technology, outfitted with state-of-the-art Garmin and Simrad electronics. With integrated radar, autopilot, and advanced fish-mapping capabilities, the vessel allows Captain Joseph to pinpoint elusive structures and pelagic highways with surgical precision, while features like satellite weather and radio keep the crew informed and entertained. Designed with the guest experience in mind, the boat comfortably accommodates up to six passengers and is loaded with amenities that make a day at sea feel like a luxury escape. After a successful battle with a trophy fish, guests can enjoy a refreshing freshwater shower or utilize the saltwater washdown to keep the deck pristine. The spacious swimming platform and sturdy ladder offer easy access for those looking to take a dip, while the 14-speaker, 860-watt stereo system provides the perfect soundtrack for the ride home. Every inch of the Marlago is optimized for both serious angling and total relaxation, making it the premier platform for exploring the vast beauty of the Gulf of Mexico.

St. Petersburg’s Premier Private Charter for Legendary Gulf Adventures

Common Questions What’s included in a Reel Lucky Fishing Charters fishing charter in St. Petersburg, FL?When you book with Reel Lucky Fishing Charters, we provide a completely turn-key experience so you can focus on the fight. Your trip includes a professional USCG-licensed captain, all premium fishing rods and reels, high-quality terminal tackle, live and dead bait, and your Florida fishing licenses. We also provide plenty of ice and a large cooler for your drinks and snacks; at the end of the day, we’ll even clean and fillet your catch for free so it’s ready for the frying pan. What is the best time of year to fish in St. Petersburg, FL?While we offer incredible fishing year-round, the "best" time depends on your target species. The spring and summer months (April through August) are peak season for Red Snapper, Gag Grouper, and Mahi Mahi, offering high-action trips and calm seas. If you are looking for Hogfish or massive Amberjack, the cooler fall and winter months provide excellent bottom fishing opportunities in the Gulf of Mexico. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for the trip?No, you don’t need to bring a thing! Reel Lucky Fishing Charters provides top-of-the-line Shimano and G. Loomis rods and reels specifically selected for the heavy-duty demands of offshore fishing. However, if you have a "lucky" rod that you’ve been dying to test out against a Gulf of Mexico Grouper, you are more than welcome to bring it along—just let Captain Joseph know ahead of time. How much does a full-day fishing charter cost in St. Petersburg, FL?The cost of a private charter varies based on the duration of the trip and the distance offshore. We offer 4-hour, 6-hour, and 8-hour (full-day) excursions to fit your schedule and budget. For our current rates and most up-to-date pricing on deep sea adventures, please visit our [Rates &amp; Booking Page] or call us directly for a custom quote for your group of up to six guests. Is the Reel Lucky vessel safe for children and families?Absolutely! We specialize in family-friendly fishing adventures. Our 35' Marlago is a stable, wide-body vessel with high gunnels and plenty of seating, making it incredibly safe for younger anglers. Captain Joseph is patient and loves teaching kids how to reel in their first fish, ensuring the entire family has a fun, memorable, and safe day on the water. What should I bring with me on my St. Petersburg fishing trip?To ensure you stay comfortable, we recommend bringing polarized sunglasses, a hat, non-spray sunscreen (spray can make the deck slippery), and any food or drinks you’d like for the day. While we provide the ice and coolers, you may want to bring a small cooler to leave in your vehicle so you can transport your cleaned fish fillets home safely after the trip. Is cleaning and filleting included in the fishing trip price?Yes, professional fish cleaning and filleting are always included with Reel Lucky Fishing Charters. After we return to the dock in St. Petersburg, Captain Joseph will expertly clean, fillet, and bag your legal catches. We can even recommend a few local "hook and cook" restaurants nearby where you can take your fresh fillets and have them prepared for a delicious post-charter meal. How many people can go on a private charter with Reel Lucky?Our federal permits and vessel size allow us to take a maximum of six guests per trip. This ensures that everyone on board has plenty of room to fish, move around comfortably, and receive personalized attention from the captain. Whether you’re a group of serious anglers or a family of six, you’ll have the entire boat to yourselves for a truly private experience. What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my charter?Safety is our absolute priority. If Captain Joseph determines that the weather or sea conditions in the Gulf are unsafe for your scheduled trip, we will notify you as early as possible to reschedule your adventure. If we cannot find a date that works for your group due to a weather cancellation, your deposit will be fully refunded. Do I need a fishing license to fish with Reel Lucky Fishing Charters?No. One of the perks of booking a professional charter in St. Petersburg is that our vessel’s commercial license covers every guest on board. You do not need to purchase an individual Florida saltwater fishing license, saving you both money and the hassle of paperwork before you hit the water.

Sunshine Skyway - Hillsborough, FL Fishing Report on 10th Oct, 2023

AUTHOR

Joseph DePhillips

NOTES

8hr Reef and Wreck Offshore

Sunshine Skyway - Hillsborough, FL

STATS

CATCHES

12 Total Catches

Total catches12

Blackfin Tuna

Catches - 3

King Mackerel

Catches - 6

Greater Amberjack

Catches - 2

Hogfish

Catches - 1

Reel Lucky Fishing Charters Available Trips

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