Is There a Best Season for Fishing in Florida?
One of the greatest perks of living—or visiting—Florida’s Gulf Coast is that you can fish nearly year-round. But if you’re wondering whether there’s a best season for inshore fishing in Tampa Bay, the answer depends on what you want to catch and what kind of experience you’re after.
At Bay to Bay Outfitters, we fish all four seasons, and each brings its own opportunities, patterns, and species. Let’s break it down season by season so you can plan your next charter trip accordingly.
Spring (March–May)
Why Fish Now: Spring kicks off the inshore action with rising water temperatures, clearer water, and active fish coming out of their winter patterns.
- Snook start showing up around mangroves and shorelines, becoming more aggressive as they prepare for summer spawning.
- Redfish are on the move, feeding heavily in shallow water as baitfish reappear on the flats.
- Spotted seatrout are plentiful and often larger this time of year, hanging around deeper grass flats and sandy potholes.
Spring is perfect for anglers who enjoy topwater action and sight fishing in calmer conditions.
Summer (June–August)
Why Fish Now: Summer brings hot weather—but also hot fishing. The water’s warm, baitfish are everywhere, and most species are in full feed mode.
- Snook are at their most active, especially around passes, beaches, and dock lights at night.
- Tarpon migrate through Tampa Bay and the nearby coast, offering incredible action for experienced anglers.
- Redfish and trout stay active, though fishing early or late in the day is key to beating the heat.
While midday can be warm, early morning charters offer exciting action and stunning sunrises on the Bay.
Fall (September–November)
Why Fish Now: Fall might just be the best overall season for inshore fishing in Tampa Bay.
As water temperatures drop, fish feed aggressively to fatten up before winter.
- Redfish begin to school up in big numbers, making them easier to spot and target.
- Snook push back into creeks and mangrove shorelines, offering great chances for sight fishing.
- Trout begin to transition toward their winter hangouts but are still active on the flats.
This is a prime time to target a Tampa Bay Slam—catching a redfish, snook, and trout on the same trip.
Winter (December–February)
Why Fish Now: Don’t let cooler temperatures fool you—winter fishing can be extremely productive in Tampa Bay.
- Spotted seatrout are the stars of the season, concentrating in deeper channels and holes.
- Redfish stay active in back bays and warmer shallows, especially on sunny afternoons.
- Snook become more lethargic but are still catchable in canals and rivers where the water holds warmth.
Winter also means fewer boats on the water and ultra-clear visibility—ideal for light tackle and finesse fishing.
Plan Your Season with Bay to Bay Outfitters
No matter the season, Bay to Bay Outfitters offers guided inshore fishing trips tailored to the time of year, target species, and current tide conditions. Whether you’re chasing snook in summer, redfish in fall, or big trout in winter, our experienced captains know where to go and how to get you on fish. Book your seasonal inshore adventure today and see what Tampa Bay fishing has to offer—all year long.