Ready to kick off your day with some serious inshore action? Our 4-hour morning charter out of Homosassa is just the ticket. We'll push off from Weeki Wachee bright and early, setting our sights on the rich fishing grounds that make this stretch of Florida's Nature Coast a angler's paradise. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got you covered with all the gear and know-how you need to land some impressive catches.
Our local waters are teeming with a smorgasbord of game fish that'll keep your rod bent and your heart racing. We're talking bulldogging redfish, hard-pulling black drum, acrobatic snook, and if we're lucky, maybe even a tarpon to test your mettle. But that's not all – cobia, grouper, Spanish mackerel, spotted seatrout, and a variety of sharks could all make an appearance. It's like a fish lottery out here, and every cast could be the winning ticket.
We'll be employing a mix of tried-and-true inshore techniques to put you on the fish. Depending on the conditions and what's biting, we might be sight-casting to tailing reds in the shallows, working jigs along drop-offs for snook, or drifting live bait for whatever's hungry. I'll show you how to read the water, spot the signs of feeding fish, and present your bait or lure for maximum effect. And don't worry if you're new to this – I'm here to guide you every step of the way, from tying knots to setting the hook when that big one strikes.
"Great experience, my 16 year old and I caught about 40 redfish. Highly reccommended." - Matt
"Tim. Was. Awesome. He went above & beyond to get us on some fish. He even let us tag along to catch bait in the morning to give us some extra time out on the water. Got some reds, catfish, jacks -- the works! Definitely going to catch Tim again next time I'm out there, and hopefully it'll be prime tarpon season." - David
"An amazing guide and trip. We were able to catch enough redfish for two meals. My son and husband really appreciated that they were able to fish a little more independently (cast by themselves, put the bait on the line, etc.) whereas I enjoyed not having to touch the bait, so Tim was flexible in allowing us to enjoy our own fishing experience. Tim was extremely knowledgeable in where the best odds were based on our conditions at the time. The weather was not ideal, but we still brought in a decent catch for the day. My son caught redfish, a flounder, lady fish and catfish, we were hoping for some trout, but the conditions just weren't working for us that day. Tim was personable and answered all our questions, but still allowed us to hold our own conversations, and wasn't overly chatty and loud. Tim's boat is well maintained and clean, and the boat ride was extremely comfortable and enjoyable. I would highly recommend, and we would use Tim again for future fishing trips." - Erika
Redfish: These copper-colored beauties are the stars of our inshore show. Known for their distinctive black spot near the tail, redfish put up a fight that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. They love to cruise the flats and mangrove shorelines, often revealing their presence with a telltale "tailing" behavior as they root for crabs in shallow water. Reds can range from feisty "rats" to bull reds over 40 inches, and they're at their peak in the fall when schools of big fish move into the bays.
Black Drum: The redfish's cousin, black drum, are like underwater freight trains. These silvery-gray fish with distinctive barbels under their chin can grow to monster sizes, but the ones we target are usually in the 5-30 pound range. They're bottom feeders that love structure, so we'll often find them around oyster bars, dock pilings, and bridge supports. Black drum are known for their strong, steady pulls and are a favorite for anglers who love a good tug-of-war.
Snook: If you're looking for an acrobatic showstopper, snook are your fish. These sleek, silver predators are ambush feeders that love to hang around mangrove roots, dock lights, and other structure. When hooked, they're known for explosive runs and spectacular aerial displays. Snook fishing is best in the warmer months, and landing a big "linesider" is a badge of honor for any inshore angler.
Tarpon: The "silver king" is the holy grail of inshore fishing. These prehistoric giants, which can exceed 100 pounds, migrate through our waters typically from late spring through summer. Hooking a tarpon is one thing – landing one is a whole different ballgame. They're famous for their gill-rattling jumps and stamina-testing fights that can last hours. Even if we just get to see one of these magnificent fish roll at the surface, it's a memory you won't forget.
Spanish Mackerel: For pure speed and excitement, it's hard to beat Spanish mackerel. These toothy speedsters travel in schools, slashing through bait pods with reckless abandon. When we find a school of macks, it's often fast and furious action. They're great on light tackle, and their runs will have your drag singing. Plus, they're excellent eating if you're looking to bring home some fresh fillets for the grill.
So there you have it, folks – a morning on the water that promises action, variety, and the chance to tangle with some of Florida's most sought-after inshore species. Whether you're looking to check some fish off your bucket list, improve your angling skills, or just enjoy a beautiful morning on the Gulf, this trip has got you covered. The boat's gassed up, the live well's full of frisky bait, and the fish are waiting. All we need now is you. Don't let this chance slip away – book your spot now and let's make some fishing memories that'll have you coming back for more. Tight lines and see you on the water!
December 30, 2024
Tim. Was. Awesome. He went above & beyond to get us on some fish. He even let us tag along to catch bait in the morning to give us some extra time out on the water. Got some reds, catfish, jacks -- the works! Definitely going to catch Tim again next time I'm out there, and hopefully it'll be prime tarpon season.
July 25, 2025
An amazing guide and trip. We were able to catch enough redfish for two meals. My son and husband really appreciated that they were able to fish a little more independently (cast by themselves, put the bait on the line, etc.) whereas I enjoyed not having to touch the bait, so Tim was flexible in allowing us to enjoy our own fishing experience. Tim was extremely knowledgeable in where the best odds were based on our conditions at the time. The weather was not ideal, but we still brought in a decent catch for the day. My son caught redfish, a flounder, lady fish and catfish, we were hoping for some trout, but the conditions just weren't working for us that day. Tim was personable and answered all our questions, but still allowed us to hold our own conversations, and wasn't overly chatty and loud. Tim's boat is well maintained and clean, and the boat ride was extremely comfortable and enjoyable. I would highly recommend, and we would use Tim again for future fishing trips.
April 16, 2025
We went out with Captain Tim at Seize the Bay Charters in Weeki Wachee and had an awesome day on the water. There were 5 of us (3 adults and 2 kids) and we caught a bunch of different fish – Jackfish, Ladyfish, Redfish, Cobia, and even some Catfish. Tim was super focused on making sure we got into fish, and he didn’t let up until we did. The boat ride itself was just as cool as the fishing. We had dolphins come right up to the boat and saw stingrays gliding around too. The kids couldn’t stop talking about it. The boat is a little on the small side, but it worked fine for our group and kept things comfortable and personal. Overall, a great mix of fishing and sightseeing. If you’re looking for a charter in the area, Captain Tim is your guy.
September 2, 2025
Captain Tim always puts us on the fish! I’ve booked multiple trips with Seize The Bay and he never disappoints! Snook, Redfish, Trout, Jacks; he knows the spots. Not little fish either, slot or over. I’ll definitely be fishing with him again. Highly recommend!
August 25, 2025
I have been on a few charters with Captain Tim and he is simply the best! Captain Tim is extremely knowledgeable, keeps his equipment and boat clean and in top notch shape, helps and gets along well with everyone and He ALWAYS puts us on the fish, lots of fish! Highly recommended!!! Scott
April 26, 2025
This was an incredible trip with me. My son and 2 other friends. Capt. Tim put us on the fish. It definitely went the extra mile to make sure we had a great trip. Would definitely recommend this trip to anyone that wants to catch red drum or trout, or whatever you desire. He knows where they're at.
May 28, 2025
We had a great time on the water with Captain Tim. We caught many reds, a mackerel and trout to take home. Thank you Captain Tim for a great experience. Johnnie
April 3, 2025
Capt Tim knows his stuff! He did a great job of fishing fish for us, helping me when needed and making sure we had a fun day. I can recommend you use Capt Tim for your next fishing trip!
July 19, 2024
Captain Tim was great, helpful and patient with the kids and helped us find some big fish.
April 17, 2023
Captain Tim is a great captain. I fished with my wife and two children (6 & 4 years old). The captain picked us up with the live well stocked. We got out and quickly had two lines out to hunt for redfish, snook, and anything else that swam by. Once those lines were out, the captain had another pole he was constantly putting chunks of bait on so the kids had constant action. Collectively, I think the two kids pulled up 8 different species of fish while my wife and I reeled in a bunch of snook, spinner sharks, black tip reef sharks, bonnet heads, a big ladyfish, and a jack crevalle. Of course it is easy to say, "of course he gave the charter 5 stars because they caught a lot of fish." I agree with that, but a captain that works this hard, obviously knew where to find the fish, and was a joy to spend 4 hours with for my whole family deserves a lot of credit. Thanks for a great experience Captain Tim. We'll be back.
July 24, 2023
Absolutely beautiful day on the water! We caught some beautiful fish. Captain Tim was very knowledgeable and it was a blast talking as we rode and fished along. It was a great experience. I look forward to doing it again! Thank you sir!
May 5, 2024
You couldn’t find a better captain. He is kind, patient, respectful and works hard to ensure his customers have a good time. And we did!
May 16, 2024
Great day on the water with Captain Tim!
July 26, 2024
Captain Tim took my father, my daughter and myself out for a trip. My daughter was amazed and totally hooked. Captain Tim was awesome and, had her catching them left and right. This was my second trip with him. Plan on doing many more. Very knowledgeable, helpful, professional and, great with kids. I appreciate the great experience and, highly recommend!
August 6, 2024
Great guide and while it took a few stops we landed on a great spot to end our day catching lots of variety. Even gave us cooking tips after filleting the fish so supper was also awesome! Thanks Captain Tim
August 19, 2024
Black Drum are the heavyweight champions of the flats. These bruisers can top 50 pounds, though 5-30 pounders are more common. You'll find them in shallow, brackish waters around oyster beds and mudflats. They use their strong jaws to crush shellfish, making a distinctive drumming sound. Spring is prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers love 'em for their powerful fights and good table fare, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. Use fresh-cut crab or shrimp on a circle hook. Fish it on the bottom and be patient – their bites are subtle. When you hook up, hang on tight. Local tip: look for "tailing" drum in super shallow water on calm days. It's sight fishing at its finest.
Redfish are the bread and butter of inshore fishing. These copper-colored brutes average 5-15 pounds but can top 40. Look for them tailing in shallow grass flats or cruising along oyster bars. They're here year-round, but fall is prime time when big schools gather. Anglers love 'em for their bulldog fights and excellent table fare. Sight fishing for tailing reds is a rush – you'll see their tails waving above the surface as they root for crabs. Try gold spoons or weedless soft plastics. When hooked, they make powerful runs but rarely jump. Local tip: fish the edges of grass flats on a falling tide, when reds move to deeper water to feed. The bite can be non-stop.
Snook are the prizefighters of inshore fishing. These ambush predators hang around mangroves, docks, and oyster bars, waiting to pounce on prey. They average 5-15 pounds but can top 30. Spring and fall are prime seasons when water temps are right. Snook put up an epic battle, with powerful runs and acrobatic jumps. Their white meat is delicious, but strict regulations protect the population. Look for them in deeper holes on outgoing tides. Live bait like pilchards or pinfish works great, but artificial lures can be just as effective. Try walk-the-dog topwaters at dawn or dusk. When you hook up, keep 'em away from structure or you'll get cut off quick. Local tip: fish the edges of sandbars on a moving tide for your best shot at a trophy snook.
Spanish Mackerel are fast swimmers that put up a great fight. Usually 1-2 feet long and 5-10 pounds, these streamlined fish have dark spots on their silvery sides. You'll find them in coastal waters, often near the surface in schools. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Anglers love 'em for their acrobatic jumps and tasty meat. Look for birds diving to locate schools. Trolling with small, shiny lures works well, or try casting spoons near the surface. Fresh-cut bait like mullet or sardines can also be effective. When you hook one, be ready for some zippy runs. Here in Homosassa, we often find them around grass flats and channel edges. Pro tip: use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs from their sharp teeth.
Tarpon are the silver kings of sportfishing. These prehistoric giants can top 200 pounds and put on aerial shows like no other. Look for them rolling on the surface in coastal waters, especially around bridges and passes. Spring through fall is prime time as they migrate along the coast. Anglers come from all over to battle these beasts, often fishing all day for just a few bites. Live bait like mullet or crabs works well, but nothing beats the thrill of a tarpon crushing a topwater lure. When you hook up, be ready for long runs and spectacular jumps. Keep the rod tip high and maintain pressure. Local tip: fish the early morning outgoing tide around deep holes for your best shot at a trophy tarpon.
Great experience, my 16 year old and I caught about 40 redfish. Highly reccommended.