December 4, 2017Blog, Deep Sea Charters, Fishing, Fishing Charters, Inshore Fishing, Inshore Fishing Clearwater, News, Tampa BayBy Matt Douglas

Hogfish and Gag Grouper have been on the menu this past week with great numbers moving in close to shore. With Christmas approaching get your YACHTFISH gift certificate today and have the perfect gift!

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About the author

Matt Douglas

Captain Matt Douglas is the founder of YACHTFISH and is a licensed United States Coast Guard 100 ton Master Captain. Captain Matt grew up on the waters of Tampa Bay and lived and worked in Costa Rica for over 11 years. He has extensive experience in Central America, the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas and Florida. Captain Matt is a tournament-winning captain who has an intense passion for boating, fishing and creating life time memories for his Clients. These passions, combined with his experience, were the catalysts for YACHTFISH. Captain Matt is laser-focused on what he enjoys the most, and knows the best, in Tampa Bay and Costa Rica.

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YACHTFISH Fishing Charters

4.9

Albert Steiginga

20:15 18 Mar 19

I fish a lot on the East Coast of Florida. I was in town for reggae rise up and found these guys it made my reggae Festival even more epic. I caught over 20 snook in the morning from 18 to 28 inches long. My captain was great!! “ Garrett “ Born and raised in the area great personality cannot say enough about this young man and his skills.

Jim Punzenberger

01:12 18 Mar 19

Captain Matt was great, he's very personable and super willing to educate you on fishing. His boats are well maintained and spotless. His gear is top notch and he works his butt off to get you on fish. I caught about 10 snook plus a grouper and lady fish on my afternoon charter. Highly recommend and I hope to get out with Captain Matt if I ever make it back to St. Petersburg.

Victoria Schultz

13:53 12 Mar 19

Best day ever! Captain Matt took our crew of 2 adults, 2 teenagers and 2 pre-teens out for the day. He found a perfect spot inshore where we caught a ton of fish and watched the dolphins swim around us. Then we went out into the bay and he landed us another spot with lots of actions. We caught enough fish to feed us all for dinner that night. He even cleaned and filleted them for us. This experience made our trip complete. Would highly recommend Yachtfish for their knowledge and professionalism. Hope to do this again the next time we are in Florida.

Welly Juhl

13:16 04 Mar 19

Extreamly professional and fun, Captain Matt and crew execute the best fishing experience! The boat is beautiful and the waters are breathtaking. Highly highly recommend !

Fred Schmidt

20:41 01 Mar 19

YACHTFISH CHARTERS Fantastic Experience. My son and I went on a six hour charter with Captain Matt ( the owner ) . We landed 5 different species of fish. Matt was very professional and fun to be with . He truly know the waters and fish . Service was fantastic, and he does it in a calm professional manner. We would encourage anyone to use YACHTFISH. Fred Schmidt, Summit N.J.

Mark Pfeiffer

18:25 25 Feb 19

Fishing with captain Matt was an awesome time. He put us on fish with ease and it was a super chill environment. Had a great time and 10/10 would do it again

James Gazzola

13:27 22 Feb 19

We went out on 2/17/2019 with Captain Pat. The only thing I could possibly complain about is that it took a full 30 seconds to catch our first fish.......After spending the morning with Captain Pat I feel the next time I fish with him he can improve on that time. THERE WILL BE A NEXT TIME!!! It was an amazing time FULL of catching. We did very little fishing. His awareness of the fishing from the where to, to the how to, is nothing short of amazing. I feel I am an experienced fisherman that can catch fish anywhere, but there is a reason Captain Pat is a professional. The entire staff was professional and courteous, the equipment was top of the line and the overall experience was worth every dollar spent. This will go down as the absolute best family fishing trip we have ever had....It was so full of action that my son and I had the chance to catch two Snook at the same time creating the opportunity for us to take a father son picture and safely release both beautiful fish. Thank you Captain Pat!!!!!!!

Mona Tomlin

22:00 27 Jan 19

Captain Patrick got us on the fish! An awesome time catching, great company with a personable and knowledgeable guide. Thankful for a great time and will DEFINITELY plan another trip with him!

Aaron Berry

03:17 17 Jan 19

My wife and I happened across Capt. Matt during our anniversary. Fishing was not on the agenda but we figured we'd splurge on a little private charter. I am a local fisherman and have been fishing the Tampa Bay Area for over 30 years, so I am not the easiest person to please on a fishing trip. Captain Matt's intimate knowledge of the local waters was very evident as it did not take him long to put us on the fish. What was most impressive was his level of attentiveness. He kept our hooks baited and lines in the water at all times. We caught plenty of fish, Matt cleaned them soon as we docked, and enjoyed an awesome fish dinner right at the local restaurant on the dock. Amazing day, awesome experience!!!

Michael Olshove

16:45 03 Jan 19

Captain Matt was great. Left 15 mins before scheduled time, caught plenty of fish (my wife schooled me, hooking up way more often than I did). Thanks for the good time, will be back to schedule a corporate event soon.

Robert Woodworth

17:46 18 Dec 18

Captain Garrett was great during our inshore half day fishing trip! He put us on fish right away and by the time the trip was over we caught 70 fish of over 8 different species. We will definitely be back to fish with Captain Garrett again. 5 stars highly recommend!!

Gavin Stefanski

19:45 30 Nov 18

Definitely recommended booking these guys. Caught a ton, overall fantastic experience. I should also mention a cold front came in the night before so we didn’t have high expectations, however we started hooking up trout within a few minutes of stopping at our first spot. Those that were on the water didn’t look to be catching much compared to us. Will definitely book again next time in St Pete.

Robert Anderson

12:45 27 Nov 18

Our family had the best time. This was our 1st time ever deep sea fishing. Matt was just great. We had an amazing catch! I definitely recommend YACHTFISH fishing charters! thanks

Gail Tucker

17:42 20 Nov 18

We had the most amazing day fishing with Captain Matt! When we were looking for a fishing trip it was important to us that the entire family could be active and involved in the fishing. The trip did not disappoint in the least!!! There was excitement, tons of laughs, total moments of awe with the nature of the ocean. Our kids woke up the next day ready to go again! We will definitely go again!

Robert Southerland

04:31 13 Nov 18

Our group was in town for business and the snook fishing trip was a great way to cap it off. We caught some big snooks! Everyone had a great experience and plan to do this again next time we are in town for work. The captain was very friendly and knowledgeable. Definitely, recommend this to anyone in town for work or pleasure!

Roy Ezell

05:49 04 Nov 18

Captain Matt was awesome, he was informative on all the questions we had prior and during our adventure. He's a very people person talks like he's known you for a long time, not just another boring captain we have encountered in the past. We will definitely be back again in the future.

Heather Watland

22:35 29 Oct 18

We had captain Garret (who I just realized was cool enough to let me call him Gary 🤦🏼‍♀️ Haha) He was the best! He knew great fishing spots and was extremely knowledgeable. The best part was I loved how excited he got about fishing! I’m so happy we got to go out with him he definitely made our trip memorable. If your going to pick a charter this one is more than worth it!

Joshua Campbell

11:24 26 Oct 18

Captain Matt and team are top notch. They put us on fish all day. Great day on the water.

Austin Schindler

05:04 25 Oct 18

WOW!!!! This trip was such a thrill. Captain Matt was amazing. He took us quickly out to a great spot and got our poles in the water. We had so much fun catching our limit of some beautiful mackerel and my grandson even caught a shark. This is the first time in my life I have ever walked away from a fishing trip having never baited a hook. Captain Matt took care of everything with such proficiency it was astonishing. I would definitely recommend YACHTFISH Fishing Charters for your group!

paiton matyas

00:17 15 Oct 18

Wow! Yhatfish did not disappoint. I had so much fun going inshore and offshore fishing with Yhatfish during my stay in St. Petersburg. Matt and crew are very knowledgable, and they provided a safe and fun experience. It was my first time in St. Petersburg, and it was nice to learn about the town and the different types of fish that inhabit the waters there. Whether you want to go with your friends or take your family... I promise you will not be disappointed. You can't step on a Yhatfish charter and not have fun. I still daydream of the fresh tuna we caught. Some of the best I ever had in my life! I promise you will have a good time fishing with Yhatfish! No other charter even compares.

Mastiff Rescue of FL

13:28 14 Oct 18

We highly recommend Yachtfish Fishing Charters. Captain Matt donated a fishing trip to our silent auction and is a constant supporter of our rescue. His fishing trips are always excited and fun. Captain Matt is very knowledge and makes sure everyone has a memorable fishing experience. Mastiff Rescue of Fl 🐾🐾🐾🐾

Jennifer fine

13:06 04 Sep 18

Had the best experience ever!!!! Great time, and they really knew where the fish were! I caught a huge red fish, shark, and some snook! I highly recommend them! Captain Patrick and Nathan rocked!!!! Will do it again very soon :)

All Phaze

13:46 18 Aug 18

What an amazing experience we had with YACHTFISH Fishing Charters! Captain Matt Douglas made our day a win of epic proportions, we couldn't have asked for any better. We were on a variety fish ALL DAY LONG! We can't wait to do it again, Thank You Very Much!

tom howe

18:04 09 Aug 18

What Great Trip!- We decided to go on a half day trip in the Bay. Garret, our Captain knew all the local spots. We had experienced and not so experienced friends fishing in our group and everyone caught plenty of fish, it made having fun easy. Garret had us wanting for nothing. I highly recommend this trip.

Robbie Baber

12:58 07 Jul 18

1st time using Yachtfish as charter. Had a great time in the Bay w/ Captain Garett. Even though the bite was slow, he was knowledgeable with the current area and was able to find a spot to get us a couple of keepers. Highly recommend this charter and Captain Garett.

Sharon Marsh

23:47 03 Jul 18

Such a fun day fishing with Capt Garrett and Capt Pat. Had our sons (8 & 10) catching fish within minutes. For our first fishing charter this was very memorable. We cauggt trout, snapper, mackerel, catfish and we even caught 2 sharks!! Capt Pat cleaned and gutted our fish and recommended Frescos (walking distance from the charter) to cook our fish for us; which was a delicious and affordable choice. Thank you for a fun day on the bay!!

Matthew Marsh

23:35 03 Jul 18

Went out with Garett and Patrick and had an amazing time. Great captaining kept us out of the weather and fishing the whole time. We got a couple sharks, one about 100 lbs and a great fight... we also got Mackeral, Snapper, Trout and more on some markers and flats. They know the good spots and how to keep the fish excited and biting. Great experience for the family and delicious meal after at the guys recommended restaurant that cooked our catch perfectly! We are 'hooked'. Thanks!

Jess Kroening

20:21 02 Jul 18

Best fishing trip ever! We went out with Captain Garrett McFall out of St. Pete FL and had a great time. Our two sons (8 and 9) caught lots of fish and learned a ton about the bay. Don't hesitate to book with Yachtfish, you will have a Blast!

Scott Foley

23:22 28 Jun 18

What an amazing day out deep sea fishing in St. Petersburg with YACHTFISH Fishing Charters! 6 of us enjoyed the day catching our limit in Snapper. We also caught a variety of other fish, including but not limited to Gag Grouper, Cobia, Black Fin Tuna, and Red Grouper. Captain Matt and his mate Gavon were spot on with everything the whole day, they had every angle covered. They quickly put us on the fish and kept us on them all day long, I've never seen anything like it. The boat (a 33' Invincible) and all the equipment were in immaculate condition and noticeably very well maintained. Seeing that I'm fairly new to deep sea fishing, I had a lot of questions to ask throughout the day as I tried to soak in as much knowledge as possible (imagine Macaulay Culkin in Home Alone). Both Gavon and Matt were very patient with me and the two kids in our group, I was probably more difficult than the kids in reality. After our jam-packed day of fishing, we had the pleasure of going over to Frescos which is within walking distance of YACHTFISH's Slip. While we were enjoying some of the Snapper and Grouper that we caught, which was cooked to perfection by the Frescos kitchen, YACHTFISH cleaned and bagged all our fish for us to fill our freezers with. They even took the time to separate the varieties for us which made it easy dividing it all up. This was truly the best fishing charter experience I have ever had in my life. We can't wait to do it again!!! Thank you VERY much Captain Matt & Gavon, you guys rock!

Anne Elstun

15:18 25 Jun 18

Yachtfish is stellar! Captain Matt Douglas is very professional, knowledgeable, courteous and always knows where to find fish. He goes out of his way to ensure that his customers have the very best experience. His boats are ultra clean and modern. We are regular customers and highly recommend him.

jeremy onorato

14:37 20 May 18

Where do we even start with reviewing Yacht Fish fishing charters? If you want a full day of fishing, fun and sun don't even think about booking with anybody else. We can't even say enough to describe how amazing of a day we had offshore catching every fish you could even imagine left and right. Our guides Matt and Scotty were beyond helpful and determined to make sure we had a kick ass day out there. Our hooks were tended to before we even had them out of the water if they didn't have a stud of a fish on them. Matt made sure my girlfriends first time offshore fishing was nothing short of perfect and everything a great day of fishing should be. Coming in with a box that barely closed because it was so full was not what we expected but enjoyed every fight and catch. We are officially loyal YachtFish guests and they really made it impossible to compete with their charter.

Guy Henson

21:53 15 May 18

WOW! What a day! I am a FL Native, but Matt taught me in 4 hours than I thought I knew for 40 years! Super patient w/all my questions and then we caught several snook within the trip. If u get a chance to book YACHTFISH do it immediately, you definitely won’t be disappointed!

Joshua Reed

18:29 15 May 18

Was invited out with Matt not sure what to expect. The guy crushed it. The Tom Brady of fishing. If you’re looking for not only a good fishing experience but a good time, this is your guy. No brainer.

Laney v

14:24 14 May 18

Great fishing experience! Captain Matt is extremely knowledgeable in his trade - thank you for another wonderful day.

Brian T

01:05 25 Apr 18

I am a local fisherman and went out with Yachtfish this past Sunday. We had a heck of a day and caught Mackerel, Snook and a Monster Redfish (39 inches) . The guides were extremely knowledgeable and put us on fish all afternoon. I highly recommend using Yachtfish for your charter needs.

Matthew Cler

16:23 05 Apr 18

We had a great time. Our captain was more than we could have asked for and my wife and 7 year old boy had a blast! We will definitely book with Yachtfish again next time we are in Florida!

Teresa Gandeza

13:53 28 Mar 18

Another phenomenal fishing trip with Captain Matt. Right on every experience. Love his fun and easy going ways. Conscientious kind of Cap Makes everyone feel comfortable and confident.

Robert Gerding

14:35 13 Mar 18

I have been on a lot of fishing charters in my day and even have part ownership in a fishing team. The capt and owner both went out of there way to insure we had an amazing day on the water! Got 2 keeper cobia, dozen plus jacks, and even 7 snook! All in a half day trip. These guys know what there doing and put us on the fish from the second we got on the boat! Would highly recommend this company to anyone who is serious about catching fish! Extremely proffessional at every turn! First class company and people ALL THE WAY! CAN'T WAIT TO DO IT AGAIN!

Joe Picard

13:34 01 Mar 18

Excellent 1/2 day of fishing. The 4 of us caught so many ladyfish and mackerel that we lost count. Capt Garrett had all the bait, equipment and knowledge to make this a great trip!

Danny Wiz

02:52 01 Mar 18

January 10, 2018 was my second time out with Captain Matt and Garrett of Yachtfish. First trip was this past June, Tarpon fishing. They are the absolute best. Matt came highly recommended and they has been amazing both times. They work hard to get you on the fish, and it’s like a day on the water with a couple of your close friends. We were on the fish from the start this trip and it was non-stop for 4 hours. Trout, Ladyfish and Sheepshead were biting all afternoon long. 2 Sheepshead became dinner about an hour after the trip. Being down in Tampa on business from Michigan in January, this was a well needed afternoon on the water in the sun and 75 degrees. Thx Matt and Garrett! I’ll be seeing you soon!

Phil Muszynski

11:55 25 Feb 18

Captain Patrick showed us a great time. We laughed and caught fish all afternoon. You can’t go wrong with Yachtfish and their great service. This is my second with Matt and his staff, fishing in-shore. Next time will be an off-shore trip.

Terri Matheson

02:28 15 Feb 18

We had a amazing time today fishing with Captain Garett! We caught red snapper, trout and sheepshead to take home and a bunch of other fish that was fun to catch. Garrett was knowledgeable about the fish and waters. We took my my 82 father out on the water and he had a blast. The boat is perfect! Captain Matt booked my excursion and followed up with me every step of the way. We’re from Michigan and we will be back to book another trip out to the Gulf. Thank you Yacht Fish for making our fishing trip a great memory!

Charles Calvert

23:10 28 Dec 17

My brother and I had an awesome time with Capt Matt his knowledge was awesome and was very fun and professional!! Would recommend YachtFish to anyone and plan on going back in March!!

Karie Simons

18:51 27 Dec 17

Was a great time! Well worth the money. Great guys to fish with.

Rick Dalla Rosa

22:25 30 Nov 17

As an ex- charter boat owner and operator from Broome Western Australia, I expect a lot. And when you have the bar raised this high you tend to be disappointed in how other operators treat you and run their operations. We’ll I was pleasantly surprised that was not the case with Captain Matt and his crew. Their level of local knowledge and experience was comforting and ensured me I’d made a the right decision when I chose to go with Yacht Fish Charters. They know their stuff and will put you on the fish. RickyD

Matt Foster

17:30 28 Nov 17

Matt does a great job. We got to catch a lot of snook, lady fish and trout. As a bonus got to see and swim with the manatees. Thanks for the great adventure!

Joshua Weller

16:18 22 Nov 17

My first time and I have to say it won't be my last! This trip was an awesome experience and we were on fish the entire time! I can't wait to come back! I want to thank captain Matt and Garrett for their great service!

Kia Robinson

02:25 13 Nov 17

Matt and Garrett were fantastic! We had three kids with us and they were very attentive to them yet still allowed them to do as much as possible for the full experience. We would definitely recommend them to anyone! Thanks guys!

Raj Ambay

02:00 22 Oct 17

First time fishing for family. They LOVED it! Garret and Patrick were awesome and took us to all the best spots! Highly recommend!

John Mitchell

20:54 29 Sep 17

Highly recommend. Capt. Matt was excellent. He was patient with myself as a new fisherman, energetic, and very knowledgeable about his fishing spots! My wife, son, and I were impressed with his friendliness, ability to take us to several very active fishing spots, and his real sense of customer service. His boat was immaculately clean, as was he and his assistant. They didn't use foul language, drink, or in any other way act as "old fishermen" may tend to be regarded. Without a doubt, it was a great experience and well worth the money. I would recommend Yachtfish to anyone from the novice to the experienced. I garenteed you will enjoy yourself, and learn a lot.

Jakob Howell

22:13 27 Sep 17

Best charter I have ever been on. We went out for 4hrs this morning and they had us on the fish in less than 20 minutes and were on them the whole time. In about 3 hours my father in law and i caught about 50 snook, 2 mangrove snappers, and 3 nice reds. Great experience all around.

Andrew Padovano

02:12 30 Aug 17

Unbelievable! In under 2 hours, with my daughter (10) and I we caught 4 snapper, 5 mackerel, a pin fish, and 14 sharks! Captain Matt did an outandting job taking us to the right areas, and make every step of the day easy and fun. Beautiful boat with top notch equipment. Highly recommended for any day trip fishers.

David Meyers

22:37 15 Aug 17

Great time, hands down! Matt and Garett are great guys and know their hometown waters beyond expectations. They took us to all the spots and we were hitting all day. I was skeptical at first with all the charters in the area, but these guys know their waters. Would recommend them to anyone!

sean hyer

17:46 07 Aug 17

Matt did an awesome job putting us on fish. The boat had a really smooth ride and both Captain and Mate Garrett were very professional and fun to fish with. We will definitely go again.

James Newton

18:03 31 Jul 17

Capt. Matt Douglas always puts us on the fish every time with the best equipment and highest quality boats and is one of the most professional and prepared charter captains in the business today. I would highly recommend Capt. Douglas for either inshore, Tarpon, or offshore fishing for any species you prefer to target if you want to catch 'em.

Tom Lair

12:54 24 Jul 17

Been fortunate enough to charter Matt Douglas at Yachtfish on several occasions. Every trip was fantastic and very productive....Matt always puts us on fish. The Yachtfish team is very courteous and professional. They can help any level fisherman catch fish and have an enjoyable and safe time on the water.

colleen-dave farmer

02:54 22 Jul 17

My nephew and his fiancé came down for a long weekend and had booked fishing trip with Captain Matt. It was my first experience, my nephew had done this before somewhere else. We had a fabulous time caught snook and trout, tried for tarpon but no luck. The entire day was a great experience. All three of us can't wait to go back. Captain Matt and his mate Garret were so helpful and attentive to our experience. If we had questions they were so willing answer and help. Will definitely go again and share with friends and highly recommend. Colleen Farmer.

Daniel Wisniewski Jr

18:39 19 Jun 17

First time ever fishing with Yachtfish this past Saturday and it was a day to remember catching my first Tarpon. Captain Matt and Garrett were great. They worked hard to try and find the fish in different locations and with different bait. Patience paid off as I landed my first ever Tarpon on one of the most beautiful days I have ever had on the water. Captain Matt came highly recommended and he did not disappoint. My only problem is trying to figure out when I can get down to Tampa and get out fishing with them again. I can honestly say I am addicted to Tarpon fishing after only one time. Thank you Matt & Garrett!!!

Richard Golembeski

23:48 06 Jun 17

went out with Matt on 5/23/2017.The weather did not look to good, waves in the 6ft. range, but Matt. found a little calmer water with fish. Then we started to catch fish, one a 90lb. Tarpon , witch is what we came for.This trip ended up great, when it seems to start off rough, Matt. and the mate did a great job. Going to try to make it back soon.

Quinn Capps

19:20 14 May 17

Great time. Lots of fish. Took my girls & wife. Recommend for the family. Matt has great patience, the fire extinguisher went off, wife's fishing line in trolling motor and Captain Matt didn't bat an eye, just kept right on guiding. His first mate Scotty was great as well, never had an empty hook. We will definitely be hiring them again!

Michelle Seybold

13:14 01 Apr 17

My friend Robin and I were fortunate to spend a glorious morning in the bay with Matt and Garrett. I would describe our fishing knowledge of this area as novice. Matt put us on fish quickly and we did catch some nice looking kingfish. The boat is immaculate and the gear was in great shape. We could not have asked for a better experience. Thanks again Matt!😎

Jim Thompson

17:59 25 Mar 17

Capt Matt is amazing inshore as well as going offshore. We have never been disappointed in our many trips with him. He always seems to work hard for his customer. That shows because we always have the best live bait, and he knows where to use it. Great with younger fisherman as well, and so I highly recommend him for anyone looking for a great fishing trip on or around Tampa Bay.

Jennalee Matays

20:24 24 Mar 17

I have been on a private charter before, but Yachtfish is hands down the BEST! I had the best experience with Captain Matt. I went offshore for the first time with Captain Matt and Garrett few weeks ago with my daughter. They are both very experienced and professional. They both were so wonderful with my daughter, teaching her the different types of fish. This was her first time fishing, and they both were very patient with her. She caught four fish in about 10 minutes. She was so excited and can’t wait to go again. I will be taking my dad out for Father’s Day! Such a great way to spend time with family! Thank You Captain Matt and Garrett, for such an amazing day!

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