FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our fishing charters and services.
What types of fishing charters do you offer?
- Inshore Fishing Trip Charters
- Choose from 4, 6. 8 or 10-hour charters
- Inshore and near-shore fishing
- Catch fish to eat or release them
- Target fish – see question below: What fish species are targeted on a charter?
- Delicious Fresh Fish Fillets
- Tarpon Fishing Trip Charters
- Choose from 6. 8 or 10-hour charters
- Inshore fishing (within 8 miles of shore)
- Sport Fishing – target only Tarpon
- Catch & Release
- Custom Charters
- Custom fishing trip with land activities
- Fixed itineraries for 8-hour charters
- Gulf Sunset charter for 2 hours – no fishing
- Gulf Sunset Charter is single-priced for 6 persons & enjoy the sunset from an island sitting on comfortable folding chairs with drinks included.
- Inshore and near-shore fishing for 4 hours in the morning of the charter for John’s Pass and Fort De Soto
- Land activities may include fishing, beach time, exploring, lunch, sightseeing, swimming, shopping etc.
What fish species are targeted on a charter?
Depending on the season and the fishing location within Tampa Bay or the Gulf of Mexico, the general list of fish species that are targeted for the charters led by Captain Spencer is below:
Target fish species for inshore & near-shore fishing areas are as follows:
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- Redfish
- Snook
- Speckled trout
- Mangrove snapper
- Flounder
- Grouper
- Sheepshead
- Kingfish
- Cobia
- Black Drum
- Tripletail
- Jack Crevalle
- Pompano
- Permit
- Spotted Sea-trout
- Spanish Mackerel
- Tarpon – target by Tarpon Fishing Charters Only
- Shark
How long are the fishing trips?
Inshore Fishing Trips are available in duration of 4, 6, 8, or 10 hours. Tarpon Fishing Trips can be booked for 6, 8, or 10 hours. Custom Trip Charters range between6 to 8 hours .
What is included in a customized fishing trip?
Customized Trip Charters allow you to choose from a variety of options, including targeting specific fish species, visiting particular fishing spots, or combining fishing with other activities like swimming, sightseeing, lunch, shopping, dolphin watching, beach time or watch the sunset in the gulf.
How do I reserve or book a charter?
To reserve a charter,
- Firstly, decide on the specific Fishing Trip Charter you want
- Secondly, decide on 3 possible dates for the charter
- Thirdly, complete the Online Booking Form
- Call Captain Spencer to verify the date of the trip and pay the $150 deposit (required at least one week in advance), usually by credit card.
- Wait for a confirmation email within 24 hours that confirms your charter reservation.
For any reason, you need help or clarification or have questions or to cancel, call Captain Spencer directly at (727) 742-4736
The fastest and easiest method is to pay the deposit by credit card. The remaining balance is due on the day of the charter and is payable by credit card, check or cash.
How do I cancel a reserved charter?
To cancel a confirmed charter,
- Please call or complete the online Request to Cancel a Charter Form.
- You must receive an acknowledgment email back 72 hours before the Charter starts
- If you didn’t receive an acknowledgment email within 24 hours after canceling, call Captain Specer immediately at (727) 742-4736
- You will receive an acknowledgment email that your refund is being processed to credit your credit card or check in the USPS mail to you.
Please note that you will receive a full refund of your deposit, if you cancel before 72 hours of the scheduled day of the charter. If you cancel within 72 hours of the day of the charter, you will be charged a $150 penalty, and there will be no refund because it will be extremely difficult to fill your canceled charter slot.
Cancel on the day of the trip; the balance due for the charter will be billed to you at the discretion of Captain Spencer because the preparations were performed, fresh fishing bait was purchased, ancillary fees and expenses were paid, and Captain Spencer has no customers and is waiting on the boat for you.
In the event of inclement weather, equipment failure or mechanical breakdown, your trip will be cancel by Captain Spencer and all moneys are either refunded or credited for a futher fishing trip as per the customer’s decison.
What is the Refunds Policy?
A full deposit refund is given back to you if you cancel your charter in advance of 3 full days (72 hours) before the scheduled day of the charter. If you cancel within the 72-hour window before the day of the charter, there is a $150 penalty and hence, no refund because it will be extremely difficult to fill your canceled charter slot.
If you cancel on the day of the trip, the balance due for the charter will be billed to you at the discretion of Captain Spencer because the trip preparations were performed, fresh fishing bait was bought, ancillary fees and expenses were paid, and Captain Spencer has no customers and is waiting on the boat for you.
In the event of inclement weather, equipment failure or mechanical breakdown, etc, Captain Spencer will cancel your trip and all money will be either refunded or credited for a further fishing trip, as per the customer’s decision.
What fishing opportunities in Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico?
Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico offers excellent fishing opportunities, including snook, redfish, tarpon, snapper, and grouper, just to name a few. Captain Spencer will guide you to the best spots for a successful fishing experience.
For sport fish such tarpon the fun is catching them and releasing them back to the bay or gulf.
For eatable fish, such as redfish, snook, trout and flounder, Captain Spencer will descale, clean and fillet your fishing catch,and bag your catch into a plastic bag with ice, all free of charge.
What is Captain Spencer's Qualifications?
Captain Spencer has over 20 years of fishing experience and has been operating fishing trip charters for over 10 years. He holds USCG Master Captain Licensed and is insured as full-time professional charter captain with extensive knowledge of the Tampa Bay inshore and near-shore fishing. It’s estimated that he has personally conducted over 5,000 charters.
Captain Spencer is also an expert fisherman and professional fisherman that has competed numerous in major league fishing tournaments and has been featured in articles in fishing in magazines. On the About Webpage, there is a picture of tuna that caught that weighed 475 lbs.
How many passengers can be on my charter?
At Seein Red SportFishing Charters, we understand that the thrill of fishing is best shared with friends and family, which is why Captain Spence accommodates groups of up to six, composed of maximum of 4 adults and 2children, ensuring everyone has a fantastic fishing experience.Please note children must over 5 years old.
If your party exceeds this number, Captain Spence is dedicated to making your adventure memorable by coordinating multiple boats that travel together, keeping everyone connected and creating an unforgettable day on the water filled with laughter, excitement, and, of course, plenty of fish tales to share.
What is included in the fishing charter?
When you embark on a Captain Spencer fishing charter, you’re not just renting a boat; you’re immersing yourself in a fully tailored adventure on the stunning waters of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Our charters promise a seamless experience, equipped with quality fishing gear and safety amenities, allowing you to focus on the thrill of the catch. As you cast your line, relish in the personalized service that comes with your private charter, including expert guidance from Captain Spencer, who is dedicated to ensuring you make the most of your time on the water. After a successful day of fishing, enjoy the convenience of having your catch expertly filleted for you, whether it’s freshly cleaned for your home or cooked to perfection at a local restaurant. Make your day on the water unforgettable with Seein Red SportFishing Charters, where every detail is designed for your fantastic fishing experience.
What should I bring on the charter?
When heading out for an unforgettable day on the water with Seein Red SportFishing Charters, it’s essential to pack a few extras that will elevate your experience. Consider bringing your favorite snacks and beverages to keep your energy up while you reel in the big catch.We stock cold water in our ice chest to drink.
A good pair of binoculars can add to the fun as you spot dolphins or seabirds along the way. Don’t forget a lightweight bag for any treasures you might find, and a camera to capture those moments of triumph with your catches. A trusty waterproof phone case will ensure you stay connected while you’re out at sea. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and bathing suit.
Recent Adventures
Seein Red Sport Fishing Gallery
Reserve Your Charter Today
Don’t miss out on the fishing adventure of a lifetime with Captain Spencer Goodwin at Seein Red Sport Fishing Charters. Whether you’re looking for a standard fishing trip, a customized experience, or a relaxing sightseeing tour, we have the perfect charter for you. Secure your spot by booking today and get ready for an unforgettable day on the water!