Tampa Bay's Top Scenic Bowfishing | G&A Outdoors

Published Date: August 28, 2025
Fishing

Tampa Bay
$350 - $575 price range

Summary

Get ready for a unique Tampa Bay experience with G&A Outdoors' scenic bowfishing charter. Over 4 hours, you'll cruise the bay's shallow flats, taking in stunning views while trying your hand at bowfishing. Captain Mike keeps things relaxed, often extending trips so you can really soak in the scenery and wildlife. You'll be equipped with top-notch Vader carbon fiber bows and AMS bottle reels, perfect for steady shooting at sheepshead, rays, and mullet. It's an ideal outing for up to 4 people looking to blend fishing action with Tampa Bay's natural beauty. Whether you're with family or friends, this trip offers a fresh way to enjoy the water and maybe land a few fish along the way. Just remember, deposits are non-refundable, so plan accordingly for this memorable day out on Tampa Bay.

Tampa Bay's Top Scenic Bowfishing | G&A Outdoors

Bowfishing Bay Views

Stingray fishing adventures in Tampa

Bowfishing: Tampa adventures!

A scenic view of the Tampa skyline from the water during a fishing tour

Aiming for excitement in Tampa waters!

Bowfishing: Tampa's aquatic challenge.

Tampa Bay's Bowfishing Adventure Awaits

Get ready to see Tampa Bay in a whole new light with our scenic bowfishing charter. This isn't your average day on the water - we're talking about combining the thrill of archery with the laid-back vibe of cruising the flats. Whether you're a seasoned bowfisher or just looking to try something new, Captain Mike's got you covered for four hours of non-stop action and stunning views.

What's the Deal?

Picture this: You're gliding across Tampa Bay's crystal-clear shallows, Vader carbon fiber bow in hand, ready to spot and shoot. We've got space for up to 4 folks, so grab your crew and let's hit the water. You'll be using top-notch gear - those Vader bows paired with AMS bottle reels make for smooth shooting all day long. And don't worry if you're new to this - Captain Mike's all about keeping things chill and making sure everyone's having a blast.

How We Roll on the Flats

Bowfishing's all about stealth and sharp eyes. We'll cruise the shallow flats, scanning for sheepshead, rays, and mullet. When we spot 'em, it's go time. You'll draw your bow, aim just below the fish (gotta account for that water refraction), and let it fly. The AMS bottle reel does the heavy lifting, so you can focus on your shot. And hey, if you're not nailing it right away, no sweat. Captain Mike's got plenty of tips to get you on target.

Why Folks Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish - though that's a big part of it. Our regulars rave about the whole package. You're out there with your buddies, soaking up the Tampa Bay scenery, and getting that rush every time you draw back. Plus, Captain Mike's known for stretching trips when the action's hot. No clock-watching here - we're all about making sure you get your fill of fishing and sightseeing.

Fish in Our Crosshairs

Black Drum: These bruisers are a bowfisher's dream. They hang out in the shallows, often tailing and giving themselves away. Look for their distinctive whiskers and that telltale drumming sound. They can get big - we're talking 30+ pounds - so be ready for a fight if you stick one.

Striped Mojarra: Don't let their size fool you - mojarras are quick and fun to target. They school up in the flats, flashing silver as they dart around. They're most active in the warmer months, so summer trips are prime time for these little speedsters.

Spadefish: These guys are like the ninjas of the flats. They're shaped like a disk and can turn sideways to practically disappear. But when you spot one, it's game on. They love structure, so we'll check out oyster bars and pilings where they like to hang.

Southern Stingray: Talk about a moving target! Rays glide across the bottom, stirring up sand as they go. Hitting one is a real test of skill - you've got to lead your shot just right. Plus, they can get huge, which makes for some epic photos.

Sheepshead: With those human-like teeth and black and white stripes, sheepshead are unmistakable. They love hanging around structure, munching on barnacles. Winter's the best time to target these guys when they school up for spawning.

Time to Lock In Your Trip

Look, if you're after a day on the water that's way more than just casting a line, this is it. You're getting a mash-up of archery, fishing, and sightseeing that'll give you stories for days. Captain Mike's got the know-how to put you on fish and the patience to make sure everyone's having a good time. And with Tampa Bay as your backdrop? It doesn't get much better. So round up your crew, grab your sunscreen, and let's set a date. Just remember, spots fill up fast and deposits are non-refundable. Don't miss out on your chance to arrow some Tampa Bay beauties - book your bowfishing charter today!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are hefty fish, typically 5-30 pounds but can reach 90. They're known for their distinctive drumming sound and those human-like teeth. You'll find them in brackish waters, around oyster beds and muddy flats. Spring's the prime time to target them, as they school up for spawning. Anglers love 'em for the fight they put up and their tasty meat, especially the smaller ones under 15 pounds. When you're after Black Drum, live bait's your best bet - crabs are my go-to. They're bottom feeders, so make sure your bait's on the seafloor. If you're fly fishing, go for a 9-weight rod and weighted black flies. Remember, these fish are curious feeders, so be patient and let them find your bait. Keep an eye out for their tell-tale tail wags near the surface when they're feeding in shallow water.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are those striped oddballs with human-like teeth, usually 1-8 pounds but can hit 20. You'll find 'em around structures - docks, bridges, reefs - anywhere with barnacles. They're notorious bait stealers, so when you feel that nibble, set the hook hard. Spring's prime time as they school up to spawn. Anglers love 'em for the challenge and their tasty white meat. To catch 'em, get as close to the structure as you can and drop your bait right next to it. Fiddler crabs or shrimp are your best bets. Here's a local trick: scrape some barnacles off the pilings to chum the water and bring 'em in. Use light tackle and work your bait slowly up from the bottom in 1-foot increments to find where they're hanging. Sheepshead fishing tests your patience and skill, but landing one of these convict fish is always satisfying.

Southern Stingray

Southern Stingrays are those kite-shaped creatures you might spot gliding across the sandy bottom. Females can get huge, up to 5 feet across and 50 pounds. You'll find 'em in shallow waters, bays, and around sandy flats. They're not typically targeted for sport, but bowfishing for rays can be an exciting change of pace. If you do go after 'em, spring and summer are your best bet when they're more active in warmer waters. Rays have amazing senses - they can actually detect the electrical fields of other fish. When bowfishing, look for their distinctive wing tips breaking the surface as they feed in shallow water. Here's a pro tip: approach slowly and quietly. These guys spook easy, but if you're patient, you can get surprisingly close. Remember, they've got that venomous barb on the tail, so always handle with care if you land one.

Spadefish

Spadefish are real lookers with their disk-shaped bodies and black stripes. They usually weigh in at 3-10 pounds and grow to about 18 inches. You'll find 'em hanging around structures like reefs and shipwrecks, especially in shallower, warmer waters. These guys are schooling fish, often running in groups of 500 or more. Anglers love 'em for the fight they put up - pound for pound, they're tough customers. Spring and summer are prime times to target Spadefish. They're suckers for clams, so that's your go-to bait. Here's a trick: use a small circle hook with a chunk of clam and cast it just past the school. Then, slowly drag it through. These fish are curious and will often investigate. Remember, they're not always eager to bite, so patience is key. If you're after a unique catch that'll test your skills, Spadefish are a fun target.

Striped Mojarra

Striped Mojarra are small but feisty fish, usually 6-16 inches long. You'll spot 'em in shallow waters, hanging around mangroves and lagoons. They're not picky eaters, chowing down on shrimp, small crabs, and even insects. Best time to catch 'em is April to June and September to December. Folks enjoy targeting these silvery fish 'cause they're curious and will nibble at just about anything. Plus, they make great bait for bigger game fish. To land one, use a light rod with a size-6 hook and bobber. Shrimp without the shell is your best bet for bait, but worms or small minnows work too. Here's a pro tip: these guys swim in big schools, so if you find one, there's likely more nearby. Cast your line just past the school and slowly reel it through - that'll get their attention.

About the G&A Outdoors

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Tohatsu

Maximum Cruising Speed: 35

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 140

Cruise the scenic waters of Tampa Bay on this laid-back bowfishing charter. For 4 hours, you and up to 3 friends can try your hand at nabbing sheepshead, rays, and mullet using top-notch Vader carbon fiber bows. Captain Mike sets an easy pace as you glide across shallow flats, taking in the bay's natural beauty and wildlife. There's no rush - trips often run a bit longer so everyone can soak up the views and enjoy steady shooting action. It's a unique way to experience Tampa Bay's charm while spending quality time with your group. Equipped with AMS bottle reels for smooth casting, even beginners can get in on the fun. Whether you're aiming to sharpen your skills or just want a different kind of day on the water, this trip offers a perfect blend of fishing and sightseeing in one of Florida's most picturesque bays.

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