As we roll deeper into fall, the Gulf waters off Madeira Beach and the Tampa Bay area are alive with action for anglers joining us aboard our deep-sea fishing adventures at Hubbard’s Marina. Even though red snapper, gag grouper, and amberjack seasons are now closed, the fishing remains phenomenal with plenty of other prized species ready to bend your rod and fill your cooler.
Near Shore Action
The near-shore bite is heating up beautifully as we transition from those summer patterns into the cooler months. Hogfish are starting to make a strong early showing, and that action should only get better as the water temperatures continue to drop. The east winds and mild fronts are stirring up plenty of bait, which means more consistent activity for our 10-hour all-day trips. Lane snapper and mangrove snapper have been biting well, and we’re still seeing some keeper red grouper in the deeper near-shore waters. Mackerel are showing up in good numbers around the beaches and wrecks, and with all that bait in the area, it’s only a matter of time before the kingfish arrive in force — one of the most exciting times of year for our near-shore anglers.
Offshore Opportunities
Farther offshore, the fishing remains red-hot despite the seasonal closures. Red grouper are steady on the hard bottom ledges and Swiss-cheese areas we target, while scamp grouper continue to surprise anglers with their fight and quality fillets. The mangrove snapper and yellowtail snapper action has been strong on both our 12-hour Extreme trips and 39-hour overnight adventures, especially for those fishing lighter tackle and live baits during those early-morning or nighttime bites. Mutton snapper, vermilion snapper, porgies, and almaco jacks are rounding out the boxes, providing an incredible mixed-bag opportunity that keeps every drop exciting.
And if you’re chasing something fast and flashy, the pelagic action offshore is kicking into gear. We’ve been spotting wahoo, tuna, and even the occasional mahi roaming the deep edges and rips — plus the kingfish migration is right around the corner. Trolling baits and vertical jigs have both been producing for those looking to target the speedsters.
Why Now Is the Time to Fish
One of the best parts of fishing this time of year is the lighter crowds. With fewer people onboard, guests get more one-on-one time with our experienced captains and crew — learning techniques, fine-tuning rigs, and enjoying a more personal deep-sea fishing experience. Combine that with cooler mornings, active fish, and stunning Gulf sunsets, and it’s no wonder fall is one of the most underrated seasons to get out on the water with us.
Whether you’re targeting grouper, snapper, or chasing pelagics, the Gulf of Mexico is open for business and ready to deliver. Join us at Hubbard’s Marina inside John’s Pass in Madeira Beach for “reel” fall fun on the water — where every trip is another chapter in nearly 100 years of family-fishing tradition.
book NOW over the pone (727)393-1947 or visit our website