At Rusty Bucket Baithouse & Charters, we’re not just about catching fish, we’re about making your time on the water fun and easy, no matter your experience level. Whether you’re a pro with a rod or just learning the ropes, we’ve got you covered.

We offer half-day and full-day inshore and nearshore trips, so you can choose what works best for you. What makes us different? We keep things personal, laid-back, and all about having a good time.

Whether you want to hook a big one, check out new fishing spots, or just relax on the water, we’ll make sure you leave with great memories—and maybe a few fish stories, too.



Captain Bill is a proud 5th-generation Floridian who has spent his life on the Gulf Coast, aside from his 13 years of dedicated military service. Following his time in the military, he founded VetCatch, a nonprofit organization that provides cost-free fishing trips for disabled veterans. To support this mission, he began offering paid charter fishing trips, using the proceeds to fund unforgettable experiences for those who have served.

Now, with over a decade of experience, thousands of satisfied clients, and countless veterans given the opportunity to reconnect with the water, Captain Bill remains deeply committed to both helping veterans and putting anglers on fish

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Charter Types

Locations

Clearwater, Florida
Dunedin, Florida
Hudson, Florida
New Port Richey, Florida
Tarpon Springs, Florida

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FAQs

  • Sunscreen (lotion only, no aerosol)
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Hat & polarized sunglasses (recommended)
  • Snacks & drinks (cold bottled water is provided, but bring any additional food or beverages you’d like)
  • Glass bottles of any kind
  • Aerosol spray sunscreen
  • Large coolers
  • Personal fishing gear (unless pre-approved by the Captain)
  • All rods, reels, tackle, and bait
  • No hidden fees—bait and fuel are included
  • Fishing license covered while on board
  • Cooler stocked with bottled water
  • 48+ hrs notice = Full refund
  • Less than 48 hrs = Deposit forfeited
  • No-show = Full trip price charged
  • Inshore Trips: Depending on the season and trip type, we target redfish, Snook, trout, tarpon, sheepshead, mangrove snapper, flounder, black drum, Spanish mackerel, and cobia.

  • Nearshore Trips: Expect to catch snapper, grunt, grouper, sea bass, king and Spanish mackerel, flounder, sheepshead, and cobia. Sharks are only targeted on dedicated shark trip

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