First Cast Fishing Charters 

4.9/5 (87 reviews)
 
State licensed
 Pinellas Point Drive South, St. Petersburg, FL 33712, United States

First Cast Fishing Charters 

Up to 9 miles
St. Petersburg, FL, United States
23 ft
4
4.9/5 (87 reviews)

What better way to explore the Tampa Bay than with a premier inshore fishing charter? Whether you're a first-timer or a local going after your personal best, First Cast Fishing Charters will do everything possible to make your dreams come true. Captain Bernie Vinoski brings to the deck over two decades of fishing experience in and around the Tampa Bay area. He knows the waters like the back of his hand, so can tailor any trip to your desires.

You'll fish aboard a custom built 23' Aeon tower boat with all the latest electronics and gear fitted for a smooth, confident ride. This boat is designed to handle the shallow water of the flats, the ever-changing conditions in the bay, and the deeper waters of the Gulf. The Aeon features a spacious casting deck, two live wells, a 10' Powerpole Blade, Minn Kota GPS Trolling Motor, and a full T-top offering shade on warm summer days.

The fall months always provide a rush through the veins, as the fish stack up in every corner and on every flat. This time of year, completing your inshore slam of Snook, Redfish, and Trout is an everyday possibility. During the season, you'll even get the chance to go after Tarpon – the most prized inshore species there is. But whatever time of year you come, you're in for an exciting tussle with the fish, and a delicious treat to take home.

There are plenty of Shimano and Tsunami rods and reels for all on board, and you'll even have enough space to fish at the same time. Live bait is usually be prepared before the trip, but even if it needs to be caught, Capt. Bernie won't let it eat into your trip time! Whether chasing Snook and Redfish in the bays, or fishing the stunning beaches for Tarpon and Kingfish, you're in for a first-class experience with First Cast Fishing Charters. Take advantage now!

What better way to explore the Tampa Bay than with a premier inshore fishing charter? Whether you're a first-timer or a local going after your personal best, First Cast Fishing Charters will do everything possible to make your dreams come true. Captain Bernie Vinoski brings to the deck over two decades of fishing experience in and around the Tampa Bay area. He knows the waters like the back of his hand, so can tailor any trip to your desires.

You'll fish aboard a custom built 23' Aeon tower boat with all the latest electronics and gear fitted for a smooth, confident ride. This boat is designed to handle the shallow water of the flats, the ever-changing conditions in the bay, and the deeper waters of the Gulf. The Aeon features a spacious casting deck, two live wells, a 10' Powerpole Blade, Minn Kota GPS Trolling Motor, and a full T-top offering shade on warm summer days.

The fall months always provide a rush through the veins, as the fish stack up in every corner and on every flat. This time of year, completing your inshore slam of Snook, Redfish, and Trout is an everyday possibility. During the season, you'll even get the chance to go after Tarpon – the most prized inshore species there is. But whatever time of year you come, you're in for an exciting tussle with the fish, and a delicious treat to take home.

There are plenty of Shimano and Tsunami rods and reels for all on board, and you'll even have enough space to fish at the same time. Live bait is usually be prepared before the trip, but even if it needs to be caught, Capt. Bernie won't let it eat into your trip time! Whether chasing Snook and Redfish in the bays, or fishing the stunning beaches for Tarpon and Kingfish, you're in for a first-class experience with First Cast Fishing Charters. Take advantage now!

Bernie Vinoski
Captain
Bernie Vinoski
10 years of experience
responds within an hour

Trip availability and prices

Trip Date:
Group Size:
Select date to see availability
July 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Number of days
1
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
Almost there...
1/4 Day (2hour Special)
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
2 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
(Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun)
Cobia
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Permit
+8
US $300
Entire boat: 2 people
Half Day Trip (AM)
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Permit
Snook
+8
US $600
Entire boat: 2 people
4 hour Mid-Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 11:15 AM
Cobia
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Snook
+8
US $600
Entire boat: 2 people
4 Hour Afternoon Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 1:15 PM
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Permit
Snook
+7
US $600
Entire boat: 2 people
3/4 Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Permit
Snook
Tarpon
+6
US $800
Entire boat: 2 people
Full Day 8 hours
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:15 AM
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Permit
Snook
+8
US $1,050
Entire boat: 2 people
There is 1 person looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

4.9
87 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
4.9
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (81)

What anglers say

100%
Great experience
100%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
91%
Recommended
95%
Caught fish

All reviews (87)

Frequently mentioned
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Showing 15 of 90 reviews
Liam Stone
Liam Stone
us
Washington State, US
Member since 2026
The captain canceled
May 17, 2026
Trip was supposed to happen on May 17, 2026

The charter operator canceled on trip date. This is an automated posting.

Sloan Morale
Sloan Morale
us
Texas, US
Member since 2026
The captain canceled
March 28, 2026
Trip was supposed to happen on March 28, 2026

The charter operator canceled on trip date. This is an automated posting.

Lacy Harrison
Lacy Harrison
us
Florida, US
Member since 2022
The captain canceled
March 28, 2026
Trip was supposed to happen on March 28, 2026

The charter operator canceled on trip date. This is an automated posting.

Devon Frady
Devon Frady
Repeat angler
us
South Carolina, US
Member since 2024
2 trips
5.0
Verified
Awesome day on the water
Half Day Trip (AM) on July 2, 20241 adult

Capt Bernie was amazing! Very knowledgeable about the species we were catching and knew multiple places to catch them to ensure we were catching the entire trip. I only did the 4 hour trip this time but next time will be longer. Bernie is very friendly and overall just a great person. I didn’t have to bring a single item on the boat, he had everything we would need. Bernie went above and beyond to make my first ocean fishing trip unforgettable!

Reported catch:
Snook
Jack Crevalle
Bernie Vinoski
Response from Captain

Great day guys! Thanks for booking!

Ray Woodruff
Ray Woodruff
us
Pennsylvania, US
Member since 2024
5.0
Verified
Fun Day
Half Day Trip (AM) on March 21, 20252 adults

It was a pleasure to fish with Captain Bernie. Friendly, knowledgeable and skilled with his craft. His boat was comfortable and expertly handled along with all equipment on board. I would surely recommend Captain Bernie for a great experience on the water.

Reported catch:
Snook
Bernie Vinoski
Response from Captain

Thanks for the kind words Ray. I look forward to fishing with you again. Call me when you come down in October and we'll get you on some more fish.

FAQs about First Cast Fishing Charters

First Cast Fishing Charters offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $300 per group, additional US $25 per person after 2 guests - 1/4 Day (2hour Special) (2 hours)
  • US $600 per group, additional US $25 per person after 2 guests - 4 Hour Afternoon Trip (4 hours)
  • US $600 per group, additional US $25 per person after 2 guests - 4 hour Mid-Day Trip (4 hours)
  • US $600 per group, additional US $25 per person after 2 guests - Half Day Trip (AM) (4 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $35 per person after 2 guests - 3/4 Day Trip (6 hours)
  • US $1,000 per group, additional US $50 per person after 1 guest - Full Day 8 hours (8 hours)
When you book a trip with First Cast Fishing Charters, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well
  • Multimedia system
  • Wireless trolling motor
  • Ice box Yeti 110qt
Trips booked with First Cast Fishing Charters include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait (Live bait is included in all 4, 6, and 8hr trips. 2 hour trips do not include live bait but can be added for a small fee of $25.)
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Cleaning of fish is included in all trips.)
  • Drinks (Water, Gatorade)
  • Fishing license (Fishing licenses are included with all trips free of cost.)
First Cast Fishing Charters offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing
  • Nearshore fishing
  • Reef fishing
  • Flats fishing
  • Backcountry fishing
First Cast Fishing Charters offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Trolling
  • Spinning
Top targeted fish species with First Cast Fishing Charters include:
  • Grouper (Gag)
  • Jack Crevalle
  • King Mackerel (Kingfish)
  • Permit
  • Pompano
  • Redfish
  • Snapper (Mangrove)
  • Snook
  • Spanish Mackerel
  • Speckled Trout
  • Tripletail

Your captain

Bernie Vinoski
Bernie Vinoski
Bernie Vinoski

St. Petersburg, Florida, United States

16 Fishing Reports
90 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since November 2018

I have been addicted to fishing for most of my life. My father and grandfather, both Miami natives, put a rod in my hand at a very young age. I have 20+ years of solid experience fishing the Tampa Bay, Florida Keys, East Coast, and have traveled many times to Central America, the Caribbean, and Mexico fishing with some of the most well-known guides in search of trophies. I've fished professionally since my late teens when I joined the Pursuit Fishing Team on the SKA Circuit and FLW King Fish Championship Series. I worked as a Chef for 17 years, fishing as a hobby through my twenties, and became a full-time, licensed captain in my late 20s. I have owned and operated many different boats over the years, from Mavericks and Shearwaters to Pursuits and Jupiters. I recently acquired my favorite boat yet, the Aeon 23 DLX. I love fishing more than just about anything else. Moreover, I love taking people fishing and teaching them about our local species and ecology.

16 Fishing Reports
90 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since November 2018

I have been addicted to fishing for most of my life. My father and grandfather, both Miami natives, put a rod in my hand at a very young age. I have 20+ years of solid experience fishing the Tampa Bay, Florida Keys, East Coast, and have traveled many times to Central America, the Caribbean, and Mexico fishing with some of the most well-known guides in search of trophies. I've fished professionally since my late teens when I joined the Pursuit Fishing Team on the SKA Circuit and FLW King Fish Championship Series. I worked as a Chef for 17 years, fishing as a hobby through my twenties, and became a full-time, licensed captain in my late 20s. I have owned and operated many different boats over the years, from Mavericks and Shearwaters to Pursuits and Jupiters. I recently acquired my favorite boat yet, the Aeon 23 DLX. I love fishing more than just about anything else. Moreover, I love taking people fishing and teaching them about our local species and ecology.

The fish you can target

Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Jack Crevalle
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Permit
Permit
Pompano
Pompano
Redfish
Redfish
Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove Snapper
Snook
Snook
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel
Speckled Trout
Speckled Trout
Tripletail
Tripletail
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Jack Crevalle
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Permit
Permit
Pompano
Pompano

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
4 persons
Boat length
23 ft
Year built
2012
Boat manufacturer
Aeon
Boat type
Center console
Engine model
Yamaha 4 Stroke
Powered by
1 x 300HP
Max cruising speed
55 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Reef Fishing
Flats Fishing
Backcountry Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Trolling
Spinning

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
Multimedia system
Wireless trolling motor
Ice box
Yeti 110qt

What's included in the trip price

Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
Live bait is included in all 4, 6, and 8hr trips. 2 hour trips do not include live bait but can be added for a small fee of $25.
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
Cleaning of fish is included in all trips.
Drinks
Water, Gatorade
Fishing license
Fishing licenses are included with all trips free of cost.

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip

You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.

More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup agreed upon reservation

Transfer to/from departure site may be available and included in price depending on your location and distance from the dock.

Child friendly
Must be at least 5 years old
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Book with 15% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 15% deposit to guarantee your reservation.

The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:

 Cash

 Visa

 Mastercard

 American Express

When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 5% charge will apply.

What’s biting in St. Petersburg right now

Grouper (Gag)Grouper (Gag)
Jack CrevalleJack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)King Mackerel (Kingfish)
PermitPermit
RedfishRedfish
SnookSnook
Spanish MackerelSpanish Mackerel
Speckled TroutSpeckled Trout
TripletailTripletail

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
First Cast Fishing Charters
First Cast Fishing Charters
State licensed
4.9
(87)
23 ft
Group size 1 - 4
1 - 4
Fish 1
Fish 2
+9
4 hour trip • 2 persons
US $600