James Gibson Charters LLC 

4.9
(186 reviews)
 
State licensed
 John Ringling Causeway 920, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States–

James Gibson Charters LLC 

Sarasota, FL, United States
–
22 ft
5
4.9
(186 reviews)

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Looking for an adventure that really showcases what the waters of West Florida have to offer? Captain James Gibson is an inshore fishing fanatic, and he can’t wait to introduce you to the incredible species here. A local fisherman, Capt. James specializes in targeting Floridian-famous fish such as Snook, Redfish, and the mighty “Silver King” (Tarpon). Come aboard James Gibson Charters to discover that inshore fishing is just as exciting as any offshore excursion!

Capt. James was born and raised on the west coast of Florida, and has been fishing the plentiful waters of Sarasota, Bradenton, and Tampa Bay for over 15 years. He’s passionate about inshore fishing, and loves nothing more than sharing this passion with other anglers. No matter your age or skill level, he’ll help you discover your love for fishing Florida’s shallows!

You’ll be casting off from your captain’s 22’ Pathfinder. She can accommodate up to 5 guests, but your captain recommends 3 for comfort. If you’d like to bring kids aboard, they are more than welcome to join in the fun. Just let him know in advance. He’ll make sure your group is decked out with life jackets, as well as drinking water and a cooler for your snacks.

Depending on when you visit and what you’d like to target, Capt. James will happily cater your trip to your preferences. You can spend your whole day fishing, or mix it up with some island hopping and dolphin-watching. You can choose to hook the much-sought-after Tarpon from May through August, or go after other inshore favorites such as Snapper, Trout, Redfish, and Snook. Your trip can look exactly how you’d like it to.

Capt. James will make sure you’re equipped with rods, reels, tackle, and live bait, which he’ll usually prepare before each trip. Your fishing license will also be included. Just bring your favorite snacks and drinks, and get ready to discover what makes West Florida’s inshore fishing so incredible!

Looking for an adventure that really showcases what the waters of West Florida have to offer? Captain James Gibson is an inshore fishing fanatic, and he can’t wait to introduce you to the incredible species here. A local fisherman, Capt. James specializes in targeting Floridian-famous fish such as Snook, Redfish, and the mighty “Silver King” (Tarpon). Come aboard James Gibson Charters to discover that inshore fishing is just as exciting as any offshore excursion!

Capt. James was born and raised on the west coast of Florida, and has been fishing the plentiful waters of Sarasota, Bradenton, and Tampa Bay for over 15 years. He’s passionate about inshore fishing, and loves nothing more than sharing this passion with other anglers. No matter your age or skill level, he’ll help you discover your love for fishing Florida’s shallows!

You’ll be casting off from your captain’s 22’ Pathfinder. She can accommodate up to 5 guests, but your captain recommends 3 for comfort. If you’d like to bring kids aboard, they are more than welcome to join in the fun. Just let him know in advance. He’ll make sure your group is decked out with life jackets, as well as drinking water and a cooler for your snacks.

Depending on when you visit and what you’d like to target, Capt. James will happily cater your trip to your preferences. You can spend your whole day fishing, or mix it up with some island hopping and dolphin-watching. You can choose to hook the much-sought-after Tarpon from May through August, or go after other inshore favorites such as Snapper, Trout, Redfish, and Snook. Your trip can look exactly how you’d like it to.

Capt. James will make sure you’re equipped with rods, reels, tackle, and live bait, which he’ll usually prepare before each trip. Your fishing license will also be included. Just bring your favorite snacks and drinks, and get ready to discover what makes West Florida’s inshore fishing so incredible!

James Gibson Charters
Charter Operator
James Gibson Charters
8 years of experience
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip availability and prices

Trip date:
Group Size:
October 2026
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
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2 Hour – Inshore Catch & Release
FREE Cancellation 1 day notice
2 hour trip starts at 12:00 PM
US $325
Entire boat: up to 3 people
3 Hour Sunset Fishing
FREE Cancellation 1 day notice
3 hour trip starts at 5:00 PM
US $475
Entire boat: 2 people
Half Day Trip (AM)
FREE Cancellation 1 day notice
4 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
US $575
Entire boat: 2 people
Half Day Trip (PM)
FREE Cancellation 1 day notice
4 hour trip starts at 1:00 PM
US $575
Entire boat: 2 people
Night Snook Fishing - 4 Hours
FREE Cancellation 1 day notice
4 hour trip starts at 7:00 PM
Seasonal trip
Aug 5 - Nov 30
Jack Crevalle
Snook
Tarpon
Snapper (Mangrove)
+5
US $625
Entire boat: up to 3 people
Afternoon Tarpon Charter
FREE Cancellation 1 day notice
4 hour trip starts at 3:00 PM
Seasonal trip
May 10 - Aug 15
Tarpon
US $650
Entire boat: up to 4 people
3/4 Day Fishing Trip
FREE Cancellation 1 day notice
6 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
US $775
Entire boat: up to 3 people
Sarasota Tarpon Charter
FREE Cancellation 1 day notice
6 hour trip starts at 6:30 AM
Seasonal trip
May 10 - Aug 10
Tarpon
US $850
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Full Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 1 day notice
8 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
US $925
Entire boat: up to 3 people
There are 4 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

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

Anglers' gallery (293)

What anglers say

99%
Great experience
100%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
98%
Recommended
97%
Caught fish

Reviews (186)

  • Barry Prevette
    Barry Prevette
    us
    North Carolina, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    best fishing trip

    Half Day Trip (AM) on September 8, 2026 • 5 adults

    we caught fish and had a great time james was fun to be around and knows how to catch fish

  • Douglas Clay
    Douglas Clay
    Repeat angler
    us
    Illinois, US
    Member since 2025
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Great fishing trip and great captain!!

    Half Day Trip (AM) on March 11, 2026 • 3 adults

    James did a great job putting us on fish! He worked hard to make sure we all caught plenty. I would highly recommend this charter!!

  • Austin Davis
    Austin Davis
    Repeat angler
    us
    Tennessee, US
    Member since 2025
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Perfect morning of fishing

    4 Hour Trip (AM) MAX 2 on October 4, 2025 • 1 adult

    Couldn’t have asked for a better day!

  • Bernie Switzer
    Bernie Switzer
    us
    New York, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Good Time Catchin’ Fish w/ My Sons

    Half Day Trip (PM) on April 16, 2025 • 3 adults • 2 children

    We went out inland fishing with Capt. James and had a great time. Capt. James was a great guy, great to my 10 and 13 year olds, and he got us on fish at every stop. We spent the first hour on some speckled sea trout. Caught about a dozen and kept 7 of them that were 15+ inches. Caught a couple good sized catfish and a stinky needle fish. Then we spent the rest of the time hitting multiple spots along mangrove edges hitting some snook. Really fun fish to catch. They hit hard and fight hard. We didn’t get to keep any since they need to be at least 27 inches, but had fun catching a few each that were between 20-23”. All in all it was a great time. My boys loved it, and we all enjoyed the trout fillets that night that Capt James sent us home with. Salt, pepper and Italian seasoning on the pan seared fillets, then served with a white wine, garlic lemon butter parsley sauce. Absolutely amazing.

  • Jared Dunton
    Jared Dunton
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2023
    5.0
    Verified

    May fishing trip

    Half Day Trip (AM) on May 24, 2023 • 4 adults • 2 children

    Capt James was outstanding. He is wonderful with kids and very patient/ professional. If you are looking for a family friendly guide, look no further. My younger son is not as fish brained as my oldest and Capt James was able to get the younger son into it so he stayed catching fish ( and out fished my older boy resulting in hours of brotherly trash talking). A tarpon, way to many snook to count, and a trout made this a great time for all except the Captain who was busy keeping rods rigged, fish released, and lines untangled. Capt James was also really encouraging when we hooked a tarpon and kindly gave good instructions on how to fight/ play the beast up to the boat for the catch. I will use Capt James for all my future annual trips to Sarasota.

  • Jen Rynbrandt
    Jen Rynbrandt
    us
    Ohio, US
    Member since 2023
    5.0
    Verified

    Super low key, relaxing, and a great evening in the shallows!

    3 Hour Sunset Fishing on March 28, 2023 • 6 adults • 1 child

    Capt. James was on time, great with kids, and very patient. Our kids had a couple bAd experiences on too-fast, too bumpy boat rides and I wanted to recalibrate their idea of boating. Not only did we each catch a couple snook, we had some amazing dolphin watching, a really superb sunset, and best of all, three kids who are now anxious to get out in a boat again. If you are looking to land dinner, you may want to take his advice and go deeper to find those tasty fish. However, if you are looking for some leisurely shallow fishing and some family bonding with some playful banter on the side, Capt. James checks all the boxes!

  • Pat Castellanos
    Pat Castellanos
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Best time we've had in FL

    Half Day Trip (PM) on March 20, 2025 • 5 adults

    Captian James is super friendly and extremely knowledgeable. We had some newbies and he was very patient and helpful. We caught a lot of fish and got some great insights on the fishing in Sarasota. I highly recommend going out fishing with Captian James.

  • Eric Saheli
    Eric Saheli
    us
    Ohio, US
    Member since 2023
    5.0
    Verified

    Great afternoon

    2 Person Half Day Fishing Trip (PM) on March 25, 2025 • 2 adults

    Had a great time with Capt James. He didn’t waste anytime getting us the on fish. Very knowledgeable and friendly. Look forward to another charter with him in the future.

  • Sean Lawson
    Sean Lawson
    Repeat angler
    us
    West Virginia, US
    Member since 2024
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Best Fishing Guide in FL

    4 Hour Trip (AM) MAX 2 on March 25, 2025 • 2 adults

    Snook, reds and sea trout !! We caught all of these and more. Wish we booked more time the bite was continuous. Captain James was on it and made this one of the best fishing trips I’ve had.

  • Jay Davenport
    Jay Davenport
    us
    Indiana, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Fun time

    Half Day Trip (AM) on May 29, 2025 • 2 adults

    I had a great time fishing. Caught several fish of different species and sizes. Captain James was fun and informative and put me on fish. What more can you ask for?

Rating

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

Anglers' gallery (293)

What anglers say

99%
Great experience
100%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
98%
Recommended
97%
Caught fish

All reviews (186)

Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 186 reviews
Brayden Katz
Brayden Katz
us
Tennessee, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
New
Great Trip
3 Hour Sunset Fishing on September 10, 2026 • 3 adults

Caught a bunch of fish pretty quick and just all in all an enjoyable day fishing

James Gibson Charters
Response from Charter operator

Thanks Brayden

Barry Prevette
Barry Prevette
us
North Carolina, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
New
best fishing trip
Half Day Trip (AM) on September 8, 2026 • 5 adults

we caught fish and had a great time james was fun to be around and knows how to catch fish

James Gibson Charters
Response from Charter operator

Thanks Barry!

Joseph Carsanaro
Joseph Carsanaro
us
North Carolina, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
New
Fishing with James
Half Day Trip (AM) on September 20, 2026 • 2 adults

Reported catch:
Redfish
Speckled Trout
Mangrove Snapper
Flounder
+1
James Gibson Charters
Response from Charter operator

Thank you Joseph!

Jake Redding
Jake Redding
us
New York, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
August fishing trip
3 Hour Sunset Fishing on August 27, 2026 • 2 adults

Had an amazing time with Captain James! He gave us exactly what we were looking for on our trip. Would highly recommend his fishing charter!

James Gibson Charters
Response from Charter operator

Thanks Jake!

Angela Shepard
Angela Shepard
us
Texas, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Absolutely loved it!
Night Snook Fishing - 4 Hours on August 20, 2026 • 2 adults

This was a fishing trip for my son and he LOVED IT! James was fantastic and my son is planning his next tip. We will definitely charter a trip with James again!

James Gibson Charters
Response from Charter operator

Thanks!

FAQs about James Gibson Charters LLC

James Gibson Charters LLC offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $325 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 2 Hour – Inshore Catch & Release (2 hours)
  • US $475 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - 3 Hour Sunset Fishing (3 hours)
  • US $575 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day Trip (AM) (4 hours)
  • US $575 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day Trip (PM) (4 hours)
  • US $625 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - Night Snook Fishing - 4 Hours (4 hours)
  • US $650 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - Afternoon Tarpon Charter (4 hours)
  • US $775 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 3/4 Day Fishing Trip (6 hours)
  • US $850 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - Sarasota Tarpon Charter (6 hours)
  • US $925 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - Full Day Trip (8 hours)
When you book a trip with James Gibson Charters LLC, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well
  • Wireless trolling motor
Trips booked with James Gibson Charters LLC include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting
  • Fishing license
James Gibson Charters LLC offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing
  • Nearshore fishing
  • Flats fishing
  • Backcountry fishing
James Gibson Charters LLC offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Spinning
Top targeted fish species with James Gibson Charters LLC include:
  • Cobia
  • Flounder
  • Grouper (Gag)
  • Jack Crevalle
  • Redfish
  • Sheepshead
  • Snapper (Mangrove)
  • Snook
  • Spanish Mackerel
  • Speckled Trout
  • Tarpon

Your operator

James Gibson Charters
James Gibson Charters

Sarasota, Florida, United States

13 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
186 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since August 2019

My name is James Gibson. I am a USCG licensed captain and was born and raised on the west coast of Florida and have been fishing the Sarasota, Bradenton, and Tampa Bay area for over 15 years. I specialize in inshore Snook, Redfish, Tarpon, and Trout fishing. I have always had a passion for inshore fishing and love nothing more than sharing this passion with others. No matter your age or skill level I can put a trip together to fit you. I am great with kids, dogs, and large groups. I am a fun, easy-going captain who just wants to show you a good time on the beautiful waters of Sarasota, Bradenton, and Tampa Bay.

James Gibson Charters
James Gibson Charters
Fully verified
13
reports
186
reviews
2019
member since
~1h
response
My name is James Gibson. I am a USCG licensed captain and was born and raised on the west coast of Florida and have been fishing the Sarasota, Bradenton, and Tampa Bay area for over 15 years. I specialize in inshore Snook, Redfish, Tarpon, and Trout fishing. I have always had a passion for inshore fishing and love nothing more than sharing this passion with others. No matter your age or skill level I can put a trip together to fit you. I am great with kids, dogs, and large groups. I am a fun, easy-going captain who just wants to show you a good time on the beautiful waters of Sarasota, Bradenton, and Tampa Bay.

The fish you can target

Cobia
Cobia
Flounder
Flounder
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Jack Crevalle
Jack Crevalle
Redfish
Redfish
Sheepshead
Sheepshead
Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove Snapper
Snook
Snook
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel
Speckled Trout
Speckled Trout
Tarpon
Tarpon
Cobia
Cobia
Flounder
Flounder
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Jack Crevalle
Jack Crevalle
Redfish
Redfish

Real catches by this captain

  • best fishing trip
    Barry P.
    Barry P.
  • Absolutely loved it!
    Angela S.
    Angela S.
  • Fishing with James
    Kerry J.
    Kerry J.
  • Perfect morning of fishing
    Austin D.
    Austin D.
  • Booking with James again next year
    Richard B.
    Richard B.
  • Good Time Catchin’ Fish w/ My Sons
    Bernie S.
    Bernie S.
  • Best Fishing Guide in FL
    Sean L.
    Sean L.
  • Best time we've had in FL
    Pat C.
    Pat C.
  • Super Day on the Bay!
    Samuel J.
    Samuel J.
  • Great trip
    Dmitriy R.
    Dmitriy R.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
5 persons
Boat length
22 ft
Year built
2006
Boat manufacturer
Pathfinder
Boat type
Bay boat
Engine model
Yamaha
Powered by
1 x 150HP
Max cruising speed
45 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Flats Fishing
Backcountry Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Spinning

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
Wireless trolling motor
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
Fishing license

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 1 day prior to trip

You can cancel or modify your booking up to 1 day 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 included in price
Transfer from hotels or jetties in Sarasota to departure site is available and included in trip rates.
Child friendly
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Pay online in full

Pay online in full through FishingBooker and save on credit card fees at the dock.

No additional fees.

Book with 20% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 20% 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

 PayPal

When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 3.5% charge will apply.

What’s biting in Sarasota right now

CobiaCobia
Grouper (Gag)Grouper (Gag)
Jack CrevalleJack Crevalle
RedfishRedfish
SheepsheadSheepshead
SnookSnook
Spanish MackerelSpanish Mackerel
Speckled TroutSpeckled Trout
TarponTarpon

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
James Gibson Charters LLC
James Gibson Charters LLC
State licensed
4.9
(186)
22 ft
Group size 1 - 5
1 - 5
Fish 1
Fish 2
+9
4 hour trip • 5 persons
US $575