Down Range Charters 

5.0
(117 reviews)
 
State licensed
 Saint Petersburg Drive, St. Petersburg, FL 33621, United States–

Down Range Charters 

St. Petersburg, FL, United States
–
24 ft
4
5.0
(117 reviews)

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Spend a relaxing day in Tampa Bay with Down Range Charters! Captain Mike is a US Army veteran with a huge passion for fishing. He enjoys teaching other people and helping them to get their catch on their own. He loves that you don't have to land the biggest fish out there in order to enjoy fishing. It's not about the chase, it's about spending some time in nature and having a short break from reality.

You'll be fishing on a 24' Skeeter Bay boat that accommodates up to 4 guests. This center console is powered by a 250 HP Mercury engine and reaches the speed of 40 knots. The boat features GPS, a fish finder, a cooler, and a live bait tank. Offering a safe and reliable ride at all times, this vessel is just what you need for an enjoyable day on the water.

These bountiful waters offer lots of options, even if you explore only inshore spots. You can go after Snook, Jack Crevalle, Spanish Mackerel, Redfish, Tarpon, and many more. There's a variety of fishing techniques to use and you can fill out your bucket by the end of the day. The best part is that you can keep the catch and Capt. Mike will clean it for you free of charge.

Your licenses and fishing equipment are included in the price. It's easy to get ready for the trip since you only need to pack sunblock, some snacks, and drinks.

Now offering nearshore trips!!!
Capt. Mike welcomes anglers of all skill levels. Down Range Charters is here to take care of your satisfaction, safety, and fishing success during this unforgettable trip.

Spend a relaxing day in Tampa Bay with Down Range Charters! Captain Mike is a US Army veteran with a huge passion for fishing. He enjoys teaching other people and helping them to get their catch on their own. He loves that you don't have to land the biggest fish out there in order to enjoy fishing. It's not about the chase, it's about spending some time in nature and having a short break from reality.

You'll be fishing on a 24' Skeeter Bay boat that accommodates up to 4 guests. This center console is powered by a 250 HP Mercury engine and reaches the speed of 40 knots. The boat features GPS, a fish finder, a cooler, and a live bait tank. Offering a safe and reliable ride at all times, this vessel is just what you need for an enjoyable day on the water.

These bountiful waters offer lots of options, even if you explore only inshore spots. You can go after Snook, Jack Crevalle, Spanish Mackerel, Redfish, Tarpon, and many more. There's a variety of fishing techniques to use and you can fill out your bucket by the end of the day. The best part is that you can keep the catch and Capt. Mike will clean it for you free of charge.

Your licenses and fishing equipment are included in the price. It's easy to get ready for the trip since you only need to pack sunblock, some snacks, and drinks.

Now offering nearshore trips!!!
Capt. Mike welcomes anglers of all skill levels. Down Range Charters is here to take care of your satisfaction, safety, and fishing success during this unforgettable trip.

Michael Ayersman
Captain
Michael Ayersman
8 years of experience
ID & credentials verified

Select date to see availability

Trip availability and prices

Trip date:
Group Size:
October 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
Almost there...
Doctors Office special Hours
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
2 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Seasonal trip
(Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri)
Snook
Tarpon
Snapper (Mangrove)
Redfish
+3
US $300
Entire boat: up to 4 people
4 Hour Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Snook
Snapper (Mangrove)
Redfish
Speckled Trout
US $475
Entire boat: up to 4 people
6 Hour Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Snook
Snapper (Mangrove)
Redfish
US $600
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Near shore multi-species trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Snook
Tarpon
Seabass (Black)
Snapper (Mangrove)
+6
US $750
Entire boat: up to 4 people
There is 1 person looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

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

Anglers' gallery (166)

What anglers say

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

Reviews (117)

  • Vanessa Martin
    Vanessa Martin
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Highly recommend!

    4 Hour Trip on June 15, 2026 • 3 adults

    We had an excellent experience on this fishing charter! The captain was friendly, accommodating, and extremely knowledgeable about the local waters and fishing conditions. He worked hard to make sure everyone had a great time and put us on fish all day long. The action was fantastic—we caught plenty of fish, including pompano, trout, and redfish. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, this charter provides a fun, enjoyable, and successful day on the water. Highly recommend and would definitely book again!

  • Edward Padol
    Edward Padol
    Repeat angler
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2023
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Best of the Best

    4 Hour Trip on March 21, 2026 • 3 adults

    We had an amazing fishing trip and couldn’t have asked for a better Captain. Captain Mike was incredibly knowledgeable, not just about where to find fish, but also about techniques, equipment, and making the whole experience enjoyable. What really stood out was how great he was with my sons. He made the trip fun, engaging, and memorable for them from start to finish. He was patient, encouraging, and genuinely invested in making sure they had a great time, which meant a lot to me. We all learned a ton and had plenty of action throughout the day. If you’re looking for a guide who knows his stuff and makes the experience enjoyable for the whole family, I highly recommend Capatain Mike. We’ll definitely be back!

  • Jason Mcleod
    Jason Mcleod
    Repeat angler
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2024
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Mission: Accomplished

    4 Hour Trip on May 16, 2026 • 4 adults • 1 child

    I had one goal. Get my girlfriend and her daughter excited about fishing. In tough conditions, Capt Mike put us on fish and had them fighting mackerel, grouper snapper and sharks. The ladies are fully hooked! Great family experience and a great day in the water. Would recommend bringing a camera. Would fish with Capt Mike again anytime. Expert knowledge of the fishery and very attentive.

  • Cameron Rodr
    Cameron Rodr
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    awesome day out

    Near shore multi-species trip on September 19, 2026 • 4 adults

    captain Michael is a super knowledge and super friendly. he is always willing to help and answer any questions you have about fishing no matter your experience level. I could not recommend this charter enough

  • Terry Richardson
    Terry Richardson
    Repeat angler
    us
    West Virginia, US
    Member since 2021
    4 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    wv fishing in the sea

    4 Hour Trip on July 8, 2026 • 3 adults

    The fishing was slow at first then the last hour we got on the sea trout. the captain kept finding the school and kept us on it. we probably caught over 50-75 fish. some got off the hook before they made it to the boat. He even stayed over a hiur half because we was on the fish. thanks micheal from motown.

  • Steven Galluzzi
    Steven Galluzzi
    Repeat angler
    us
    Ohio, US
    Member since 2024
    4 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    excellent fun

    4 Hour Trip on May 22, 2026 • 2 adults

    Had a great time with Capt Mike - we got on plenty of fish dispite tough conditions. he was super knowledgeable on what the fish were up to and easy to fish with. got to enjoy some great trout tacos later that day and brag about the big red I got to reel in. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

  • Jamie Chapman
    Jamie Chapman
    us
    Georgia, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Captain Mike Made Our Birthday Fishing Trip Unforgettable!

    4 Hour Trip on October 31, 2025 • 2 adults

    We booked an inshore fishing charter with Captain Mike for my boyfriend’s birthday, and it was such a blast! Mike was super friendly, knowledgeable, and made the whole experience fun and easy — even for those of us who aren’t regular anglers. We caught a bunch of mackerel, laughed the entire time, and left with great memories (and photos!). Highly recommend him if you’re looking for a fun day on the water! 🎣

  • Jason H
    Jason H
    us
    Tennessee, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    Amazing!

    Near shore multi-species trip on September 26, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 child

    great captain and knowledgeable when i am back in the area i will definitely book another trip

  • Jason Futch
    Jason Futch
    us
    North Carolina, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Hooked some large Redfish and Snook

    4 Hour Trip on June 30, 2026 • 3 adults

    It was a fun day of fishing and we were able to hook up some large redfish and snook. We also caught some mangrove snapper and trout. Captain was very knowledgeable and made the trip a memorable experience for one of the first timers with us.

  • amanda green
    amanda green
    us
    North Carolina, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    a great day in the water

    4 Hour Trip on July 2, 2026 • 4 adults

    The captain tried really hard to get us on fish, summer is a tough time and would definitely recommend him but if you can fish in a little cooler weather it wpuld be better fishing.

Rating

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

Anglers' gallery (166)

What anglers say

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

All reviews (117)

Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 117 reviews
KEN ASBURY
KEN ASBURY
Repeat angler
us
Colorado, US
Member since 2025
2 trips
5.0
Verified
Big Redfish, Terrific Guide and Teacher
Near shore multi-species trip on April 18, 2026 • 2 adults

4 of us took a trip around the waters near St Petersburg FL with Capt Mike. It was like going to a Masters Class in fishing technique: rigging, bait selection, presentation and how to allow the fish to catch themselves. The least skillful angler caught two Redfish at 28 and a 32...she had never caught a Redfish in her life...All of us received a beautiful day on the water with a Captain that really loves what he does and how it impacts others. I plan to fish for a full week with Capt Mike when we can find the right time. Totally professional but a fun and knowledgeable waterman!! Could not recommend this Captain any higher. We started the day by meeting the Captain we hired over Fishing Booker and left with a new friend.

Michael Ayersman
Response from Captain

Thank You for the review. It was a pleasure to fish with all four of you. Hope to see you again. Looking forward to maybe some tarpon on the fly if you’re up for it

Vanessa Martin
Vanessa Martin
us
Florida, US
Member since 2025
5.0
Verified
Highly recommend!
4 Hour Trip on June 15, 2026 • 3 adults

We had an excellent experience on this fishing charter! The captain was friendly, accommodating, and extremely knowledgeable about the local waters and fishing conditions. He worked hard to make sure everyone had a great time and put us on fish all day long. The action was fantastic—we caught plenty of fish, including pompano, trout, and redfish. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, this charter provides a fun, enjoyable, and successful day on the water. Highly recommend and would definitely book again!

Reported catch:
Mangrove Snapper
Redfish
Speckled Trout
Edward Padol
Edward Padol
Repeat angler
us
Texas, US
Member since 2023
2 trips
5.0
Verified
Best of the Best
4 Hour Trip on March 21, 2026 • 3 adults

We had an amazing fishing trip and couldn’t have asked for a better Captain. Captain Mike was incredibly knowledgeable, not just about where to find fish, but also about techniques, equipment, and making the whole experience enjoyable. What really stood out was how great he was with my sons. He made the trip fun, engaging, and memorable for them from start to finish. He was patient, encouraging, and genuinely invested in making sure they had a great time, which meant a lot to me. We all learned a ton and had plenty of action throughout the day. If you’re looking for a guide who knows his stuff and makes the experience enjoyable for the whole family, I highly recommend Capatain Mike. We’ll definitely be back!

Reported catch:
Redfish
Michael Ayersman
Response from Captain

Thank you for the review!!!!!! im glad you guys had alot of fun. You and your boys were a pleasure to have on the boat. I’m glad you guys where able to learn and expand your knowledge. I’ll look forward to your return and another great adventure

Dave Falls
Dave Falls
ca
Ontario, Canada
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Captain Mike is the best. Look no further!
4 Hour Trip on March 19, 2026 • 3 adults

As much as fishing is about the fish, its more about the experience - and who you share it with. We went fishing with Captain Mike and it ended up being the highlight of our week! Mike made sure that my two boys (15 and 17) had the best day possible on the water. The water temp had dropped 10 degrees due to the cold but that didn't stop up from throwing down bait in some of the best spots around! Saw plenty of fish but they were stubborn! We laughed, shared strories and Mike's knowledge is vast. He knows the water, the winds, the fish and is just an amazing and kind guy!! We made memories to last a lifetime. Don't hesitate to book with Down Range Charters! Hands down an awesome experience

Reported catch:
Redfish
Michael Ayersman
Response from Captain

Hello Dave!!!!! I had a great Time with your family. Another Brother in Arms. Stay safe and keep your powder dry.

Stephen Mcginley
Stephen Mcginley
us
Pennsylvania, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
my kids had a blast!
4 Hour Trip on February 16, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child

I reached out to captain Mike, wanting to take my son and nephew out. He was honest with me telling me the bite was slow. The boys still wanted to go out and we had a blast! My son asked if we can fish with Mike everytime we are down. Fishing was slower like he said but he did everything to put us on fish. The boys caught a good ampunt of fish and they had a great time, in terms I had a great time watching these young guys becoming anglers just like i did. By the end of the day both learned how to cast spinning reels. I highly recommend Captain Mike to take you out. We will be back to fish with him again.

FAQs about Down Range Charters

Down Range Charters offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $300 per group - Doctors Office special Hours (2 hours)
  • US $475 per group - 4 Hour Trip (4 hours)
  • US $600 per group - 6 Hour Trip (6 hours)
  • US $750 per group - Near shore multi-species trip (6 hours)
When you book a trip with Down Range Charters, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well
  • Wireless trolling motor
  • Ice box
Trips booked with Down Range Charters include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait (All baits are provided by the captain )
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Filet is your choice depending on your cooked style. No extra charge for filet)
  • Drinks (Bottled Water)
  • Fishing license (As a USCG captain fully licensed. Required to carry licenses for 4 customers)
Down Range Charters offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing (Mangrove lines, docks)
  • Nearshore fishing (Within 8 miles cobia hotspot)
  • Wreck fishing
  • Flats fishing
  • Backcountry fishing
Down Range Charters offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Spinning
  • Jigging
  • Popping
Top targeted fish species with Down Range Charters include:
  • Flounder
  • Grouper (Gag)
  • Redfish
  • Seabass (Black)
  • Sheepshead
  • Snapper (Mangrove)
  • Snook
  • Spanish Mackerel
  • Speckled Trout
  • Tarpon

Your captain

Michael Ayersman
Michael Ayersman

St. Petersburg, Florida, United States

4 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
117 Customer reviews
Typical response within 3 hours
Member since January 2021

Captain Michael has over 35 years of fishing experience. From native streams to the Gulf of Mexico and the Great Lakes, he's seen it all. he has experience in both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

Michael Ayersman
Michael Ayersman
Fully verified
4
reports
117
reviews
2021
member since
~3h
response
Captain Michael has over 35 years of fishing experience. From native streams to the Gulf of Mexico and the Great Lakes, he's seen it all. he has experience in both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

The fish you can target

Flounder
Flounder
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Redfish
Redfish
Black Seabass
Black Seabass
Sheepshead
Sheepshead
Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove Snapper
Snook
Snook
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel
Speckled Trout
Speckled Trout
Tarpon
Tarpon
Flounder
Flounder
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper
Redfish
Redfish
Black Seabass
Black Seabass
Sheepshead
Sheepshead

Real catches by this captain

  • awesome day out
    Cameron R.
    Cameron R.
  • .The education he provided on the local fishing holes make this a very enjoyable experience.  Truly a job well done.
    Fred S.
    Fred S.
  • wv fishing in the sea
    Terry R.
    Terry R.
  • a great day in the water
    amanda g.
    amanda g.
  • Highly recommend!
    Vanessa M.
    Vanessa M.
  • great charter
    Matthew M.
    Matthew M.
  • great experience and a really great captain!
    Sai T.
    Sai T.
  • great trip and host
    Kevin F.
    Kevin F.
  • excellent fun
    Steven G.
    Steven G.
  • Awesome Trip!!!
    Pat S.
    Pat S.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
4 persons
Boat length
24 ft
Year built
2016
Boat manufacturer
Skeeter
Boat type
Bay boat
Engine model
Mercury
Powered by
1 x 250HP
Max cruising speed
37 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Wreck Fishing
Flats Fishing
Backcountry Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Spinning
Jigging
Popping

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
Wireless trolling motor
Ice box
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
All baits are provided by the captain
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
Filet is your choice depending on your cooked style. No extra charge for filet
Drinks
Bottled Water
Fishing license
As a USCG captain fully licensed. Required to carry licenses for 4 customers

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 not included

Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.

Child friendly
Newborns are not recommended due to weather conditions and heat. Children have a blast
You keep catch
Within legal limits
Catch and release allowed
Disabled accessible

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 30% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 30% 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

 Bank transfer

What’s biting in St. Petersburg right now

Grouper (Gag)Grouper (Gag)
RedfishRedfish
SheepsheadSheepshead
SnookSnook
Spanish MackerelSpanish Mackerel
Speckled TroutSpeckled Trout
TarponTarpon

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Down Range Charters
Down Range Charters
State licensed
5.0
(117)
24 ft
Group size 1 - 4
1 - 4
Fish 1
Fish 2
+8
4 hour trip • 4 persons
US $475