Captain Aaron Shai 

4.4
(16 reviews)
 946 Siesta Drive, Sarasota, FL 34242, United States–

Captain Aaron Shai 

Sarasota, FL, United States
–
27 ft
6
4.4
(16 reviews)

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Captain Aaron Shai, a seasoned saltwater fishing charter captain based in Sarasota, Florida, combines decades of experience with a family-oriented approach to create unforgettable fishing adventures.

With a deep knowledge of local waters, Captain Aaron ensures successful trips, targeting various species for anglers of all skill levels. His personable nature and commitment to creating lasting memories make each outing a unique and enjoyable experience, whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice eager to learn. Join Captain Aaron for a day on the Gulf Coast, where fishing is not just a sport but a cherished family tradition.

These waters are known for Mangrove Snapper, Sheepshead, Jack Crevalle, Cobia, Blacktip Shark, Bonnethead Shark, Black Grouper, Red Grouper, Lane Snapper, Spotted Seatrout, Snook, Redfish, and more – with any luck, they’ll make your reel scream. You can expect to do some spinning, trolling, bottom fishing, or maybe something more specialized in this area.

Captain Aaron Shai is a child-friendly charter service, so feel free to make a family day out of it! Children must wear life vests, so find out if the appropriate size is available on board. Also, remember to bring snacks so that nobody gets cranky on an empty stomach!

Your trip begins aboard a spacious 27’ Boston whaler with space for 6 passengers. It comes with all the essentials no fishing machine can run without. Your captain will provide rods and reels, along with lures. Live bait is included.

The charter boat covers your fishing license, just show up ready for a good time! Keep in mind that some fish may have harvest limits or closed seasons. Simply ask and your captain can tell you more. It’s always wise to bring sunblock (non-spray), and sunglasses. Bottled water will be available for you. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, just be sure to avoid hard liquor as well as glass bottles.

Get in touch with Captain Aaron below if you have any questions.

Captain Aaron Shai, a seasoned saltwater fishing charter captain based in Sarasota, Florida, combines decades of experience with a family-oriented approach to create unforgettable fishing adventures.

With a deep knowledge of local waters, Captain Aaron ensures successful trips, targeting various species for anglers of all skill levels. His personable nature and commitment to creating lasting memories make each outing a unique and enjoyable experience, whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice eager to learn. Join Captain Aaron for a day on the Gulf Coast, where fishing is not just a sport but a cherished family tradition.

These waters are known for Mangrove Snapper, Sheepshead, Jack Crevalle, Cobia, Blacktip Shark, Bonnethead Shark, Black Grouper, Red Grouper, Lane Snapper, Spotted Seatrout, Snook, Redfish, and more – with any luck, they’ll make your reel scream. You can expect to do some spinning, trolling, bottom fishing, or maybe something more specialized in this area.

Captain Aaron Shai is a child-friendly charter service, so feel free to make a family day out of it! Children must wear life vests, so find out if the appropriate size is available on board. Also, remember to bring snacks so that nobody gets cranky on an empty stomach!

Your trip begins aboard a spacious 27’ Boston whaler with space for 6 passengers. It comes with all the essentials no fishing machine can run without. Your captain will provide rods and reels, along with lures. Live bait is included.

The charter boat covers your fishing license, just show up ready for a good time! Keep in mind that some fish may have harvest limits or closed seasons. Simply ask and your captain can tell you more. It’s always wise to bring sunblock (non-spray), and sunglasses. Bottled water will be available for you. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, just be sure to avoid hard liquor as well as glass bottles.

Get in touch with Captain Aaron below if you have any questions.

Aaron Shai
Captain
Aaron Shai
14 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
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
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Almost there...
2 Hour Fishing and Fun! AM
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
2 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
US $400
Entire boat: up to 3 people
2 Hour Fishing and Fun!
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
2 hour trip multiple starting times (10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM)
US $400
Entire boat: up to 3 people
3 Hour Fishing and SUNSET!
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
3 hour trip starts at 5:00 PM
US $500
Entire boat: up to 3 people
Half day 4hr inshore/ near shore
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (8:00 AM, 12:00 PM)
Barracuda (Great)
Amberjack
Cobia
Grouper (Goliath)
+8
US $750
Entire boat: up to 4 people
6 hour near shore
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
6 hour trip multiple starting times (8:00 AM, 12:00 PM)
Barracuda (Great)
Amberjack
Cobia
Grouper (Goliath)
+8
US $950
Entire boat: up to 4 people
8 hour
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Barracuda (Great)
Amberjack
Cobia
Grouper (Goliath)
+8
US $1,150
Entire boat: up to 4 people
There is 1 person looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

4.4
16 reviews
4.3
Boat & equipment
4.5
Captain & crew
4.4
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (21)

Reviews (16)

  • Aaron Saldana
    Aaron Saldana
    us
    Georgia, US
    Member since 2026
    4.7
    Verified

    Chill good time. Plenty of catching!

    4 Hour Inshore (AM) on July 17, 2026 • 6 adults

    We had an absolute blast with Captain Aaron. We booked a 4-hour family trip with my teenage daughters and their friends, and from the moment we reached out, he was responsive and made booking/details easy. Captain Aaron is one of the most down-to-earth, genuine people you’ll meet. He comes from a family of fishermen, shared great stories about growing up on the water, and even showed us photos of landing a 350-pound sailfish/marlin? It was bigger than him! He also spent time as a yacht hand (like Below Deck!), and is active in competitive fishing, so we heard a bunch of crazy stories! And… he put us on fish. We hit three different spots, had constant action, and the girls were never bored. Everyone got a chance to reel in a few fish (Bonnet head shark, another little shark, some trout, a mangrove, a few catfish!). He helped bait hooks, cast lines, and untangle a few mishaps. We had six lines out at a time and it seemed like less than a minute between when one or another would start pulling! Lots of action. The weather was a little overcast, but he kept us in good water, avoided the rain and rough chop farther out, and made the whole trip enjoyable. We asked for a country playlist and it was spot-on (Toby Keith, Eric Church… great salt life vibes). The overall vibe was exactly what we were looking for. He’s also a great family guy. Hearing him talk about his two young sons growing up fishing with him made it obvious how much he loves what he does. As a dad with teenage daughters, I felt completely comfortable having them on his boat. The boat itself isn’t a flashy luxury yacht, but it’s a very wide, stable 80’s Boston Whaler with plenty of room, a cabin where the girls chilled / took a nap, and had what we needed for a fantastic day on the water. Honestly, I wouldn’t have changed a thing. This was a fun, relaxed charter with a captain who knows how to fish, keeps it real while having a few laughs, and genuinely enjoys spending time on the water and with his guests. We’d absolutely fish with him again the next time we’re in town.

  • Nicole Davenport
    Nicole Davenport
    us
    Pennsylvania, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    best fishing on the gulf

    6 Hour Trip (AM) on August 5, 2026 • 2 adults

    I’ve never been on a fishing trip where the bites were this frequent. Captain Aaron knows exactly where to go to find the fish! That local knowledge is priceless… highly recommend!! He was professional & kind & knowledgeable which is exactly what we needed. Thanks!!

  • William Sour
    William Sour
    us
    Colorado, US
    Member since 2024
    5.0
    Verified

    Extraordinary Trip

    6 Hour Trip (AM) on January 26, 2024 • 6 adults

    Our group of 6 would give Aaron and Marshall more than 5 stars if available. We caught an unbelievable number of fish. These two went above and beyond to make our trip extraordinary. We'll be back!

  • Amanda Bland
    Amanda Bland
    us
    Ohio, US
    Member since 2024
    5.0
    Verified

    Fishing with Aaron

    4 Hour Inshore (AM) on July 4, 2024 • 5 adults
  • Missy Hammond
    Missy Hammond
    Member since 2025
    5.0

    10/10 Experience w/ Captain Aaron

    6 Hour Trip (AM) on July 10, 2026

    Absolutely amazing time out with Mr Captain Aaron. He is awesome with the kids, we caught so many fish they were almost getting bored with all of them!! He had all the necessary equipment on board, we didn’t need to bring anything except our own drinks and snacks. The boat had a small space for the kids to sit/nap for a bit. The boat is a little older but if I’ve learned anything in life, the older the better. Aaron was extremely knowledgeable in every fish we caught, spots to find certain fish etc. I would do this over and over again!

  • Jessika French
    Jessika French
    us
    California, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    Amazing Trip!

    2 Hour Fishing and Fun! on September 12, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 child

    I surprised my husband with this fishing trip for his birthday and we had such a great time! We brought our 16 month old daughter and Captain Aaron was great with her and definitely family oriented. We caught lots of Mangrove Snapper and saw some dolphins too. We all had such a great time and can’t wait to go out fishing with Captain Aaron again!

  • Elizabeth Buchanan
    Elizabeth Buchanan
    us
    Virginia, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Full of Fun!

    2 Hour Fishing and Fun! AM on August 10, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 child

    We had a blast and caught all different kinds of fish for almost 2 hours! We even got an added dophin show! Captain was great with kids.

  • Brian Mcqueary
    Brian Mcqueary
    us
    Ohio, US
    Member since 2024
    5.0
    Verified

    Amazing trip

    2 Hour Fishing and Fun! AM on June 20, 2024 • 3 adults

    Aaron was amazing. We booked a two hour trip and there was three of us. He was friendly and knowledgeable and took us to an amazing spot were we caught around 30 fish in an hour and half. He told us all about the area and most of all he was nothing but positive about showing people from out of state the love of fishing that he has. I will definitely book with Aaron again.

  • Rob Cleveland
    Rob Cleveland
    Repeat angler
    us
    Michigan, US
    Member since 2023
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Great experience

    2 Hour Fishing and Fun! AM on April 4, 2024 • 2 adults

    Aaron is great. The boat was clean and safe. He got us on fish, and we had a great time. Most of all, Aaron is a great guy. Very personable and engaging. We had a lot of fun, and I’d highly recommend him.

  • Mike Provenzano
    Mike Provenzano
    Repeat angler
    us
    Minnesota, US
    Member since 2023
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Day with Captain Aaron!

    4 Hour Inshore (AM) on March 15, 2024 • 4 adults • 1 child

    Captain Aaron was very friendly, patient, kind, and found fish for us to catch. Our goal was for the two youngsters who were with us to catch a lot of fish - mission accomplish!!!

Rating

4.4
16 reviews
4.3
Boat & equipment
4.5
Captain & crew
4.4
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (21)

All reviews (16)

Showing 1 – 5 of 16 reviews
Missy Hammond
Missy Hammond
Member since 2025
5.0
10/10 Experience w/ Captain Aaron
6 Hour Trip (AM) on July 10, 2026

Absolutely amazing time out with Mr Captain Aaron. He is awesome with the kids, we caught so many fish they were almost getting bored with all of them!! He had all the necessary equipment on board, we didn’t need to bring anything except our own drinks and snacks. The boat had a small space for the kids to sit/nap for a bit. The boat is a little older but if I’ve learned anything in life, the older the better. Aaron was extremely knowledgeable in every fish we caught, spots to find certain fish etc. I would do this over and over again!

Reported catch:
Snook
Mangrove Snapper
Jack Crevalle
Cobia
+2
Jessika French
Jessika French
us
California, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
New
Amazing Trip!
2 Hour Fishing and Fun! on September 12, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child

I surprised my husband with this fishing trip for his birthday and we had such a great time! We brought our 16 month old daughter and Captain Aaron was great with her and definitely family oriented. We caught lots of Mangrove Snapper and saw some dolphins too. We all had such a great time and can’t wait to go out fishing with Captain Aaron again!

Reported catch:
Mangrove Snapper
Aaron Shai
Response from Captain

You guys were great and Id love to have yall back on board again! i hope you enjoyed the fish for dinner!

Aaron Saldana
Aaron Saldana
us
Georgia, US
Member since 2026
4.7
Verified
Chill good time. Plenty of catching!
4 Hour Inshore (AM) on July 17, 2026 • 6 adults

We had an absolute blast with Captain Aaron. We booked a 4-hour family trip with my teenage daughters and their friends, and from the moment we reached out, he was responsive and made booking/details easy. Captain Aaron is one of the most down-to-earth, genuine people you’ll meet. He comes from a family of fishermen, shared great stories about growing up on the water, and even showed us photos of landing a 350-pound sailfish/marlin? It was bigger than him! He also spent time as a yacht hand (like Below Deck!), and is active in competitive fishing, so we heard a bunch of crazy stories! And… he put us on fish. We hit three different spots, had constant action, and the girls were never bored. Everyone got a chance to reel in a few fish (Bonnet head shark, another little shark, some trout, a mangrove, a few catfish!). He helped bait hooks, cast lines, and untangle a few mishaps. We had six lines out at a time and it seemed like less than a minute between when one or another would start pulling! Lots of action. The weather was a little overcast, but he kept us in good water, avoided the rain and rough chop farther out, and made the whole trip enjoyable. We asked for a country playlist and it was spot-on (Toby Keith, Eric Church… great salt life vibes). The overall vibe was exactly what we were looking for. He’s also a great family guy. Hearing him talk about his two young sons growing up fishing with him made it obvious how much he loves what he does. As a dad with teenage daughters, I felt completely comfortable having them on his boat. The boat itself isn’t a flashy luxury yacht, but it’s a very wide, stable 80’s Boston Whaler with plenty of room, a cabin where the girls chilled / took a nap, and had what we needed for a fantastic day on the water. Honestly, I wouldn’t have changed a thing. This was a fun, relaxed charter with a captain who knows how to fish, keeps it real while having a few laughs, and genuinely enjoys spending time on the water and with his guests. We’d absolutely fish with him again the next time we’re in town.

Reported catch:
Bonnethead Shark
Snook
Mangrove Snapper
Amberjack
Aaron Shai
Response from Captain

thank you guys so much! i look forward to fishing with you guys in the future!

Nicole Davenport
Nicole Davenport
us
Pennsylvania, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
best fishing on the gulf
6 Hour Trip (AM) on August 5, 2026 • 2 adults

I’ve never been on a fishing trip where the bites were this frequent. Captain Aaron knows exactly where to go to find the fish! That local knowledge is priceless… highly recommend!! He was professional & kind & knowledgeable which is exactly what we needed. Thanks!!

Reported catch:
Mangrove Snapper
Lane Snapper
Aaron Shai
Response from Captain

thanks Nicole! You guys were awesome to have aboard! Lets do it again next year!

Elizabeth Buchanan
Elizabeth Buchanan
us
Virginia, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Full of Fun!
2 Hour Fishing and Fun! AM on August 10, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child

We had a blast and caught all different kinds of fish for almost 2 hours! We even got an added dophin show! Captain was great with kids.

Reported catch:
Mangrove Snapper
Goliath Grouper
Aaron Shai
Response from Captain

Thanks Elizabeth! happy to take you guys fishing any time!

FAQs about Captain Aaron Shai

Captain Aaron Shai offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $400 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 2 Hour Fishing and Fun! (2 hours)
  • US $400 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 2 Hour Fishing and Fun! - 12:00 PM (2 hours)
  • US $400 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 2 Hour Fishing and Fun! - 2:00 PM (2 hours)
  • US $400 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 2 Hour Fishing and Fun! AM (2 hours)
  • US $500 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 3 Hour Fishing and SUNSET! (3 hours)
  • US $750 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - Half day 4hr inshore/ near shore (4 hours)
  • US $750 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - Half day 4hr inshore/ near shore - 12:00 PM (4 hours)
  • US $950 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - 6 hour near shore (6 hours)
  • US $950 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - 6 hour near shore - 12:00 PM (6 hours)
  • US $1,150 per group, additional US $50 per person after 4 guests - 8 hour (8 hours)
When you book a trip with Captain Aaron Shai, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • Toilet Enclosed head down below in the cabin for privacy
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Bed
  • Live bait well
  • Multimedia system Bluetooth connectivity JL audio
  • Wireless trolling motor
  • Ice box
Trips booked with Captain Aaron Shai include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait (Depending on what species you would like to target some times we will catch some baits on the way offshore using sabiki rigs)
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Cleaning and fileting is complimentary.)
  • Drinks (Bottled water)
  • Fishing license (Fishing license is included for all clients )
Captain Aaron Shai offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing
  • Nearshore fishing
  • Offshore fishing (Depends on what we want to fish for that particular day)
  • Reef fishing
  • Wreck fishing
  • Flats fishing
Captain Aaron Shai offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Spinning
  • Deep sea fishing
Top targeted fish species with Captain Aaron Shai include:
  • Amberjack
  • Barracuda (Great)
  • Cobia
  • Grouper (Goliath)
  • Jack Crevalle
  • King Mackerel (Kingfish)
  • Little Tunny (False Albacore)
  • Permit
  • Redfish
  • Shark (Bonnethead)
  • Snapper (Mangrove)
  • Snook

Your captain

Aaron Shai
Aaron Shai

Sarasota, Florida, United States

ID & license verified
16 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since January 2024

Capt. Aaron runs trips from sarasota to Anna Maria Island aboard a 27 ft boston whaler. These waters are known for many different species of fish and he will show you how to catch them, whether you're trolling or bottom fishing. With more than 14 years of experience, he is more than happy to show you how to get a good bend in a rod. Youre not going to catch them sitting on the couch so hop aboard!

Aaron Shai
Aaron Shai
Fully verified
16
reviews
2024
member since
~1h
response
Capt. Aaron runs trips from sarasota to Anna Maria Island aboard a 27 ft boston whaler. These waters are known for many different species of fish and he will show you how to catch them, whether you're trolling or bottom fishing. With more than 14 years of experience, he is more than happy to show you how to get a good bend in a rod. Youre not going to catch them sitting on the couch so hop aboard!

The fish you can target

Amberjack
Amberjack
Great Barracuda
Great Barracuda
Cobia
Cobia
Goliath Grouper
Goliath Grouper
Jack Crevalle
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Little Tunny (False Albacore)
Little Tunny (False Albacore)
Permit
Permit
Redfish
Redfish
Bonnethead Shark
Bonnethead Shark
Mangrove Snapper
Mangrove Snapper
Snook
Snook
Amberjack
Amberjack
Great Barracuda
Great Barracuda
Cobia
Cobia
Goliath Grouper
Goliath Grouper
Jack Crevalle
Jack Crevalle

Real catches by this captain

  • Chill good time.  Plenty of catching!
    Aaron S.
    Aaron S.
  • Fishing with Aaron
    Amanda B.
    Amanda B.
  • Extraordinary Trip
    William S.
    William S.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Cabin cruisers
Capacity
6 persons
Boat length
27 ft
Year built
1987
Restored in
2013
Boat manufacturer
Boston whaler
Boat type
Cuddy cabin
Engine model
Yamaha
Powered by
2 x 200HP
Max cruising speed
36 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Offshore Fishing
Reef Fishing
Wreck Fishing
Flats Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Spinning
Deep Sea Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

Toilet
Enclosed head down below in the cabin for privacy
GPS
Fishfinder
Bed
Live bait well
Multimedia system
Bluetooth connectivity JL audio
Wireless trolling motor
Ice box
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
Depending on what species you would like to target some times we will catch some baits on the way offshore using sabiki rigs
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
Cleaning and fileting is complimentary.
Drinks
Bottled water
Fishing license
Fishing license is included for all clients

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 7 days prior to trip

You can cancel or modify your booking up to 7 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 included in price
Transfer from hotels or jetties in Sarasota to departure site is available and included in trip rates.
Child friendly
Kids of all ages are allowed on board!
You keep catch
I’ll filet it and bag it for you to take home!
Catch and release allowed
If you don’t want to keep it we will let them go!

How you can pay

Book with 25% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 25% 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

 Bank transfer

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

What’s biting in Sarasota right now

Barracuda (Great)Barracuda (Great)
CobiaCobia
Jack CrevalleJack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)King Mackerel (Kingfish)
PermitPermit
RedfishRedfish
SnookSnook

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Current
Captain Aaron Shai
Captain Aaron Shai
4.4
(16)
27 ft
Group size 1 - 6
1 - 6
Fish 1
Fish 2
+10
4 hour trip • 6 persons
US $750