Today we ran from the Manatee River to the Skyway Bridge, through Miguel Bay, into Terra Cia Bay, out to Anna Marina Island down the beach in Longboat Pass up the intracoastal to Egmont Key sight seeing. There was no bait on the flats of any value, little in Longboat Pass, none at Egmont Key but the Skyway had plenty of bait. Tarpon Season will be heating up. Book your trip today. Capt. Wayne 941-773-3513

Shimano and Penn 4000 Series Reel with Andre 7'6" heavy action rods

Fishing charter boat in Palmetto FL waters with catch being handled

Targeting Tarpon - Fun fishing with Pops

The May fishing season is officially in full swing, bringing some of the most consistent action of the year to Palmetto, FL fishing charters. As water temperatures stabilize in the upper 70s to low 80s, we are seeing a significant increase in activity across the flats, passes, and nearshore waters.

The Silver King Arrives
The highlight of the month is the arrival of the migratory Tarpon. Large schools are beginning to move along the beaches and into the passes of Anna Maria Island and Egmont Key. We are finding success using live threadfins and pass crabs on the outgoing tides. These "Silver Kings" range from 60 to over 150 pounds, providing a world-class challenge for anyone booking a full day fishing charter in Palmetto, FL.

Inshore Action: Snook and Redfish
While Snook season officially enters catch-and-release only this month to protect the spawning population, the bite remains incredibly productive. We are finding large groups of Snook staging near the passes and around dock structures close to the mouth of the Manatee River.

Redfishing has been equally impressive. We’ve encountered large schools of Redfish ranging from 26 to 36 inches on the shallow flats. These fish are responding well to live pilchards and cut bait, especially during the higher tide cycles when they push deep into the mangrove shorelines. For families looking for the best fishing charters in Palmetto, FL, these hard-fighting Redfish are providing excellent memories for young anglers.

Variety on the Grass Flats
If you are looking for a high-volume day, the deeper grass flats are teeming with Spotted Seatrout, Spanish Mackerel, and Jacks. Using live shrimp under a popping cork or small jigs has been the "bread and butter" strategy for our half day fishing charters in Palmetto, FL. We are also seeing a surprising number of Cobia shadowing sharks and rays in the bay—so always keep a heavy rod ready!

Plan Your Trip
With the stable weather and abundant bait, now is the time to get on the water. Whether you want to battle a Tarpon or enjoy a relaxing day of inshore fishing in Tampa Bay near Palmetto, Captain Wayne is ready to show you "Good Times."

Current Hot Spots: Terra Ceia Bay, Egmont Key, and the Anna Maria Island beaches.

Target Species: Tarpon, Redfish, Snook (Catch & Release), Trout, and Spanish Mackerel.

Tarpon Migration And Redfish Schools Heat Up Across Lower Tampa Bay

If you are searching for an authentic Florida experience, Good Times Fishing Adventures offers the premier fishing charters Palmetto, FL has to offer. Led by Captain Wayne Johnson, a local native with over 40 years of experience navigating the local waterways, we specialize in providing high-quality, high-energy, and family-friendly fishing charters in Palmetto, Florida. Our mission is simple: low stress, big catches, and unforgettable memories. Whether you are a seasoned pro or looking for beginner-friendly fishing charters in Palmetto, Florida, Captain Wayne’s "old school" approach ensures a productive day on the water. We operate a 2021 21 ft. Hewes flats boat, powered by a 250HP Yamaha engine, designed to "run skinny" into the shallowest honey holes of Tampa Bay while providing a stable, fast ride at 40 knots. As a dedicated Palmetto Florida fishing guide, Captain Wayne specializes in inshore fishing trips in Palmetto, FL, targeting the region's most sought-after species, including Snook, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, and Tarpon. Because we launch from the convenient meeting spot at 015 Riverside Drive, we are perfectly positioned for inshore fishing charters in Tampa Bay near Palmetto, FL, as well as high-traffic spillover areas like Anna Maria Island and Bradenton. Beyond technical angling, we take pride in being the best fishing charters in Palmetto, FL for families. We love getting kids on their first fish and offer specialized island hopping, snorkeling, and eco-tours around Egmont Key for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast. Every private fishing charter in Palmetto, FL with us is all-inclusive. We provide all the gear, bait, and water, and your fishing license is covered by the Captain. We even offer complimentary fish cleaning so you can take your catch straight to the table. From half-day inshore fishing charters to full-day fishing adventures, we go the extra mile to ensure your time on the water is nothing short of legendary. Book your next Palmetto, FL boat charter with Captain Wayne and get ready for "Good Times."

About Our Company

Ready to secure your place on the water and experience the best of Tampa Bay with Good Times Fishing Adventures? Book your Palmetto, FL trip today to lock in a day of legendary catches and coastal memories that will last a lifetime!

Looking to experience the best fishing charters in Palmetto, FL? At Good Times Fishing Adventures, Captain Wayne Johnson leverages over 40 years of local knowledge to put you on the fish. We specialize in family fishing charters Palmetto Florida, offering a low-stress environment where kids can land their first catch in the calm inshore waters of Tampa Bay. Whether you are hunting for trophy Snook, Redfish, and Tarpon or seeking affordable fishing charters Palmetto FL prices for a quick morning trip, our 21’ Hewes flats boat is ready to deliver a productive day on the water. As a top-rated Palmetto Florida fishing guide, Captain Wayne provides an "old school" experience that combines expert hospitality with local roots. Beyond the flats, we offer private fishing charter Palmetto FL options for snorkeling near Egmont Key or island hopping to Beer Can Island. Every trip is all-inclusive, meaning your fishing license, high-quality gear, and fish cleaning are fully covered. Don't settle for a generic outing when you can hire a true local expert. Book your fishing trip today and get ready for "Good Times" on the water!

<h2>Fishing with Captain Wayne Johnson - Rates & Booking</h2>Captain Wayne Johnson of Good Times Fishing Adventures guides fishing trips in Palmetto, FL on Thursday, April 30th. This local captain brings hands-on expertise to every outing, ensuring guests understand what they are catching and how to approach the fishery. Contact Good Times Fishing Adventures to inquire about current rates and availability for your Palmetto fishing adventure.<h2>Highlights of Palmetto Fishing Trips</h2>Palmetto sits along Florida's west coast in an ideal location for productive fishing. The waters surrounding this area hold a diverse fish population, making each trip unique. Captain Wayne Johnson positions his charters to maximize your chances at active catches while keeping the experience educational and enjoyable.The fresh catches displayed in the boat deck photo represent the real-world results of local knowledge and proper technique. Understanding where fish congregate, what seasons bring specific species, and how water conditions affect behavior are the cornerstones of successful Palmetto fishing.<h2>Local Fishing Insights in Palmetto</h2>Palmetto's fishing grounds benefit from proximity to deeper channels and shallow flats that support a wide variety of gamefish and food fish species. The coastal environment creates seasonal patterns that experienced guides like Captain Wayne Johnson use to plan productive outings.Successful fishing in Palmetto depends on reading environmental conditions. Water temperature, tidal movement, and light penetration all influence where fish position themselves and how aggressively they feed. Guided trips teach you to recognize these patterns so you can make smarter decisions on the water.The display of fresh catches shown here reflects what anglers can realistically expect. These fish represent the culmination of proper location selection, timing, and technique execution. Understanding the species you are targeting, their habitat preferences, and feeding behavior transforms a fishing trip from random casting into a methodical pursuit.Captain Wayne Johnson's approach emphasizes teaching alongside catching. By explaining why certain techniques work in Palmetto waters and how local conditions shape fish behavior, guests leave with practical knowledge they can apply on future fishing adventures. This educational component makes each outing more rewarding than simply landing fish.Palmetto's coastal geography supports both nearshore and offshore opportunities depending on the season and target species. The variety means there is always something productive to pursue, whether you prefer calmer inshore waters or the open Gulf conditions.

Join a fishing and tours adventure in Palmetto, FL on Thursday, April 30th with Captain Wayne Johnson. This hands-on experience showcases fresh catches and delivers authentic local fishing insights for anglers of all levels.

Fresh caught fish lined up on boat deck in Palmetto FL

Fresh Catch Display - Palmetto Fishing Success

Experience fishing adventures in Palmetto, FL with Captain Wayne Johnson of Good Times Fishing Adventures. Book online today.

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Find answers to your common questions about Palmetto fishing charter pricing, included gear, and seasonal species to ensure your private trip with Captain Wayne is fully prepared and stress-free.

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Captain Wayne Johnson is a true Palmetto native whose life has been defined by a deep-seated connection to the local waterways. Growing up on Tampa Bay, his childhood was a dedicated pursuit of fishing, whether wading the shorelines, exploring ponds in a Jon Boat, or captaining his father’s 21-foot Chris Craft Scorpion. By the age of 11, Wayne was already developing his professional-grade skills, handling complex tasks like backing trailers and navigating over 30 miles offshore. This early immersion provided him with an instinctive understanding of the Manatee River, Terra Ceia Bay, and the surrounding Gulf waters that few can match. During his high school years, the obsession only intensified as Wayne and his cousin, Captain Roy Johnson, spent every available moment on the water. They became masters of the local night bite, perfecting techniques for catching Snook around Longboat Pass and the local bridges. This period of "wearing out the boat" in all conditions—rain or shine, day or night—laid the foundation for his transition into a professional career. After working within the boating industry, he officially earned his captain’s license and launched his first charter operation in the early 2000s, dedicating himself to the craft of being an "old school" fishing guide. Today, Captain Wayne’s goal is to share the same excitement and natural beauty he experienced as a child with every guest who steps aboard. After navigating different career paths, he returned to his primary passion to offer authentic experiences that focus on fun and technical expertise. His extensive history in the region means he knows exactly where the Snook, Redfish, Trout, and Tarpon are staged throughout the seasons. When you fish with Wayne, you are gaining the perspective of a guide who views these waters not just as a workplace, but as a lifelong home he is eager to explore with you. <h2>The Ride and Professional Equipment</h2>To provide the ultimate platform for both technical fishing and comfortable island hopping, Captain Wayne operates a 21-foot Hewes Redfisher. This vessel was specifically chosen for its outstanding build quality and its ability to "run skinny" in the shallow flats while maintaining a smooth, stable ride in open water. Powered by a 250 Yamaha engine, the boat is outfitted with top-tier technology, including Garmin electronics, a Kraken trolling motor, and a Power Pole for precision positioning. Whether you are fishing hard or relaxing on bean bags under the Bimini top, the boat offers ample storage and large live wells to ensure a seamless day on the water.

A Lifelong Palmetto Native And Local Expert

Explore the best of Palmetto! From historic parks to waterfront dining, discover top local sights and activities to enjoy beyond the water with Good Times Fishing Ad

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Exploring The Hidden Gems Of Palmetto

Top rated seasonal tarpon inshore charters in Palmetto FL. May through September trips available.

Tarpon Hunt

Seasonal Tarpon Charter Palmetto FL May Sept

Join Good Times Fishing Adventures for world class inshore fishing in Palmetto FL. Book today!

Half Day Inshore

Half Day Inshore Charter Palmetto FL

Four hour private family fishing charter targeting Snook, Trout & Redfish in calm Palmetto waters. Book today!

Kids Fishing Fun

Kids Inshore Charter Palmetto FL Good Times

Expert guided 4-hour private boat tours to Jewfish Key & Beer Can Island. Snorkeling, swimming & shelling await. Book your Gulf Coast adventure today.

Island Hopping

Island Hopping Boat Charter Palmetto FL

Six hour guided inshore charter targeting Snook, Redfish and Trout in Palmetto FL waters. Book today.

Full Day Catch

Full Day Inshore Palmetto FL Good Times Fishing

Good Times Fishing Adventures

Frequently Asked Questions How much does a full day fishing charter Palmetto FL cost?A full day fishing charter in Palmetto, FL with Good Times Fishing Adventures lasts six hours and costs $650 for up to two people. For groups larger than two, there is an additional fee of $50 per person, accommodating a maximum of four guests per trip. Do I need to buy a fishing license for my Palmetto Florida fishing guide trip?No, you do not need to purchase a separate license when you book with us. A valid Florida fishing license is covered by the Captain for all guests on board the boat. Is fish cleaning and filleting included with Good Times Fishing Adventures?Yes, catch cleaning and bagging are provided as part of our service. Assuming state regulations allow for the harvest, Captain Wayne will fillet your fish at the end of the trip so it is ready for you to take home. What should I bring on my private fishing charter Palmetto FL?You should bring polarized sunglasses, bottled water, snacks, and non-spray (lotion) sunscreen. If you are bringing the family, extra snacks are always a good idea to keep everyone happy while out on the water. Are beginner friendly fishing charters Palmetto Florida available for families?Absolutely, we specialize in being a family-friendly charter and welcome children of all skill levels aboard our 21 ft. Hewes flats boat. We provide child-sized life vests and focus on making sure everyone has a fun, low-stress time catching fish. What gear is provided by Good Times Fishing Adventures in Palmetto?Captain Wayne provides all necessary high-quality rods, reels, tackle, and live bait for your trip. We use professional-grade equipment to ensure you have the best chance at landing species like Snook, Redfish, or Tarpon. When is the best time to book a Tarpon fishing charter Palmetto FL?The peak season for Tarpon in our area runs from February through May, though our specific Tarpon trips are offered seasonally from May through September. These trips are highly weather-dependent and focus on the major migrations around Egmont Key and Anna Maria Island. What is the cancellation policy for your Palmetto FL boat charter?We require a 2-week notice for any cancellations. This allows us enough time to fill the spot and ensures that Captain Wayne can keep the "Good Times" rolling for all our guests. Where is the meeting spot for my Palmetto Florida fishing guide?All of our trips depart from the boat ramp located at 015 Riverside Drive, Palmetto, FL 34221. This central location provides us with quick and easy access to the best fishing spots in Tampa Bay and the Manatee River. Do you offer any non-fishing trips like snorkeling tours Palmetto Florida?Yes, we offer a 4-hour "Boat Like a Local" trip which includes swimming, snorkeling, and island hopping. We can take your group to local favorites like Beer Can Island, Jewfish Key, and Egmont Key for a relaxing day on the water.

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