Captain Matt holds a USCG license and is fully insured. Growing up along the Manatee River, he has been passionate about fishing in the Bay Area since childhood. He is skilled in using the best techniques to help you catch a wide variety of fish found locally. Some of his favorite targets include snook, tarpon, redfish, sea trout, grouper, flounder, permit, mackerel, king mackerel, snapper, and even sharks. Whether your goal is to bring home a fresh catch for the dinner table or simply to enjoy an unforgettable fishing adventure, we provide everything you need. Your trip will come equipped with ice, drinking water, live bait, fishing gear, rods and reels, sunscreen, and snacks. Matt is not only knowledgeable but also friendly, offering great conversation while ensuring you catch plenty of fish. Highly recommended!
You can cancel without any fees if you do so at least 14 days prior to your scheduled trip, and the amount will be refunded as credit to your account. If you cancel within 14 days of the trip, the deposit will be retained by the guide. Cancellations made on the day of the trip or failure to show up will result in the full trip cost being charged to your payment method.
All necessary gear will be provided. However, we suggest bringing along sunglasses, sunscreen, suitable clothing for the weather, and any other personal items you may need during the trip.
Ready for an exciting offshore adventure to target some hefty catches? Join Captain Matt for 4 to 8-hour nearshore fishing excursions departing from Bradenton, FL, designed for anglers eager to venture beyond the bay and land some impressive fish—without the lengthy ride into deep waters. Just a quick journey from the dock, you'll find nearshore reefs, wrecks, and hard-bottom ledges teeming with nonstop action and a diverse range of species.
Whether you opt for a half-day trip or commit to the full 8 hours, this experience is all about action-packed fishing and rewarding results. You'll pursue sought-after table fish and strong fighters such as Gag and Red Grouper, Mangrove Snapper, Flounder, Tripletail, Hogfish, and Cobia, alongside swift pelagics like Kingfish, Bonito, and Spanish Mackerel. On particularly good days, you might even encounter a Permit or Great Barracuda patrolling the structure!
Captain Matt operates a fully equipped 27’ Boston Whaler center console, featuring advanced Simrad GPS and fishfinder electronics, outriggers, a wireless trolling motor, plus a live bait well to keep your bait lively and effective. The boat layout is ideal for handling large fish, and with only you and one other guest onboard, you’ll enjoy spacious comfort and Captain Matt’s undivided attention throughout your trip.
Fishing techniques utilized include bottom dropping over reef formations, live bait drifting, slow trolling, and jigging—Captain Matt adapts his approach based on the current conditions and your target species. All rods, reels, tackle, bait, lures, and cold beverages are provided, and at the end of the day, Captain Matt will expertly clean and fillet your catch back at the dock so you can take home the freshest fillets possible.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or aiming to hook into something big for the first time, this nearshore trip offers an ideal combination of exhilarating fishing, beautiful scenery, and world-class opportunities just off Bradenton’s coast.
Climb aboard with Captain Matt, bring your sunscreen and snacks, and get ready to chase down some serious fish—he’ll supply the know-how and gear!
