Half Day Fishing Experience from John’s Pass in Madeira Beach, FL – 5 Hours

Planning a fishing trip in Madeira Beach? You’ll find this half-day excursion from Hubbard’s Marina offers an accessible, family-friendly way to enjoy deep-sea fishing in the stunning waters off Johns Pass. This tour, typically booked about 15 days in advance, lasts around 5 hours and promises many fun moments, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned angler.

A potential cue to consider is that the trip does not include fishing gear — you’ll need to rent rods and reels at an extra cost, which could boost the overall expense if you’re not prepared. Also, some reviews point to variable fishing success, which depends partly on luck and fish activity that day. For some, that might be a small disappointment; for others, the knowledgeable guides and scenic rides may make up for it.

What we really like about this experience is the easy-going family vibe—it’s suitable for kids and newbies alike—and the opportunity to end the day with a fresh catch cooked at a local restaurant (additional cost). Plus, the crew’s reputation for being helpful and friendly consistently shines through reviews, adding a warm touch to this otherwise straightforward adventure.

One aspect worth noting: fishing success varies, and some reviews mention slow days. So if you’re expecting a guaranteed bounty, keep expectations flexible. But if you’re after the thrill of the deep sea, beautiful views, and the chance to learn a little about local fish—all while enjoying some quality time with loved ones—this trip hits the right notes.

Highlights of the Half Day Fishing Experience

• Deep-sea fishing for all skill levels
• Chance to catch classic Gulf species like grey snapper, seabass, kingfish, and mackerel
• Option to rent fishing equipment easily at Hubbard’s Marina
• Post-trip meal opportunity where your catch can be prepared at a nearby restaurant
• Family-friendly environment suitable for children and groups

Why This Tour Is a Solid Choice for Travelers

We appreciate how this tour captures the relaxed, friendly vibe of Florida’s fisheries scene. If you’re looking for a casual way to try your hand at deep-sea fishing without worrying about bringing your own gear, you’ll enjoy the straightforward setup—just show up, rent what you need, and start fishing. The five-hour window means you get enough time on the water without it feeling exhausting, making it great for families or first-timers seeking a bit of adventure.

The trip’s biggest draw is the opportunity to catch your own fish—and not just a couple, but honest-to-goodness good-sized species like grey snapper and seabass, according to many reviews. Plus, the weather in Madeira Beach lends itself well to days with clear skies and calm conditions, according to comments, which makes the entire experience more pleasant.

However, anglers should keep in mind that fishing results can be slow on some days, even with passionate crews doing everything they can to locate schools of fish. Some reviews mention slow outings, especially when fish are finicky or not biting much. So, for those hoping for guaranteed catches, it’s a gamble. But if you’re simply after the experience, the scenic ride, and the chance to learn a bit about local fishing spots, this outing offers good value.

The Itinerary: What Should You Expect?

The tour begins at Hubbard’s Marina, centrally located in Madeira Beach, making it super accessible whether you’re staying nearby or coming from St. Petersburg. Once onboard, you’ll hop into a comfortable vessel with space for up to 65 travelers, giving the trip a lively, social atmosphere.

The trip generally involves about an hour of cruising out to prime fishing grounds. As one reviewer put it, “the trip was supposed to be 1 hour out, 3 hours of fishing, and 1 hour back.” But actual timing can vary, especially if the crew is moving the boat around to find the best fish-holding spots—many comments praise how the crew shifts to accommodate the conditions.

Once settled, you’ll have around three hours of fishing, during which you target a variety of species. The crew are known for being helpful and experienced, often moving the boat around to improve your chances of catching. Several travelers appreciated how the staff shifted positions or repositioned the boat, sometimes even advised to buy shrimp bait beforehand to boost catch success.

The bait is included in your ticket, but be aware that fishing gear isn’t. You can rent rods for an additional fee at Hubbard’s Marina—usually about $10 per person, according to reviews. The gear provided is straightforward, ensuring even the newest anglers aren’t left behind.

During the trip, it’s common to catch various species: grey snapper, porgies, seabass, kingfish, and mackerel, among others. The catch is often lively enough for a family dinner, and many reviewers mention their success in catching enough fish to have it filleted and cooked later at a partner restaurant nearby. One reviewer found it satisfying “to walk off the boat with enough fish to feed us for lunch,” with some even enjoying the filleting process that the crew handles with ease.

The return trip generally lasts about an hour, giving time for some relaxing waterside views and camaraderie. Once back at Hubbard’s Marina, your fish can be filleted on-site, and some trip options include cooking it at a nearby restaurant for an additional fee, usually around $12 per person. This is a perfect way to cap off the day—feasting on fresh, local seafood with stories from the water.

What Travelers Say About the Crew and Overall Experience

Multiple reviews laud the friendly, approachable crew who go above and beyond. “The crew and captain were very good,” a reviewer noted, and others mention how helpful and knowledgeable guides make the day more enjoyable, especially for families or novices. Several highlighted that the crew shifts the boat to improve chances of catching fish, acknowledging their skill and dedication.

However, some reviews point out slow fishing days, when the fish just aren’t biting and the crew’s efforts are less fruitful. Yet, even on slow days, passengers appreciated the helpfulness with lines and catches. Many reviews indicate positive experiences, especially when fishing results are decent, with “lots of grey snapper” among the prize catches.

A notable advantage of this trip is the flexibility of options—renting gear, choosing to have your catch cooked, or simply enjoying the ride—catering well to different preferences. The relaxed pace, scenic views, and chance to spot dolphins or other wildlife keep the trip lively, even when fish are playing hard to get.

The Cost and Value Proposition

At a listed price of $94.95 per person, this tour offers a reasonable value for a half-day in the Gulf of Mexico. The price covers bait and the fun of fishing—with gear rental as an extra. Some guests find the added costs for gear and fish cleaning worth it, since the hassle is taken off their plate.

Given the reviews, we see that many think it’s a fair deal for the memorable experience of fishing in coastal Florida. It’s ideal for those looking for a laid-back, fun outing with the possibility of a tasty reward at the end. Keep in mind that fishing success isn’t guaranteed—some guests leave with one or two fish, while others walk away with enough for a meal.

In terms of group sizes, with a maximum of 65 travelers, there’s enough room for everyone to spread out, but not so crowded that it feels overwhelming. Booking 15 days in advance is recommended, especially during peak months when families and anglers want to secure their spot.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This half-day fishing experience is perfect if you’re after a casual, fun-filled outing suitable for groups, families, or solo travelers eager for a bit of adventure on the water. Whether you want to learn about fishing or just sit back and enjoy the scenery, this trip makes for a memorable day — especially with the option to have your catch cooked afterward.

It suits travelers who value friendly guides, scenic rides, and the chance to catch flavorful local fish. If you’re a very serious angler expecting guaranteed big catches, or if you dislike additional costs like gear rental or fish cleaning fees, it might feel a bit extraneous. But if your priority is a relaxed, authentic experience with friendly service, this tour hits its mark.

The trip offers good value for the money with the added bonus of food and scenic fun. Spotting dolphins, sharing catches, and enjoying a breezy ride make it a great choice for those wanting easy access to Florida’s inviting waters. Just remember, a slow fishing day can happen, so go with relaxed expectations and be ready for some entertainment and good company.

FAQ

Is gear included in the price? No, fishing rods and reels are not included and need to be rented separately at Hubbard’s Marina for about $10 per person.

What fish can I expect to catch? Most trips report catching grey snapper, porgies, seabass, kingfish, and mackerel.

Can I have my fish cooked after the trip? Yes, many travelers enjoy taking their fish to a nearby restaurant for a personalized meal, sometimes with a small extra fee.

How long is the actual fishing time? While the trip is scheduled for about 3 hours of fishing, actual fishing may sometimes be shorter depending on conditions and boat movement.

Is this suitable for children? Yes, the experience is family-friendly and well-suited for kids, as long as they are comfortable on boats.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book? Booking about 15 days ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons.

What is the scenery like? Expect scenic views around Johns Pass with chances to see dolphins and other marine life, making it more than just fishing.

Is tipping expected? Tips are appreciated but not obligatory—if the crew enhances your experience, consider a modest gratuity.

Are drinks or food provided? Not typically; it’s best to bring water and snacks aboard. Food is available for purchase at the marina or nearby restaurants after your trip.

This well-balanced and lively fishing trip delivers more than just the catch. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Madeira Beach, learn about local fish, and share a memorable adventure with family or friends. Whether you’re here for the thrill of the fish or simply a day on the water, it combines practicality, fun, and a touch of Florida’s best weather.