Captain Major Fishing Charters in Anna Maria Island

Captain Major Fishing Charters is Captain Sam Major’s Anna Maria Island guide service. Formerly called Sumotime Fishing Charters, it offers private four-, six- and eight-hour trips around Tampa Bay and nearby Gulf waters.

Contact and booking details

From Sumotime to Captain Major

Captain Mark Howard retired in 2018 and sold his boat and business to Sam Major. Sam had worked alongside him for five years before taking over. The two names therefore describe the business’s history, not two unrelated charter companies.

Sam is a fifth-generation Tampa Bay local. His operation welcomes families, children and anglers with different experience levels. Tell him who is coming and what they would like to try so he can shape the outing.

The boat and departure

The listed boat is a 23-foot Hydra Sport bay boat with a Yamaha 250 and a custom tower. Fishing trips carry up to six guests, although published base prices cover four.

Pickup is in Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island. Sam coordinates the exact location with guests rather than directing every booking to one permanent slip. Get the final meeting point and parking information before setting off.

Fishing around the island and bay

Trips work inshore and nearshore water around Anna Maria Island, Tampa Bay and the Gulf. Snook, redfish and trout are among the main possibilities, with seasonal opportunities for tarpon, sharks, cobia, grouper and mackerel.

The plan depends on the time of year, your interests and the group’s ability. Sam says he catches live bait before picking up anglers, leaving more of the booked trip available for fishing. Ask whether your target is realistic for the date and trip length you are considering.

Published rates and inclusions

Four hours is listed at $700, six hours at $900 and eight hours at $1,300. Each covers up to four people. A fifth or sixth angler adds $50 per person. Confirm the final quote when choosing your date.

Rods, reels, tackle, licenses and bait are provided. The boat has a cooler guests may use, and cleaning or filleting is included. Captain Sam reserves the right to limit take-home fish beyond the legal minimum requirements as part of his conservation approach.

Packing and payment

Bring food, drinks, a camera, sun protection, a hat, polarized sunglasses and suitable boat shoes. Ask about extra layers if you are leaving early or fishing during cooler weather.

Cash, check and credit card are listed as accepted payment methods. Deposits for first-time clients are arranged directly with Sam. Request the amount, cancellation deadline and weather policy together so you know what happens if plans change.

Details checked October 1, 2026, using the operator’s published information. Rates, boats, meeting points and policies can change; confirm the final trip details directly. Listed species describe possible targets, not a guaranteed catch or an open harvest season.

Featured photo: Captain Major yellow and white Hydra Sport bay boat docked. Photo from Captain Major Fishing Charters.

Explore more Florida fishing charters or check local tides and weather before planning your day.