On the Bay Fishing Charters in Ruskin

On the Bay Fishing Charters is Captain Jason Thompson's inshore guide service. Jason fishes Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg and the Anna Maria area from a 24-foot Canyon Bay tower boat. The standard booking is for four guests, with larger parties discussed separately.

Contact and booking details

Meet Captain Jason Thompson

Jason's biography describes him as a sixth-generation Floridian who grew up fishing and later earned his captain's license in 2007. Tournament fishing and local charity events are also part of his published background. He introduces the service as a way for visitors and residents to explore bay fishing with a guide.

The operation focuses on coastal inshore water rather than long offshore runs. Its descriptions include grass flats, backwaters and shoreline fishing around Tampa Bay. Share your experience level and the ages of any children so Jason can discuss a suitable pace and realistic fishing plan.

Boat and fishing targets

The listed boat is a 24-foot Canyon Bay with a tower and Mercury Verado power. Its standard fishing group is four people. The site invites larger parties to contact the captain, but this does not establish that a single boat can take an unlimited group.

Redfish, snook and spotted seatrout are the principal named targets. Other species may be encountered while exploring the bay. Ask about current conditions and the target you value most. The operator's catch photographs show past outings, and cannot promise a matching catch on a future reservation.

Morning bookings and current quotes

The booking page describes typical morning departures at 8 a.m. and returns at noon, 1 p.m. or 2 p.m. The homepage has a different return-time display for its longest choice. Have Jason confirm the exact number of hours and return time rather than rely on the two displays as interchangeable.

A clear current rate was not established in the reviewed pages. Request the total for the chosen duration and guest count, including any taxes or additional charges. For a larger family or work group, also establish whether the arrangement uses several boats and how each party will be divided.

Included equipment and packing

Fishing licenses, rods, tackle and bait are listed as supplied. Jason also provides an iced cooler. Guests are told to bring their preferred drinks and snacks, a towel, sunglasses, a hat and sun protection. A rain jacket is suggested because conditions can change during the outing.

Glass bottles and other glass items are excluded by the packing instructions. Check bag sizes and seating needs before arrival. The reviewed boat information does not clearly establish a restroom or complete shade layout, so ask directly if these will determine whether someone can comfortably join.

Payment terms and booking contact

The published policy says online reservations are paid in full at booking. Its wording about a 14-day cancellation refund is unclear, so obtain the exact deadline in writing before paying. Weather cancellation is at the captain's discretion; the policy offers a refund if he cancels and the trip is not rescheduled.

The contact page publishes 863-559-9982 and an email address for booking questions. Send the desired date, duration and guest count. Confirm the actual dock, parking and arrival time with Jason. The service area spans several bay communities, and a town name alone is not enough to identify where your boat will leave.

Details checked October 11, 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: On the Bay Fishing Charters angler holding a snook over Tampa Bay water. Photo from On the Bay Fishing Charters.

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