Fishing Reports

September 2026

Salt Cracker Charters Fishing Report

September is shaping up to be a great month to get offshore, and we’re taking full advantage of the opportunities this time of year has to offer.

Gag Grouper Are the Primary Target

Gag grouper are our primary target for the remainder of September as we take advantage of the open season before it closes on October 1st.

We’ve been putting together some nice fish boxes on dedicated gag grouper charters, with plenty of quality fish coming over the rail. If catching a pile of grouper is on your list, now is the time to get out there and take advantage of the remaining September season.

We’re also continuing to target red grouper and red snapper on our full-day offshore trips from Clearwater, and we’re picking up a few bonus gags along the way.

Wreck Trips Are Still Hot

Our nearshore wreck and artificial reef trips continue to produce plenty of action. Goliath grouper remain a big attraction, along with barracuda, occasional sharks and a variety of other species that call these structures home.

These trips are a great option for anglers looking for hard-pulling fish and plenty of action without committing to a full-day offshore trip.

A Look Ahead: October Fishing

As we move into October, we’re looking forward to some exciting seasonal changes.

The hogfish bite should begin heating up, making them an increasingly popular target on our reef and bottom-fishing trips. We’ll also start seeing more opportunities while trolling for Spanish mackerel, with the possibility of some kingfish showing up as well.

Our wreck and reef trips should also start producing more amberjack, while Goliath grouper, barracuda and sharks will continue to provide plenty of excitement.

September is the time to chase those gags before the season closes, and October brings a whole new mix of opportunities.

Book your next Salt Cracker Charters trip and come see what’s biting in Clearwater!

Why Choose Salt Cracker for Your Clearwater Fishing Charter?

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TESTIMONIALS

What they say about us

    
 
 
         
   Ann Natario 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The ferry is so convenient. I had friends visiting from out of town. We took the ferry from Dunedin to Downtown Clearwater so we could go to the monthly farmers market. We then took the ferry to Clearwater beach to walk around and have lunch. The ferry was much better than driving!
  
 
        
   Lauren Smith 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Perfect way to travel from Dunedin to Clearwater Beach. We LOVED it and even got to bring our dog. Since we are seniors it was even more affordable with the discount and the captain and first mate were lovely! DO IT!
  
 
        
   Debra Reakes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Friendly crew, enjoyable ride to Clearwater.
  
 
        
   Kristen Neiman 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Such a nice little ride !
  
 
        
   Ellen Kennedy 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience on the Clearwater Ferry, roundtrip from Dunedin to Clearwater Beach was excellent.  The ferry was clean, comfortable and safe with a friendly, experienced crew. Also, left on time according to the schedule.
  
 
        
   Stéphane Maleuvre 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Une façon bien agréable de se rendre à la plage depuis Clearwater Downtown. Personnel bien sympathique !
  
 
        
   Crispin Del Nero 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Saw this and had to try it. Trip takes about 45 minutes. Staff were fun. There was .music and you can bring a beer or suck if you're nice about it. For $8, it's an easy way to get to Clearwater Beach or Dunedin in a relaxing and way. We rode it in August and it was hot but it's FL in August so expected. It was a short walk to the beach from the marina fyi.
  
 
        
   Mindy Baird 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We took the ferry to Clearwater Beach for a friend's birthday celebration. The captain and Luke were a delight. This is the best way to get to the beach. No traffic, no parking and at $5 it's the best deal out there!
  
 
        
   J 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A great way to visit Clearwater Beach. Without the hassle of parking. The boats are very nice i think they have been upgraded since I last used this service. The staff is on point, very friendly and very professional.
  
 
        
   Paul Brown 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great ride and adventure. We ran into a little storm on our way back but our crew handled it great.

Book Your Clearwater Fishing Charter Today

Create memories that will last long after your Clearwater vacation ends.

Whether you're searching for Clearwater Florida fishing charters, planning a family vacation, entertaining clients, or looking for a memorable day on the Gulf of Mexico, Salt Cracker Charters is ready to create an experience you'll never forget.

Contact us today to reserve your charter and discover why so many guests return to Salt Cracker Charters every time they visit Clearwater Beach.

FAQ

Where do your Clearwater fishing charters depart?

Do I need fishing experience?

How many people can join a charter?

What fish can we catch?

What is included with my fishing charter?

Can we have our catch cooked after the trip?

Yes. One of the unique advantages of fishing with Salt Cracker Charters is our catch-and-cook experience. After your charter, we'll clean and fillet your fish so you can take it to the nearby Salt Cracker Fish Camp, where the restaurant can prepare your fresh catch for lunch or dinner.

Have additional questions? Visit our complete Frequently Asked Questions page for more information about our Clearwater fishing charters, trip planning, pricing, what to bring, weather policies, and more.