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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?

TESTIMONIALS

What they say about us

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William Simone profile picture
William Simone
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Mike and Adam had a great playlist going and out in some fun fish. As soon as the biting stopped we moved to the next spot. I’ve fished my whole life and had an absolute amazing time!!
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Mindy Hieb profile picture
Mindy Hieb
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Absolutely amazing experience! Very clean boat and wonderful hospitality. Thank you Mike and Adam for a memorable time! Would definitely book with you guys again!
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J H profile picture
J H
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This was our second year fishing with Captain Nick, and once again we had an incredible trip. My son Tyler is now six, and he has literally been talking about fishing with Captain Nick for the past year. Captain Nick has become one of his favorite people, and getting back out on the boat with him was something Tyler had really been looking forward to. Nick has always been incredibly easy to work with, accommodating with scheduling, and just genuinely great with kids. He has a way of treating Tyler almost like one of his own, making sure he is involved, having fun, and getting the most out of the entire experience. As a parent, that means a lot. We had another fantastic day on the water, and Tyler came away with even more memories and stories to tell. Captain Nick goes well beyond simply taking you fishing—he makes the whole trip special. We really appreciate everything he has done for Tyler over the last two years and are already looking forward to fishing with him again next year. Highly recommend Captain Nick and Salt Cracker Charters, especially for families and kids.
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Levi Anderson profile picture
Levi Anderson
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Mike and his deck hand did an awesome job putting us on the fish!
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Michael Heller profile picture
Michael Heller
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Captain Mike is the Best!
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Matt Dowell profile picture
Matt Dowell
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Capt Mike and Adam were great. They worked very hard to make sure our group caught fish and were great hosts on the boat. We pulled in fish non stop at a couple spots. It was very comfortable for the ride out and ride in. Plenty of shade and a restroom were a huge plus. Boat is clean. The crew was great and we’ll fish again!
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Jesse Lucarini profile picture
Jesse Lucarini
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Highly recommend Salt Cracker Charters. Nick & Adam were on the ball, knowledgeable, and patient with us as beginner fishermen. We had an amazing action-filled day that included catching Barracuda, Goliath Grouper, and various other species of Grouper & Snapper. Would highly recommend these guys for your next Clearwater Fishing Trip!
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Malachi Rodgers profile picture
Malachi Rodgers
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Had an AWESOME experience on the Salt Cracker Charter. Captain Nick and first mate Adam were very knowledgeable and helpful as it was only my second time boat fishing. I caught 10 fish and all were huge I actually had to stop fishing and take a break to let my arm rest from back to back to back catches. Highly recommend. Worth every penny. Definitely coming back!
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veer profile picture
veer
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First time going on a charter boat and it was a great experience! Adam and Nick were amazing and made sure everyone had a great time!
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patrick sanders profile picture
patrick sanders
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These guys will put you on some fish. Captain Nick and his first mate Adam are super cool and friendly.

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.

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