Stealth Fishing Charters, owned and operated by Capt. Jay Plastic, offers authentic light-tackle inshore fishing on Tampa Bay. This guide explains what happens on a typical trip, who the charter is best for, what is included, and how to prepare so you can book with confidence.
Who Is Capt. Jay Plastic?
Capt. Jay Plastic is a Florida native raised in Clearwater. He has spent more than three decades fishing the waters from Tarpon Springs to Boca Grande, with a strong focus on Tampa Bay. He is especially known for snook fishing and for teaching anglers of all skill levels how to catch fish, not just ride along on a boat.
He is a U.S. Air Force veteran and works with a small group of trusted local captains, giving clients access to deep local knowledge of tides, bait, and productive spots.
What Kind of Fishing Does Stealth Fishing Charters Offer?
Stealth Fishing Charters specializes in inshore light-tackle fishing on Tampa Bay’s flats, mangroves, and productive shallows. Primary target species include:
- Snook (the specialty)
- Redfish
- Spotted seatrout
- Mangrove snapper
- Tarpon
- Cobia
- Flounder
- Spanish mackerel and other seasonal species
Trips use live bait (white bait, pinfish, shrimp) as the primary method, with the option to fish artificial lures if requested. The focus is on real fishing action rather than a sightseeing cruise.
Boat and Capacity
Trips run on a clean, comfortable 22-foot Pathfinder Tournament Edition center console. The boat is well-organized, stable for inshore work, and has good storage. It typically accommodates up to 4 anglers comfortably. Confirm group size when booking.
Trip Lengths Available
Stealth Fishing Charters offers flexible trip lengths:
- 4-hour charters
- 6-hour charters
- 8-hour charters
Half-day and full-day options work well for families, first-time anglers, and experienced fishermen who want more time on the water.
What Is Included in a Stealth Fishing Charters Trip?
- Expert guidance and instruction from Capt. Jay Plastic
- 22-foot Pathfinder Tournament Edition boat
- All fishing rods, reels, and tackle
- Live bait
- Cooler with ice, bottled water, and drinks
- Fish cleaning for legal, keepable catches (when regulations allow)
- Coverage under the charter boat license (guests do not need their own Florida fishing license)
Who Is This Charter Best For?
- Beginners and first-time anglers
- Families and kids (Capt. Jay is experienced with children and patient instruction)
- Experienced anglers seeking quality snook, redfish, and trout fishing
- Anyone who wants a personalized, educational fishing experience rather than a crowded party-boat style trip
How to Prepare for Your Tampa Bay Fishing Charter
Bring:
- Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a hat
- Quick-dry or comfortable clothing suitable for the weather
- Non-slip or closed-toe deck shoes
- Any personal medications, camera, or snacks
- A cooler if you plan to take fish home
Everything else needed for fishing is provided. Capt. Jay will advise on the best departure times based on tides and conditions.
Best Times of Year for Tampa Bay Inshore Fishing
- Spring and fall — Excellent overall action and comfortable weather
- Summer — Strong snook and redfish fishing; early starts are often preferred due to heat
- Winter — Good trout and redfish opportunities on cooler days
Capt. Jay adjusts tactics daily based on tides, bait availability, and weather, so productive fishing is possible year-round.
How to Book a Charter with Stealth Fishing Charters
Call or text Capt. Jay Plastic directly at 813-494-2048 or email Jay@StealthFishingCharters.com. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Discuss preferred trip length, group size, and any special requests (family focus, lure fishing, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions About Stealth Fishing Charters
Do I need a fishing license? No. All passengers are covered under the charter boat license for the duration of the trip.
Is the charter good for beginners and children? Yes. Capt. Jay is patient, instructional, and has experience working with kids and first-timers.
What fish can I expect to catch? Snook, redfish, spotted seatrout, mangrove snapper, and other inshore species depending on season and conditions. Snook is the primary specialty.
How many people can fish on one trip? The 22-foot Pathfinder comfortably handles up to 4 anglers. Contact Capt. Jay to confirm for your group.
Are trips canceled for weather? Safety comes first. Capt. Jay monitors conditions and will reschedule if necessary. Light rain or overcast skies often produce good fishing.
Do you practice catch and release? Yes. All fishing follows Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations. Responsible catch-and-release is emphasized, with the option to keep legal fish when regulations allow.
What should I bring? Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, hat, comfortable clothing, non-slip shoes, and any personal items. Tackle, bait, ice, and drinks are provided.
How do I book? Call or text 813-494-2048 or email Jay@StealthFishingCharters.com.
Ready to Fish Tampa Bay with a Local Expert?
Stealth Fishing Charters delivers genuine inshore fishing experiences led by a native captain with decades of knowledge of Tampa Bay. Whether you want trophy snook, a family day on the water, or to improve your light-tackle skills, Capt. Jay Plastic focuses on putting you on fish and helping you become a better angler.
Call or text 813-494-2048 today to check availability and book your Tampa Bay fishing charter.