How to Keep Your Fish Fresh After an Inshore Charter in St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay

Hey everybody, Captain Matt Hilliard here with Daybreaker Inshore Charters out of St. Petersburg. Sixth generation fisherman on these waters. Folks ask me all the time what to do with their fish after we get back to the dock. Down here the heat and humidity will ruin a good catch fast if you don't handle it right. I've seen it happen too many times. Nice reds or trout from a day near Weedon Island or Fort De Soto go bad because they didn't get iced quick or got left in a hot truck. I hate that.

On the boat we bleed them quick and get everything on ice right away. Keeps the meat firm. We can clean your fish at the dock if you want. Included when you ask. Makes the ride home easy with fresh fillets on ice. If you take them whole, bring a solid cooler packed with plenty of ice. More than you think you need. Mix the fish in with the ice and keep the drain open or bag them so they don't sit in water. Don't park the cooler in a hot car.

Get home and clean soon as you can. For freezing the glaze method works good around here. Fillets in a bag covered with water, sealed and frozen. Stays perfect for months.

Around St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay the sun and warm water make proper handling important. That's how we do things with Daybreaker. Small boat, personal attention, no rushing folks off like some bigger outfits. We get you taken care of and make sure you know how to enjoy your catch later.

If you're looking for an inshore charter St Petersburg or Tampa Bay fishing trip where they actually help with this, reach out. We'll get you sorted.

Captain Matt Hilliard Daybreaker Inshore Charters St. Petersburg, Florida Phone: 727-434-0383 Email: captainmatthilliard@gmail.com

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