Cortez Deep Sea Fishing — Attraction in South Bradenton

Felt like I got scammed with this place. Originally booked for the Eddy Z. Paid in advance, boarded the vessel when the lady came on the boat to see if anyone wanted to switch to a charter with room because 3 people didn't show up. I asked what the charge was and she said $31. I'm like, "okay, it's probably $31 each so $62 total- no biggie. Nicer boat and less people." We volunteered to go and then when we got on the boat it somehow went from $62 to $114? 20% gratuity- that's fine I planned on tipping anyways. By the time she told us the total the other boat had already taken off before we could change our mind. I figured I would've got some sort of discount since they were asking us. Not only that "deep sea" fishing? It was like 12 miles out and we caught tiny fish and most of the kinds you didn't want. I'm giving two stars because our charter crew was great and they filet the fish for you but this company isn't worth the money to me. I would've rather been on my own boat and had a better chance of catching something good and worth my time....

I booked a charter through Arlene that was very easy. Being an experienced fisherman with charters and owning my own boat, things can happen. They called day before and explained about the one boat and mechanical issues it was having. A little down I was. This outfit, in thinking of safety of people, is top notch. Most of the one stars you can read between their lines. I’ve been through storms, mechanical issues and even having to get back to shore on a brand new boat, new engine to only have it fail and get in on a 10hp kicker. Arlene was so accommodating and sincere. She explained everything and was going to book me on another boat. But I wanted the beautiful snapper I saw on their Facebook page. Not to worry I’ll be back. And that’s why they call it fishing. The company cares and Arlene is all class....

Best fishing trip of my life. I have never caught so many fish. I definitely enjoyed myself. This was my 2nd trip with the Cortez Fishing Charter fleet. I wasn’t disappointed the first time 3 years ago. This trip was even better on Sunday and I am planning another trip soon. The 1st mate Kevin was very helpful with identifying and removing keeper fish species. He attended to everyone’s needs during the entire trip. The trust between the captain and 1st mate was key to them knowing when to move the boat and keep us on top of schools of fish. I caught my first large grouper, he was just not legal size to keep. But what a fight to get him off the bottom. I had fun. No one left without a nice haul of fish. I recommend that you take a trip and see...