Welcome to Chum Em Up Charters, where unforgettable fishing experiences await you under the expert guidance of Captain Michael Castaldi. With a deep passion for the sea and a wealth of knowledge about local waters, Captain Castaldi ensures that every trip is a thrilling adventure. Our center console boat, a meticulously restored 20-foot Century built in 1998 and updated in 2023, is perfectly equipped to provide you with both comfort and safety as you pursue your fishing dreams. At Chum Em Up Charters, we pride ourselves on offering personalized fishing excursions for up to three guests. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice eager to learn, our charters are designed to cater to your needs and skill levels. The boat features a powerful Yamaha engine with 115HP, allowing you to reach the best fishing spots quickly and efficiently. This means you can maximize your time on the water and focus on what really matters: reeling in that big catch. Fishing enthusiasts will be thrilled with our diverse target species, which include Black Drum, Cobia, Gag Grouper, Jack Crevalle, Redfish, Blacktip Shark, Sheepshead, Mangrove Snapper, Snook, Speckled Trout, and Tarpon. Each fishing expedition is tailored to the season and conditions, ensuring the best chance of a successful catch. Captain Castaldi's extensive experience and expertise in local fishing spots means you’re always in the right place at the right time, ready for an exciting day on the water. Safety and comfort are paramount at Chum Em Up Charters. Our 20-foot center console boat is designed for ease of movement, giving anglers plenty of space to maneuver as they reel in their catches. Equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and safety gear, you can relax and fully enjoy the experience, knowing you’re in capable hands. The boat's layout is designed to provide a smooth ride, whether you're cruising to the fishing grounds or battling a feisty fish. Join us at Chum Em Up Charters for a fishing adventure like no other. Book your trip with Captain Michael Castaldi today and experience the thrill of reeling in your dream catch while exploring the stunning waters of our fishing grounds. Whether you're looking for a half-day of fishing or a full-day adventure, we guarantee a memorable experience that will leave you longing to return. With Chum Em Up Charters, let’s make your fishing dreams come true! Your adventure awaits, and we can’t wait to share it with you.

EPSG:4269

Great For Top Anglers

Best Spots

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

A fisherman with a big catch at an unknown location

Four anglers with a small fish during a fishing trip

Captain

Weather Expert

Species Specialist

Tackle Master

Patient Teacher

Captain Mike consistently delivers exceptional results with his deep knowledge of Punta Gorda waters and expert preparation. Customers regularly catch impressive varieties including tarpon, snook, snapper, sheepshead, trout, and even sharks, with some trips yielding 60+ fish in just four hours. He arrives with top-quality gear, live bait already caught, and knows exactly where to find specific species based on conditions and time of day.

Mike's dedication to his guests truly shines through in every trip. He focuses entirely on putting customers on fish rather than fishing himself, immediately handles any snags or lost tackle, and adapts plans for weather conditions like routing through protected canals on windy days. Families especially appreciate his patience with beginners and kids, while experienced anglers value his willingness to target whatever species they're seeking. Customers consistently book repeat trips and recommend him to others.

Redfish catch displayed on fishing boat in Punta Gorda FL

Two anglers displaying a large redfish caught while fishing in Punta Gorda FL

Angler holding large snook fish on boat in Punta Gorda FL waters

Snook caught while fishing in Punta Gorda FL waterway

Ten grey snapper fish laid out on boat deck after successful fishing trip in Punta Gorda FL

Redfish catch displayed on fishing boat in Punta Gorda FL waters

Angler holding freshly caught snook on boat in Punta Gorda FL waterway

Ten grey snapper caught fishing in Punta Gorda FL displayed on boat deck

Tarpon catch displayed at marina in Punta Gorda FL

Fishing boat on trailer in Punta Gorda FL at sunset with dramatic orange sky

Tarpon catch displayed on fishing boat in Punta Gorda FL

Angler holding caught snook on boat in Punta Gorda FL waters

Redfish caught while fishing in Punta Gorda FL waters

Large tarpon caught while fishing in Punta Gorda FL waters

Snook fishing catch in Punta Gorda FL from boat

Dive into the excitement of fishing with Chum Em Up Charters, your top choice for remarkable fishing trips in Punta Gorda. Guided by Captain Michael Castaldi, Chum Em Up Charters welcomes anglers of all skill levels to catch trophy fish while enjoying the breathtaking views of Punta Gorda's pristine waters. With a dedication to customer satisfaction and a genuine passion for fishing, Chum Em Up Charters guarantees an unforgettable day on the water, packed with thrills, camaraderie, and lasting memories.

Chum Em Up Charters, led by Captain Mike Castaldi, offers top-tier Punta Gorda fishing charters for anglers seeking thrilling action on the water. With years of experience, Captain Mike is the perfect guide to help you explore the rich fishing grounds of Punta Gorda, FL. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, you’ll have the chance to target some of Florida’s most exciting species, including Snook, Speckled Trout, Mangrove Snapper, Sheepshead, and the elusive Cobia. For those looking for a true adrenaline rush, tarpon fishing and shark fishing are specialties of Chum Em Up Charters. Test your strength and skill as you battle massive Tarpon or Blacktip Sharks, making your reel scream with excitement. With customizable 4-hour or extended fishing trips, you’ll have plenty of time to land a variety of species, including Redfish, Black Drum, snook and Gag Grouper. Fishing in Punta Gorda, FL with Captain Mike guarantees a memorable experience filled with action, expertise, and fun. Come aboard and see why Chum Em Up Charters is a top choice for Punta Gorda fishing!

Captain Michael Castaldi is the heart behind Chum Em Up Charters FL, known throughout Punta Gorda for his deep knowledge of local waters and his down-to-earth, approachable style. Born with a passion for fishing and a natural love for the outdoors, he has spent countless hours exploring the inshore waters of Charlotte Harbor, learning the rhythms of the tides, the behavior of seasonal species, and the best techniques for landing fish. For Captain Michael, guiding isn’t just a job—it’s a way of life, and that passion shines through every trip. With years of hands-on experience and a sharp understanding of inshore ecosystems, Captain Castaldi provides much more than just a boat ride. He’s a patient teacher, a knowledgeable guide, and someone who genuinely enjoys helping others experience the excitement of fishing. Whether it’s your first time on the water or your hundredth, you’ll find that fishing with Captain Michael feels more like spending a day with an old friend than a commercial outing. His goal is always to share the best of Punta Gorda fishing with clarity, confidence, and respect for the local environment. What truly sets Captain Castaldi apart is his calm and welcoming nature. He’s especially great with families, kids, and first-time anglers, making sure everyone feels at home on the boat. Guests frequently remark on how easygoing and attentive he is, always ready with a helpful tip or a good story. He believes that fishing is about more than just catching—it’s about connection, relaxation, and creating memories that last long after the boat returns to the dock. <h2>About the Boat – 23ft shoalwater&nbsp;</h2>The Chum Em Up Charters vessel is a 23foot shoalwater year made in 2018 for modern this classic boat has been thoughtfully upgraded to balance reliability and style while navigating the inshore waters of Charlotte Harbor. With seating for up to three guests, the layout offers both open space for casting and cozy comfort for cruising. Powered by a dependable 200hp Yamaha engine, the boat allows Captain Castaldi to quickly reach productive fishing grounds while maintaining a smooth and stable ride. Well-maintained and safety-equipped, it’s the ideal setup for personalized, small-group fishing adventures on Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast.

Meet Captain Michael Castaldi by Chum Em Up Charters

Book a premium inshore fishing trip in Punta Gorda. Target tarpon, shark, snook, and more with expert guides. Reserve now!

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Experience premium half-day inshore fishing in Charlotte Harbor. Cast for redfish, snook & more. Book your trip today!

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Top-Rated Snook Night Fishing in Charlotte Harbor

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Florida Fishing License is Covered!

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Family Fishing Charters

Common Questions: What types of fishing charters does Chum Em Up offer?<ul><li>Chum Em Up Charters provides various fishing charters, including half-day and full-day trips focusing on species like tarpon, shark, and inshore fish.</li></ul> How much do the fishing charters cost?<ul><li>Rates vary depending on the duration and type of charter. For specific pricing details, please check our website or contact us directly.</li></ul> What is included in the charter price?<ul><li>All charters include fishing gear, bait, and safety equipment. We also provide expert guidance from Captain Michael Castaldi to ensure a successful fishing experience.</li></ul> Can I book a private charter?<ul><li>Yes! Chum Em Up Charters offers private charters tailored to your group size and fishing preferences, providing a personalized experience on the water.</li></ul> What should I bring on my fishing trip?<ul><li>We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, drinks, snacks, and any personal items you may need. Don’t forget your enthusiasm for fishing!</li></ul> Do you provide fishing licenses?<ul><li>Yes, fishing licenses are included in the charter, so you don’t have to worry about obtaining one separately.</li></ul> What if the weather is bad on the day of my trip?<ul><li>Safety is our priority. If the weather conditions are unsafe for fishing, we will reschedule your trip or offer a full refund.</li></ul> Is there an age limit for participants on the charter?<ul><li>There is no strict age limit, and we welcome anglers of all ages! However, adult supervision is required for children, and we ensure a family-friendly environment.</li></ul> What types of fish can we expect to catch in Punta Gorda?<ul><li>Depending on the season, you can catch various species, including tarpon, shark, redfish, snook, and trout, making for an exciting fishing adventure.</li></ul> How can I book a trip with Chum Em Up Charters?<ul><li>Booking is easy! You can reserve your spot through our website or by contacting us directly via phone or email. We look forward to fishing with you!</li></ul>

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