If you’re searching for a Crystal River fishing guide service that keeps things simple, productive, and fun for all ages, Tops Charters delivers just that. Based in one of Florida’s top fishing destinations, Captain Richard runs trips that cover both freshwater and saltwater options, giving anglers plenty of variety in one beautiful place. Whether you're after bass in Lake Henderson, chasing inshore favorites like Redfish and Speckled Trout, or looking forward to the scalloping season, this charter makes it easy to enjoy every moment on the water. Captain Richard operates a 20’ Express center console designed for small groups of up to three passengers. It's a great fit for families, couples, or solo anglers who prefer a more relaxed, one-on-one fishing experience. The boat comes equipped with everything needed for the day—rods, reels, tackle, lures, and live bait are included at no extra charge. No fishing license is required either, so guests can focus on fishing, not paperwork. Crystal River is known for its mix of freshwater and saltwater habitats, and this charter lets you explore both. Target Largemouth Bass in the calm waters of Lake Henderson or try your luck with Sheepshead, Snook, or Redfish in the inshore channels. The nearby Rainbow River also offers opportunities for light tackle and sightseeing, making it ideal for beginners and families. During the summer months, Tops Charters also offers scalloping tours, giving guests the chance to collect fresh bay scallops in shallow water. All necessary gear for scalloping is provided—just bring your swimwear and a good pair of fins. Families are welcome on board, and kids are encouraged to join. Just check ahead to confirm life jacket sizes. Bottled water is included, and you’re welcome to bring extra drinks or snacks—just avoid glass containers. Moderate alcohol is fine, though hard liquor is not permitted. Whether you're interested in guided bass fishing trips in Lake Henderson, scalloping near Crystal River, or a half-day saltwater outing, Tops Charters is ready to show you a good time on the water. Every trip is adjusted to match your experience level and interests. Captain Richard’s focus is on making sure everyone enjoys their day—from learning the basics to landing a memorable catch. For the best of both worlds—freshwater and saltwater fishing—book with Tops Charters and discover what makes Crystal River such a great place to fish.

EPSG:4269

Redfish

Blue Catfish

Hot bite and happy crew! My and I headed out on the Rainbow River for a fall morning trip, starting our half-day adventure in clear conditions that made for perfect visibility on the water. The calm weather held steady throughout our time out there, and the water clarity was just what we needed for the techniques we had planned. This was one of those classic November mornings that reminds you why Tops Charters keeps coming back to these productive waters, and our Half-Day Guided Trip with Captain Richard Delgado was set up perfectly for what the day had in store.
With our gear rigged and ready, we focused on light tackle fishing combined with sight fishing and bait fishing to work the productive areas along outer islands of Crystal River.

Captain

Join Captain Richard on Rainbow River for hot fall fishing action, targeting redfish, trout, and snook with light tackle in crystal-clear waters perfect for sight fishing!

Crystal  River Light Tackle Success | Tops Charters

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix Fee

This Crystal River inshore fishing charter is a 4-hour or 6-hour guided trip designed for up to 3 guests targeting Redfish, Spotted Sea Trout, Snook, and Black Drum in calm, shallow waters. Perfect for beginners, families, or experienced anglers, the trip includes all rods, reels, tackle, bait, and licenses. Captain Richard provides hands-on guidance, teaching techniques for light tackle and inshore fishing while keeping safety a top priority. Start and end times may adjust based on tides and weather to give you the best chance at success. Whether you’re learning the basics or refining your skills, this trip offers a reliable way to enjoy Crystal River fishing year-round.

Black Drum

Gag Grouper

Sea Trout

Snook

Tops Charters

12073 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429, USA

12073 W Fort Island Trail

6 hrs 

4 hrs 

Crystal River Inshore Fishing Charter for Redfish, Sea Trout, Snook, and Black Drum

Crystal River delivers incredible redfish and Trout action!

Crystal River Redfish & Trout - Hot Fall Bite with Captain Richard

Just around the corner is gag season. Who’s ready? 


Gag Grouper Season Countdown 

One for the books today! Summer fishing in Crystal River, FL brought us some fantastic action. I took Jack and their crew out for a half-day inshore adventure with Tops Charters. We launched from 12073 W Fort Island Trail under partly cloudy skies, perfect for our morning on the water. The conditions were ideal for our 5-hour guided saltwater trip, targeting redfish, seatrout, and more. Tops Charters had us set up for success as we headed out to explore the rich fishing grounds of Crystal River.
Once the stage was set, we got down to business with a mix of live bait fishing, sight fishing, and flats fishing techniques. The crystal-clear waters of Crystal River make it a prime spot for sight fishing, and we took full advantage of that. We worked the flats, keeping our eyes peeled for any signs of activity. Our patience paid off when we hooked into some nice redfish. The highlight was a solid 19-inch red that put up a great fight. We also managed to land some king mackerel, adding some variety to our catch. The mix of techniques we used really showcased the versatility of fishing in this area.
As the day progressed, we continued to work different spots, adjusting our approach based on the tides and fish behavior. The partly cloudy weather held out for most of our trip, providing comfortable conditions for fishing. We wrapped up just as some late afternoon rain started to move in, but by then, we'd already had a successful outing with plenty of action to keep us entertained.
If you're thinking about coming out to Crystal River for some inshore fishing, I can't recommend it enough. Our Crystal River Inshore Fishing – Half Day trip is perfect for anglers looking to experience the diverse fishery we have here. Whether you're after redfish, seatrout, or other inshore species, the waters around Crystal River offer something for everyone. At Tops Charters, we specialize in tailoring the experience to the tides and conditions, ensuring you get the most out of your time on the water. Our 5-Hour Guided Saltwater Trip is designed to put you on fish, whether you're an experienced angler or new to saltwater fishing. We provide all the gear and knowledge you need for a successful day out. The beauty of fishing here is the variety – from sight fishing on the flats to working live bait in deeper channels, there's always a technique to match the conditions. Don't miss out on the opportunity to fish these productive waters. Give us a call at Tops Charters, and let's get you out on the water for your own Crystal River fishing adventure. Trust me, whether you're after that trophy redfish or just looking to bend a rod, our inshore waters won't disappoint.

Dive into Crystal River's Inshore Bounty: Reds and Kings Galore!

Crystal River Inshore: Redfish & Mackerel Bonanza

Sight Fishing Success: Redfish and Mackerel in Crystal River!

Crystal River Reds: Top-Rated Inshore Action with Tops Charters

One for the books today! I took Charles and their crew out for a 5-hour private scalloping tour in Crystal River, FL this summer. We set out early in the morning under partly cloudy skies, with a chance of rain in the forecast. The conditions were perfect for our adventure with Tops Charters, and everyone was ready for a great day on the water.
Once the stage was set, we headed out to some prime scalloping spots. While we didn't land any fish on this trip, our focus was on the scallops, and we had a blast searching for them. We used a mix of techniques, including live bait fishing, sight fishing, and flats fishing, which are all great methods for exploring the Crystal River area. The inshore waters here are teeming with marine life, making it an ideal location for scalloping and fishing alike.
Even though we didn't hook any fish this time, the scalloping experience was top-notch. We wrapped up the trip with great memories and plenty of stories to share. It's days like these that remind me why Crystal River is such a special place for outdoor enthusiasts.
If you're thinking about coming out to Crystal River for some unforgettable water adventures, I'd love to have you aboard with Tops Charters. Our 5-Hour Private Scalloping Tour with Gear Included is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of our local waters. Running from July 1st to September 24th, 2025, it's the perfect summer activity for families, friends, or anyone looking to try something new. We provide all the gear you need, so you can just show up ready for fun. Whether you're an experienced scalloper or it's your first time, our inshore tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich marine life of Crystal River. Don't miss out on the chance to discover the hidden treasures beneath the surface of our crystal-clear waters. Book your scalloping adventure with us and experience firsthand why Crystal River is a top destination for water enthusiasts. Remember, the scalloping season is limited, so plan ahead to secure your spot on one of our tours. We're here to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable time out on the water. Looking forward to welcoming you aboard for your own Crystal River scalloping adventure soon!

Discover Crystal River's Hidden Gems: Scalloping Adventure Awaits!

Scalloping Adventure: Crystal River's Underwater Gems

This half-day Crystal River scalloping charter is a 4-hour trip designed for up to 4 guests to enjoy Florida’s 2025 scallop season, running from July 1 through September 24. Guests will snorkel in shallow Gulf waters ranging from 4 to 8 feet, collecting fresh bay scallops along lush seagrass beds. All snorkeling gear is included, making this a simple and fun outing for families, beginners, and small groups. Captain Richard provides local knowledge, ensures safe conditions, and guides guests to productive areas. To prepare, bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and any snacks or drinks you’d like to have onboard.

4.00hour

Crystal River Scalloping Charter

Dive into Crystal River's Underwater Treasure Hunt!

Crystal River Scalloping: Top-Rated 5-Hour Adventure with Tops Charters

Grey Snapper

Summer Flounder

Hot bite and happy crew! I took Richard out for a 5-hour inshore fishing adventure in Crystal River, FL this summer. We kicked off our day at the crack of dawn, working around some morning rain before the skies cleared up. Conditions were perfect for sight fishing once the weather settled. Richard was eager to get after some redfish and other inshore species, so we wasted no time getting lines in the water. It was a great day to be out with Tops Charters, exploring the rich fishing grounds Crystal River has to offer.
With our gear rigged and ready, we set out to target redfish, grey snapper, and summer flounder. I mixed up our approach, alternating between live bait fishing and sight fishing as we moved through different spots. The redfish were biting, and Richard managed to land a nice 14-incher - not a monster, but a solid catch that put up a good fight. We also had some luck with grey snapper and summer flounder, keeping us busy throughout the morning.
As the day went on, I showed Richard some flipping and pitching techniques that work well in these waters. It's always fun to share local knowledge and see anglers pick up new skills. We wrapped up our half-day trip with a good mix of species in the boat and plenty of action to keep things interesting. While we didn't land any record-breakers, the steady bite made for an enjoyable time on the water.
For anglers looking to experience the diverse inshore fishing Crystal River has to offer, I highly recommend booking a trip with us at Tops Charters. Our 5-Hour Guided Saltwater Trip for Redfish, Seatrout &amp; More is perfect for both beginners and experienced fishermen. We tailor start times to the tides for the best chance at success, whether you're after redfish, snapper, flounder, or other inshore species. Summer is a great time to fish these waters, with plenty of action and the chance to use various techniques like live bait fishing and sight fishing. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the rich marine life and productive fishing grounds of Crystal River. Give us a call at Tops Charters to book your next inshore fishing adventure. We'll provide all the gear and expertise you need for a memorable day on the water, targeting some of Florida's most sought-after inshore species. Whether you're a local or just visiting, our Crystal River inshore fishing trips offer a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and excellent angling opportunities this area is known for.

Dive into Crystal River's inshore action: Redfish, snapper, and flounder await!

Crystal River: Redfish & Snapper Bite in Inshore Paradise

Reel in Summer Fun: Crystal River's Inshore Fishing Bonanza!

Crystal River Inshore: Redfish, Snapper & Flounder Action

Had Tom on the boat for a second time, and this time he brought his friend Chuck. We start off with three solid speckled trouts then a bunch of sand trouts, a few gag groupers, landed one shark, a bunch of grunts, 5 reds and a couple of Jacks, all all a phenomenal day on the water with two great people and they went home with a nice bag of fish for dinner.  A few opening this week and next, plus we have scallop sason right around the corner. Let me know if you guys want to get some time on the water.￼

Specks, Reds, and a Shark—Full Bag and Good Company on the Water

Took a group out up in the big bend area since they open early and we hit our limit in less than an hour. Hit me up if you want to get out in Crystal River area next month when our season opens.

Fishing scene at the beautiful Crystal River

Quick Limit in the Big Bend—Crystal River Trips Booking Now

Been off the water for a little due to a nice family trip up north but today was a great day to be on the water. Had Todd on the boat and right off the bat he hooked into two nice reds.  After the red bite cooled off we went a few miles out and had a blast.  Boated over a dozen sand and spotted trout, a few grunts, and two baby sharks. However, the real fun was when we did hook onto a very nice 4’ shark, though it only gave us a few minutes of play time before it broke off.  All and all, Todd had a great time and he should have some nice fish tacos tonight.  Open most of this week and next week if anyone wants to get some time doing what our beautiful state has to offer.

Redfish caught during fishing in Crystal River

Reds, Trout, and Sharks—Back on the Water with a Bang

Sorry for the delay in posting after the close out of the tournement.  On Sunday we did land two more Cobia, a bunch of gags and three absolute mangrove snapper slabs (so no pics, camera man is slacking on getting me photos). One of the two Cobia’s that we landed did put us in 2nd place around 2:45 when got in, but just ten minutes before 4:00, we had gotten bumped to 4th.  I had to leave early so didn’t see the final tally.  See you all out there, tight lines…. 
Team:
Mark Nenadic (team captain)
Austin Ellis
Robbie Ellis
Richard Delgado

Photograph of a gag grouper fishing catch in Crystal River

Final Push Lands Cobia and Gags, Team Finishes Strong in the Rankings

For those who were out today in the tournement know the water was rough most of the day. However the team I am with did land 5 Cobia and close to 20 nice gags. We hope to have better luck tomorrow.  Here’s just a small glimps of what was caught today.  Tight lines…
Austin Ellis
Mark Nenadic team captian
Robbie Ellis 
Richard Delgado
John Bohannon

Cobia fish caught fishing in Crystal River

Rough Waters, Solid Catch: 5 Cobia & a Deck Full of Gags

Had Mike, Alex, and Corey out today and we had a great time. No super big fish today, but we did hit both of the fish we targeted. Trout were hitting in the 5-7 foot range on popper cork with shrimp and slam shadies. Next week is wide open if anyone wants to get some time on the water.

Steady Trout Action with Mike, Alex & Corey – Open Dates Next Week!        4o

A person enjoying a cruise or fishing trip on the waters of Crystal River

Redfish caught on cruises and fishing trip in FL

Spotted Weakfish caught while cruising and fishing in FL

Ready to reel in unforgettable memories? Book your next adventure with Tops Charters in Crystal River today and experience the excitement of Florida’s Nature Coast like never before!

Tops Charters in Crystal River specializes in family-friendly fishing charters that put anglers of all ages on Florida’s favorite inshore species, including Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, and more. Led by Captain Richard Delgado, every trip is designed to be relaxed, engaging, and enjoyable—perfect for beginners, kids, and seasoned anglers alike. With years of experience fishing Crystal River’s shallow waters, winding creeks, and grass flats, Captain Richard knows exactly where to find steady action while ensuring every guest feels comfortable and involved. All fishing tackle, bait, and gear are included, so all you need to do is show up ready for an unforgettable day on the water. Crystal River’s calm inshore waters and rich Nature Coast fishery make it one of Florida’s top destinations for family fishing adventures. Captain Richard’s hands-on guidance and local knowledge give guests the chance to learn new techniques, reel in exciting catches, and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. From teaching kids how to land their first Redfish to helping families spot dolphins along the flats, every charter is tailored to create lasting memories. Tops Charters continues to be a trusted choice for visitors and locals alike, offering not just fishing trips but meaningful experiences on the water—experiences that keep guests coming back year after year.

Find answers to the most common Crystal River fishing charter questions with Tops Charters, covering trip details, pricing, species, and what to expect for your day on the water.

Fishing has been part of Captain Richard Delgado’s life since he was just five years old. What began as simple family trips with a rod in hand quickly grew into a lifelong passion. During his 20 years of service in the U.S. Army, Richard had the opportunity to fish waters across the globe, gaining experience in a wide variety of techniques and environments. When he retired in 2022, he returned to his roots on Florida’s Gulf Coast and founded Tops Charters, fulfilling his dream of sharing the waters of Crystal River with others. Over the years, Captain Richard has developed a reputation as a knowledgeable and approachable guide. His easygoing nature makes him especially popular with families, first-time anglers, and kids eager to catch their first fish. Whether targeting Redfish on the grass flats, drifting for Seatrout, or spotting dolphins along the way, Richard creates an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and involved. His goal isn’t just about catching fish—it’s about creating lasting memories and helping every guest gain confidence on the water. Safety and professionalism are cornerstones of Richard’s approach. He is a fully licensed and insured captain with CPR and First Aid certification, and he takes pride in making each trip both enjoyable and secure. Guests often mention how patient and encouraging he is, whether teaching light tackle techniques, explaining tide patterns, or sharing stories about Crystal River’s natural beauty. With years of experience fishing the Nature Coast, he knows how to adapt to the seasons so that anglers always have the best chance at success, no matter the time of year. <h2>The Boat</h2>Tops Charters runs on a 20’ Express center console designed for versatility, safety, and comfort. Outfitted with modern electronics, a trolling motor, live wells, and seating for up to three guests, the boat is built for both inshore and nearshore fishing. Its shallow draft makes it easy to explore skinny water where Redfish feed, while its stability ensures a smooth ride for families and beginners. Whether the day calls for chasing Spotted Seatrout on the flats or exploring the winding creeks of the Nature Coast, Captain Richard’s boat is perfectly suited for the waters of Crystal River.

A Passionate Crystal River Fishing Guide with Local Knowledge and a Lifetime on the Water

Things To Do

Things To Do in Florida

Crystal River

Crystal River Fishing Charters

Crystal Cruise

Premium Crystal River Nature Cruise | Tops Charters

Fishing License

Florida Fishing License

Crystal Catch

World-Class Crystal River Inshore Fishing Trip

River Bass Fun

Top-Rated Rainbow River Bass Fishing | Tops Charters

Lake Bass Fun

Henderson Lake Bass Fishing | Tops Charters

Sea Catch

Expert-Guided Scalloping & Fishing on Nature Coast

River Shell Hunt

Crystal River Scalloping Adventure | Tops Charters

Common Questions: What types of fishing trips does Tops Charters in Crystal River offer?Tops Charters offers inshore saltwater, freshwater, and seasonal scalloping trips in Crystal River. You can book half-day trips targeting Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Snook, and Largemouth Bass. Scenic Rainbow River fishing and snorkeling tours are also available for families and beginners. How much does a fishing trip with Tops Charters cost?Rates vary based on trip type and duration. Most half-day trips range from $400 to $500 for up to 3 guests. This includes all fishing gear, bait, and bottled water. You can check the Tops Charters booking rates page for the most up-to-date pricing. What’s included in a Tops Charters fishing trip?All fishing trips include rods, reels, tackle, bait (live and artificial), and bottled water. For scalloping trips, snorkel gear is also provided. The boat is licensed and insured, and guests do not need to bring a fishing license—everything is covered. What should I bring on a Crystal River fishing trip?Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), drinks (no glass), snacks, and a camera for photos. If you’re bringing kids, check ahead for available life jacket sizes or bring your own. For scalloping trips, bring a towel and swimwear. What’s the best time of year to fish in Crystal River?Fishing in Crystal River is productive year-round, but fall and spring are best for Redfish and Seatrout. Summer is ideal for scalloping, while winter brings larger Trout into deeper channels. Your captain will recommend the best target species based on the season. How many people can join a Tops Charters trip?Each trip accommodates up to 3 guests, making it ideal for small groups, couples, or families. This setup ensures a more personalized and hands-on experience with Captain Richard Delgado. Are Tops Charters trips family-friendly?Yes! Tops Charters specializes in family-friendly trips and welcomes kids of all ages. The calm inshore waters and relaxed pace make it perfect for first-timers and young anglers. Just check in advance for child life jacket sizes. Do I need a fishing license for a Tops Charters trip?No, you don’t need to buy a fishing license. Tops Charters operates under a state-issued license that covers all guests on board, so you're ready to fish as soon as you step on the boat. Can I keep the fish I catch?Yes, you can keep your catch if it’s within Florida’s legal size and bag limits. Captain Richard will help with cleaning and preparing fish for transport, so you can take home your fresh catch. How do I book a trip with Tops Charters in Crystal River?You can book directly through the Tops Charters website or contact Captain Richard by phone. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer scalloping and fall Redfish runs.

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