interested in a Florida Gulf coast two day trip?

[floating doc]

I compared the information on the two boats, according to what's posted on their websites.

Florida Fisherman's run is eight hours, Gulfstar is six.

FF is out for 39 hours, GS for 44-48 hours. That seems like a big difference in fishing time.

Also, there's no add-ons with the GS. Price includes live bait (extra for live bait on the FF). You can catch your own and bring it on the FF, but the last time I did that my livewell was empty when we got out to the middle grounds.

GS also covers meals, beverages, ice, and cleaning your catch. FF charges extra for everything. Just considering the fishing time, I think it evens out, even though FF is $300, GS is $605.

[xaf]

Hubbard's cleaned up their act along time ago and is now a great family friendly trip.  I've heard good things about the Gulfstar but haven't been on a trip yet.

[broschro]

let's do the gulf star 600 is a sweet deal

[otownjoe]

Everything I've heard about the gulfstar has been good.the only reason I've never fished the boat is because Hubbard's regular club members get on the boat for $225.could never justify the extra expense.i'd rather go fishing twice.when it comes to bait and food I prefer catching my own pinfish.in a pick bite the pins that have never been in a trap seem to get bit better.especially with the larger ones for the aj's.I am not familiar with the way the gulfstar gets the bait they provide you. I would only buy bait from Hubbard's as a last resort.      I dont know about the gulfstar's food but on Hubbard's I always bring my own food.I don't get along to well with greasy food on a boat. Bacon n eggs for breakfast never tastes as good the second time   I look forward to fishing the gulfstar next year.especially on the specialty trips if I can get on some.

[floating doc]

I'm glad to learn that Hubbard's turned their operation into a more family friendly environment.  I wouldn't rule out ever fishing on their boat again but I am looking forward to trying the Gulfstar.

Great observations about bait as well. I'm glad to learn that we have members that have current experience and knowledge. That will really help.  Thanks for contributing to the discussion.

[xaf]

If you go on the Gulfstar you don't have to wait on red snapper to open.  They have had a special permit for sometime now that allows them to keep red snapper whether in season or not. I'm suprised they did not mention that if you specifically asked about red snapper.

Hubbards cleaned up their act in the late 90s.   Very family oriented now. 

Hubbards and the Gulfstar usually fish the same areas on their normal overnight trips.   Both boats have their proponents but for the price difference i always went on Hubbards.  I was a member of their regulars club for 15 years until i quit fishing the Gulf a couple years ago.

[floating doc]

Hey, thanks for reviving this thread! I haven't been active on the site for a few months. Time crunches and a lot going on with the family and work.

I didn't really get much interest after I started this discussion, so I didn't follow through. 

So, it's back to the top again. I would be willing to work on putting a trip together if there was interest....Anyone? Anyone?

[broschro]

Would be fun but every bit of money I have is tied up in my boat.

[Newell Nut]

FWC is looking at 70 days of red snapper fishing in the gulf this year.
http://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLFFWCC/bulletins/eef80e

[sharkman]

I live in the St Pete Beach area.  Hubbards is a great boat.  The only down side is they will go out no matter the weather or size of waves.  I went out with them last day of grouper season and the swells were between 6-8.  Out of 50 people on the boat only 20 fish were caught and no keeper grouper.  If looking for good full day try Miss Pass a Grill.  Good luck and tight lines.