Captain Mark Gore

Captain Mark Gore is a 3rd-generation Florida native and a full-time professional fishing guide, outfitter, outdoor writer, and photographer based in the Tampa Bay area (primarily operating out of St. Petersburg/Tampa waters). He’s part of a multi-generational fishing family — his father, Capt. Woody Gore, and brother Capt. Mike Gore are also well-known Tampa Bay fishing captains. 

He specializes in backcountry and inshore saltwater fishing in Tampa Bay and nearby waters (recently referring to the Gulf as the “Gulf of America” in his posts). His charters focus on light-tackle, action-packed trips targeting species like:

• Snook

• Redfish

• Trout

• Tarpon

• Sharks

• And more

He runs a 24-foot Sea Pro Custom Bay boat and provides all tackle, bait, and licenses. Charters are suitable for all skill levels, including families and beginners. His services are listed as wheelchair-accessible, and he also offers hunting/outfitting statewide. 

Regarding experience: Mark has been guiding for many years (family business roots go back generations, with mentions of his involvement dating back over a decade in articles and videos). He has deep local knowledge, consistent presence, and family legacy align with long-term expertise in Tampa Bay’s inshore and backcountry scenes. He frequently shares videos and posts of successful trips, including clients catching bull reds, tarpon, and even family “Grand Slams” (redfish, snook, tarpon, trout) in a single morning. 

Passion for Working with Kids

Mark particularly loves introducing kids to fishing and is a regular guide for Florida Fantasy Fishing Camp, a popular summer program in the Tampa Bay area for young anglers (ages 9–16). The camp combines daily guided inshore fishing with educational activities like knot tying, boating safety, marine biology, cast netting, and mini-tournaments. He often hosts the same groups of campers for multiple days, incorporating fun elements like lighthearted contests to keep things engaging while prioritizing safety and He draws on his background as a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Private Contractor, Retired Firefighter with HCFR and his role as a Student Resource Officer Guardian with the Hillsborough County School District.

   Capt Mark emphasizes safety for people of All ages that starts with:

• Hydration

• Safe rod handling (“Never point a rod at somebody”)

• Proper fish handling

• Responsibility on the water

His philosophy is straightforward: When kids step on his boat, they’re his responsibility — the goal is a fun, memorable day while getting everyone back safely. He uses easy techniques like live bait (e.g., scaled sardines/whitebait, which he often casts nets for himself) and lets kids fight their own fish for that “first fish” thrill. Many campers return year after year, some aging out and coming back as counselors or with their own families. 

Mark frequently posts about the joy of fishing with his own Family and encourages families to create those lasting memories on the water. He also highlights Tampa Bay’s wildlife, from dolphins and manatees to birds and more, making trips educational and immersive.

Contact & Booking

• Website: captainmarkgore.com 

• Phone or Text: (813) 724-6979

• Email: captainmarkgore@gmail.com

If you’re in the Tampa Bay area and want a family-friendly, kid-focused trip or a solid inshore charter, Capt. Mark Gore comes highly recommended for his patience, local expertise, and enthusiasm — especially if teaching the next generation is part of the plan. Let me know if you’d like tips on what to bring, best times to fish, or help contacting him! 🎣