Florida - Deep Sea/Sport Fishing in FL

Anyone have recommendations for deep sea or sport fishing in FL? No city in particular in mind, but there will be around 8 of us and a few live in Tampa. Since I don't live in FL and haven't gone deep sea fishing before, I don't know where in the state to look, how much these things cost, or how I can tell if its a "good" company or not.

Any suggestions (even if its just areas to check out/avoid) would be great.

Your options are wide open in regards to fishing in Florida....you can narrow your options by picking a region you are interested in (Tampa/Gulf of Mexico maybe?) or a species of fish you would like to catch....this site has general information as a starting point:
http://www.floridasportsman.com/
I would definitely have a look at the Florida Keys....maybe Islamorada....

I second the suggestion of the Fla. Keys around the Islamorada area. Many charters and boat rentals, with both ocean and Florida Bay fishing opportunities. Also, look around the Naples/Marco Island area for charters, party boats and guides.

Since the OP mentions that others in the group are from the Tampa area, why not consider fishing the Gulf of Mexico from Tampa Bay and nearby areas. Depending on the season, the variety of fish there (including tarpon and redfish at times) is very good and would save driving longer distances if meeting up in Tampa.

Fresh water fishing is also very good in many of the inland areas, but you'll need a guide as it's easy to get lost in the Glades.

bj-21.