This page will list my Sarasota fishing videos. Sarasota offers visiting anglers many different species to catch in several different techniques with which to catch them. These videos will give you an idea of what our fishing is all about.
Sarasota is a resort city on the West Coast of Florida. It lies about an hour south of Tampa. It is famous for its world class beaches, shopping, and restaurants. However, Sarasota also offers visitors some excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can target speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, Pompano, and other species on the deep grass flats. Snook and redfish are caught by more experienced anglers along mangrove shorelines. The inshore Gulf of Mexico can have fantastic action on pelagic species and the spring and the fall. Giant tarpon provide the ultimate angling challenge!
My list of Sarasota fishing videos will give perspective clients an idea of what they can expect on their visit. There are so many different species to catch here, and multiple ways to catch them. Sarasota fishing charters are tailored to the skill level and expectation of the clients. Please enjoy these Sarasota fishing videos!
Sarasota family fishing charters
Sarasota family fishing charters is a video that shows that anglers do not need a lot of experience to catch fish. Young anglers are most welcome on Sarasota fishing charters! Capt. Jim enjoys taking children and other novice anglers out for a day of fun. Live bait is often used on these charters as it increases the chances of success.
When taking children and inexperienced anglers out on a Sarasota fishing charter, Capt. Jim generally targets the deep grass flats. Many different species are caught over submerge grass beds in water between 5 feet deep and 10 feet deep. Speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, pompano, ladyfish, bluefish, and more are taken in the spots. Anglers fishing docks catch bottom fish such as snapper along with snook, redfish, and other species.
Sarasota Spanish mackerel fishing
Sarasota Spanish mackerel fishing shows how incredible the action in the inshore Gulf of Mexico can be when conditions are right. Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, false albacore, cobia, and sharks migrate up and down the coast in the spring and the fall. They are following the huge schools of bait fish that they feed on.
This is very exciting fishing is so much of it is visual. Quite often, large schools of macro and false albacore are seen feeding ferociously on the surface. They have herded up the glass minnows and other bait fish and have them trapped against the surface of the water. Just about any lure, bait, or fly that remotely resembles the forage they are feeding on will get devoured. Sharks will hover around the edge of the feeding fish, picking up the scraps.
Siesta Key snook fishing
Siesta Key snook fishing is a video that shows how fast the action can be when snook are schooled up in one spot. Chumming with live bait is a deadly technique that Capt. Jim uses in the warmer months. Live bait fish are caught and used both as chum and as bait to catch the fish. Handfuls of live, unhooked fish attract the snook and get them in a feeding frenzy.
This technique is extremely effective. It also allows anglers who are not very experienced to have the chance to catch a really nice fish. Since the game fish are excited, they lose a bit of their caution. Along with the snook, redfish, jacks, large trout, and other species will be caught while targeting snook.
Best Sarasota fishing charter
Best Sarasota fishing charter is a video that shows visiting anglers some great action out in the inshore Gulf of Mexico. Spanish mackerel were thick just off the beaches that day. These two boys had a great time catch and those along with some small sharks. This type of action is not uncommon in the fall, especially the few weeks coming up on Thanksgiving.
River snook fishing
River snook fishing is a video that shows Capt. Jim catching a nice snook in the Myakka River. In the cooler months, these apex predator game fish move up into area creeks, rivers, and residential canals. They do this to escape the extreme weather changes that can happen on the shallow flats. Water can drop as much is 10° in a couple days on the exposed open flats. The water temperature and rivers and canals is significantly warmer.
This Sarasota fishing charter has a freshwater feel to it. Anglers drift with the current down the river and a 14 foot Alumacraft Jon boat. They cast artificial lures towards likely looking shoreline cover and structure. Most often, shallow diving plugs are used, but soft plastic baits catch plenty of fish as well. This is a trip best suited to more experienced anglers as it is more about a couple quality fish versus numbers of fish.
Siesta Key fishing charters
Siesta Key fishing charters is a video that shows some great action on snook and jack crevelle by anglers using live bait in the fall. These fish are most active in the spring and again in the fall. The east side of Siesta Key in both Roberts Bay and little Sarasota Bay has some great fish holding structure. Oyster bars, docks, creeks, and flats will all produce great catches at one time of the year or another.
Sarasota speckled trout fishing
Sarasota speckled trout fishing shows a couple of anglers as a cast lures and live bait while drifting the deep grass flats. This is a technique that produces a lot of fish for Capt. Jim on Sarasota fishing charters throughout the year. It is also easy for anglers to learn to do quickly.
Most speckled trout in Sarasota are caught over the deep grass flats. These are large areas of submerged grass or vegetation and water between 5 feet deep and 10 feet deep. Bait fish and crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs find refuge in the grass. This in turn attracts speckled trout and other game fish.
Sarasota summer fishing charters
Sarasota summer fishing charters is a short little video that shows what happens when you come across schools of “breaking” fish. These are fish that have rounded up a bunch of bait fish and push them to the surface. They are helpless as a are trapped against the top of the water. Ladyfish, jacks, mackerel, bluefish, and other species will be seen doing this throughout the year, but especially in the late summer when bait is plentiful.
Sarasota freshwater fishing
Sarasota freshwater fishing is a video that shows visitors that there are freshwater fishing opportunities in this area. Saltwater fishing gets the vast majority of the coverage and attention in Sarasota. Therefore, the freshwater fishing gets overlooked. Several small lakes along with rivers offer anglers the chance to catch bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and other species.
The top lakes in the Sarasota area for freshwater fishing are upper Myakka Lake, Lake Manatee, Benderson Lake, and Lake Evers. Each Lake is a bit different and has its good and bad points. Some have horsepower and access limitations. Rivers flowing in and out of the lakes also offer good fishing for freshwater species as well as title species in the river downstream from the dam.
Sarasota false albacore fishing
Sarasota false albacore fishing shows my buddy Tommy Hyser as we work a school of false albacore on the surface. This is a time. Just before Christmas. We are fishing over the submerged artificial reefs that are a couple miles off of Lido Key. These are great spots to find false albacore and other pelagic species such as Spanish mackerel and king mackerel. False albacore can be found anywhere on the beach foraging on the surface.
Sarasota chumming techniques
Sarasota chumming techniques is a video that goes into detail on the tactic of live bait chumming. This is an extremely effective technique when bait fish are plentiful and easy to catch. Using a cast net, Capt. Jim loads up the live well with frisky live baits that are around 2 inches long. He then anchors on a good spot and begins to throw handfuls of the bait fish out behind the boat.
If snook and other game fish are around, it won’t take them long to start feeding on the bait fish. Once the fish are excited and into a feeding mood, hooked baits are tossed back to mixed in with the chum. This is a great opportunity for anglers without a lot of experience to catch a nice snook, redfish, jack, or other species.
Sarasota tarpon fishing
Sarasota tarpon fishing gives anglers a look at what it is like to hook and land a giant tarpon. The video is only a few minutes long, it does not show the hours of patience that it often takes to hook and land one of these behemoths. For the most part, this is a site fishing situation. Anglers sit on the beach a couple hundred yards of shore and look for schools of fish to cast to. This is definitely a Sarasota fishing charter best suited for experienced anglers.
Sarasota snook fishing
Sarasota snook fishing shows a couple of experienced anglers casting artificial lures at first light. Rapala plugs and soft plastic baits on a jig head are cast around docs and the mouse of creeks. Snook were feeding on the outgoing tide, which is the preferred time to fish. This type of fishing is great fun and something that experienced bass anglers would certainly enjoy.
Sarasota sheepshead fishing
Sarasota sheepshead fishing shows anglers what it is like to target and catch these tasty saltwater pan fish. Sheepshead are members of the Porgy family. They feed around structure and mostly on crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs. Very seldom are they caught by anglers using artificial lures. A fresh shrimp fished around pilings such as in this video, along with bridges, rocks, seawalls, and other structure will produce sheepshead from December through April.
Sarasota snook and jack fishing with Erin
Sarasota snook and jack with Erin is a video showing how a relatively inexperienced angler with rudimentary skills can have a good day of fishing. The key to this is the live bait that we use as both bait and chum. It evens the playing field quite a bit, and gives anglers a great chance to have success.
Plug fishing Sarasota
Plug fishing Sarasota is a video about Capt. Jim and a buddy taking a day off of work to cast plugs on the Myakka River. This is a very relaxing and enjoyable fishing trip. Shallow diving plugs cast towards submerged trees and other structure will produce snook, largemouth bass, jacks, and other species. This type of Sarasota fishing charter is best for anglers with a fair amount of experience.
Sarasota crappie fishing
Sarasota crappie fishing is another video highlighting the excellent freshwater fishing opportunities available to anglers in Sarasota. Crappie have become a very popular fish throughout the United States. The same techniques that produce fish all over work well in Sarasota, too. Trolling with brightly colored jigs and fishing with live minnows produces best.
Sarasota jack crevelle
Sarasota jack crevelle shows how easy and exciting it is to catch a nice Jack on a fly rod and area rivers. Just like to snook, jacks migrate up into these rivers in the cooler months. They can often be seen foraging on the surface as in this video. Jacks are very aggressive and in a mood to feed in this situation. They will hit just about any lore or fly with reckless abandon. This is great fun is so much of the action is visual.
Mixed bag on the Myakka
Mixed bag on the Myakka is a video showing how many different species can be caught by anglers simply fishing a worm on the bottom. This is a technique that is been used for centuries and is still effective to this day. It is an easy and relaxing way to fish and produces both action and variety on the Myakka River and everywhere.
Sarasota river fishing
Sarasota River fishing gives perspective clients an idea of what to expect on a River snook fishing charter. Anglers cast plugs and other lures towards the shoreline is a meander down the stream in a small boat. This is a very relaxing Sarasota fishing charter with great scenery in the chance to catch a really large fish.
Sarasota bass fishing
Sarasota bass fishing is a video that shows Capt. Jim and Capt. Jack taking a day off work to catch a few bass on Upper Myakka Lake. The to cast artificial lures such as spinner baits, plugs, and soft plastics to catch a few chunky bass on light tackle.
Longboat Key fishing charters
Longboat Key fishing charters is a video to show visitors to Longboat Key the angling options that are available to them. This video focuses on family fishing with children and less experienced clients. Capt. Jim will tailor the trip around the clients skill level and expectations to give them the best chance of success. Live bait is generally the most productive method.
In closing, I hope this post showing Sarasota fishing videos gets you excited to go on a Sarasota fishing charter!
Visiting anglers from all over the world will enjoy a Sarasota fishing excursion. Sarasota is a small resort town on the West Coast of Florida. It lies about an hour south of Tampa. Sarasota offers a variety of fishing opportunities and many different species that can be caught.
Where can I find the best Sarasota fishing excursion? Capt. Jim Klopfer has been a fishing guide in Sarasota, Florida since 1991. He is very well-rounded and can accommodate anglers of all skill levels and ages. Novice clients are welcome as is the seasoned angler seeking more of a challenge. Capt. Jim runs his Sarasota fishing charters out of a 22” Stott Craft bay boat. It is roomy and stable. Capt. Jim is a great choice for anyone looking for a Sarasota fishing excursion.
Anglers have several options when going out on a Sarasota fishing excursion. The inshore waters of Sarasota Bay offer plenty of action and variety. On most fishing charters, six or so different species are landed. However, it is not uncommon to land double digits on a four hour fishing charter.
Sarasota fishing excursion options
The waters of the Gulf of Mexico close to shore provide very good action as well. In the spring and fall Spanish mackerel, false albacore, king mackerel, sharks, and other species migrate along the Sarasota beaches. Several artificial reefs a couple miles offshore offer good fishing for bottom fish such as sheepshead, grouper, and snapper.
Natural ledges and artificial reefs provide good fishing for anglers heading offshore. The area from about 8 miles out to 30 miles out has plenty of good bottom spots to hold grouper, snapper, amberjack and other species. King mackerel, false albacore, cobia and other pelagic species will be taken as well.
And inshore bay trip is the best Sarasota fishing excursion for most clients. This is especially true for novice anglers or families with children. Most trips are four hours long, though trips can certainly be longer. But, four hours is plenty of time to catch a bunch of fish. Mornings are usually the most productive, however in the colder months the afternoons can be better as the water warms up.
Sarasota fishing excursion, inshore bay trip
Anglers fishing the inshore waters can drift the grass flats for a variety of species. Speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, Pompano, bluefish, jacks, snapper, grouper, sharks, ladyfish, catfish, flounder, and other species are often taken on the deep grass flats. These are basically areas of submerged grass and weed beds. This vegetation attracts the shrimp and bait fish, which in turns attracts the game fish.
Artificial lures are used quite often when drifting the grass flats. The number one lore by far is a jig and grub. This is a hook with a little bit of weight in the front and a plastic body. It mimics a shrimp or bait fish. They cast a long way and are easy to learn to use. Jigs often out fish live bait on a Sarasota fishing excursion.
Live bait is used quite often on inshore bay trips when drifting the deep grass flats. The number one bait in all of Florida, Sarasota is no exception, is a live shrimp. Shrimp are available all year long at local bait shops. Everything that swims will eat a nice lively shrimp. I like to joke that they are the “nightcrawler of saltwater”!
Small bait fish are used on the deep grass flats as well. This is especially true in the summer time. Bait fish are usually thick on the shallow flats near the passes in the summer. Capt. Jim will catch a bunch of them in his cast net. He will then use the live bait as both chum to attract fish to the boat and as bait to catch the fish. This is an extremely effective technique in the summer and produces a lot of fish.
Sarasota fishing charters
Sarasota has two passes that connect the Gulf of Mexico with Sarasota Bay. They are called Big Sarasota Pass and New Pass. Passes are basically inlets. Both offer excellent fishing most of the year. The passes can provide excellent action on a Sarasota fishing excursion.
Pompano, ladyfish, bluefish, jacks, and Spanish mackerel are caught drifting the passes. As the tide moves the boat along, anglers cast out lures or drift with live bait to catch the species. Ladyfish in particular will oftentimes school up thick in the passes. They are great fun on light tackle and are a good species for novice anglers to practice on.
Structure in the passes provide excellent habitat for bottom fish. Sheepshead spawn there from January through March and are usually available and good numbers. This is another situation that is great for novice anglers. A live or frozen shrimp is hooked on and simply drop to the bottom, he required. Grouper, snapper, drum, and other species will be taken as well all year long.
Snook on a Sarasota fishing excursion
More experienced anglers may seek the challenge of trying to catch snook, redfish, and jack crevelle. These fish are larger and more difficult to catch. Shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, docks, bridges, oyster bars, and creeks are all spots that are targeted on a Sarasota fishing excursion when targeting these species.
Once again, both artificial lures and live bait can be employed to achieve success. Lures are a great choice when fish are scattered about. They allow anglers to cover a lot of water in a relatively short amount of time. Often times these flats and mangrove shorelines are fairly large areas. Lures are more practical while searching for fish in the spots. Top water plugs, shallow diving plugs, weedless spoons, and jigs with soft plastic trailers are the top baits.
A large live shrimp is a great bait to catch a snook or redfish under a dock. These big shrimp are not always available. However, when they are, they are terrific baits. They also work well in the cooler months fished around oyster bars, creeks, mangrove shorelines, and any other structure.
Live bait fish are used in the warmer months much the same as on the deep grass flats. Once a well full of bait is acquired, the boat is anchored in a likely spot. Live bait fish are then tossed out to attract the snook and other game fish. Once they are behind the boat and excited, they are usually pretty easy to catch. This is a great technique to use to give a novice angler the chance to catch a nice fish.
Sarasota fishing in the Gulf of Mexico
The inshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico off of Lido Key and Siesta Key can provide great action at times. When the seas are calm in the water is clear, pelagic species such as Spanish mackerel, false albacore, king mackerel, cobia and more will migrate through the area. They are generally right on the heels of the huge schools of bait fish.
One of the most exciting aspects of this type of fishing is that much of it is visual. Fish will often be seen foraging on the surface as a devour the helpless bait fish. Just about any lure, bait, or fly that remotely resembles the bait fish will draw strike. Spanish mackerel are usually fairly easy to catch in this situation, while false mackerel can be a bit fussier. This is great fun and a popular choice on a Sarasota fishing excursion when conditions are favorable.
There are three inshore artificial reefs just off of Lido Key. They consist of old bridges, construction material, and other debris. Most of the bottom in the Gulf of Mexico is barren. Therefore, any structure will attract and hold fish. Both bottom fish and surface feeding pelagic species will be attracted to these reefs.
Sarasota inshore artificial reefs
Sheepshead are plentiful on the inshore artificial reefs in February, March, and April. They provide great action for clients on a Sarasota fishing excursion. Sheepshead pull hard, grow to 5 pounds, and are very good eating. They feed primarily on crustaceans. Therefore, live shrimp are a terrific bait for these members of the porgy family.
Mangrove snapper are found on these reefs all year long. Snapper school up in big numbers and can be quite aggressive. The trick with the snapper is to find the larger specimens. Hordes of 8 inch snapper will devour every bait that’s drop-down. Moving around a bit can help to find the schools of larger fish. Also, a larger bait or a live bait fish may help. Gag grouper, flounder, grunts, and other bottom fish will be caught as well on a Sarasota fishing excursion.
These reefs will also attract pelagic species such as Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, cobia, and false albacore. On days when the albacore and mackerel are not seen working on the surface, the artificial reefs can be a great backup plan. The structure on the reefs attract plenty of baitfish, which in turn will attract the game fish. Often times, the bait can be seen dimpling on the surface right over the reef.
Anglers can also choose to target tarpon. Giant tarpon show up in early May and stay until late July. They average 75 pounds and grow to over 200 pounds! Many consider this to be the ultimate fishing challenge. Tarpon are sight fished just off of the Sarasota beaches. Once the fish are found, the boat is eased into casting range. Live crabs and bait fish are cast towards the fish in hopes of a take. When a tarpon eats, it is bedlam!
Sarasota offshore fishing
Many anglers enjoy going offshore fishing off of Sarasota. In most instances, the goal is to put some meat in the cooler. Grouper are a highly sought after bottom species in the Gulf of Mexico. They are structure oriented and will be found over natural ledges as well as artificial reefs and wrecks. Grouper pull hard and once they feel the hook it will dive down into the cover. The trick for anglers is to get their head turned and get them coming up towards the boat.
Live and cut bait is used when bottom fishing for grouper and other species. Along with the grouper, snapper, triggerfish, grunts, and other species will be taken. Amberjack will be caught on the deeper wrecks as well. Red grouper are found over the Swiss cheese bottom about 15 to 20 miles offshore. Anglers can find Florida saltwater fishing regulations on the FWC site.
The primary species for anglers trolling offshore is king mackerel. Kings are taken year-round, but particularly in the spring and fall. Ledges and wrecks from about 7 miles offshore to 30 miles offshore are the prime area. Anglers troll spoons and plugs as well as live bait to catch the king fish. Anglers venturing further offshore may encounter a wahoo, tuna, or dolphin. Occasionally, sailfish and other bill fish are hooked.
Sarasota river fishing charters
Experienced anglers visiting Sarasota and seeking a unique experience may opt for a river fishing charter. In the cooler months, snook and jacks migrate up into area rivers. They do this to escape the cooler temperatures on the shallow flats. The darker river water is often times significantly warmer than the exposed waters on the flats. This provides a sanctuary for the temperature sensitive game fish.
This type of Sarasota fishing excursion is not about numbers. This trip is about the chance to catch a trophy snook. Artificial lures are most often used as they allow anglers to fish a lot of shoreline cover in a relatively short amount of time. Shallow diving plugs are generally used. They will elicit a reflex strike from the predatory snook.
The overall experience of a river fishing charter is a bit different. Capt. Jim uses a 14 foot Alumacraft jon boat for this type of fishing. Launching ramps can be primitive and the water is often times shallow in the winter. This requires a boat that can be manhandled off the trailer and will float over a shallow sandbar. Jon boats our perfect for this type of fishing as they meet these requirements and are quite stable.
The scenery in solitude are elements that attract anglers to this Sarasota fishing excursion. It is a very relaxing fishing trip. It won’t produce in terms of numbers or action like an inshore bay fishing charter will. However, persistent and patient anglers will have the opportunity to land the snook of a lifetime!
Sarasota fishing excursions, fly fishing
Fly fisherman are not to be left out either. Many of the species caught on a Sarasota fishing excursion will take a well presented fly. Speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, pompano, snook, redfish, false albacore, jacks, ladyfish, and more can be taken in Sarasota throughout the year.
The best all round outfit for fly anglers to use when fishing Sarasota is an 8wt or 9wt rod, matching reel, an intermediate sink tip line. A 9 foot tapered leader with a 30 pound bite tippet works well. Just about any bait fish or a crustacean imitation will catch fish. Top producing flies are the Clouser Minnow, D.T. Special, and Crystal Minnow. White is a great color as are combinations of white and chartreuse, and white and olive.
In closing, anglers seeking a memorable experience will go out with Capt. Jim on a Sarasota fishing excursion!
In this article I am going to provide a Sarasota fishing calendar. This is basically a Sarasota fishing forecast. It is based on my more than 30 years experience fishing in Sarasota.
Who has a great Sarasota fishing calendar? Anglers will find a terrific Sarasota fishing calendar and forecast here. While every year is different, throughout the years Sarasota seasonal fishing patterns hold up. Warm winters, stormy summers, when, red tide, and other factors affect fishing. However, in my 27 years of running Sarasota fishing charters, I see that the patterns replicate themselves. I will share those patterns in a month by month report.
Fishing in January is all about the weather. There will be days when it’s 80° and sunny. There will be days when it’s cold, blustery, and windy. In order to be successful in January, anglers need to adapt to the prevailing conditions. Fronts will move through regularly, resulting in dirty water in the passes and on the nearby flats.
If it has been a cold month, some species will have moved back into the deeper water of creeks and residential canals. Snook and jacks in particular will seek the warmer water in the upper ends of canals and creeks. Anglers casting lures such as plugs that cover a lot of water are effective. Trolling is also a good way to locate fish, especially jacks.
Bottom fish such as sheepshead, snapper, drum, and other species will be found around docs and other structure. Deeper water and some of the canals as well as in the passes will hold these fish. Big Sarasota Pass has a ton of structure on the north end of Siesta Key and also has deep water. This will hold bottom species all month long. Strong cold fronts will bring wind which will dirty up the water in the passes. When this occurs, it is best to fish the protected areas where the water will be cleaner.
Fishing the deep flats will be cyclical in January. Several days after a front moves through, the water on the flats will clear up and warm up. This should result in decent action for speckled trout, bluefish, ladyfish, and other species. Anglers casting lead head jig’s and live shrimp will do well. If the water temperature is low, below 60°, speckled trout will be found in deeper water. Channels and holes near the flats will attract them.
Sarasota fishing calendar in February
February is usually a tale of two months. The early part of the month is winter, but by the end of the month we are seeing hints of spring. The sheepshead run is in full swing and fish are loaded up in the passes and out on the nearshore artificial reefs. I target them a lot for clients who want a couple fish to eat. The flats and passes can be productive as well. Snook and jacks will begin to migrate out of the creeks and canals as it warms up.
The rocks in Big Pass hold a lot of sheepshead in February. This is pretty easy fishing. It is basic bottom fishing, where we drop a hook baited with a shrimp down to the bottom and wait for a bite. The great part about it is that anglers was very little experience can catch some nice fish. It is best to fish the pass during times of low or moderate current flow. It is difficult to anchor and control the baits when the tide is flowing hard. Docks throughout the entire area will hold sheepshead in February.
Phillippi Creek in the residential canals will still be productive for jacks and snook. Rapala plugs and soft plastic baits work well. As it begins to warm up, the fish will migrate and will be found closer to the mouths of the creeks and canals.
Action on the deep grass flats will start to be more reliable by the end of February. As fronts become less common and less severe, water clarity will stabilize and the temperature will rise. Submerge grass beds in 6 feet of water to 10 feet of water will hold many species. Speckled trout, Pompano, bluefish, jacks, Spanish mackerel, ladyfish and more will be taken on lures and live bait.
Sarasota fishing calendar in March
March can be a great month to be fishing in Sarasota! It is springtime, and as is true in most fishing, fishing can be very good. Rising water temperatures will have fish moving out of their winter hunts and scattering out onto the flats and in the passes. Migratory fish such as Spanish mackerel and false albacore will show up as well. The occasional front will still move through, and anglers will experience some windy days. But, the really cold morning should be gone.
Action and the passes should be very good in March. Sheepshead should still be plentiful, though winding down by the end of the month. Anglers drifting the passes with jigs will catch ladyfish, Pompano, bluefish, jacks, and more. Often times, surface action will be seen as ladyfish and Spanish mackerel forage on the surface.
Fishing on the grass flats should be very good as well. The deep flats will have speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, Pompano, bluefish, ladyfish and other species. Lead head jig’s and live shrimp are the top baits. As in the passes, surface activity will be seen occasionally. This is a good opportunity to cast a shallow diving plug or a 1/2 ounce silver spoon.
Snook and jacks will be on the shallow flats in Roberts Bay and in Sarasota Bay. Oyster bars and mangrove shorelines that have a little depth will hold these game fish. Anglers casting artificial lures can cover the water much more quickly and effectively. Search baits such as plugs and weedless spoons are a great choice.
The inshore Gulf of Mexico off of the Sarasota beaches can provide anglers with fantastic action when conditions are right in March. Spanish mackerel, false albacore, king mackerel, sharks, and cobia migrate up the coast. They are right behind the huge schools of bait fish such as sardines and herring. When the seas are flat and the water is clear these fish will often feed on the surface. It is very exciting casting into schools of breaking fish.
Sarasota fishing calendar in April
April is a fantastic month to be fishing in Sarasota, Florida! Fish have solidly moved into their spring migration patterns. Severe cold fronts are a thing of the past. There will be fronts move through, perhaps bringing some wind and rain. However, with water temperature in the 70s the bite will be on. Just about every species is available this month.
The Sarasota flats are alive with life in April. The deep flats provide excellent action on speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, ladyfish, pompano, and more. Anglers drifting and casting lures or live bait do well. Many fish species are in spawning mode this time of year. For the most part, they are aggressive and in a mood to feed.
Anglers fishing the shallow flats and backwater areas will do well on snook, redfish, jacks, and larger gator trout. These fish will be found in potholes (depressions in the grass flat) as well as along mangrove shorelines and around oyster bars. Top water plugs are great fun on the high tide stages. Shallow diving plugs, spoons, and jigs are good artificial lures. Large live shrimp fished under docks will produce all these species and more.
The passes will be full of fish in April as well. Though the sheepshead will have thinned out as a completed there spawning run. Mangrove snapper and other bottom fish will be available in the structure. However, most of the fish in the passes will be caught by anglers drifting through the pass itself. Pompano, mackerel, bluefish, ladyfish, and more will be caught by anglers drifting jigs and live bait.
Action out on the beach will be good early, then tapering off by the end of the month. Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and false albacore will feed heavily on the beach and out on the artificial reefs. If it has been a warm spring, some tarpon may be showing up by the end of the month.
Sarasota fishing calendar in May
May means one thing to many Sarasota anglers; tarpon! Giant tarpon show up in May off of the Sarasota beaches and stay until late July. Many consider tarpon fish in the ultimate angling challenge. This is a game that requires patience is anglers sit a couple hundred yards offshore in search of fish. Once seen, anglers cast live crabs and bait fish to them in hopes of a bite. It is not easy, but when it all comes together, it is the thrill of a lifetime!
Inshore fishing techniques change a bit in May. As the water warms up, schools of bait fish show up on the flats. We transition from casting lures and live shrimp to catching this bait in our cast nets. The bait is then used to chum fish to the boat as well is to catch them. Lures can still be productive, especially early and late in the day. Pin fish become abundant on the flats. That can make using live shrimp a bit frustrating.
Snook will be moving in May as well. They will school up in both passes as well as out on the beaches. They do this is part of there spawning ritual. By late May, the rocks in Big Sarasota Pass will be a reliable spot to catch snook. There should also be plenty of fish out on the beach as well.
Sarasota fishing calendar in June
June is a bit of a transition month. It is summer time and it is hot! Anglers fishing the inshore waters get out there early and are done by noon at the latest. Water temperatures will often approach 90°. This is especially true before the afternoon rains calm and cool the water off a bit.
Chumming with live bait is the number one inshore technique in June and really all summer long. Bait fish are usually abundant on the beaches and on the shallow grass flats just inside the passes. If the water gets too warm, bait can be difficult to catch. Once the well is loaded, the boat is anchored up and handfuls of bait fish are tossed out in the water behind the boat. If game fish are around, it isn’t long before they are popping the baits. Then it is just a matter of hooking baits on and casting them out.
Tarpon fishing is in full swing in June. The periods before the full moon and the new moon are the prime times. Boat traffic is heavy as many anglers are targeting these apex game fish. One nice thing about fishing in June is that with so many anglers out on the beach chasing tarpon, pressure on the inshore species is light.
Sarasota fishing calendar in July
It is hot in July in Florida! However, many clients are surprised to hear that the fish and can be fantastic. The key once again is the abundance of live bait. This is an early bite. Anglers need to be out there first light and done by 10:30 or 11:00. Speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, mangrove snapper, gag grouper, sharks, jacks, ladyfish, bluefish, and other species are attracted to the chum. Snook are still thick in the passes and out on the beaches.
Tarpon are still out on the beaches as well, but the numbers are really thinning out. These late-season fish do not show as often. However, they can be a lot easier to catch. Spawning is pretty much done and many anglers have given up the chase. Floating a pin fish or crab under a float out behind the boat will catch them. Once again, this is generally an early bite due to the heat.
Sarasota fishing calendar in August
Sarasota fishing in August is much like it was in July. Action on the deep grass flats should be very good as afternoon rains will have the water temperature down a bit. Bait fish are still plentiful and easy to catch. Chumming with live bait on the flats is a most effective and productive technique. Anglers casting lures at first light will catch fish as well.
Sharks show up on the grass flats in late July and August as well. These are the perfect size for catching, between 15 pounds and 40 pounds. The technique is fairly simple; a cut up ladyfish is put under a float and cast out behind the boat. It is then just a matter waiting for a shark to come along. I often do this at the end of a Sarasota fishing charter after we have already experience good action and are looking for a big fish to end the day.
Snook will begin moving back in from the passes and off the beaches, though plenty of fish will remain out there. Anglers do well sight fishing for snook in the morning. Tarpon numbers have really thinned out with some of the fish moving into Tampa Bay and North Sarasota Bay.
August is one of the best months to target redfish on the shallow flats in Sarasota. Redfish school up in big numbers this time of year. They can easily be seen moving over the shallow flats. A school of reds looks like a small wave going through the water. These fish can be very finicky in the shallow water. Anglers need to be quiet and make long casts in order to catch them. The flats in North Sarasota Bay are particularly productive.
Sarasota fishing calendar in September
September is the most “tropical”month in Sarasota, Florida. It is the time of the year that the hurricanes are most active. That really affects the fishing and can make it unpredictable. When no storms are threatening, fishing can be very good. Also, it is the slowest month of the year in terms of tourist activity That means that the beaches and bays are relatively uncluttered.
Water temperature in Sarasota Bay should be in the upper 70s by mid September. Bait fish are still plentiful and chumming continues to be very productive. However, anglers casting artificial lures begin to have more success as the water cools off. Breaking fish will often times be seen feeding on the helpless bait fish.
Snook will be moving back into the bays in September. There will still be fished out on the beach and in the passes, but the backwater areas will start to produce decent numbers of fish. The same lures and baits that worked in the spring catch snook and other fish in September. Plugs and soft plastic baits are the top artificial lures. Live pilchards are tough to beat for bait. Schooling reds will still be found on the flats at Long Bar and Buttonwood Harbor.
Sarasota fishing calendar in October
October might be my favorite month to fish in Sarasota Florida! It is cooling off in the weather is usually very pleasant. For the most part, the tropical season is over. Also, between the kids been in school and outdoorsmen turning to hunting, fishing pressure is light.
When I can get the bait, I targets snook quite often in October. They are found along mangrove shorelines, under docks, along seawalls, and around oyster bars in Sarasota Bay and Roberts Bay. Chumming with larger live pilchards is extremely effective. Clients also catch them early in the morning casting shallow diving plugs. Redfish and jacks will be mixed in with the snook as well.
Anglers drifting the deep grass flats and passes should do well in October. Spanish mackerel respond to the cooling water and are often quite active. Speckled trout, Pompano, blues, ladyfish, and other species school up in both passes and out on the grass flats. There can literally be fish at just about every spot this time of year.
The surface action and the inshore Gulf of Mexico should get cranked up by the end of October. Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, false albacore, cobia, and sharks are migrating back south along the Florida coast. This is very similar to the spring fishing. However, because weather patterns are bit more stable, the fall bite is generally a bit more reliable. Spanish mackerel and false albacore in particular will be gorging themselves on the way south for winter.
Sarasota fishing calendar in November
The first real cold fronts of the year will normally arrive around mid-November. Shorter days along with these fronts will have the water temperature dropping. Whatever bait fish that remained on the flats are usually gone by the end of the month. Fish will begin moving around in the bay and preparations for winter.
The bite on the deep grass flats can be excellent in November in Sarasota Bay! I’ve normally switched over to fishing primarily with jigs this time of year. Many of the fish are in the 8 foot to 10 foot range. A 1/4 ounce jig is an effective bait for getting down to the fish. Less experienced anglers do well free lining a live shrimp behind the boat. Speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, ladyfish, and Pompano are the most commonly caught species.
Snook and jacks will begin easing their way back to the creeks and canals. The entrances to these areas are often a good spot to target game fish. Jacks will be schooled up and often seen foraging on the surface. This is great fun as they will eat just about anything cast in front of them.
The passes will continue to be productive as long as the water is clean. Pompano are often caught particularly on the outgoing tide with an east wind. Rocks, bridges, docks, seawalls, and other structure will hold mangrove snapper and other bottom fish. A live shrimp fished on the bottom is the best bet.
Sarasota fishing calendar in December
December will find fish moving back to their winter patterns. Cold snaps will have the water in the mid-60s. Snook and jacks will be moving back up into the residential canals in creeks. When the water is clear, action on the deep flats will be good, especially for ladyfish and bluefish. These species do not mind the cooler water as much.
Sheepshead will begin to show up in December as well. They are normally caught around oyster bars and under docks all along Siesta Key. They show up in these locations before moving out into the passes. Black drum and other bottom species will be caught as well. Speckled trout will be found on the grass flats when it is warm. However, a big drop in water temperature will have them in the channels and holes. Current Florida fishing regulations are found on the FWC site.
In conclusion, I hope to Sarasota fishing calendar helps both visiting and local anglers experience success!
Sarasota bottom fishing is a very simple, yet effective, angling technique. Many fish live and feed on or near the bottom. Bottom structure holds bait and gamefish.
What is Sarasota bottom fishing? Bottom fishing is an easy and effective technique that any anglers can use successfully. It places natural bait on the bottom in hopes of attracting a fish. Live, fresh dead, and frozen bait can be used. Baits vary by location, depending on the forage available locally. Bottom fishing is effective in just about every fishing location for a wide variety of species.
While bottom fishing is basically dropping a bait to the bottom using a lead weight, there are nuances that will make a difference in success. Leader strength and length, hook sizes, weights, and rigs are all factors that the successful bottom fishing angler will take into account.
Sarasota bottom fishing rigs
There are several rigs that anglers use when Sarasota bottom fishing. Sliding sinker rigs and spreader rigs are two of the most popular rigs for bottom fishing. Both have multiple variations and both are effective. Sliding sinker rigs allow fish to pick up a bait off the bottom and move off without feeling and resistance. Spreader rigs suspend multiple baits at various depths just off the bottom.
A sliding sinker rig consists of a leader and a sinker with a hole in it. Egg sinkers work well in this application. Egg sinkers come in many different sizes. They also roll on the bottom and do not hang up easily. Surf anglers use a device called a “fish finder”. This is a small plastic tube with a clip on it. The line passes through the tube and a clip is used to attach the weight. Pyramid sinkers are most often used by surf casters.
With either rig, most anglers use the same approach. The running line is passed through the sinker or fish finder. A swivel is then attached to the end of the line. The swivel stops the sinker from sliding down. The leader is then tied on to the other end of the swivel. Leader lengths vary, but most anglers use 2′ to 3′ of leader. A hook finishes off the rig.
One variation of this is called the “knocker rig”. It is just like the sliding sinker rig above, except the sinker is placed on the leader, between the swivel and the hook. This results in the sinker sitting right on the eye of the hook. The knocker rig has two advantages. It keeps the bait right on the bottom where the fish feed. Also, if the hook hangs up, the sinker will often “knock” it free, thus the name. I use this rig a lot when targeting sheepshead and snapper on Sarasota fishing charters. It is very effective.
Spreader rigs separate the hooks both horizontally and vertically. Wire arms are often used. Snelled hooks are attached to the arms. The hooks then go off to the side and away from the main line. When the fish are biting, double headers are common. This rig works well fished vertically from a boat, bridge, or pier. Surf casters employ them as well.
Hooks and weights
There are many different styles of hooks that anglers use when bottom fishing. Short shank live bait hooks are the most often used as they are easier to hide in the bait. Some anglers prefer a long shank hook. This is particularly true of flounder fishermen. Circle hooks are popular now as well. Circle hooks more often result in the fish being hooked in the mouth. This reduces the mortality rate among released fish. Circle hooks are mandatory in the Gulf of Mexico.
The rule of thumb when choosing a hook is to match it to the size of the bait being used, not the size of the fish being targeted. A small hook in a large bait will usually not result in a hook up. Using a hook too large may hinder a natural presentation. Many large fish have been landed by anglers using small hooks, so resist the urge to use a hook that is too big.
Sinkers also come in various styles. Egg, bank, and pyramid sinkers are the most commonly used in salt waters by inshore anglers. Egg sinkers work well with sliding rigs while bank sinkers are best for spreader rigs. Pyramid sinkers are primarily used by surf anglers. The amount of weight used is determined by the depth and current that the anglers is dealing with. The goal is for the weight to be just enough to hold bottom when anchored or bounce along the bottom when drifting.
Sarasota bottom fishing baits
Bait choice runs the gamut and is generally determined by the local forage available. Just about any fresh fish caught can be cut into strips or chunks and used as bait. Check local laws to current regulations. Squid is a universal frozen bait that produces fish everywhere. Local bait shops will have other frozen baits available and will give anglers the best advice as to the bait of choice.
Shrimp is king in Florida where I fish and really along the entire Gulf Coast and up the east coast to the Carolinas. Shrimp are a terrific bait live as well as fresh dead or frozen. They are the “nightcrawler of saltwater”, just about every inshore species love them. Live shrimp are hooked in the horn while dead ones are threaded on the hook.
Live bait fish can certainly be used by anglers bottom fishing. Flounder fishermen use live minnows with great success. Florida bottom fishermen use live pin fish for grouper and snapper. As with any fish, live or dead, check local regulations before fishing.
Bottom fishing techniques
Anglers fishing from boats need to make a choice; whether to anchor or drift. Both methods produce and have their advantages and disadvantages. Drifting is generally preferred when anglers are seeking a school of fish in open water. Drifting allows anglers to cover a lot of water, eliminating unproductive areas quickly. Both the spreader rig and slider rig will produce for anglers when drifting.
Flounder fishermen use a sliding sinker rig often. Flounder lie right on the bottom and this is an effective rig. Anglers targeting bottom fish that school up such as grunts and sheepshead will do well with the spreader rig while drifting.
Many bottom species such as grouper and snapper relate to structure. This structure includes ledges, hard bottom, wrecks, and artificial reefs. Anglers targeting these species usually choose to anchor and present their baits. This is especially true on smaller pieces of bottom.
Anchoring properly is critical to success when working a piece of structure. The preferred technique it to anchor so that the boat ends up just a bit up-current and up wind of the structure. Baits presented right on the edge of the structure will hopefully draw the fish out away from their protection. Anchoring is a skill that only time and experience will perfect. GPS trolling motors have helped greatly with this!
Anglers bottom fishing from bridges and piers usually choose a spreader rig. It is effective in this application. Sliding sinker rigs can certainly be used, especially when cast out away from the pier or bridge.
Surf fisherman do a lot of bottom fishing. Most fish caught off of the beaches are done so by anglers soaking a piece of bait on the bottom. This is true from Texas to Maine. Cut squid, cut bait fish, shrimp, and crabs are all great baits that produce a wide variety of species.
Sarasota bottom fishing species
Grouper are the king of species for anglers Sarasota bottom fishing. Gag grouper and red grouper are the two primary grouper species caught by Sarasota anglers. Gag grouper are caught both inshore and offshore while red grouper are primarily caught offshore. Any live or cut bait will fool grouper if presented well. Grouper are structure oriented and often hold tight to the cover. Proper anchoring is crucial. Grouper are fantastic on the dinner plate.
Sheepshead are a prime target of anglers bottom fishing. They are caught in the cooler months, especially January through early April. They spawn near structure in the passes and inshore Gulf of Mexico. Big Sarasota Pass, New Pass, nearby docks and bridges, along with the three inshore artificial reefs are prime spots. Sheepshead are very good eating.
Mangrove snapper are a prime target of anglers Sarasota bottom fishing. These tasty saltwater panfish are found both inshore and offshore. Obviously, the larger specimens are caught in deeper water. Shrimp and small bait fish produce for inshore anglers. Snapper are caught offshore by anglers using frozen sardines, shrimp, live pilchards and pin fish, and cut bait fish and squid.
Flounder are a very popular bottom fish that are caught occasionally by anglers Sarasota bottom fishing. Flounder are rarely targeted by are more often an incidental catch. They are caught off the beaches and around structure such as docks, bridges, and submerged rocks. Shrimp, live bait fish, and cut squid.
Key West grunts are an abundant species caught in the inshore Gulf of Mexico by anglers bottom fishing. They are aggressive and are generally easy to catch once located. Many an offshore fishing charter has been saved by switching from grouper and going on a “grunt hunt”! They are a but tough to clean, but are terrific eating. Grunts and grits are a staple of southern anglers!
Whiting are most often caught by anglers fishing off of the Sarasota beaches. They are small but put up a good tussle on light tackle. Shrimp account for most of the whiting landed.
Capt Jim Klopfer has been fishing in Sarasota, Florida since 1985. He earned his USCG license in 1991has been running Sarasota fishing charters ever since. In that time he has gained experience that only time can provide. Here he shares that experience in his Sarasota fishing forecast. Capt Jim also shares a regular Sarasota fishing report.
Every year is different, but annual fishing patterns tend to repeat themselves. Our seasons do change, though the change is more subtle. Slight changes in water temperature will trigger fish migrations. The length of time the sun is out is a factor as well. Tactics change with the seasons as well. Water temperature, bait availability, and other factors will affect how fish feed. My Sarasota fishing forecast does hold up over time as a guide that anglers can use to predict fish locations and tactics.
Most fish species make some type of migration. Resident fish such as speckled trout, snook, jack crevelle, and redfish stay in a relatively small area, but do change locations. A cold winter will push them into deeper water in channels and creeks and canals. As it warms up they will move out into the bays to feed up. In the summer they will seek the depths of cooler water while snook move out onto the beaches.
Other fish species migrate through the area, called “pelagic” species. They include Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, tarpon, false albacore, sharks, cobia, and more. Pelagic fish generally school up in good numbers. They also are very much keyed in to bait. Bait fish migrate as well and this in turn affects the pelagic species movements. Sight casting to schools of fish that are feeding voraciously on the surface is incredibly exciting!
Any lure, bait, or fly that is cast into the melee is instantly devoured! We also have other fish that are seasonal. These include sheepshead, pompano, bluefish, flounder, sea bass, and more. While these species are occasionally taken all year long, there are specific times when they are much more plentiful. All of the fish movements, locations, and techniques will be explained in these Sarasota fishing forecasts.
Sarasota fishing forecast; winter
Weather is the overwhelming factor in winter fishing in Sarasota. While winters are much milder than other parts of the country, we still experience them. The water temperature will be the lowest all year, sometimes into the upper 40’s! That is cold for our fish species. Here is my Sarasota winter fishing forecast.
Deep flats fishing in Sarasota:
Cold water will push fish off of the flats and into deeper holes. Speckled trout will be found in channels with deeper water, as will ladyfish and other species. A free lined live shrimp is very effective. After a couple of warm days, fish will move back out onto the flats. Fish that are on the grass flats will be a bit deeper. Flats in 8 feet to 10 feet of water will be more productive. Bluefish, jacks, trout and pompano will take a 1/4 ounce jig with a grub tail. Smaller baits, no longer than 4″, are generally more productive. By the end of winter, the deep flats should be very productive with Spanish mackerel joining the party.
Fishing Sarasota passes:
When the winds ease up for a couple of days and the water clears, both passes can be very productive. It is important for the water to be “clean”. When it is, ladyfish wil be piled up in Big Sarasota Pass and New Pass. Mackerel, pompano, bluefish, jacks, and other species will be caught as well. Drifting with the tide while casting or vertically jigging is a proven technique. Live shrimp either on a jig head or free lined will also catch a lot of fish.
Structure fishing:
Structure such as docks, bridges, seawalls, and rocky bottom will hold fish in the winter. Any quality Sarasota fishing forecast will include bottom fishing for sheepshead and snapper. This is very easy fishing as anglers simply find some good structure and fish live or frozen shrimp on the bottom. Flounder, black drum, redfish, and more will also be landed. Sheepshead are a very popular winter target for Sarasota anglers bottom fishing. They will bite in cold, dirty water. On windy days, docks in residential canals offer some protection.
Surf fishing:
Surf fishing will depend greatly on wind. Wind churns the water u, making it rough and dirty. Fishing is poor under these conditions. However, when the water is calm and clean, silver trout, whiting, pompano and more will be caught. I live shrimp or piece of shrimp on a #1 hook with just a bit of weight works well. A shrimp tipped jig is a great choice as well.
Fishing creeks and rivers:
In the winter, snook and jack crevelle migrate up into area creeks and rivers. Rivers have deep holes and darker water. This results in significantly higher water temperatures. Gamefish seek the warmer water, as well as the forage. Capt Jim offers anglers visiting Sarasota a unique oportunity, fishing for large snook in area rivers. The Myakka River, Manatee River, and Braden River all hold snook, big jacks, redfish, and more. Read more about Sarasota river fishing. Rapala plugs and swim baits are generally used as it allows anglers to cover a lot of water. The scenery is also very cool! I hope you enjoyed my Sarasota winter fishing forecast!
Sarasota fishing forecast; spring
Spring is a fantastic time of year to be fishing in Sarasota. The biggest question anglers have to answer is what to fish for! Just about every species is available this time of year. Sheepshead are still present early and tarpon will have shown up by late spring, with just about everything else in between. Sarasota spring fishing can be fantastic!
Spring flats fishing:
Both the deep and shallow grass flats will come alive in spring. Speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, pompano, jacks, ladyfish, and more will be caught on grass flats in 5″ to 10′ of water. The flats near the passes will be very productive. Anglers drift with the wind and tide and cast their baits out, searching for a school of fish. Most fish will be found in schools or bunches. Live shrimp and a 1/4 ounce jig are the two most popular baits. Shrimp can be fished undr a float or just free lined out behind the boat.
Snook, redfish, jacks, and trout will move into the shallow flats as they warm up and forage becomes available. It seems like a contradiction, but the largest fish often inhabit very shallow water. Artificial lures that cover a lot of water are often the best choice. Plugs, weedless spoons, and light jigs are the top choices. Low, incoming tides are best. A live hand picked shrimp can work very well in water that is just a tad deeper.
Sarasota pass fishing in spring:
Both passes will be great options for anglers Sarasota spring fishing. The rocks in Big Pass will still hold sheepshead, though their numbers will be dwindling. Snapper will still be plentiful. Drifting the passes while bouncing a jig will produce a LOT of ladyfish along with mackerel, blues, and pompano.
Inshore Gulf of Mexico fishing
When conditions are right, fishing the inshore Gulf can be world class. East winds will result in calm, clear water. Hordes of bait fish will move in, followed by the predator fish. This is one of my favorite types of Sarasota fishing charters. Spanish mackerel and false albacore will be seen feeding actively on the surface. King mackerel, sharks, and even tarpon will be mixed in, especially . Casting small spoons, jigs, plugs, and flies is great sport! A chunk of cut mackerel on a large hook with a steel leader will catch some fun sized sharks.
Surf fishing in Sarasota in the spring
Surf anglers Sarasota spring fishing should do well when the water is clear. Trout, whiting, pompano, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, flounder, and ladyfiish will be caught using both live shrimp and lures. High tides are best.
Sarasota fishing forecast; summer
Many of the clients that go out on a Sarasota fishing charter are surprised to learn that fishing can be outstanding in the summer. The key is the abundance of bait through the inshore bays and passes and out on the beach. Catching bait and using it as chum is extremely effective. It is very hot, however, and fishing needs to be done early or late. Heat indexes are very high mid day and the fish normally don’t bite as well. Get out there early and do some Sarasota summer fishing!
Sarasota summer flats fishing:
Fishing on the deep grass flats from 6′ to 10′ is outstanding in summer. What I like to do is start out at first light casting jigs. That bite will last an hour or two, depending on the breeze and overcast. Once that slows, I move in and load up on bait. Using my cast net, I fill the well with small live monnows. I then anchor up-tide and up-wind of a good flat. Live minnows are tossed out behind the boat, attracting gamefish up behind. Speckled trout, mackerel, snapper, grouper, bluefish, ladyfish, and more will readily take a live bait in this situation. Action on the shallow flats will depend on water temperature. If it gets too warm, fish will move off deeper. But, as long as the water temperature hangs arounf 85 degrees and bait is present, anglers should succeed.
Sarasota summer snook fishing:
Snook fishing is very good in summer as well. Just keep in mind that they are out of season and must be eleased immediately. Anglers Sarasota summer fishing for snook will find them in the passes and out on the beaches. Live bait works well when fishing the passes. The water is deep in spots and the current can be swift. Large pilchards and threadfin herring along with shrimp, pinfish, and grunts all work well. Heavier jigs with a large swimbait tail can also produce vertically jigged while drifting. Out of the beach, it is a completely different situation. While anglers can use bait, artificial lures and flies work well, and are a better option for shore fishermen. Any small, white jig, plug, or fly will fool them. Snook can be seen right i the surf line, cruising the beach. Sight casting to snook is great sport!
Tarpon fishing off of Sarasota beaches:
Sarasota sees a strong tarpon migration each year in late May and summer. These fish average 75 pounds and grow over 200 pounds. Tarpon are the ultimate gamefish and the opportunity to cast to them with relatively light tackle is a unique one. This is not for every angler. There will be days that no fish are hooked. Tarpon fishing is “big game” fishing and the success rate is lower than that with smaller fish.
Sarasota fishing forecast; fall
Fall is an awesome time to go out on Sarasota fishing charters! The weather is usually fantastic with cooler temperatures and the crowds are non-existent. Angling opportunities abound as fishing is good both inshore and in the coastal Gulf of Mexico. Fall is generally the best time to target Spanish mackerel and false albacore in the Gulf.
Inshore, flats, and passes in the fall:
Just about every inshore species will be available this time of year for anglers Sarasota fall fishing. Speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, jacks, pompano, snapper, and ladyfish will be caught on the deep flats. Jigs, plugs, and live shrimp will all produce. Chumming with bait fish will be effective until the bait leaves, which is normally around Thanksgiving, but every year is different. Snook will move back into the bays and scatter out and feed as winter approaches. Topwater plugs, jigs, and live bait will produce around oyster bars, mangrove shorelines, and docks throughout the area.
Redfish will be schooled up in large numbers on the shallow flats, especially up north near Long Bar. Weedless spoons and light soft plastic baits work well, but these fish can be spooky! Passes should be thick with ladyfish, with pompano, Spanish mackerel, and bluefish mixed in. Anglers can find the current Florida fishing regulations at the FWC site.
Fall fishing in the inshore Gulf of Mexico:
I fish the beaches just off of Sarasota and Siesta Key whenever I get the chance in fall. The opportunity to sight cast to breaking schools of ten pound false albacore using light tackle is great sport! On my Sarasota fishing charters, I like to sit out on the beach or slowly idle around in Search of fish. The three artificial reefs off of Lido Key in Sarasota and off Point of Rocks on Siesta Key. Rapala plugs and Bass Assassin jigs are cast out into schools of breaking fish and worked quickly. A hook up is almost assured, especially with mackerel. Sharks are still fairly plentiful and will hit a piece of cut bait such as mackerel.
In conclusion, this Sarasota fishing forecast will help anglers understand the species, locations, and patterns that will help them catch more fish.
I will be posting my current Sarasota fishing report on this page. It will be updated every week or two as conditions and species change. It will include the baits or lures along with the species and locations.
May 19 Outer Banks fishing report
I was up in North Carolina in Kill Devil Hills this week for a little vacation. Of course, I did some fishing along with some great seafood meals and adult beverages. Whiting, known locally as “surf mullet”, and skates hit shrimp fished on the bottom. One of the whiting went 18″, which is a good one. On calmer days, I cast Gulp Shrimp on jig heads from the surf and landed spotted sea trout and bluefish. The trout were tough to land in the surf with their soft mouths, but most were going to be released anyway. We saved enough whiting and a couple of trout for a little fish fry, great fun!
May 11 Sarasota Fishing Report
Fishing was decent this week, with the highlight being schools of breaking jack crevalle. We encounters schools of jacks feeding on the surface in several locations throughout Sarasota Bay and Roberts Bay. They hit Bass Assassin jigs and Rapala X-Raps. Ladyfish were caught in Big Pass, the nearby flats, and up in the north bay. Snook hit plugs early in the morning and speckled trout and bluefish were caught on jigs on the deep grass flats. I am headed to the Outer Banks for some surf fishing and R&R, next report will be in two weeks.
May 4 Sarasota fishing report
Once again, ladyfish on the deep grass flats provided the majority of the action for clients this week. Most of the fish were caught by anglers casting Bass Assassin jigs, but live shrimp caught fish, too. It was good to see that some very healthy speckled trout were caught as well. This is a good sign as Sarasota Bay bounces back from the red tide. The FWC has just passed a law that speckled trout, reds, and snook are catch and release for the next year. Some anglers look down on ladyfish, but they really are a lot of fun and put up a good fight for their size. They are a great little fish for kids and novice anglers to practice on and gain experience.
April 27 Sarasota fishing report
With sheepshead pretty much done, the best action this week was on the grass flats. Ladyfish provided most of the action, keeping rods bent for clients. Bass Assassin jigs and live shrimp worked well. A few bluefish, mackerel, speckled trout, and sailcats were caught as well. It was tough on Monday as a severe front had moved through. However, the bite picked up each day, with Thursday being very good early in the morning. Another front moved in on Friday. Bait is showing up on a lot of the flats, which is a good sign for our summer fishing.
April 20 Sarasota fishing report
Clients on Sarasota fishing charters had decent action tis week, although weather was an issue early and late in the week. Wind not only makes it difficult to fish, it stirs up the water. Finding “clean” water was important. Every spot that was dirty only produced catfish. Flats that were better produced a lot of ladyfish with a few jack crevalle and bluefish mixed in. Most of the fish hit Bass Assassin jigs, but shrimp caught some fish as well. We had an excellent fly fishing trip on Thursday morning. The grass flats north on New Pass were very clear with a lot of bait. Fish were busting on the surface and chartreuse/white Clouser MInnow patters were very productive.
April 13 Sarasota fishing report
It is all about bending the rods with a lot of family trips this time of year. Action was decent this week for clients going out on Sarasota fishing charters. Big Sarasota Pass, Marina Jack flat, and Middlegrounds had good numbers of hard-fighting ladyfish along with bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and speckled trout. Bass Assassin jigs (glow/chartreuse), Rapala X-Raps were all productive. Friday was the best day, as we encountered large schools of ladyfish with bluefish and mackerel mixed in terrorizing bait in shallow water on the Big Pass sand bar. Then, later in the morning, we caught Spanish mackerel and blue runners trolling spoons near Siesta Key Beach. Sheepshead are really thinning out, though there are still a few around, mostly smaller males.
April 6 Sarasota fishing report
Anglers on Sarasota fishing charters this week experienced decent action on the grass flats near Big Pass. Ladyfish were fairly plentiful with a few other species mixed in. Speckled trout to 18″, Spanish mackerel and bluefish to 2 pounds, jacks and sail cats hit Bass Assassin jigs, live shrimp, and threadfin herring. Brian caught the fish of the week as he wrestled a nice redfish out from under a Siesta Key dock using live shrimp. Ladyfish were also caught in Big Pass on jigs. I only targeted sheepshead one day, but the bite was still strong in the rocks in the pass.
March 30 Sarasota fishing report
Fishing was decent this week, though clients on Sarasota fishing charters had to battle some wind and a little rain. The sheepshead bite continued to be very good. Live shrimp fished on the bottom near structure and docks in both Big Sarasota Pass and New Pass produced plenty of nice sized fish. Though the spawning run is winding down, there are plenty of fish that are still around. Anglers seeking action found it by casting Bass Assassin jigs on the grass flats on the east side of the bay. A couple of speckled trout were caught as well, which is a great sign.
March 23 Sarasota fishing report
Fishing was steady once again this week, though anglers did have to battle some breezy conditions. The sheepshead bite was very good, with most of the fishing being in the 2 pound range. Rocks, docks, and other structure, particularly in the passes, held plenty of fish. Live shrimp was the best bait. Ladyfish hit Bass Assassin jigs in Robert’s Bay on the incoming tide. Anglers casting flies hooked them as well as a snook up in a residential canal. One young angler sight cast to a couple of tripletail in the bay and caught one on a live shrimp.
March 16 Sarasota fishing report
The sheepshead bite remains strong in both Big Sarasota Pass, New Pass, and surrounding docks and bridges. Live or frozen shrimp fished on the bottom worked well. Most of the fish were in the 2lb range, with some larger ones mixed in. Small Spanish mackerel hit Rapala plugs trolled and cast in the passes and inshore Gulf of Mexico. Ladyfish and the occasional Spanish mackerel and speckled trout hit jigs and shrimp on the deeper flats. We had perfect conditions on Tuesday and caught a half dozen king mackerel trolling spoons in the Gulf of Mexico just off off the inshore artificial reefs.
March 2 Sarasota fishing report
Sheepshead were caught around structure in Sarasota Bay and on the artificial reefs in the inshore Gulf of Mexico. This has been the most consistent bite for the last few weeks. Live shrimp caught them along with a few mangrove snapper. Docks and structure in both passes were the top spots. Also, there is a ton of tiny fry bait in Robert’s Bay which has attracted good numbers of ladyfish. Clients caught them using Bass Assassin jigs and live shrimp. Dolphins were aggressive and shut down the bite several times. A few speckled trout were landed as well.
February 23 Sarasota fishing report
Action really picked up this week in Sarasota Bay! Water temperatures were in the mid 70’s and small fry bait is plentiful on the flats. Anglers casting jigs experienced fast action on large ladyfish and a couple of speckled trout. Snook and jack crevelle hit live shrimp and Rapala plugs in creeks and residential canals. The sheepshead bite remains strong. Very few of the fish are under the 12″ minimum. Some decent mangrove snapper were landed as well. Live shrimp worked well fished on the bottom.
February 16 Sarasota fishing report
The best bite in Sarasota Bay right now is sheepshead. These tasty saltwater panfish are hitting live and freshly frozen shrimp under docks, bridges and around submerged structure. Most of the fish were decent sized, over 14″ or so. Mangrove snapper to 14″ were also taken in the same areas. In addition, a few snook and jacks were caught on Rapala X-Raps in creeks and canals.
February 2 Sarasota fishing report
The big jack bite was hot for another week, but then slowed down after the cold front. Water temperatures in the mid 50’s sent the fish seeking warmer water. Before the front, jacks to 12 pounds, snook, and redfish hit Rapala plugs in the Manatee River. Hopefully the upcoming warm weather will get them biting again. The best action in Sarasota Bay was sheepshead hitting live shrimp around structure. The fish are spread out and it seems like their numbers are increasing each week. Small snook hit lures in creeks and residential canals.
January 19 Sarasota fishing report
Winter fishing patterns continue in Sarasota. The best two patterns have been fishing docks with live shrimp for sheepshead and black drum and casting plugs and jigs in creeks and rivers for jack crevalle and snook. Docks in 8′ to 10′ of water near Big Pass produced sheepshead and drum. Most of them were solid fish in the 14″ to 16″ range. Anglers casting Rapala plugs in Phillippi Creek fooled snook and jacks. The Manatee River has some VERY big jacks that were breaking on the surface and hit jigs and plugs.
January 5 Sarasota fishing report
Fishing has been fair over the last two weeks. Fishing pressure was high due to the Christmas traffic and we are still rebounding from the red tide. Sheepshead showed up under docks and around structure near the passes. We caught them and mangrove snapper using live shrimp fished on the bottom. Big jacks were found on the flats and in the channel and hit plugs, jigs, and flies. Ladyfish were caught in deeper areas using jigs.
December 22 Sarasota fishing report
Weather was an issue over the last two weeks. However, the forecast is good for the holiday week. Ladyfish hit jigs on drop-offs in 7′ to 10′ of water. Sheepshead were present in good numbers under docks near Big Pass. Snook and jacks have moved up into residential canals and creeks. Anglers fishing the Myakka River hooked snook and gar casting plugs.
December 8 Sarasota fishing report
Weather has been an issue the last two weeks. Several severe fronts moved through and I had to cancel several trips due to wind around 20 knots. It does seem to have helped the rd tide, though. Ladyfish and small Spanish mackerel were breaking on the surface off of Siesta Key. Sheepshead and snapper took shrimp fished under docks and along rocky channel edges, especially south of Siesta Drive Bridge. Cooler water has snook and jacks moving up into area cheeks and rivers.
November 24 Sarasota fishing report
Fishing remained steady, though unspectacular, over the last two weeks. Red tide still persists off the beaches and in Sarasota Bay, from the passes north. The best fishing has been in the area from Siesta Drive south to Blackburn Point. Sheepshead moved into the area and were caught under docks by clients using shrimp. Mangrove snapper were caught in the same spots as well. Jack crevelle hit plugs in residential canals and creeks. Ladyfish were caught on jigs on the open flats.
November 10 Sarasota fishing report
I ran both Myakka River charters and Sarasota Bay charters this week. Anglers casting Bass Assassin baits and Gulp! Shrimp on jig heads experienced fast action on ladyfish. With the persistent red tide, the area between Siesta Drive and Blackburn Point were the most consistent areas. A few speckled trout were caught as well. Pilchards fished under docks fooled jacks, snook, and snapper.
Action in the Myakka River was fair this week. It got VERY warm by the end of the week, and that slowed the bite. Still, anglers casting Rapala plugs hooked a couple large snook and landed fish to 24″. The approaching cold front should improve the fishing.
November 3 Sarasota fishing report
I did most of my fishing in the area rivers. Anglers had good success on snook, jack crevelle, and largemouth bass casting Rapala plugs. Snook ranged from 15″ to 15 pounds. We landed fish to 35″ and lost two larger ones. #10 gold Rapala X-Raps and BX Minnow plugs fooled all of the fish. The Braden River, Myakka River, and Manatee River were all productive. Charters in Sarasota Bay were a bit slower, with jack crevelle to 4 pounds and mangrove snapper hitting pilchards fished under docks and along shorelines.
October 20 Sarasota fishing report
Fishing was fantastic this week! I got out four days, taking a mixture of clients and friends. The snook bite was on fire all along Siesta Key. Snook to 34 inches were landed this week and several were hooked that we could not handle. A few the fish were caught on white #8 Rapala X-Raps first thing in the morning. Speckled trout to 16 inches, ladyfish, mangrove snapper to 14 inches, and jacks also hit the plugs early in the morning.
However, most of the fish hit live pilchards. Redfish to 24 inches, jack crevelle to 4 pounds, and mangrove snapper to 15 inches were also caught on the live bait. I like the combination of taking an advantage of the early morning bite with lures than switching over to live bait when that action slows.
Action from this week!
Regular clients Doc and John had a great day on Thursday. They caught snapper, jacks, snook, ladyfish, and a trout casting Rapalas. A switch to live bait resulted in over 40 snook along with several other species. Doc finished up with an inshore slam, catching snook, trout, and redfish all in one trip.
Bait fish were plentiful in Sarasota Bay this week. At the end of my charter on Thursday, we saw a dozen large schools of bait on the flats near Marina jacks. This is a great indication of quality water. It can also mean that the mackerel, false albacore, and other migratory fall species will be arriving soon. They are generally right on the heels of the bait. Hopefully the approaching front will kick start the inshore Gulf fishing.
October 13 Sarasota fishing report
The area south of Siesta Drive down to Blackburn Point provided steady action for clients on Sarasota fishing charters this week. I got out a couple of times after Hurricane Michael moved through. The water was a bit stirred up, but the fish did not mind. We had outgoing tides in the morning this week. The best spots were creek and canal mouths along with docks on points. Rapala X-Raps produced a few fish at first light, but most of the fish were caught using live pilchards. Bait was present on the flats in several spots near Big Pass. Chumming docks, shorelines, oyster bars, and creek mouths produced snook (mostly schoolies), jack crevelle to 4 pounds, and mangrove snapper to 15″. Action should improve as it cools off. Great to see the bay clearing and the fish biting!
October 7 Sarasota fishing report
I am back from a long road trip up to New Hampshire and Maine. Red tide was pretty bad when I left around Labor Day. It is still present, though the effects have eased off a bit. Persistent anglers can find juvenile snook, jacks, and mangrove snapper’s in the area at the south end of Siesta Key. A few schools of ladyfish are showing up in the flats around the passes and out on the beach. This is a good sign of things clearing up!
I have been doing a little freshwater fishing and local lakes. Bluegill and other panfish along with a few crappie are caught using jigs and small spinner baits. This fishing, like our saltwater fishing, will pick up as it cools off and the water temperature drops.
Sarasota fishing report information
There are many factors that go into fishing success. My Sarasota fishing report page will reflect this. Seasonal patterns are one of the primary factors influencing fishing success. Anglers can view my complete Sarasota fishing forecast.
Fishing in the cooler months is all about the weather. We start receiving serious cold fronts here in Sarasota, Florida around November. They usually persist until mid-March. Unseasonably pleasant winters will result in fish maintaining their spring and fall patterns. Conversely, an unusually cold winter will keep fish in their winter pattern.
In the winter time I do three types of fishing; bottom fishing, River snook fishing, and on nice days drifting the deep grass flats. I use live shrimp to bottom fish for sheepshead, snapper, drum, and other species around docs and other structure. Local area rivers produce snook and bass for anglers casting plugs. When conditions are favorable on the open flats, we use jigs and live shrimp to catch a variety of species.
As it warms up fish move out of the deeper waters where they spend the winter. The flats and passes become alive with snook, redfish, speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, jacks, ladyfish, and other species. The passes and deep flats produce the most action while some anglers seek the challenge of catching snook in redfish in the back country.
When conditions are right, the fishing in the inshore Gulf of Mexico can be fantastic! East winds will result in clear water and plenty of baitfish. This will in turn attract Spanish mackerel, false albacore, sharks, cobia, and other species. Often times, the fish will be seen feeding aggressively on the surface. This is great fun as just about anything tossed into the feeding frenzy will draw strike.
For many anglers, the heat of summer means one thing; tarpon! The silver Kings invade our area in early May and stay until late July. This is very challenging fishing, and not for everyone. However the reward is the fish of a lifetime! Tarpon to 150 pounds are landed off of the area beaches every summer.
While I still do a little tarpon fishing, most of my summer trips are run in Sarasota Bay. With all the anglers out on the beach chasing tarpon, fishing pressure in the Bay is lighter. My normal approach is to cast lures or shrimp at first light then use my cast net to catch bait and chum mid morning. Either way, with the heat of summer, we are will off the water early.
You’ll see me mention “deep grass flats”often in my Sarasota fishing report. This is where the majority of fish on my fishing charters are landed. These areas are large with a mixture of grass and sand bottom. Shrimp, crabs, and bait fish all hide in the grass. That obviously makes it an attractive place for game fish to feed.
Speckled trout in particular are associated with these deeper grass flats. But anglers will also catch Spanish mackerel, Pompano, bluefish, jacks, a lot of ladyfish, snapper, grouper, cobia, sharks, catfish and more while fishing the deep grass at one time of year or another.
Sarasota fishing
We primarily drift fish while working the deep grass flats. Anglers cast out lures, flies, or live bait as we drift across a productive areas in search of fish. Bass Assassin jigs, Rapala plugs, and spoons are effective artificial lures. The top live bait is a shrimp. These are fished either free line or under a noisy cork. In the summer time, live bait fish such as scaled sardines are used.
Both Big Sarasota Pass and New Pass produce a lot a fish for clients on Sarasota fishing charters. Anglers reading my Sarasota fishing report will see Big Pass in particular mentioned quite often. Sheepshead school up there thick and late winter and early spring. Mangrove snapper and snook are found in the rocks in the summer time. Ladyfish are often times thick right in the middle of the pass itself. Bluefish and mackerel can also be encountered as well.
Anglers drifting the passes cast jigs out and bounced them along the bottom. This is very effective and produces Pompano, bluefish, mackerel, and loads of ladyfish. Free lining a live shrimp with a split shot or fishing a live shrimp on a jig head can also be very productive. However, when the fish are biting jigs are more efficient as there is no need to stop and rebate the hook.
Sarasota Bay fishing report
There is a ton of structure in Big Pass as well. This is particularly true of the whole area along the north side of Siesta Key. The water is deep, there is good current flow, and abundant structure. This is a recipe for an excellent fishing spot, and it is! Bottom fishing with live shrimp and bait fish is very productive. Anglers do need to time this during periods of lesser current flow. It is difficult to anchor in fish when the tide is screaming.
Spinning tackle is used on the vast majority of my fishing charters. The reason is quite simple; it is effective and easy to use. Many freshwater anglers are experienced with close to faced reels. However, it usually only takes a few minutes before there casting like a pro with the spinning outfits. 10 pound spinning outfits are light enough that anglers enjoy the fight of even a smaller fish while still giving them a chance of the hook something larger.
Anglers seeking a bit more of a challenge will opt to targets snook, redfish, and jacks in the back country areas. This type of fishing is more of a “quality over quantity approach”. I use the trolling motor to ease the boat along a likely looking shoreline, while anglers cast lures towards the shoreline. I do use live bait occasionally as well.
River fishing charters
Visitors to my site will often see ”River snook fishing”in my Sarasota fishing report. This is a unique angling opportunity that I offer to clients. I am not aware of any other guide to do so. I use my 14 foot Alumacraft jon boat for this fishing. Shallow water and primitive ramps require this. However, this also results in less boat traffic and a quiet, serene angling adventure.
The Manatee River, Myakka River, and Braden River, are all within a 45 minute drive from the Sarasota beaches. Each has a distinct feel and personality. The Myakka River has some stunning scenery and big snook. The Manatee River is pretty as well but a bit more developed. It offers the most variety. The Braden River is the most developed but offers fantastic fishing for jack crevelle in the cooler months. Snook and redfish are available as well.
One unique aspect of fishing the rivers is the chance to catch freshwater species as well. The Manatee River and Myakka River are both brackish below the dams. This results in saltwater fish such as snuck, redfish, jacks, and juvenile tarpon being found in the same water as largemouth bass, sunshine bass, catfish, gar, and bream. These freshwater species will take the same lures meant for the saltwater fish.
In the spring and again in the fall we experience runs of pelagic species. This means that they spend most of their time in the middle of the water column and do not relate as much to bottom structure. Spanish mackerel and false albacore are prime examples. King mackerel show up here offer beaches as well. This fishing is dependent on conditions, the water needs to be clear and calm. When it is, fishing can be outstanding!
Inshore Gulf of Mexico
This type of fishing is very exciting in that it is visual. Often times we don’t even fish until we actually see the mackerel and false albacore busting baits on the surface. We will also look for big schools of bait fish which can be seen dimpling on the surface. Artificial lures work very well when the fish are breaking. We will also catch some of the live bait fish and cast them back into the school of bait.
On days when the fish cannot be seen working on the surface, trolling can be an effective technique. Trolling spoons and plugs is a great way to locate Spanish mackerel, false albacore, and even big King fish. It is also a great way to put a lot of fish in the boat quickly and is an easy technique for anglers with limited experience.
The “inshore artificial reefs”will be mentioned regularly in my Sarasota fishing report. I am referring to three man-made groups of structure that were placed between one and to miles off of Lido Key. The Gulf floor is for the most part flat and featureless. Therefore, any structure will attract fish and hold them there. Those three reefs provide excellent fishing for bottom fish such as sheepshead, snapper, and grouper along with pelagic species such as mackerel, King fish, cobia, and false albacore.
Fly fishing
Fly fisherman are certainly not to be left out of the action! False albacore in Spanish mackerel will most certainly hit a well presented fly out in the Gulf of Mexico. This is terrific sport for anglers wielding a fly rod. Any inshore species that can be caught on a jig will also take a fly. Speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, ladyfish, jacks, and more will hit a Clouser Minnow on the deep flats. Snook and jacks prefer whiteCrystal Minnow patterns in the back bays.
An 8wt outfit is a good all-around choice for fly fishing in Sarasota. It might be a tad light if the false albacore are running large. Otherwise, it is a good choice for the water and species that Sarasota offers. An intermediate sink tip line and then 9 foot tapered leader with a 24 inch piece of 30 pound bite tippet finishes off the outfit.
Readers will see a lot a families including children and my Sarasota fishing report. I really enjoy taking families out, it has become a big part of my Sarasota fishing charters. Many of these anglers have limited experience. One great thing about fishing here is that there are many species that do not require a great deal of skill or patience to catch. This is a good thing!
Also, while I don’t mind if clients keep a couple fish for dinner, I strongly encourage catch and release. Sarasota gets a lot a visitors and thus a lot of fishing pressure. It is important that the focus of the fishing trip beyond catching fish and enjoying quality time with families. I will certainly filet and bag up your catch at the end of the trip. Current Florida fishing regulations and license requirements can be found HERE.
Visiting anglers very much enjoy Florida Pompano fishing. Pompano are very beautiful fish that fight incredibly hard for their size and taste great. What more can an angler ask for!
Pompano are found along the entire coast of Florida. Statewide, most pompano are caught by anglers surf fishing. Here in Sarasota, we catch them both off of the beaches and in the inshore waters of Sarasota Bay. Pompano may be encountered at any time of year. Cooler months are generally the most productive times of year to catch pompano.
Pompano look very similar to juvenile permit. They also tend to live in the same environments. Permit have longer fins with a bit of black on the tips. If anglers have any doubt, it is best to err on the side of caution and release the fish.
Florida pompano fishing with jigs
Jigs produce most of the Pompano landed by clients on my Sarasota fishing charters. A close look at a Pompano will reveal a small, inferior mouth. The term inferior mouth refers to the fact that the opening of the mouth is on the underside of the head. This will indicate the method by which a Pompano feeds. It swims with its head down and tail up scatter in the bottom for crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs.
This explains why jigs are so productive when targeting Pompano. A jig that is bounced off the bottom kicks up a tiny puff of sand. This very closely mimics the action of a fleeing crab or shrimp. Jigs produce on the beach, in the passes, and in the bays. Bright colors such as red, chartreuse, and white are the most productive patterns. I use them often on my Sarasota fishing charters.
Many anglers land Pompano while casting 3 inch to 4 inch jigs while drifting over the deep grass flats. The same Bass Assassin Sea Shad baits that work so well for speckled trout, bluefish, ladyfish, and other species will also fool pompano. The same jig and fall retrieve is productive. The deeper flats in Sarasota Bay, those between 8 feet and 10 feet deep, produce more pompano. However, they can be encountered over sandbars in as little as 2 feet of water.
While the larger jigs will catch the occasional pompano, when specifically targeting pompano, smaller jigs are often used. Not surprisingly, these are called “pompano jigs”. As noted earlier, pompano have a quite small mouth, so a smaller bite-size jig works well. These jigs are very plain looking. There simply a round jig head with a little bit of dressing, usually synthetic care. Combinations of white, yellow, chartreuse, and red have proven to be effective colors.
There is another type of lure specifically designed to for anglers Florida pompano fishing. They are called “banana jigs”. They are long and slender, and shaped like a banana, thus the name. When jerked up sharply, they fall in a very erratic manner. Pompano find this action irresistible. Some also have a little fly near the hook. Often times pompano will be hooked under the chin with the second little teaser hook.
Florida pompano fishing techniques
Anglers drifting the deep grass flats simply cast the jig out ahead of the drifting boat, allow it to sink, and work it back in using short hops. The same technique works for those fishing for pompano off the beaches. When the bite is tough or when the water is a bit off-color, tipping the jig with a small piece of shrimp can really make a difference.
If I had to pick one spot to fish for pompano, it would be Big Sarasota Pass. “Big Pass” as we call it has everything a pompano needs. There is an expansive bar at the mouth which will hold schools of pompano at times. Miles of rocky structure on the north end of Siesta Key hold the crustaceans that pompano feed on. Large areas of sand flats in 10 to 12 feet of water have good current flow and also attract pompano.
Jigging for Florida pompano in passes
Jigs work extremely well in the passes. Both big Sarasota Pass and New Pass can be very productive spots. For those who don’t know, a pass is basically an inlet. “Pass” is the term used on the Gulf Coast. As the current flows in and out of the passes, pompano will cruise the bottom in search of food. Pompano tend to school up in the passes. Once a productive area is located, that area should be drifted several times. Anglers can catch quite a few in a short period of time.
New Pass can also be a very productive spot to catch pompano. This pass is a bit different. It is shorter and narrow with deeper water. Most of the fishing is done west of the bridge. Pompano can be found in the channel in the deep water. Bouncing a jig as the boat drifts along is the best approach on a Sarasota fishing charter.
Most of the pompano landed in New Pass are caught on the shallow bars at the mouth of the pass. This is a unique area that is really more like a large saltwater flat. Yet, it has excellent current flow. Anglers need to be careful as the water can go from ten feet deep to very shallow quickly. The best area is from the markers to the south. The outside bars may produce a few fish as well.
Florida pompano fishing with live bait
Many pompano are caught using live bait as well. Live shrimp are the most popular bait. They are readily available at every Florida bait shop. While live shrimp or fresh dead shrimp are best, pompano will certainly take a frozen shrimp as well.
There is another bait that’s very effective when targeting pompano, though using it can be a bit more involved. These are called mole crabs, better known as sand fleas. Very few shops keep these, though some do have frozen sand fleas available. Live sand fleas are much preferred to frozen baits. Anglers can purchase a special rake which they use in the surf line to catch the sand fleas. Obtaining sand fleas requires more effort, but many anglers swear by them.
Surf fishing for Florida pompano
One great thing about Florida pompano fishing is that anglers without a boat catch more than their fair share. Surf fishing for pompano is very popular throughout the state. Pompano Beach is even named after this special fish! Surf fishing tactics very a bit on each coast, so I will go into the difference and techniques.
The surf along the Gulf Coast of Florida is generally a bit more gentle than out of the ocean. Starting from the beach and moving out to sea, beaches will have several troughs and bars. Many times the pompano will be in the first trough 10 to 15 feet from shore. This means that long casts are not required.
The best approach for targeting pompano on the West Coast of Florida beaches is to use fairly light spinning tackle, in the 10 pound class. Anglers can then choose to use a quarter ounce jig and cast and retrieve, or to fish with live bait. As stated above, putting a piece of fresh shrimp on a jig head can be the best of both worlds. As an added benefit, other species such as whiting, sheepshead, flounder, ladyfish, and more will take a shrimp-tipped jig.
Anglers choosing to fish with live bait will do well by keeping it simple. A small #4 hook and a split shot or two will get the job done. By using as little weight as possible, anglers will achieve a very natural presentation. It is best if the shrimp is slowly moving along the bottom with the current.
Florida pompano fishing, East Coast
The surf on the East Coast of Florida in the Atlantic Ocean tends to be a bit rougher. Also, tide differences are more extreme. Lastly, anglers are often have to cast into a stiff breeze. For these reasons, angler surf fishing for pompano on the East Coast use the more traditional style.
Surf rods are spinning rods that are 10 to 13 feet or even longer. They have large spinning reels with high-capacity spools. These long rods allow anglers to make a very long cast and keep the line up out of the crashing waves. After the cast rods are placed into sand spikes. These are simply pieces of PCV tubing that hold the rod upright.
Florida pompano surf fishing rigs
There are several rigs that can be used for this type of surf fishing. The most common when targeting pompano is the “high low” rig. This is simply two different hooks where one is close to the bottom and the other about a foot or so above. A heavy pyramid style weight is at the very bottom. It is not uncommon to catch two fish at a time with this rig.
The other commonly used rig off of the surf is the fish finder rig. This is a device that has a clip to hold on the pyramid sinker with a hollow tube allowing the line to run freely through it. The biggest advantage of this rig is that fish can pick up the bait and move off with it without feeling the weight of the sinker. However, because the bait lies on the bottom it tends to attract more sharks and other undesirable species.
Shrimp and sand fleas are two most popular baits for surf anglers targeting pompano. Shrimp have an advantage in that they will catch many other species. Hard core pompano anglers do not want these other species and will opt for sand fleas. They are a bit more of a specialized bait. In some areas, clams and mussels are also used.
The fishing technique with both rigs is basically the same and quite simple. The hooks are baited up, and the rig is cast out as far as possible. Once the bait settles, the rod is placed in the sense bite with the line taught. Once the rod tip indicates that a fish is biting the rod is removed from the spike in the hook is set. Click HERE for current Florida pompano regulations.
Pompano recipes
While Pompano are great fun to catch, anglers prize them for their incredible table fare. I am a proponent of catch and release, however I don’t mind if clients keep a fish or two for dinner, and these are really a treat. Pompano are one fish that I usually cook with the skin on. It peels right off after cooking.
Pompano are delicious with a very delicate white flesh. The meat has a kind of “buttery” flavor with a unique texture. They are a tad bit oily but in a good way. This means that they are best baked, broiled, or grilled. Pompano do not freeze all that well. Keep a couple for dinner and release the rest to please other anglers!
Baked Pompano; this is a very simple way to prepare Pompano. The oven is heated to 400°. The fillets are laid on a greased sheet pan and covered with a tire breadcrumbs. They are then bake for 8 to 10 minutes and can be served with a sauce such as lemon dill or teriyaki. This is very simple and the fish are delicious!
Broiled Pompano; broiling is another simple and easy way to enjoy Pompano. I like to prepare a marinade that consists of olive oil, light soy sauce, ginger, and honey or sugar. This gives it that Oriental sweet and sour flavor. The fillet should be marinated for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. The fillets are then put on a sheet pan and broiled under high heat 5 inches away from the heat for 6 to 8 minutes.
Grilled Pompano; Pompano are fantastic when grilled as well. I do like to keep the skin on when grilling Pompano. The fillets are seasoned to taste with a homemade or prepared grilling seasoning. Some olive oil or melted butter can be drizzled over top. The fillet is then put on a grill pan and grilled for eight minutes or so. As with the baked Pompano, a sauce can be served on the side.
Sarasota speckled trout fishing is extremely popular. Speckled trout are arguably the most popular it saltwater inshore game fish in Florida. This is really true for the entire Gulf Coast. An article on trout fishing follows my weekly Sarasota fishing report.
Weekly Sarasota fishing report
Angling success this week required me to keep moving on my Sarasota fishing charters. Red tide has crept into Sarasota Bay. The key to catching fish is to find “good” water. The best water and spots this week were Bishop’s Pt., Buttonwood, Long Bar, and Stephen’s Pt. Speckled trout and ladyfish were fairly plentiful. Several times we ran across schools of jack crevelle foraging on the surface. This is very exciting! These fish are very aggressive and hit lures with gusto. Bluefish were mixed in with them as well. A few decent mangrove snapper were caught, too.
The wind eased up late in the week and we were able to find schools of “breaking” fish. Clean water up in north Sarasota Bay had the fish bunched up pretty good. Ladyfish and jacks were plentiful, with bluefish, Spanish mackerel, trout, and snapper mixed in. Unfortunately, the red tide has been working north in Sarasota Bay. I cancelled my Friday trip as the wind shifted west. It was breezy and I did not think conditions would be good. The odor was not nice, either.
Effective baits
Jigs and free lined live shrimp produced best this week. A Gulp Shrimp on a 1/4 ounce jig head produced well. Live shrimp on a #1 hook and a small split shot was effective as well. Live shrimp can be small this time of year. We call it “pee wee season”. However, they did get a little better this week.
One strategy that can be effective during red tide outbreaks is to fish “different” areas. Fish will move out of their normal seasonal spots in search of water free of red tide. This can push then into unconventional spots. I don’t normally fish docks in canals and creeks this time of year. However, we found success in Bowlees Creek up north, catching snapper, black drum, catfish, and other species bottom fishing with shrimp.
Speckled trout fishing in Sarasota
There are several reasons for the popularity of speckled trout. They are a beautiful fish. Speckled trout are abundant and available to coastal anglers throughout the state. Trout are aggressive, taking live bait, artificial lures, and flies. Lastly, they are fantastic table fare. What more could an angler ask for?
Most of the Sarasota speckled trout fishing is done on submerged grass beds in Sarasota Bay. A few trout are caught in the surf, in the passes, and near structure. However, the vast majority are found on grass flats in between four and ten feet of water. Some of the largest trout will be caught in very shallow water. These “gator” trout are normally loners and not in schools.
Trout tackle
Speckled trout can be caught using several different tactics and many different baits. This is one of the things that speckled trout so attractive to anglers. The oldest and still one of the most productive techniques is a live shrimp under a popping cork. This is a “system” that works very well on trout as well as other species on the grass flats.
Spinning tackle is the choice of most anglers fishing the inshore flats for speckled trout. A 6 ½ foot to 7 foot rod with a 3000 series reel is a versatile outfit. Ten pound monofilament line works well. Anglers who prefer braided line will do well with 20 lb braid. A 24” shock leader of 25lb to 30lb test finishes off the basic tackle.
The rig consists of a #1/0 live bait hook, 24” of 30 lb leader, and a noisy float or “cork”. These floats have a weight at the bottom and a concave top. It sits upright in the water and when the rod tip is sharply twitched, the cork “pops” in the water. This noise attracts fish as it imitates fish feeding on the surface. The depth can be adjusted, but generally three feet is a good depth.
Live bait for speckled trout
Anglers cast the rig out with a live shrimp hooked in the head under the horn. It is allowed to settle and then the cork is “popped”. The shrimp will rise up in the water then settle back down. Often times the bite occurs right after the cork is popped. When a fish pulls the cork under, the slack is eliminated and the hook is set. The process is repeated several times, then reeled in and cast back out.
Live bait fish such as pinfish and grunts can be used under a float as well. While difficult to obtain, there is no better bait for a nice speckled trout that a 3” grunt. Pilchards and threadfin herring can also be used. One new twist is to fish an artificial shrimp under a noisy cork. This works quite well!
Catching trout on artificial lures
Artificial lures are very effective for anglers Sarasota speckled trout fishing. The most popular lure is a lead head jig with some type of soft plastic body. ¼ ounce is a very good choice for a jig head. Most often, anglers will be fishing in six feet to eight feet of water. A ¼ ounce jig casts well and will get down in the water column.
Grub bodies come in all shapes, colors, and sizes. #3” to 4” baits work best in Sarasota Bay. That size matches the existing forage nicely. Shad tails have a great built in action and imitate bait fish nicely. Paddle tails and shrimp tails mimic shrimp, a favorite trout food. Color really is not all that important in most cases. The old saying “light colors in light water and dark colors in dark water” is a good guideline. White, pearl, glow, chartreuse, pink, olive, gold, rootbeer, and golden bream are all productive colors.
Scented baits
On days when the bite is tough, switching to scented soft plastic baits will sometimes get the bite going. The most effective scented soft plastic bait in this area are the Gulp line of baits. The 3” Gulp Shrimp has fooled many speckled trout on the west coast of Florida. It also works great fished under a cork with a 1/16 ounce jig head.
Plugs work well for speckled trout, too. Topwater plugs will catch large trout fished over bars and potholes on the high tide. First thing in the morning is the best time. MirrOlure makes several suspending plugs that have been catching trout for many years. The 52M series and Mirrodines work great.
Fly anglers are certainly not to be left out when it comes to Sarasota speckled trout fishing. Many speckled trout are fooled by skilled fly casters. The best out fit is a 7wt to 9wt rod with an intermediate sink tip line. A 9′ leader that tapers down to 20 lb tippet works fine. The most popular fly choice is the Clouser Minnow. Is is a weighted fly that actually fishes like a jig. Chartreuse and white is a proven color pattern.
Trout tactics
Speckled trout spend a lot of their lives loosely schooled over deep grass flats. Therefore, drifting the flats while fan casting out in front of the boat is an extremely effective technique. The best approach is to choose a flat where the wind and tide are moving in the same direction. This will facilitate a good drift.
Once some action is found, anglers have a choice. They can either continue continue the drift and then when the action slows motor around and drift again. Another approach is to quietly anchor the boat and thoroughly work the area with either lures or live bait.
One extremely productive technique is to chum with live bait. This works very well in the summer when bait is abundant and east to catch. A LOT of bait is required for this. Specialized equipment such as a cast net and the ability to toss it, a large well, and high volume pump are also needed.
Once the well is loaded up (“blacked out” as we call it) the boat in anchored in six feet of water or so. Anglers will do well to position the boat on the up-tide end of a good flat. Live bait fish are then tossed out behind the boat. Several baits are hooked up and cast out into the chum. If the trout and other game fish are around, it won’t take them long to show up. The chum will get them fired up and feeding.
Sarasota speckled trout fishing spots
The best flats in Sarasota Bay are from Siesta Key north. Bird Key, Radio Tower, Middlegrounds, Stephen’s Pt., Bishop’s Pt., Buttonwood, and Long Bar are the top spots. In the summer, the flats near the passes are usually the best spots to fish. Strong tidal flow and abundant bait fish as forage are a couple of reasons for this.
The area south, from Siesta Drive to Blackburn Pt. Does hold speckled trout. However, the character is I bit different. Grass beds are not at all plentiful. Most fish relate to oyster bars and mangrove shorelines. This area won’t produce the numbers of the north bay, but it will reward patient anglers with some quality fish.
Shallow water trout fishing
Some of the largest speckled trout will be caught in very shallow water. This seems like a contradiction, but it makes sense. Large fish do not need the safety of numbers. They also are less afraid of birds. Finally, large trout feed primarily on large baits such as pinfish, grunts, and mullet. They prefer one large meal versus a bunch of shrimp.
Shallow water trout fishing is very tide specific. Trout will position themselves on the edges of plats and in holes on the lower tide stages. As the water rises, they will fan out on the flats, scatter out, and feed. As the tide falls, trout will set up in likely ambush points. Bars that drop off, holes, and channels that run through flats are prime examples.
Tactics are a bit different in this “skinny” water. Topwater plugs are a good choice. They imitate a perfect sized mullet and will not hang up in the grass. Soft plastic baits used in conjunction with a weedless swim bait hook works well getting through the grass. If the grass is sparse or the tide high, a 1/8 ounce jig head with a 4” shad tail bait is a good choice. Weedless spoons will also produce in shallow water without hanging up.
Speckled trout fishing in winter
Speckled trout will move off of the flats in the winter if the water temperature drops into the mid 50’s. They will move to deeper holes, most of which are man made “dredge” holes. The same goes for channels cutting through a flat or near the edge. Trout will school up in the deeper, warmer water.
A jig bounced slowly off the bottom will catch these deep water trout. The fish will be a bit less active, so a more subtle presentation will usually be more productive. Live shrimp free lined with a split shot are seldom refused. It takes a bit of prospecting, but once a large school of trout is found, the action can be frantic.
Another productive winter Sarasota speckled trout fishing tactic is to anchor on the edge of a grass flat that drops off into deeper water. A free lined live shrimp with a small split shot works very well. Again, this can produce a lot of action if a school is found.
Silver trout
Silver trout are similar in appearance to speckled trout and are sometimes caught on the deep flats while speckled trout fishing. They do not have spots and can have a purple back. While they look similar, their habits are quite different. Silver trout school up tightly in large numbers. Once located, a bunch of them can be caught in short order.
Silver trout are usually caught over sandy bottom in water, between 10′ and 20′ deep. They are often targeted in the Gulf of Mexico, Point of Rocks is a top spot. Jigs bounced on the bottom are very effective, as are live shrimp. Silver trout pull surprisingly hard for their size. There is no size or bag limit on silver trout. They taste great but don’t freeze all that well. The flesh can be a bit soft, so only keep enough for a couple of fresh fish dinners.
While speckled trout are outstanding table fare, it is very important to release the larger fish. The current regulations allow anglers to keep four trout between 15″ and 20″ with one over 20″. I strongly encourage the release of fish over 20″. I do not kill them on my trips. These are female breeders that we need to continue the success of the species.
Anglers taking out Longboat Key fishing charters can experience great action all year long. Longboat Key is eleven miles long and is just north of Lido Key. It is a bit quieter than some of the other keys but has some great accommodations and restaurants. It also offers some great fishing!
Longboat Key offers good fishing all year long for a number of species. The entire east side of Longboat Key has lush grass flats that hold a wide variety of fish species all year long. Residential canals offer refuge in cold weather. New Pass to the south and Longboat Pass to the north are fish highways, connecting Sarasota Bay to the Gulf of Mexico. The beaches off of Longboat Key provide fantastic fishing for both boat and shore anglers.
I use light spinning tackle on my Longboat Key fishing charters. It is the best choice for most anglers. Ten pound spinning outfits allow anglers to cast light lures and baits and fish all morning comfortably. They are also light enough for kids to handle.
Longboat Key flats fishing
The deep grass flats off of Longboat Key in Sarasota Bay offer some of the best fishing in the area. The Middlegrounds, Country Club Shores, Bishop’s Pt, Buttonwood, Long Bar, and Whale Key are all legendary spots for speckled trout and other species. Along with trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, pompano, snapper, grouper, jack crevelle, sharks, cobia, ladyfish, and other species a re landed.
Drifting the deep grass flats is a very productive method. The majority of fish caught on my Sarasota fishing charters are caught employing this technique. It really is fairly uncomplicated, though there are nuances, as in all fishing. I position my boat upwind and up-tide of the flat I want to fish. Then, I let the wind and tide push the boat across the flat.
Anglers cast lures and live bait as we drift the flat. The most effective lure is a lead head jig with a soft plastic tail. One quarter ounce jigs work well with a 3” or 4” body. Shad tail, paddle tail, and shrimp bodies are the most popular baits. Colors vary; every angler has his or her favorite. I prefer glow, new penny, and red/gold, but many other colors work fine. Presentation and location are the more important factors.
Fishing with jigs on Longboat Key fishing charters
The jig is cast out and allowed to sink several feet. It is then retrieved back to the boat using sharp twitches. Jigs allow anglers to cover a lot of water. They also catch a lot of fish! Other artificial lures can be used with success. Silver spoons cast a long way and are great bait fish imitations. Plugs are effective as well, though the treble hooks can be an issue; they can damage fish that are to be released.
Live bait certainly works well on the deep grass flats. A live shrimp is without question the top live bait. Shrimp catch every fish species that swims. Live shrimp can be “free lined” on the deeper flats. That means the shrimp id hooked and allowed to swim without any weight.
Anglers fishing water that is five feet or shallower will often times need a float to suspend the shrimp up off the bottom. A “popping cork” is widely used here in Sarasota Bay. It keeps the shrimp out of the grass, provides casting weight, and indicated when a fish takes the bait.
Shallow water flats fishing on Longboat Key fishing charters
Shallow bars and flats all along the east side of Longboat Key hold snook, redfish, and jacks. Fishing these shallow flats can be a bit more challenging. Fish are spooky in water less than three feet deep. Tactics and baits need to change as well to avoid hanging up.
Topwater baits are an obvious choice for anglers fishing shallow. They float on the surface and their erratic action irritates and excites game fish, eliciting a strike. Weedless spoons are a great choice and are a proven redfish bait. These baits can be cast a long distance and run in water as shallow as a foot deep. Spoons are great locator baits as anglers can cover a lot of water in short order.
Soft plastic baits are extremely effective in shallow water as well. Light jig heads can be used when grass is on the sparse side. Weighted, weedless swim bait hooks work great when the grass is a bit thicker.
Tides are very important in Saltwater fishing. Tides will position and locate fish. Many anglers prefer an incoming tide when flats fishing. I personally don’t care, as long as the water is moving. Tides are crucial when fishing shallow. Low tides will concentrate fish in deeper water. Fish will scatter out on a flat when the tide is high.
Fishing Longboat Key canals
There are countless residential canals along the east side of Longboat Key, including the Rim Canal, which runs the length of the key. The water is generally fairly deep, by Florida standards. Docks provide cover and forage. Fish will move into these canals when the water gets cold on the open flats. Snook, redfish, black drum, flounder, sheepshead, snapper and other species are caught in these areas.
The best approach when fishing docks and canals is to fish live shrimp near and under structure. A large, live shrimp is seldom refused. Anglers will also catch fish casting artificial lures along mangrove shorelines and near docks. Rapala X-Raps and jigs work best.
Fishing the Longboat Key passes
New Pass and Longboat Pass are great spots to fish, especially in the spring and fall. Both passes are also accessible to anglers without a boat. Pompano will stage in the passes and feed. The best pompano bait is a small jig with short dressing. These are specially made for pompano and their small mouths. Bouncing these jigs along the bottom will fool them.
Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and ladyfish will school up thick in the passes and feed heavily. Artificial lures such as jigs and plugs will do well on these actively feeding fish. Trolling can be a good strategy to locate fish in the passes. Free lining live bait or hooking them on a jig head and bouncing them off the bottom will produce as well.
Structure in both New Pass and Longboat Pass will attract a lot of fish. This structure included the two bridges, numerous docks, and shoreline rip rap. Sheepshead will gang up in huge schools from January through April. Mangrove snapper are available all year. Live shrimp works best for these tasty bottom feeding saltwater pan fish.
Snook will be located in the passes as well in the summer. They will move out of the flats and out into the passes on their way out to the beaches to spawn. Some of the largest snook of the year are caught by anglers fishing live bait fish near structure in the passes.
Inshore Gulf of Mexico fishing
Action in the Gulf of Mexico just off of the Longboat Key beaches can be nothing short of fantastic when conditions are good. Light east winds will result in calm seas and clear water. This will attract both bait fish and in turn, game fish. Spanish mackerel, false albacore, sharks, and cobia are caught in the spring and fall. Tarpon are available in summer. Bottom fish are taken off of the nearshore artificial reefs all year.
Casting to “breaking” mackerel and false albacore is a favorite fishing charter! Fish are seen actively feeding on the helpless bait fish. Fish are literally jumping out of the water. Birds are diving, it is great fun! Anglers cast lures into the melee and an instant hook-up is almost always the result. Spoons, jigs, and plugs all produce, but honestly, just about any bait that is close to the right size will get bit.
The approach is pretty simple. I just run out one of the passes and start looking for fish. The three reefs off of Lido Key are always a good place to start as they hold a bunch of bait. Point of Rocks is another good spot, as is Whitney Beach rocks on the north end of Longboat Key. Birds wheeling and diving are always a great sign. Once fish are spotted, I ease the boat into position.
Trolling on Longboat Key fishing charters
Trolling is a great way to locate fish when they are not showing on the surface. Spoons and plugs being trolled behind the boat using either planers or weights will find the fish. Once located, anglers can then cast to them. This is one situation where free lining live bait is a good option.
This is a great opportunity for clients who fly fish to experience world class action! False albacore are incredible sport on a 9wt fly rod. Anglers targeting Spanish mackerel will do well using a 7wt outfit. Small while bait fish imitations are the best flies to use.
Longboat Key tarpon fishing
Giant tarpon show up off of the Longboat Key beaches in May. This is truly big game fishing. It is a charter best suited for more experienced anglers. It is a lot like hunting and patience is required. There will be days when no tarpon are hooked. But, when it all comes together, it is incredible!
I get my clients out on the beach just before first light. We sit there about a hundred yards offshore and look for pods of tarpon moving through. I then position the boat so that my anglers can cast out if front of them. We use heavy spinning tackle and live crabs or bait fish such as pin fish and sardines.
There are three artificial reefs just off of New Pass at the south end of Longboat Key. These hold fish all year long. Bottom fishing for snapper and sheepshead is easy and a great option for novice anglers and children. It is as simple as dropping a shrimp down to the bottom. Spanish mackerel and false albacore will also school there, attracted to the large schools of bait.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do guests on Longboat Key fishing charters need a license?
A: No. Florida has a provision where anglers going out on paid charters with a professional, licensed fishing captain. This is a very convenient feature as it saves clients the time and inconvenience of having to purchase a Florida saltwater fishing license. However, visitors who want to fish on their own, even from shore, will need to obtain one. The FWC makes this easy to do. HERE is a link to the FWC website, where anglers can purchase a license.
Q: Where do clients going out on Longboat Key fishing charters meet?
A: I meet most of my clients at the boat ramp on Ken Thompson Parkway. There is ample parking, a nice restroom, and docks for easy loading and unloading. It is also very centrally located as it puts us right in the heart of the prime fishing grounds with very little idle time. Occasionally clients will be picked up at alternate locations such as their condo dock.
Q: What kind of fish are caught on Longboat Key fishing charters and can clients keep fish to eat?
A: Clients are likely to catch six to eight different fish species on a four hour trip. Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico offer anglers the chance to catch many different species. Speckled trout, snook, redfish, jack crevelle, Spanish mackerel, flounder, snapper, grouper, drum, sea bass, pompano, bluefish, cobia, sharks, tarpon, ladyfish, and catfish are commonly caught by anglers on Longboat Key fishing charters. While I am proponent of catch and release, I certainly don’t mind if clients keep a couple of fish for a meal. I will fillet and bag them at the end of the charter.
Q: How much does a fishing charter cost and what does it include?
A: A four hour fishing charter for one to four anglers is $400. Four hours is plenty for most anglers. More experienced clients may choose a six hour trip, that cost is $550. Fishing charters include all bait and tackle for the charter. While I supply all rods and reels, customers may certainly bring along their favorite rod along. A cooler with ice is also provided, as is a fishing license for all guests. Clients should bring whatever they want to eat and drink, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and appropriate clothing.
Unfortunately, red tide has moved into Sarasota. Red tide is an algae bloom that suffocates fish and other wildlife. Sarasota red tide fishing can be tough. An article on tactics and strategies for fishing under these conditions follows my weekly report.
Sarasota fishing report
Clients on Sarasota fishing charters had success this week, despite the emergence of red tide. The key was to find unaffected areas. The middle of Sarasota Bay from the Moorings to Long Bar was clean and held fish. Speckled trout, bluefish, ladyfish, jack crevelle, mangrove snapper, gag grouper, catfish, and other species were landed. Bishop’s Pt. And Buttonwood were the top spots. Gulp Shrimp and Bass Assassin Sea Shad baits were productive, as was live shrimp.
We did have a pretty cool thing happen on Friday morning. My clients and I were drifting the flat at Bishop’s Pt. When we noticed something odd. A dark spot appeared, then the water went crazy! It turned out to be a large school of jack crevelle. We landed several before they moved on, great sport on light tackle!
Red tide is typically worse near the passes and this is the case right now. Red tide usually blooms out in the Gulf of Mexico and then gets into the bays via the passes. Unfortunately, a lot of my favorite fishing spots are near the passes. Also, I catch most of my bait on the shallow flats and bars near the passes, and the red tide has caused that bait to move.
Red Tide Tactics
The key to finding angling success when red tide is present is to locate unaffected areas. This means anglers need to fish hard and move around. One frustrating aspect is how areas can change over night. A productive area can get an influx of red tide that evening and shut down the spot completely. Another issue that can be difficult is finding bait fish and keeping them alive.
Understanding red tide
From the FWC web site,”What is red tide?”
A red tide, or harmful algae bloom, is a higher-than-normal concentration of a microscopic alga (plantlike organism). In Florida and the Gulf of Mexico, the species that causes most red tides is Karenia brevis, often abbreviated as K. brevis. To distinguish K. brevis blooms from red tides caused by other species of algae, researchers in Florida call the former the “Florida red tide.” More red tide questions and answers can be found HERE.
Red tide has been documented for centuries. It gets it’s name by changing the water to a red or brown color. Here in Sarasota, it looks a bit like orange juice. It can cause skin irritations and respiratory issues in humans. It can kill fish and other marine life. Many people say they can “smell” the red tide. In actuality, they are smelling the decaying fish.
The Florida Wildlife Commission has a very informative and detailed web site. Anglers can get information on red tide and can sign up for e-mail updates on red tide and policy and law changes. HERE is their map of the current red tide status.
As previously stated, the key to achieving angling success when red tide is present is finding “clean” water. Water affected by red tide will have a brown hue. Unaffected water will have that nice “green” color. The presence of dead fish floating can be tricky. Some of the dead fish could be from many miles away. Still, it is not very pleasing to fish near dead, stinking fish.
Live bait or artificial lures?
Fishing with live bait can be frustrating during red tide blooms. Anglers can spend an hour loading up the well, only to drive through a little patch and have it all die. This can be true during times where the red tide is present but not strong. Bait will be bunched up and easy to catch, but as soon as it is concentrated in the well, it struggles. This is obvious as the bait “spins”, tries to jump out, or sinks down to the bottom to die.
Shrimp are much less affected by the red tide. Shrimp are purchased at local bait shops and are usually easy to keep alive. This makes them a better choice under these conditions in many instances.
Artificial lures are a good option when red tide is present. There are several reasons for this. Lures allow anglers to cover a lot of water. This meant that unproductive water can be eliminated in a reasonable amount of time. My personal favorite lure in the lead head jig and grub combination. A ¼ ounce jig head with a 4” Bass Assassin Sea Shad tail or a 3” Gulp Shrimp work very well. Silver spoons cast a long way and can be a good “search” bait as well. Suspending and diving plugs can be cast or trolled to locate fish.
Fish behavior during red tide
One thing that red tide can do is concentrate fish. If half on the area is affected by red tide and half is not, obviously the fish will move into the areas with better water quality. Again, don’t stay in one spot too long if it does not produce. There will not always be obvious signs that the algae bloom is present.
Another result of a red tide outbreak is that some species will be found in unusual places. Fish species such as bluefish and Spanish mackerel might be located in backwater creeks. Inshore Gulf of Mexico species may move inshore. They are simply trying to escape the death that will come if they stay in the poor quality water.
I remember one charter a few years ago. I was able to catch a few pilchards and keep them alive. We were anchored up on a mangrove shoreline that had been producing a few snook. My clients hook a fish which made a hard run. It turned out to be a spade fish, a species I had never caught in Sarasota Bay! On another trip we were casting Rapala plugs in Phillippi Creek. This is a fairly brackish area. We found a school of big bluefish in there. Again, I have never caught one in there before or since.
Sarasota red tide fishing
Fishing with live bait fish can be frustrating when red tide is present in the water. On several occasions I have had a well full of great baits die after driving through a patch of the deadly bloom. I have had other trips where as soon as I anchored up to chum, the bait began to act oddly. Bait affected by red tide with “spin up”, swimming around in circles and trying to leap out of the well.
When this happens, I pull the anchor and crank up the motor as quickly as possible. As long as some of the bait lives, all is not lost. The dead baits can be used effectively as chum at another spot. But, clean water needs to be located before this can happen. Once a spot that the bait will stay alive in is found, the dead bait can be used as chum and the live ones used to catch the game fish.
While I focus primarily on fishing inshore, offshore anglers are not immune from red tide issues. Patches of red tide can exist from the beach out many miles. The same strategy of finding clean water applies there as well. Also, keeping bait alive is a problem as well. One little area of affected water can kill dozens of great baits in short order.
Clients often ask me if fish are safe to eat during outbreaks of red tide. The answer is “yes”! Fish are safe to eat as long as they are healthy when caught and put on ice. However, all fish should be filleted! This will eliminate any chance for ingesting toxins that might be in the entrails. Shellfish should NOT be eaten during red tide conditions! Commercially caught shellfish are regulated and are safe to eat. While it is also usually safe to swim when red tide is present, it can cause eye and skin irritations, so maybe best to stay out of the water until it clears up.
