School’s out, the weather’s hot, and the waves are calling. This is when Anna Maria Island fishing charters really get to shine!
Summer around AMI has a lot to offer anglers. So many species of fish love the warm water as well as the many varied environments and food sources available in Sarasota Bay and nearshore Gulf of Mexico. In addition to the snook that are still hanging around (but out of season, so catch-and-release only), I’m looking for loads of mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel, plus sharks and even permit.
There are still a lot of variables to consider for what we can expect to catch and where—including weather, location, time of day, and even the live bait I’m able to catch. But regardless of how any of these factors pans out, you can expect a fun and busy day on the boat when you fish with an Anna Maria Island charter this summer!
Fishing Mangrove Snapper Around AMI
Mangrove snapper (aka “gray snapper,” “grays,” “mangs,” or “‘grovers”) should really get the spotlight this time of year. This is a fabulous species for kids and fishing newbies, but even experienced anglers will have a blast with them.
Mangrove snapper are just starting to invade Sarasota Bay right now in June, and I’m targeting them around shallow reefs, rock piles, and up near the Skyway Bridge shipping channel. As always, live shiners and sardines are our primary bait choice!
Once we find them, mangrove snapper are the perfect combination of quick to bite and fun to fight. For a species that’s usually only hitting 20 inches/8 pounds, you’ll have a heck of a time reeling in a ‘grover. If you’re trying to show a youngster the magic of fishing, it hardly gets better than mangrove snapper season in Anna Maria Island.
On top of that, mangrove snapper are delicious. And you can bag up to five of them (10 inch minimum) per person. Anyone for a summer seafood cookout after your day on the water?
Spanish Mackerel, Sharks, and Permit
But here’s the thing: Sarasota Bay is literally teeming with all kinds of fish this time of year. Whatever kind of fishing you want, we got it.
Summer Anna Maria fishing charters are great if you’re looking for...
Another plentiful, aggressive, hard-fighting fish that’s great for dinner: Spanish Mackerel
Big fight, big fun, and an up-close photo op with an apex predator: Sharks
A delicious nearshore challenge (when there’s live crab bait available): Permit
Reel Experience Charters Are For Everyone
Whether you live in southwest Florida or you’re just here for a short time this summer; and whether you’re an experienced angler looking for local adventure or you want to get your kids hooked on the sport of fishing, Reel Experience has the Anna Maria fishing experience for you.
And if you’re not sure what would work best for you and your family? Never fear! Just reach out to us and Capt. Donny can give you insights on what to expect and how to have the best possible time on the water.
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