Fishing in Sarasota: The Ultimate Guide

Are you planning to go fishing in Florida and want to have a good time and an enjoyable experience? You may want to experience the nightlife after a long fishing session. Then Sarasota is the place for you! This wonderful city lies on the sandy west coast of Florida, which is already well-known. 

With a coastline of approximately 40 miles, Sarasota offers excellent amenities for fishing and recreation on the beach and in the water. On this occasion, we bring you The Ultimate Guideline for fishing on the surfaces of this place where every moment is memorable.

Fish Species Found in Sarasota

Despite one's best efforts, it can be challenging to avoid lousy fishing luck due to the abundance of fish species. Joking aside, I believe your objective is clear. Now, let's learn more about the migratory and native fish species that inhabit the seas of Sarasota migratory and native fish species that inhabit Sarasota's waters.

Native Species 

Even if you only catch fish that make Sarasota waters their permanent home, you'll have plenty of species to experiment with. Here are the fish species.

Redfish

Redfish is one of the most common species in Sarasota. You can catch it year-round, but spring and summer are prime times. During those months, the fish are most active in the waters near the coast because they seek food that accumulates in those sea parts.

These fish prefer shallow waters and will hardly resist live baits such as shrimp, mullet, and pinfish, as well as artificial lures like soft plastics and spoons.

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and summer

• Habitat: Near mangrove banks, docks

• Preferred Bait: Shrimp, mullet, pinfish, soft plastics and spoons

• Fishing Technique: Casting

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: Moderate 

The best place to catch these fish in Sarasota is Longboat Pass. Thanks to the good location of the piers in Longboat Pass, you will have a perfect view of the water. Techniques such as casting bring success, especially during high tides. With their spirited fighting, Redfish provide anglers in Sarasota with exciting fishing experiences and an opportunity to get to know the area better.

Trout

Trout is the species for which this place is famous, so we will focus on it the most. And how to know if there is a trout in that place. Many would say it's easy: cast a lure or a fake fly and wait, but it's not quite like that. It takes patience, luck, and a few days of walking by the water. 

If we are lucky, we will see a stir on the surface in the spring and summer, which tells us that a butterfly or a fly that fell into the water has just ended up in the Trout's mouth. 

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and summer

• Habitat: Shallow water

• Preferred Bait: Worms, minnows, and crickets

• Fishing Technique: Live and artificial lure fishing

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: Shallow

If, for example, we find ourselves next to the water in the middle of the day and in bright sunlight, let's look into the water for an unusual-looking stone. Yes, a stone! This is the place that Trout use to camouflage themselves and stalk their prey. They almost always take on the color of the environment in which they are located. Trouts are commonly caught on live baits such as worms, minnows, and crickets, and artificial lures like spinners, spoons, and flies.

However, if we see that part of the stone moves, that is our clue to recognize the fish. We can also rely on local stories about how someone somewhere caught a considerable Trout. Stay active and walk to that place; it can be exciting.

Common Snook

Their mating season lasts between April and October. Therefore, you can fish this species in all other months, but the best are the winter months because that's when Snook looks for warmth in shallow waters. You'll need good gear and a lot of strength for it because this fish will only give up with a lot of fuss and a fight. 

• Best Time to Catch: Winter months

• Habitat: Shallow water

• Preferred Bait: Shrimp 

• Fishing Technique: Live and artificial lure fishing

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: Shallow

This species is widespread in this area and inhabits all of Sarasota's saltwater, so don't be surprised if most of your catch is Common Snook. Anglers target snook using live bait such as pinfish, mullet, and shrimp, one of the species' favorite foods. Because of the sharp gill plates and strong strokes, anglers often use medium to heavy tackle to overcome without damaging the gear.

Tarpon

Tarpons, often called the "Silver Kings," are usually the target fish in the waters around Sarasota. As it were, they are legendary creatures known for their incredible strength, acrobatic jumps, and impressive size.

Tarpon is found in coastal waters, bays, estuaries, and beaches. They prefer warm, shallow waters with abundant food sources. It can grow to impressive sizes, with adults often exceeding 6 feet long and weighing over 100 pounds. 

• Best Time to Catch: Late spring to early fall

• Habitat: Coastal waters, bays, estuaries and along beaches

• Preferred Bait: Mullet, redfish and crabs

• Fishing Technique: Live bait fishing, casting and trolling

• Difficulty: Challenging 

• Depth: Shallow to moderate

These fish have an elongated body covered with large scales, shimmering silver in color, with a large mouth filled with sharp teeth. Hunting them is the best from late spring to early fall, and the most common techniques are live bait fishing, casting, and trolling. Bait options such as mullet, redfish, and crabs are the best choices.

Tarpon fishing requires heavy tackle and stout rods, and anglers often use braided lines and strong leaders to withstand the abrasive mouths of these majestic fish.

Migratory Species 

Each new species that swims into Sarasota waters brings a fresh fishing challenge for anglers. Check out our selection of the most interesting migratory fish that frequent the area.

Pompano

Pompano is a species of tasty meat with an agile body. In Sarasota waters, it generally swims around sandy bottoms, tidal flats, and coastal areas with clear water and moderate currents. You will most commonly encounter specimens ranging from 12 to 24 inches in length, although larger specimens exceeding 30 inches are not uncommon. They have a silver body, deeply forked tail, and distinctive golden-yellow fins.

• Best Time to Catch: Late fall to early spring

• Habitat: Tidal flats and coastal areas

• Preferred Bait: Fleas, shrimp, small crabs and artificial lures

• Fishing Technique: Casting, bottom fishing, sight fishing 

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: Shallow to moderate 

Pompano fishing season in Sarasota is from late fall to early spring when water temperatures are more relaxed. Anglers commonly target Pompano using fleas, shrimp, small crabs, and artificial lures. Techniques such as casting, bottom fishing, and sight casting are effective, especially around sandbars. Pompano is a cute species whose appearance can deceive you, but our advice is not to be so naive.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel is a highly sought-after fish in Sarasota, capable of providing quality resistance and a tasty meal, as it has very high-quality and sought-after meat. These aquatic predators are usually found in coastal waters, around reefs and shoals. It has an elongated body with a beautiful blue-green back and numerous dark vertical stripes along its flanks. 

• Best Time to Catch:  Warmer months 

• Habitat: Coastal waters, around reefs and shoals

• Preferred Bait:  Live fish, spoons, plugs and feather baits

• Fishing Technique: Casting, trolling, jigging

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: Moderate to deep

Hunting season for this species in Sarasota is during the warmer months, from spring to early fall. You can fish it on various baits, including live fish, spoons, plugs, and feather baits.

When it comes to techniques, trolling, casting, and jigging prevail. If you manage to overcome it, you will undoubtedly be overwhelmed by a strong feeling of happiness, fueled by the fact that you will probably have a delicious meal.

Bluefish

Bluefish are voracious predators that are aggressive and robust. They mostly swim in coastal waters, including reefs and shoals, and along the coast, where there are habitats with solid currents and abundant bait. When it comes to size, bluefish typically range from 12 to 24 inches in length. They have beautiful elongated bodies with bluish-green backs, silvery sides, and prominent forked tails.

• Best Time to Catch:  From spring to early fall

• Habitat: Coastal waters, around reefs and shoals

• Preferred Bait: Live fish, spoons, plugs and crankbaits

• Fishing Technique: Casting, trolling, jigging

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: Moderate to deep

The best time to catch fish in Sarasota is during the warmer months, from spring to early fall. To increase your chances of success, use bait such as live fish, spoons, plugs, and crankbaits. Techniques such as trolling, casting, and jigging have proven most effective.

Mahi Mahi

Mahi Mahi, known as "Dorado" or "Dolphin fish," is a relatively common and popular catch in offshore waters. It is primarily known for its color, acrobatic jumps, and tasty meat. Mahi Mahi is commonly found around floating debris, weed lines, and coastal structures.

• Best Time to Catch:  From late spring to early fall

• Habitat: Offshore waters, especially around floating debris

• Preferred Bait: Crabs, mullets, pinfish or small fish

• Fishing Technique: Casting, trolling, drifting

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Depth: Moderate to deep

Mahi Mahi can grow to impressive sizes, from 3 to 4 feet, and weighs over 30 pounds. They are fast swimmers and powerful fighters, active from late spring to early fall. They are mainly caught by trolling, casting, and drifting, and when it comes to baits, they use crabs, mullets, pinfish, or small fish.

Mahi Mahi fishing provides Sarasota anglers with an unforgettable fishing experience and the opportunity to catch one of Florida's most iconic fish species.

Prime Fishing Spots in Sarasota

It is well known that the right choice of fishing spot equals a good catch. Sarasota is full of various fishing spots that can be similar but also different. Some fish from a wide sandy beach, while others like a quieter pier. We bring you some of them, and it is up to you to determine your "right place" for fishing according to your taste.

Siesta Key Fishing Piers

If you are a fan of pier fishing, you can choose one of the many piers on the most beautiful beach in all of America – Siesta Beach. Whether you are a fan of big or small, old or new, crowded or not crowded, you will always be able to find a fishing pier of your choice. If you don't bring your equipment, don't worry – every pier has places to rent or buy. 

Some of the most famous piers here are Phillippi Estate Fishing Piers, Ken Thompson Park Fishing Pier, Saporito Pier, and Whitaker Gateway Park Fishing Pier. Still, there is much more to explore.

Lido Key

This place is a little barrier island. It is attached to the central area of Sarasota by John Ringling Interstate. The beach is composed exclusively of sand and is located next to the Sarasota coast. Two nicely arranged parks are Ken Thompson Park and South Lido Park.

These two parks are great places for fishing and other types of recreation. They are family-friendly, and you can visit them solo or in groups. You can also fish from Lido Beach or Whitney Beach; both are great options, but Whitney Beach is more tourist-oriented.

Sarasota Bay

This is a small paradise with great options for anglers who like to explore and look for more exciting things. The saltwater of the sea mixes with the fresh water and thus creates a quiet haven for numerous species, both invertebrates and vertebrates.

We have already talked about the winter migrations of some species, and this place is precisely the final destination of those migrations. Whether fishing directly in the water or in the grassy areas of the body, you're almost guaranteed a catch.

Myakka River

Sarasota has always been known for saltwater fishing, but freshwater fishing is also a great option. The Myakka River is a popular spot for freshwater fishing, as it is home to several fish species, such as Largemouth Bass, Common Snook, Gar, and different types of Catfish. Additionally, there are plenty of Panfish in the river.

As we go downstream, the ecosystem changes, and we can find marine species there. Some species are Bluefish, Tarpon, and Seafish, and many others swim in Sarasota's marine waters.

Also, there are invasive species, such as Blue Tilapia. A kayak or a boat are good options for getting around and crossing the river. Swimming in this river is not recommended, considering that it is not only a habitat for fish but also much larger predators alligators.

Casey Key

Like Lido Key, this island is suitable for various activities. Lovers of professional and private fishing tours can experience all the charms of different types of fishing on this island with the help of professional guides and fishermen. You can also fish independently outside the private beach area. 

Whatever idea you decide, the best and most beautiful option is North Jetty Beach, located in the southernmost part of Casey Key. In your free time, after you finish your fishing session, you can walk around it and see why this is such a great tourist attraction.

Fishing Techniques in Sarasota

Every experienced angler knows how important it is to choose the right approach to fishing. So many species and places to fish in Sarasota require different approaches. Below, we present the most popular types of fishing on the waters of beautiful Sarasota.

Surf Fishing

We will start the topic with a unique way of fishing at sea – surf fishing. And no, this is not fishing while surfing on your board. It is specific to the equipment used in that mode. You need a surf rod and machine different from freshwater fishing rods. Rods are made for saltwater and are 13 to 15 feet long. Poles are three-part or telepoles. 

The casting weight is from 0.25 to 0.55 pounds. Thicker nylons and fluorocarbon leads are thinner than the basic ones. The rod is placed with the tip up to have little contact with the waves or the water. Sea worms, clams, and pieces of sardine are used as bait.

Fishing Using Charters

If you plan to go casual fishing or fishing with friends, you will like this option quite a bit. Renting a boat with a professional guide will be a good option for you to start with, especially if you are a beginner and need to be more knowledgeable about fishing or these waters. You will go right if you choose this as a recreation to start your day with.

When planning your fishing trip, remember that the number of people in your group will determine the boat size you'll need. To ensure you have the best possible experience, it's recommended that you check the weather forecast ahead of time and choose a day with good weather. This will ensure you can fully enjoy your meals and fishing activities without interruptions due to bad weather.

Kayak Fishing

After the kayak is on the water, holding on to the strap, you lower yourself into a comfortable seat with a height adjustment system. The mechanism is weighted and precise, allowing you to change your perception of fishing. Rod holders are optionally mounted on the front, which has proven suitable for trolling. 

With a kayak, you can go around a huge water surface quickly. The perspective fishing from a kayak is a fantastic experience, in which you are closer to the fish and the water than from a boat or the shore while being able to increase your efficiency to the maximum.

Deep Sea Fishing

As the name suggests, this type of fishing is done at water depths. First, the right equipment is required – a device that can submerge your bait in deep water. Because it is impossible to reach those depths from the beach, fishing from a boat is the only alternative due to the extreme depths. The boat is the most essential equipment, but the bait comes in second. 

The creatures that inhabit the great depths must adjust to their icy, dark surroundings. Thus, other senses are used, and sight takes a backseat. Because the sense of smell is so strong, bait with a distinct scent is preferred. Because most fish that inhabit deep waters are large and heavy, be ready to lift them.

Beyond Fishing: Discover Siesta Beach

Sarasota has one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The Siesta Beach, with a high rating, is the second-top beach in the world and a highly visited destination. Tourists from all over the world can enjoy numerous events, food, and fishing there. This well-known beach is several miles long and has the finest quartz sand. Visitors like that this place has free parking and many areas for recreation.

Annual Seafood and Music Festival

If you are a big fan of good food and music, one weekend at the beginning of December will bring you an unforgettable experience. After a long day of fishing, it's time to relax and enjoy the nightlife. There are many festivals on this beach yearly, but the Annual Seafood and Music Festival is the most famous. Entry is always free for everyone. 

Live music adds to the atmosphere; you will see many famous and new talented performers. The food is always fresh, and you can always try old-school dishes, which are characteristic of this midday, and new international dishes. If you are ending the fishing season here or planning to start the winter season anyway, then be sure to visit this event.

Parasailing

Fishing is a very peaceful recreational sport, and many anglers practice a form of meditation. However, there is also an extreme recreational sport for those who need a little adrenaline in their blood after relaxation – parasailing. A specially designed boat with maritime characteristics and performance can lift someone attached to the parachute, and the skipper's prudent management of the force created by the parachute's surface resistance is required.

The speedboat is implicit in such a way that it has a massive stage on which the parachute is ready. It likewise has been hung for the individuals who need to take off up high, and from which, with the assistance of a bar with an exceptional system, the link to it is tenderly delivered for takeoff out of sight or fixes so the individual with the parachute can get back to the boat.

Aside from the captain's seat and the order console, in which the capacity chamber is coordinated, a front seat is close to it. The whole bow is like a bowrider, shaped into a gigantic semi-round seat, so it is feasible to cruise with a bigger group of people with this boat.

Essential Things to Do While Fishing in Sarasota

When fishing, it's critical to identify the areas with the highest concentration of fish and exercise caution when approaching them. Because fish are easily frightened, some tactics are used to prevent scaring them. Here are some pointers and strategies for locating fish and catching them without disturbing them.

Searching the Terrain

A critical success factor in fishing is searching the terrain as efficiently as possible. The fish changes the parts where it feeds, and it is essential to search the vital places before other anglers. 

Perhaps you have been annoyed when separated from a good cast by the movement of the boat, which always brings some noise, fiddling with tackle, anchor, oars and electric pen, and everything that diverts attention from what is primarily in the head – to cast and catch the fish we assume that it is there. And then, all over again, slowly, the heavy boat is pulled forward.

But one thing is for sure – The best thing you can bring to sea fishing is a silicone line that wraps the bait, and the fish can't take it off.

Deceiving the Fish

Exceptional vision, exceptional sense of lateral vibrations, and absolute territory visibility make us take this very seriously. If we fish from the shore, it's easier. We should stick to trees, bushes, or some stone, which will not bother us but allow us to hide and deceive the fish.

After arriving at the water, if it is small like most mountain rivers, we unfold the fishing rod and hold it above it for a few minutes. It will also be helpful if we make a few movements with it so that the fish, which may be nearby, gets used to the presence of a foreign body, that is, us and our rod. 

When fishing from the shore, the same rules and regulations apply as when fishing from the water. However, when fishing from the water, it is important to keep ourselves covered longer. We should avoid extending our legs above the surface while walking through the water and ensure that our fishing gear doesn't fall out and splash into the water.

To blend in with the surroundings and increase our chances of catching fish, we can mimic a tree or any other obstruction in or close to the water. Although it may sound silly, this technique helps us to appear like a natural part of the environment and makes it easier for fish to accept us.

Fishing Regulations and Licenses in Sarasota

You need a license to fish in Sarasota like anywhere else in Florida. The angler must keep a record of the catch on a unique form, which they submit to the user at the end of the current year. They can only be issued a license for the following year if they have submitted the record of the catch for the previous one.

Prices vary depending on the type of license. The most profitable option is to take a long-term permit, which you can buy on the official site of the Florida Responsible Water Conservation Group.

Final Thoughts

Good equipment is always needed when fishing, so have the best lures or rods. Also, you should take care of many little things on which fishing depends a lot, which we mentioned in this guide.

Are you planning to visit Sarasota, or have you already experienced the magic of fishing here? Please do not hesitate to share your experiences in this area with us! We would love to hear about your time, your thoughts, and, of course, about your catch!