Last Updated on April 4, 2022 by Eric Bonneman
Anna Maria Island is one of the best areas in Florida to have a destination fishing vacation for the whole family. The barrier island is situated just off the coast of Bradenton, Florida, and features a 7-mile stretch of white sandy beaches, with clear blue waters, and a cozy friendly vibe.
There are numerous top-rated vacation rental properties on the island, many with water views. The sunsets on the island are legendary.
The area has many excellent seafood restaurants, live music venues, and attractions that can all be accessed by the island’s free trolley system. Off the island, many additional outdoor adventures, shopping, or dining are within a short drive.
But of course, the fishing and boating in the area is the main attraction in our eyes!
The gulf and bay waters surrounding the island offer fantastic fishing for a variety of different species throughout the year, including tarpon, snook, cobia, sharks, grouper, flounder, snapper, redfish, and trout. The expansive waters of Anna Maria Sound, Palma Sola Bay, Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, Sarasota Bay, or Tampa Bay offer several diverse ecosystems for fishing.
There are miles of mangrove-lined shorelines that are ideal for targeting snook or redfish on artificial lures. Just imagine the thrill of seeing a snook burst out of the mangroves to smash a topwater plug.
There are healthy grass flats that can hold a wide range of fish, including trout and redfish. Just off the beach in late April through July, schools of migrating tarpon can be seen in the crystal clear waters against the white sand background. Giving anglers the perfect opportunity to sightcast a 100 pound fish of a lifetime.
A little further offshore, many wrecks and reefs hold species such as snapper, grouper, and cobia, which are some of the best-eating fish in the ocean.
For an opportunity to target one or more of these fisheries, book a trip with Captain Nate Fishing Charters. Captain Nate and Captain Nick are local experts, with many years of experience successfully guiding clients across the area’s waters.
Captain Nate has several charter trip options, including family-friendly trips. For the most ambitious anglers, Captain Nate also offers tarpon fishing charters which will test your skills and determination.
Make sure to book your destination fishing trip to Anna Maria Island for this summer soon, it’s going to be a fantastic summer on the island.
