What Kind of Fish Can You Catch on Anna Maria Island?

Anna Maria Island is full of fun outdoor activities that allow you to soak up that precious Florida sunshine. While you’re sure to have a blast experiencing watersports and splashing around in the waves, there’s one activity that the whole family is sure to love: fishing! 

Whether you’re a total newbie or you’ve been an experienced angler for years, the Anna Maria Island fishing scene is for you. Here’s everything you need to know before leaving our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals to head out to the water.

Seasons

Before you can start fishing, you should be aware of the kinds of fish you might find. There are several species that don’t have a closed season, so you can catch them any time of year! These include black drum, Spanish mackerel, mullet, cobia, Florida pompano, and others.

In the spring, you can find in-season species like stone crab and permit. Summertime is the season for gag grouper, and fall brings greater amberjack and snook. In the winter, look out for spiny lobster and gray triggerfish.

Inshore

There are plenty of inshore fishing opportunities on Anna Maria Island, perfect for the family to enjoy in the middle of your day. The island is home to several piers that all make for great fishing spots, like Rod and Reel Pier, Anna Maria Island City Pier, and the Bridge Street Pier. You can easily find equipment rentals and bait available for purchase near any of these Anna Maria Island piers, so all you need to bring is yourself! Look out for species like flounder, permit, and redfish. Additionally, you can find great inshore fishing at a local nature preserve or aboard an inshore fishing charter.

two ocean fishing pools hanging over a boat into water

Offshore

Offshore fishing, on the other hand, presents a unique challenge that long-time anglers are sure to enjoy. For these excursions, you’ve got two main options: renting your own boat or booking a fishing charter. You’ll have the special opportunity to experience the water like many others never will, and not to mention the stunning view you’ll have from your vessel! For serious anglers who want to spend the entire day out on the water trying to snag a kingfish or grouper, an offshore fishing adventure is just the thing.

man holding a fish

Fishing Charters

Whether you’re interested in inshore or offshore fishing, there are tons of Anna Maria Island fishing charters that can cater to your needs. For instance, take Captain Mike’s Fishing Charters. Captain Mike offers excursions throughout Sarasota Bay, Tampa Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico. You can select a half-day, full-day, or evening trip, so there’s sure to be something that fits your schedule.

Plan Your Next Visit

There’s no question that fishing is one of the best activities on Anna Maria Island. You can enjoy it year-round, it’s budget-friendly, and it’s a blast for the entire family. If you’re ready to try your hand at fishing on AMI, consider staying in one of our Anna Maria Island waterfront rentals! We’ve got plenty of room for your entire family to unwind after a long day of casting your lines. Contact us today to learn more!

The best thing about a fishing charter is that the vast majority of them are family-friendly! Even the youngest in your group will have fun trying for the big catch, and when they get tired, they can find a shady spot onboard to relax. Many charters will provide your ice, bait, and tackle, and they may also provide your fishing license as well, making this an incredibly budget-friendly option for those looking to spend a whole day on the water.