May brings increasing numbers of tarpon and fishers to local waters

It’s May and around Anna Maria Island, May means tarpon. Although it’s early in the month, tarpon catches are being reported. You may not experience those days of 10 hook ups in one morning — yet — but they’re coming.

In the weeks to come we should see increasing numbers of tarpon as well as anglers arriving along our 7-mile coastline. The passes of Longboat Key and Bean Point should also be holding fish in the near future.

As for backwater fishing, catch-and-release snook fishing is providing action in shallow water. Rallies of 20 fish can e found during morning incoming tides around mangrove islands where good water flow is present. Don’t be surprised to pick up a few reds mixed in either.

On nearshore structure, you can still find cobia, mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel. All three can be taken by using live shiners as bait. Also, if you’re anchored up I suggest using a frozen chum block. You’ll be surprised at the added results you can get from hanging a block over the side.