Fall fishing pattern shows up in November
A little taste of fall weather is a welcome sight to the fishing community of Anna Maria Island and Bradenton.
We’re finally settling into our fall pattern, which promises some great fishing for both inshore and nearshore anglers alike. Bait is found in abundance, which is a good sign. And even better yet — the red tide is gone.
On the flats, I’m experiencing a great snook bite. Rallies of 20-30 snook are not uncommon. Most catches are schooley fish — 20-26 inches — but I’m seeing a keeper mixed in every once in a while. Mixed in with the snook, I’m finding a lot of rat reds, most are running 15-16 inches. There are keeper fish present, too, although I’m catching them with the frequency of the smaller fish.
Moving out along the beaches of Anna Maria Island and beyond, I’m seeing a surplus of Spanish mackerel. These fish are a great adversary on light tackle and an enjoyable species to catch. Kingfish are making a showing. Numerous kings in the 5-10 pound range are being caught with fish up to and exceeding 20-pound mixed in. That being said, it’s time to get the smoker out.
