With the recent frequency of rain storms moving from the Gulf of Mexico, anglers are having to keep their eye on the sky while fishing around Anna Maria Island.
Although most incidents are nothing more than brief showers, some are proving to be slightly more powerful. These larger showers can quickly turn into torrential down pours — which can include high wind gusts and lightning — so always keep a watchful eye. And with radar being available on our phones you should be able to avoid most situations.
As far as the fishing goes, inshore anglers are enjoying some good action on the catch-and-release trio — snook, trout and redfish. For the snook and reds, the best action is occurring during the early morning hours around sunrise, provided you have a swift tide and clean water. Casting baits along mangrove shorelines and oyster bar is a good bet. On deeper areas away from shore, the spotted seatrout are making a good showing. Mixed in with this bite are a variety of other fish including ladyfish, Spanish mackerel, jack crevalle and most importantly mangrove snapper. The snapper being present in these areas makes it possible to take a few fish home for dinner if you so desire.
Moving offshore, reports of permit and amberjack being caught around reefs and wrecks is encouraging. Other species such as groupers and yellowtail snapper are being caught around areas of hard bottom and other structure.
Lastly, predators such as shark and barracuda are abundant, which can provide some great action for anglers looking to catch something big and toothy.
