Just Reel Fishing Charters Anna Maria Island – Fishing Report 8/21/24
With the inshore waters surrounding Anna Maria Island showing a slow recovery after the record-breaking rainfall and winds from Hurricane Debby, many anglers are finding themselves migrating to the nearshore and offshore waters in the Gulf of Mexico to find a consistent bite.
Targeting snapper in depths starting around 50 feet and extending to over 100 feet is yielding the best action for those looking to find a bite and bring home a few fish for dinner.
In the shallower depths, mangrove snapper are prevalent as they seem to like the higher salinity levels that just aren’t available in the inshore waters with the influx of fresh water. Other species, such as Key West grunts, juvenile grouper and Spanish mackerel are also inhibiting the nearshore waters, as well as some unexpected guests including mahi- mahi.
For anglers equipped to travel long distances into the Gulf in depths of 100 feet plus, yellowtail and American red snapper are abundant. Other species such as rainbow runners and wahoo, although not as frequent as the snappers, are also being caught.
As far as the inshore fishing goes, anglers are advised to pack some patience as most of the inshore waters are showing mass amounts of intrusion of freshwater draining out of the rivers and creeks.
There are still fish to be caught, although the consistency of the bite is something to be desired. Redfish are the most prominent bite as they seem to be congregating along the shorelines and sandbars are adjacent to both creek openings and the mouth of the Manatee River. With the ability to withstand low serenity levels, the redfish are flourishing on the flats of the backcountry all the way to the Gulf beaches. What is even better, is redfish are not particularly picky when it comes to bait. Live baits, cut baits and artificial baits are all on the menu when it comes to targeting redfish — making them a favorite of the flats angler.
Other flat species such as snook and spotted seatrout are being found throughout the backcountry, although finding large concentrations of either species is challenging. Targeting these fish may require some determination as well as fishing a spot thoroughly to maximize the bite. Live baits such as shiners or pinfish are recommended, although anglers are reporting success while using artificials such as soft plastics on a jig head.
On my Just Reel charters, I’m picking away at the inshore bite.
Targeting snook around mangrove shoreline is producing action, although on many instances, several moves throughout one area are required to keep the bite going. Spotted seatrout are following suit, with many fish falling in the keeper-size range of 15-19 inches. Finding concentrations of fish is proving to be challenging, although limits are attainable.
Redfish on the other hand, are frequently being found and in respectable-sized schools. Rallies of 10-20 fish on a flat are occurring on some days when the tides are moving.
Lastly, I’m finding mangrove snapper around docks and other structure in Tampa Bay.
