Rain dampens fishing action, darkens local waters
With millions of gallons of freshwater flowing out of the Manatee River and into Anna Maria Sound, Anna Maria Island anglers can’t help but notice the color of the water.
The closer you get to the Manatee River, the darker the water seems to get. In fact, you could compare it to the likes of iced tea.
This occurrence happens every year during the rainy season as Lake Manatee begins to fill up exceeding maintainable levels, which results in the dam being opened and vast amounts of freshwater released to the head of the Manatee River. This water eventually makes its way to the Gulf of Mexico via Tampa Bay and Anna Maria Sound.
In many instances, this large push of freshwater lowers salinity levels in the river which forces out several species of fish including redfish, snook, tarpon, flounder, and even unmentionables such as the dreaded catfish.
At times, this scenario can produce some excellent fishing opportunities as new batches of fish arrive to inhabit the local waters.
On the other hand, too much freshwater can push the fish further out, making it difficult to find them, resulting in some challenging fishing.
The darker waters may also alter how anglers fish. Live bait fishing still remains king, although anglers using artificials may find themselves using the brightest colors they can find in the tacklebox.
Another challenge with the darker water is seeing the fish you’re trying to catch. Sight-casting may be on hold until the rain finally stops and things clear up. Not much sense going up in the tower so you’ll have to use your “know-how” and hope the fish are there.
