Fall bites happening inshore, offshore

With the fall bite in full swing you can bet Anna Maria Island anglers are excited to get out on the water and get in on the action.

Migratory species — kingfish, bonito, Spanish mackerel and cobia — can be found in the nearshore waters of the Gulf, especially around structure such as artificial reefs and ledges. 

Shorebirds diving on schools of baitfish is a dead giveaway when hunting the predatory fish, making it easy for the angler to find their fishing spot.

Moving deeper into the Gulf in the 6-10 mile range is producing action for anglers wishing to catch bottom-dwelling species. The use of live shrimp as bait is attracting numerous species including hogfish, mangrove snapper and Key West grunts. Of course this bite is limited to days with light winds and calm seas, so plan accordingly.

In the back country, spotted seatrout are the go-to bite with most deep grass flats providing action. Live, free-lined shiners in these areas are proving deadly for the trout. Many catches are on the smaller size, although determined anglers are catching their limit. Snook and redfish are available to be caught. Both species are being found along mangrove edges and around residential docks. Live shiners as bait around the mangroves is working well while switching to live shrimp as bait around the docks is resulting in a bite.