Anna Maria Fishing Charters
Anna Maria fishing charters launch straight into some of the best inshore, nearshore, and Gulf-side fishing on Florida’s west coast—just minutes from grass flats, passes, and reef systems.
Top Rated Charters in Anna Maria
TrustedFish connects anglers with proven local captains in Anna Maria, Florida —no commissions, no pay-to-play listings, no BS. Every charter on our platform is invite-only, vetted for skill, local knowledge, and reputation. If they’re listed, they’ve earned it.
Anna Maria, FL Fishing Guide
Fishing out of Anna Maria Island gives you quick access to a mix of inshore and Gulf waters with minimal run time. Most local charters stick to half-day or 3/4-day trips, especially inshore, where the action heats up fast around Tampa Bay, the grass flats, and the passes between the island and the mainland. Full-day trips head farther out into the Gulf for deeper reef species and pelagics.
Inshore, expect a year-round shot at redfish, snook, speckled trout, and mangrove snapper. These fish hold on grass flats, oyster bars, and dock lines—especially during tide swings. Captains here often use live pilchards, shrimp under popping corks, or soft plastics on jigheads, depending on the season and water clarity.
For Anna Maria deep sea fishing, the Gulf opens up within 10–20 miles. You’ll find hard-bottom spots and artificial reefs loaded with gag grouper, red grouper, lane and mangrove snapper, and even hogfish. Bottom fishing with cut bait or live pinfish is the go-to, though trolling spoons and diving plugs can produce Spanish mackerel and kingfish in spring and fall.
Popular launch points include the Rod & Reel Pier, Kingfish Boat Ramp, and Cortez on the mainland side. Trips also leave from Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach depending on where the bite’s best.
Fishing Seasons in Anna Maria
Spring (March–May)
Snook fire up as waters warm, especially on the beachside troughs and back bays. Redfish push across the flats, and sheepshead hang around structure early in the season. Kingfish and Spanish mackerel run strong nearshore.
Summer (June–August)
Early morning inshore trips dominate for snook, trout, and redfish before the heat spikes. Offshore, grouper and snapper bite well on full-day trips. Tarpon roll off the beaches in June and July, drawing heavy interest from serious anglers.
Fall (September–November)
Excellent redfish action on the flats and edges. Kingfish and Spanish mackerel return to nearshore waters. Snook move back into the bays and canals. Offshore trips target gag grouper and mangrove snapper with cooler temps keeping fish fired up.
Winter (December–February)
Sheepshead stack on pilings, bridges, and reefs—perfect targets for light tackle. Inshore action shifts to trout and redfish. Offshore, weather windows allow for productive trips for red grouper, lane snapper, and porgies on cut bait.
Gamefish in Anna Maria
- Snook – 20–35 inches Caught around mangroves, docks, and beach troughs. Live pilchards, shrimp, or white paddletails work best. Peak action is spring through early fall.
- Redfish – 18–30 inches Common on grass flats and oyster bars. Fish cut bait or scented soft plastics on the bottom. Strongest runs happen in fall.
- Speckled Trout – 14–24 inches Targeted with popping corks and shrimp or soft plastics over grass. Bite peaks in cooler months and early mornings during summer.
- Tarpon – 60–150+ lbs Migrate past the beaches in early summer. Live crabs or threadfin herring under floats. Sight-fishing is common in clear water.
- Sheepshead – 1–5 lbs Winter staple around pilings and bridges. Fiddler crabs or shrimp on small hooks. Use light tackle and sensitive rods.
- Mangrove Snapper – 1–4 lbs Caught both inshore around docks and offshore on structure. Free-line live bait or use knocker rigs with cut bait.
- Gag Grouper – 5–25 lbs Targeted offshore on hard bottom and ledges. Fish live pinfish or frozen sardines near the bottom. Peak season is fall and early winter.
- Spanish Mackerel – 2–5 lbs Nearshore favorite during spring and fall. Troll spoons or cast flashy jigs near bait schools.
- King Mackerel – 10–30 lbs Found in nearshore waters during seasonal runs. Slow troll live bait or large diving plugs. Best in spring and fall.
Anna Maria Fishing FAQs
Do I need a fishing license to fish on an Anna Maria charter?
No, Florida fishing charters provide all required licenses for passengers, both inshore and offshore.
No, Florida fishing charters provide all required licenses for passengers, both inshore and offshore.
Late May through July is prime time for tarpon. Charters target them just off the beaches using live crabs or threadfins.
Where do Anna Maria fishing charters usually depart from?
Popular departure points include Kingfish Boat Ramp, the docks in Cortez, and marinas around Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach.
Are family-friendly charters available in Anna Maria?
Yes, many local captains run half-day inshore trips perfect for kids—focusing on snapper, trout, and sheepshead close to shore.
What do I need to bring on a charter trip?
Just sunscreen, drinks, snacks, and appropriate clothing. Tackle, bait, and licenses are included on most Anna Maria fishing charters.
How far offshore do charters go for deep sea fishing?
Most deep sea charters fish within 10–30 miles offshore, hitting natural reefs and wrecks for grouper, snapper, and more.
Can I keep the fish I catch?
Yes, within Florida regulations. Many captains will clean your catch at the dock so you can take it home or to a local restaurant.
What’s biting in the winter around Anna Maria?
Sheepshead, redfish, and speckled trout bite strong inshore, while offshore trips focus on grouper, snapper, and porgies when the weather allows.
Is live bait included on Anna Maria fishing charters?
Yes, most inshore guides throw cast nets for live bait before trips or include bait in the price. Offshore trips also provide bait for bottom rigs.
