Capt. David Collica’s Weekly Fishing Report
Capt. David Collica reports the bite is off the hook!
The bite is off the hook, more redfish and overslot trout on the shallow oyster bars and flats towards the north end of the bay. Snook are also extremely prevalent with small schools on the flats and docks up shallow.
I’ve been seeing some cobia on the flats as well. The bite around midnight pass is great as well. I’ve also been fishing the mangrove edges on the deeper sides of the channel with plenty of snook and reds, and the mouth of the pass is covered in snook and trout eating whatever they see in that silty water.
Capt. David Collica was born in Georgia but grew up in the Sarasota area. His main target growing up was big snook and sharks off Siesta Key. His inshore trips target snook, trout, and the occasional redfish, he also offers night fly fishing trips.
The bite is off the hook, more redfish and overslot trout on the shallow oyster bars and flats towards the north end of the bay. Snook are also extremely prevalent with small schools on the flats and docks up shallow.
Capt. David Collica reports the bite is off the hook.
I’ve been seeing some cobia on the flats as well. The bite around midnight pass is great as well. I’ve also been fishing the mangrove edges on the deeper sides of the channel with plenty of snook and reds, and the mouth of the pass is covered in snook and trout eating whatever they see in that silty water.
Capt. David Collica was born in Georgia but grew up in the Sarasota area. His main target growing up was big snook and sharks off Siesta Key. His inshore trips target snook, trout, and the occasional redfish, he also offers night fly fishing trips.
Capt. Matt Davie’s Weekly Fishing Report
On the water with Capt. Matt Davie
Another wild fall! We were a little behind on having the fish show up. Apparently they don’t care for hurricane’s either. Now that things have cleared up.
It’s been good to some amazing days in Sarasota. From inside to the mangroves to outside on the reefs. Snook, redfish, trout, pompano, jacks, cobia, triple tail, mackerel, kings, gags, and just about everything in between.
All have been caught in the last week. Come out and fish.
Captain Matt has been fishing the Sarasota area waters for over 30 years accommodating fisherman of all skills from novice to professional catching a array of fish around Florida's Gulf Coast. is fishing trips offer back country snook, redfish, trout, and tarpon.
Another wild fall! We were a little behind on having the fish show up. Apparently they don’t care for hurricane’s either. Now that things have cleared up.
On the water with Capt. Matt Davie
It’s been good to some amazing days in Sarasota. From inside to the mangroves to outside on the reefs. Snook, redfish, trout, pompano, jacks, cobia, triple tail, mackerel, kings, gags, and just about everything in between.
All have been caught in the last week. Come out and fish.
Captain Matt has been fishing the Sarasota area waters for over 30 years accommodating fisherman of all skills from novice to professional catching a array of fish around Florida's Gulf Coast. is fishing trips offer back country snook, redfish, trout, and tarpon.
Capt. Kelly Stilwell’s Weekly Fishing Report
The fishing in Sarasota Bay is really starting to pick up.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action in Sarasota Bay with me recently. The fishing in Sarasota Bay is really starting to pick up. The water temperature has dropped to the mid seventies, which is great for most of our species.
We caught several nice trout on a recent outing and even some sheepshead. I would expect the mackerel to show in good numbers any day.
Kelly has lived and fished in this area for over 30 years. His specialties are artificial bait, fly fishing, tarpon, and live bait fishing in Sarasota Bay and the nearshore Gulf. He's an Orvis Endorsed Guide and currently runs a 2400 Ranger Bay boat which accommodates five.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action in Sarasota Bay with me recently. The fishing in Sarasota Bay is really starting to pick up. The water temperature has dropped to the mid seventies, which is great for most of our species.
We caught several nice trout on a recent outing and even some sheepshead. I would expect the mackerel to show in good numbers any day.
Kelly has lived and fished in this area for over 30 years. His specialties are artificial bait, fly fishing, tarpon, and live bait fishing in Sarasota Bay and the nearshore Gulf. He's an Orvis Endorsed Guide and currently runs a 2400 Ranger Bay boat which accommodates five.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Fly anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with snook at night and trout in Sarasota recently. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, caught and released snook before dawn and then fished deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay and had some action with trout on flies.
Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, had some action catching and releasing snook on flies on a couple of different trips while fishing with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Jim Randle, also from Sarasota, had some action himself catching and releasing snook on flies on a night trip with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Jim Randle, from Sarasota, also got in on the action, catching and releasing several snook on my Snook Minnow fly on another trip. Fishing in the dark is a great way to beat the heat this time of year.
Look for snook and juvenile tarpon around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and more.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Fly anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with snook at night and trout in Sarasota recently. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, caught and released snook before dawn and then fished deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay and had some action with trout on flies.
Fishing in the dark is great way to beat the heat this time of year. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, had some action catching and releasing snook on flies on a couple of different trips while fishing with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Jim Randle, from Sarasota, also got in on the action, catching and releasing several snook on my Snook Minnow fly on another trip. Fishing in the dark is a great way to beat the heat this time of year.
Jim Randle, also from Sarasota, had some action himself catching and releasing snook on flies on a couple of different night trips recently.
Look for snook and juvenile tarpon around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and more.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Montana Fly Fishing Trip Report
Capt. Rick Grassett with a beautiful Montana brown trout he caught and released on his annual trek north.
I hosted a group of friends and clients on my annual destination fly fishing trip to southwest Montana recently. I traveled from Sarasota to Bozeman and made the 2-1/2 hour drive to Medicine Lodge, on a 100,000 acre working ranch near the Beaverhead River, outside of Dillon, MT. I met up at the lodge with Steve Coburn, from WI, Jeff Coburn, from CO and Mike Perez and Dennis Kinley, from IN. We fished the Beaverhead and Madison Rivers with guide Dave King, owner of King Outfitters (406) 596-0209 in Dillon, and his talented group of guides and caught some quality fish.
I’ve fished with Dave for more than 20-years, his guides do a great job and know their fishery well. In spite of rumors of declining fishing, we have experienced great fishing for the last several years and longer!
Mike Perez, from Sarasota, watches Guide Dave King with a rainbow trout he caught and released.
Guide Dave King with a Montana brown trout he caught and released.
We fished 4, 5 and 6-weight fly tackle and caught and released brown and rainbow trout to more than 20” on streamers, dry flies and dry/dropper rigs. The dry fly action was often a hopper, sometimes with a nymph or with a smaller dry fly dropper and a few other bugs.
Wildlife was plentiful, we crossed paths with deer, moose and antelope during the week. This is an annual trip for me, so if you have an interest in technical fly fishing for big trout or if you want to learn the ropes and travel with an experienced group, please let me know.
Mike Perez with a Montana brown and rainbow trout caught and released with King Outfitters.
Dennis Kinley, from IN, with a healthy Montana brown trout caught and released with King Outfitters.
Back in Sarasota we are still reeling from Hurricane Debby’s flooding. In addition to record breaking flooding, this storm is an example of what often happens when large amounts of storm water overwhelm wastewater treatment facilities and there is a huge “dump” of hundreds of thousands of gallons of raw sewage. This is unacceptable!
Once things normalize, catch and release snook fishing around dock lights and bridges should be a good option. You might also find juvenile tarpon in a few places mixed with snook around dock lights. Juvenile tarpon in canals and creeks may also be a good option.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
I hosted a group of friends and clients on my annual destination fly fishing trip to southwest Montana recently. I traveled from Sarasota to Bozeman and made the 2-1/2 hour drive to Medicine Lodge, on a 100,000 acre working ranch near the Beaverhead River, outside of Dillon, MT. I met up at the lodge with Steve Coburn, from WI, Jeff Coburn, from CO and Mike Perez and Dennis Kinley, from IN. We fished the Beaverhead and Madison Rivers with guide Dave King, owner of King Outfitters (406) 596-0209 in Dillon, and his talented group of guides and caught some quality fish.
I’ve fished with Dave for more than 20-years, his guides do a great job and know their fishery well. In spite of rumors of declining fishing, we have experienced great fishing for the last several years and longer!
Capt. Rick Grassett with a beautiful Montana brown trout he caught and released on his annual trek north.
We fished 4, 5 and 6-weight fly tackle and caught and released brown and rainbow trout to more than 20” on streamers, dry flies and dry/dropper rigs. The dry fly action was often a hopper, sometimes with a nymph or with a smaller dry fly dropper and a few other bugs.
Wildlife was plentiful, we crossed paths with deer, moose and antelope during the week. This is an annual trip for me, so if you have an interest in technical fly fishing for big trout or if you want to learn the ropes and travel with an experienced group, please let me know.
Mike Perez with a Montana brown and rainbow trout caught and released with King Outfitters.
Back in Sarasota we are still reeling from Hurricane Debby’s flooding. In addition to record breaking flooding, this storm is an example of what often happens when large amounts of storm water overwhelm wastewater treatment facilities and there is a huge “dump” of hundreds of thousands of gallons of raw sewage. This is unacceptable!
Once things normalize, catch and release snook fishing around dock lights and bridges should be a good option. You might also find juvenile tarpon in a few places mixed with snook around dock lights. Juvenile tarpon in canals and creeks may also be a good option.
Dennis Kinley, from IN, with a healthy Montana brown trout caught and released with King Outfitters.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Capt. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Summer gag grouper have invaded the flats and they put up a tremendous fight! Caleb Brown and his son caught a bunch on a four hour trip out of CB’s Outfitters on Siesta Key this past week.
Six-year-old Liam, from Sarasota, caught over 30 fish on a six hour Boca grande trip with Capt. Brandon this pass week, he also helped his dad with a seven-foot bull shark. All in all the fishing was off the chain!
Caleb Brown and his son caught a bunch of grouper on a half-day trip with me this past week..
Six-year-old Liam caught over thirty fish on a half-day charter this pass week.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Summer gag grouper have invaded the flats and they put up a tremendous fight! Caleb Brown and his son caught a bunch on a four hour trip out of CB’s Outfitters on Siesta Key this past week.
Caleb Brown and his son caught a bunch of grouper on a 4 hr trip.
Six-year-old Liam caught over thirty fish.
Six-year-old Liam, from Sarasota, caught over 30 fish on a six hour Boca grande trip with Capt. Brandon this pass week, he also helped his dad with a seven-foot bull shark. All in all the fishing was off the chain!
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Capt. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Summer Sharks are now now mostly smaller types.
Summer sharks are in now mostly smaller types like Sand Sharks and Blacktips but are tons of fun on light tackle.
Other popular Shark species in the Sarasota area include Bonnethead Sharks, they’re another smaller Shark species found in shallow waters such as bays, estuaries, and flats, like those surrounding Sarasota and are most commonly caught during the summer months.
Book a 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. trip and beat the heat.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Summer sharks are in now mostly smaller types like Sand Sharks and Blacktips but are tons of fun on light tackle.
Summer Sharks are now now mostly smaller types.
Other popular Shark species in the Sarasota area include Bonnethead Sharks, they’re another smaller Shark species found in shallow waters such as bays, estuaries, and flats, like those surrounding Sarasota and are most commonly caught during the summer months.
Book a 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. trip and beat the heat.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
My niece Lauren, along with her two daughters, Shelby and Ava, shows off a Redfish she caught.
I took my niece Lauren and her two daughters, Shelby and Ava along with her husband Jake, fishing ‘Little Sarasota Bay’ while their family is down from Memphis, Tennessee visiting.
We avoided early morning showers and managed to catch and release plenty of fish. The two young girls helped reel in several trout and a snook, and Lauren did a wonderful job reeling in this nice redfish.
All the fish were caught with live shrimp using a cork. The water is a little dark but the fish still have to eat. Good luck on the water.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
I took my niece Lauren and her two daughters, Shelby and Ava along with her husband Jake, fishing ‘Little Sarasota Bay’ while their family is down from Memphis, Tennessee visiting.
My niece Lauren, along with her two daughters, Shelby and Ava, shows off a Redfish she caught.
We avoided early morning showers and managed to catch and release plenty of fish. The two young girls helped reel in several trout and a snook, and Lauren did a wonderful job reeling in this nice redfish.
All the fish were caught with live shrimp using a cork. The water is a little dark but the fish still have to eat. Here’s wishing all good luck on the water.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Pat Beckwith with a blueish caught and released on a Clouser fly while fishing Sarasota Bay.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with trout, blues and redfish in Sarasota Bay and tarpon in the coastal gulf recently I primarily fished the coastal gulf for tarpon but fished a few days in the bay when conditions weren’t good in the gulf or when targeting other species.
Fly angler Bob Snover, from NH, fished shallow water with me and caught and released his first red on a fly. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, fished deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay and had some action with bluefish on Clouser flies on another trip.
Bob Snover with his first red caught and released on a Grassett Flats Minnow fly while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Dennis Ondercin with one of a couple of tarpon he caught and released while fishing the coastal gulf with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Longtime friends and clients also had some action with tarpon in the coastal gulf. Dave Reinhart, from MA, fished a couple of days with me and was joined by his son Dan Reinhart, from VT, for one of the days. They jumped a couple of tarpon on live crabs and we leadered one. Dennis Ondercin, from OH and Cliff and Mason Ondercin, from Sarasota, fished a couple of days with me and had good action, jumping several tarpon and bringing 2 to the boat. Cliff also fly fished for tarpon with me on another trip and had a hook up in tough conditions. Great job!
Tarpon have thinned out but should continue to be an option in the coastal gulf. Look for snook and juvenile tarpon around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides and other algae blooms fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with trout, blues and redfish in Sarasota Bay and tarpon in the coastal gulf recently I primarily fished the coastal gulf for tarpon but fished a few days in the bay when conditions weren’t good in the gulf or when targeting other species.
Fly angler Bob Snover, from NH, fished shallow water with me and caught and released his first red on a fly. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, fished deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay and had some action with bluefish on Clouser flies on another trip.
Bob Snover with his first red caught and released on a Grassett Flats Minnow fly while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.
Longtime friends and clients also had some action with tarpon in the coastal gulf. Dave Reinhart, from MA, fished a couple of days with me and was joined by his son Dan Reinhart, from VT, for one of the days. They jumped a couple of tarpon on live crabs and we leadered one. Dennis Ondercin, from OH and Cliff and Mason Ondercin, from Sarasota, fished a couple of days with me and had good action, jumping several tarpon and bringing 2 to the boat. Cliff also fly fished for tarpon with me on another trip and had a hook up in tough conditions. Great job!
Dennis Ondercin with one of a couple of tarpon he caught and released while fishing the coastal gulf with Capt. Rick Grassett.
Tarpon have thinned out but should continue to be an option in the coastal gulf. Look for snook and juvenile tarpon around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides and other algae blooms fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Young Cooper caught and released this 9 pound redfish.
Charters out of CB‘s Outfitters located on Siesta Key to fish Sarasota Bay have produced some quality redfish and trout. The heavy rains a couple of weeks ago dirtied up the water, however it didn’t affect the fishing in most areas.
Over the last couple of days, the water has really cleared up and I had the pleasure to take my grandson Cooper out today. Cooper caught and released a nine pound redfish using a popping cork and a live shrimp. Several trout were also caught and released along with a few catfish.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Charters out of CB‘s Outfitters located on Siesta Key to fish Sarasota Bay have produced some quality redfish and trout. The heavy rains a couple of weeks ago dirtied up the water, however it didn’t affect the fishing in most areas.
Young Cooper caught and released this 9 pound redfish.
Over the last couple of days, the water has really cleared up and I had the pleasure to take my grandson Cooper out today. Cooper caught and released a nine pound redfish using a popping cork and a live shrimp.
Several trout were also caught and released along with a few catfish. All in all it was a beautiful day out on the warm waters of Sarasota Bay.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Capt. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
On the water with Capt. Brandon Naeve.
Casy from Indiana caught this beautiful trout while fishing with family on a CB’s guided fishing Charter trip this past week.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Casy from Indiana caught this beautiful trout while fishing with family on a CB’s guided fishing Charter trip this past week.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Capt. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Lisa Knox, a native of Chicago, with a nice Pompano.
Lisa Knox, a native of Chicago and Siesta Key, caught this beautiful Pompano while fishing Sarasota Bay on a CB’s Outfitter’s charter this past week with Capt. Brandon.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Lisa Knox, a native of Chicago and Siesta Key, caught this beautiful Pompano while fishing Sarasota Bay on a CB’s Outfitter’s charter this past week with Capt. Brandon.
Lisa Knox, a native of Chicago, holds a nice size Pompano.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Capt. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Lindsey displaying her first saltwater ladyfish.
Lindsey, visiting from Pittsburgh, caught her first saltwater ladyfish with Capt Brandon this past week on a half day bay trip out of CB’s Outfitter’s on Siesta Key.
The weather was spectacular and the fish were jumping as the say. All in all it made for a great half-day on the water as Lindsey got to pocket some great memories.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Lindsey, visiting from Pittsburgh, caught her first saltwater ladyfish with Capt Brandon this past week on a half day bay trip out of CB’s Outfitter’s on Siesta Key.
Lindsey displays her first saltwater ladyfish.
The weather was spectacular and the fish were jumping as the say. All in all it made for a great half-day on the water as Lindsey got to pocket some great memories.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Alan Sugar with a trout caught and released on a fly while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had decent action with reds and trout in Charlotte Harbor and trout in Sarasota Bay.
Dave Reinhart, from MA, fished a couple of trips in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me, catching and releasing several reds and trout on CAL jigs with shad tails and grubs. Mike Perez, from Sarasota and Dennis Kinley, from IN, also fished that area with me and caught and released numerous trout on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails.
Anglers fishing Sarasota Bay on several trips with me caught and released trout on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails.
Dave Reinhart with a red caught and released on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Dave, shown here with a trout he caught and released on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with Capt. Rick Grassett.
Look for reds, trout and snook in skinny water and snook around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and seasonal species such as pompano and Spanish mackerel. Also check the coastal gulf for tripletail, false albacore or early arriving tarpon when conditions are good.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had decent action with reds and trout in Charlotte Harbor and trout in Sarasota Bay. Dave Reinhart, from MA, fished a couple of trips in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me, catching and releasing several reds and trout on CAL jigs with shad tails and grubs.
Dave Reinhart with a red caught and released on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Mike Perez, from Sarasota and Dennis Kinley, from IN, also fished that area with me and caught and released numerous trout on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails. Anglers fishing Sarasota Bay on several trips with me caught and released trout on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails.
Look for reds, trout and snook in skinny water and snook around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and seasonal species such as pompano and Spanish mackerel. Also check the coastal gulf for tripletail, false albacore or early arriving tarpon when conditions are good.
Alan Sugar, from MI, with a trout caught and released on a fly while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides and other algae blooms fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Mark and his sons Justin and Brandon.
Great day on the water! Mark, from northern Illinois, and his sons Justin and Brandon, all contributed to catch the family inshore slam.
The inshore slam is catching redfish, snook, and trout all in a single fishing trip and the boys did their part by catching and releasing numerous trout and snook. Their bait of choice was a live shrimp under a popping cork. Mark did his part by catching several trout and this hefty redfish. The young boys were anxious to get out fishing on their Easter break vacation and said they enjoyed the outing very much.
We are finally getting some consistent warmer weather, which has really improved the fishing. Look for this trend to continue.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Great day on the water! Mark, from northern Illinois, and his sons Justin and Brandon, all contributed to catch the family inshore slam.
The inshore slam is catching redfish, snook, and trout all in a single fishing trip and the boys did their part by catching and releasing numerous trout and snook.
Mark from northern Illinois and his sons Justin and Brandon, enjoyed some good inshore fishing this past week.
We are finally getting some consistent warmer weather, which has really improved the fishing. Look for this trend to continue.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Capt. David Collica’s Weekly Fishing Report
Experiencing the thrill of fishing Sarasota Bay.
The shallow reefs have been a good spot for sheepshead, mangrove snapper, and cobia. Deeper structure has been holding large gag grouper, big grunts, and the occasional large mangrove.
With water temps getting close to 72, we are starting to see kingfish, Spanish mackerel, and Bonita following schools of sardines. Permit are starting their spring migration as well, they should start showing up on most offshore structure. Target them with free lined crabs and shrimp.
Farther offshore has been hot for African pompano, large yellowtail snapper, large mangrove snapper, and red grouper. Wahoo and big kings are starting to show up as well. You can find them on the outside of wrecks in 130’ and deeper. Red grouper is closed in 120’+, so make sure to stay shallower if you’re targeting them.
Capt. David Collica was born in Georgia but grew up in the Sarasota area. His main target growing up was big snook and sharks off Siesta Key. His inshore trips target snook, trout, and the occasional redfish, he also offers night fly fishing trips.
The shallow reefs have been a good spot for sheepshead, mangrove snapper, and cobia. Deeper structure has been holding large gag grouper, big grunts, and the occasional large mangrove.
With water temps getting close to 72, we are starting to see kingfish, Spanish mackerel, and Bonita following schools of sardines. Permit are starting their spring migration as well, they should start showing up on most offshore structure. Target them with free lined crabs and shrimp.
Experiencing the thrill of inshore fishing locally around Sarasota.
Farther offshore has been hot for African pompano, large yellowtail snapper, large mangrove snapper, and red grouper. Wahoo and big kings are starting to show up as well. You can find them on the outside of wrecks in 130’ and deeper. Red grouper is closed in 120’+, so make sure to stay shallower if you’re targeting them.
Capt. David Collica was born in Georgia but grew up in the Sarasota area. His main target growing up was big snook and sharks off Siesta Key. His inshore trips target snook, trout, and the occasional redfish, he also offers night fly fishing trips.
Capt. Ed Hurst’s Weekly Fishing Report
Mark Borsari enjoyed a good day fishing Sarasota Bay.
Sarasota was blessed with beautiful weather last week and the coming week looks just as good.
Mark Borsari, from MA, enjoyed a perfect day for fly fishing with a light breeze and clean water. Mark brought his new Orvis Helios rod with him.
He discovered casting the saltwater rod was a little bit different from his favorite trout rod. The new rod felt different but the casting science was the same.
In short order he was sending the Clouser deep minnow out 60-70 feet with ease, and caught numerous trout, ladyfish and a very nice pompano on his new rod. I love it when the stars line up.
I’m looking forward to the coming week. Stay tuned for more great fishing news.
Tight lines and calm winds!
Sarasota has been Ed's home since 1956. He's fished these area waters since he was nine years old. From 1995 until the present he's guided anglers exclusively in and around the backwaters of Sarasota Bay. Fly fishing is his passion and he's an Orvis Endorsed Guide.
Sarasota was blessed with beautiful weather last week and the coming week looks just as good.
Mark Borsari, from MA, enjoyed a perfect day for fly fishing with a light breeze and clean water. Mark brought his new Orvis Helios rod with him.
He discovered casting the saltwater rod was a little bit different from his favorite trout rod. The new rod felt different but the casting science was the same.
Mark Borsari, from MA, enjoyed a good fishing Sarasota Bay.
In short order he was sending the Clouser deep minnow out 60-70 feet with ease, and caught numerous trout, ladyfish and a very nice pompano on his new rod. I love it when the stars line up.
I’m looking forward to the coming week. Stay tuned for more great fishing news.
Tight lines and calm winds!
Sarasota has been Ed's home since 1956. He's fished these area waters since he was nine years old. From 1995 until the present he's guided anglers exclusively in and around the backwaters of Sarasota Bay. Fly fishing is his passion and he's an Orvis Endorsed Guide.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, with a Spanish Mackerel.
Spin fishing anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had decent action with reds, snook and trout in Charlotte Harbor and fly anglers had action with trout and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay.
Tom Keir, from IN, and Alan Sugar, from MI and Farlow Blakeslee, from SC, had some action catching and releasing trout on Clouser flies on a couple of trips in Sarasota Bay with me recently.
Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, fished Little Sarasota Bay with me on another trip and caught and released trout and Spanish mackerel on Clouser flies. Look for reds, trout and snook in skinny water and snook around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and seasonal species such as pompano and Spanish mackerel.
Farlow Blakeslee, from SC, with a trout, both caught and released on Clouser flies while fishing in Sarasota Bay.
Rick Weaver, from Pittsburg, PA, had good action catching and releasing reds, and snook on CAL jigs with shad tails while fishing Gasparilla Sound.
Keith McClintock, from IL, fished several trips in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me, catching and releasing several reds, snook, trout and pompano on CAL jigs with shad tails. Rick Weaver, from Pittsburg, joined him on one of the trips and they had great action with reds on CAL jigs with shad tails.
Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, IL with a nice looking Red.
Keith McClintock is show nhere with a nice sized Pompano.
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters will hold an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing school on Sat, Apr 13, 2024. The course, which will be last one until fall, is designed for beginning and intermediate fly casters. It will focus on basic fly casting principles, saltwater fly fishing techniques, leader construction and fly selection and for intermediate anglers, improving casting skills and correcting faults.
I will be the instructor of the class, which will run from 8:30 AM to approximately 2 PM. Cost is $225 per person and includes the use of fly tackle, a workbook and lunch. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at (941) 349-4400 to make reservations.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides and other algae blooms fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Spin fishing anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had decent action with reds, snook and trout in Charlotte Harbor and fly anglers had action with trout and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay.
Keith McClintock, from IL, fished several trips in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me, catching and releasing several reds, snook, trout and pompano on CAL jigs with shad tails. Rick Weaver, from Pittsburg, joined him on one of the trips and they had great action with reds on CAL jigs with shad tails.
Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, with a Spanish Mackerel.
Tom Keir, from IN, and Alan Sugar, from MI and Farlow Blakeslee, from SC, had some action catching and releasing trout on Clouser flies on a couple of trips in Sarasota Bay with me recently. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, fished Little Sarasota Bay with me on another trip and caught and released trout and Spanish mackerel on Clouser flies.
Rick Weaver, from Pittsburg, PA, had good action catching and releasing reds, and snook on CAL jigs with shad tails while fishing Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande.
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters will hold an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing school on Sat, Apr 13, 2024. The course, which will be last one until fall, is designed for beginning and intermediate fly casters. It will focus on basic fly casting principles, saltwater fly fishing techniques, leader construction and fly selection and for intermediate anglers, improving casting skills and correcting faults. I will be the instructor of the class, which will run from 8:30 AM to approximately 2 PM. Cost is $225 per person and includes the use of fly tackle, a workbook and lunch. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at (941) 349-4400 to make reservations.
Keith McClintock is show nhere with a nice sized Pompano.
Look for reds, trout and snook in skinny water and snook around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and seasonal species such as pompano and Spanish mackerel.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Jenny Goodell, and 13 year old Brooke, two fine anglers.
Pictured holding this Sarasota Bay trout are Jenny Goodell, and 13 year old Brooke. Two very fine anglers, both of these anglers are involved and belong to the International Women’s Fishing Association.
In fact, Brooke is the IWFA reigning top junior freshwater angler from last year. On our recent trip, they kept me quite busy as they caught and released over twenty trout in four hours. Using a popping corn with a DOA shrimp was quite an effective bait.
Besides catching the trout, Jenny landed a beautiful snook using that same bait combo. We couldn’t have asked for a better day as the water was clear, with light winds and the fish biting.
I have taken Brooke out before, she’s a special young lady and hopefully I will get to fish with her again in the future.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Dave also caught and released a 28″ red on a CAL jig with a grub fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Grassett.
Bill Morrison, from Anna Maria, with a big Spanish mackerel caught on a fly while fishing Sarasota Bay.
Shallow water fishing for reds and large trout is also a good option now, although they are very challenging in clear water. These conditions usually require long casts to avoid spooking fish.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Pictured below holding this Sarasota Bay trout are Jenny Goodell, and 13 year old Brooke. Two very fine anglers, both of these anglers are involved and belong to the International Women’s Fishing Association.
Jenny Goodell, and 13 year old Brooke, holding a Sarasota Bay Trout.
In fact, Brooke is the IWFA reigning top junior freshwater angler from last year. On our recent trip, they kept me quite busy as they caught and released over twenty trout in four hours. Using a popping corn with a DOA shrimp was quite an effective bait.
Besides catching the trout, Jenny landed a beautiful snook using that same bait combo. We couldn’t have asked for a better day as the water was clear, with light winds and the fish biting.
I have taken Brooke out before, she’s a special young lady and hopefully I will get to fish with her again in the future.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Carrie, from Hayward WI, with a nice looking Red.
I had the pleasure to take out fishing Steve and his wife Carrie. They are from the musky capital of the world Hayward, Wisconsin. The early part of the trip was slow however as the tide came in things started to pick up.
Both are excellent fisherman, and managed to catch and release, pompano, trout and some beautiful silver colored redfish. All of the fish were caught using a quarter ounce jig head with gulp or mirror lure little John tails.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
I had the pleasure to take out fishing Steve and his wife Carrie. They are from the musky capital of the world Hayward, Wisconsin. The early part of the trip was slow however as the tide came in things started to pick up.
Carrie, from Hayward WI, with a nice looking Red.
Both are excellent fisherman, and managed to catch and release, pompano, trout and some beautiful silver colored redfish. All of the fish were caught using a quarter ounce jig head with gulp or mirror lure little John tails.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Capt. David Collica’s Weekly Fishing Report
Capt. David Collica reports the bite is off the hook!
The bite is off the hook, more redfish and overslot trout on the shallow oyster bars and flats towards the north end of the bay. Snook are also extremely prevalent with small schools on the flats and docks up shallow.
I’ve been seeing some cobia on the flats as well. The bite around midnight pass is great as well. I’ve also been fishing the mangrove edges on the deeper sides of the channel with plenty of snook and reds, and the mouth of the pass is covered in snook and trout eating whatever they see in that silty water.
Capt. David Collica was born in Georgia but grew up in the Sarasota area. His main target growing up was big snook and sharks off Siesta Key. His inshore trips target snook, trout, and the occasional redfish, he also offers night fly fishing trips.
The bite is off the hook, more redfish and overslot trout on the shallow oyster bars and flats towards the north end of the bay. Snook are also extremely prevalent with small schools on the flats and docks up shallow.
Capt. David Collica reports the bite is off the hook.
I’ve been seeing some cobia on the flats as well. The bite around midnight pass is great as well. I’ve also been fishing the mangrove edges on the deeper sides of the channel with plenty of snook and reds, and the mouth of the pass is covered in snook and trout eating whatever they see in that silty water.
Capt. David Collica was born in Georgia but grew up in the Sarasota area. His main target growing up was big snook and sharks off Siesta Key. His inshore trips target snook, trout, and the occasional redfish, he also offers night fly fishing trips.
Capt. Matt Davie’s Weekly Fishing Report
On the water with Capt. Matt Davie
Another wild fall! We were a little behind on having the fish show up. Apparently they don’t care for hurricane’s either. Now that things have cleared up.
It’s been good to some amazing days in Sarasota. From inside to the mangroves to outside on the reefs. Snook, redfish, trout, pompano, jacks, cobia, triple tail, mackerel, kings, gags, and just about everything in between.
All have been caught in the last week. Come out and fish.
Captain Matt has been fishing the Sarasota area waters for over 30 years accommodating fisherman of all skills from novice to professional catching a array of fish around Florida's Gulf Coast. is fishing trips offer back country snook, redfish, trout, and tarpon.
Another wild fall! We were a little behind on having the fish show up. Apparently they don’t care for hurricane’s either. Now that things have cleared up.
On the water with Capt. Matt Davie
It’s been good to some amazing days in Sarasota. From inside to the mangroves to outside on the reefs. Snook, redfish, trout, pompano, jacks, cobia, triple tail, mackerel, kings, gags, and just about everything in between.
All have been caught in the last week. Come out and fish.
Captain Matt has been fishing the Sarasota area waters for over 30 years accommodating fisherman of all skills from novice to professional catching a array of fish around Florida's Gulf Coast. is fishing trips offer back country snook, redfish, trout, and tarpon.
Capt. Kelly Stilwell’s Weekly Fishing Report
The fishing in Sarasota Bay is really starting to pick up.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action in Sarasota Bay with me recently. The fishing in Sarasota Bay is really starting to pick up. The water temperature has dropped to the mid seventies, which is great for most of our species.
We caught several nice trout on a recent outing and even some sheepshead. I would expect the mackerel to show in good numbers any day.
Kelly has lived and fished in this area for over 30 years. His specialties are artificial bait, fly fishing, tarpon, and live bait fishing in Sarasota Bay and the nearshore Gulf. He's an Orvis Endorsed Guide and currently runs a 2400 Ranger Bay boat which accommodates five.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action in Sarasota Bay with me recently. The fishing in Sarasota Bay is really starting to pick up. The water temperature has dropped to the mid seventies, which is great for most of our species.
We caught several nice trout on a recent outing and even some sheepshead. I would expect the mackerel to show in good numbers any day.
Kelly has lived and fished in this area for over 30 years. His specialties are artificial bait, fly fishing, tarpon, and live bait fishing in Sarasota Bay and the nearshore Gulf. He's an Orvis Endorsed Guide and currently runs a 2400 Ranger Bay boat which accommodates five.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Fly anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with snook at night and trout in Sarasota recently. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, caught and released snook before dawn and then fished deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay and had some action with trout on flies.
Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, had some action catching and releasing snook on flies on a couple of different trips while fishing with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Jim Randle, also from Sarasota, had some action himself catching and releasing snook on flies on a night trip with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Jim Randle, from Sarasota, also got in on the action, catching and releasing several snook on my Snook Minnow fly on another trip. Fishing in the dark is a great way to beat the heat this time of year.
Look for snook and juvenile tarpon around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and more.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Fly anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with snook at night and trout in Sarasota recently. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, caught and released snook before dawn and then fished deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay and had some action with trout on flies.
Fishing in the dark is great way to beat the heat this time of year. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, had some action catching and releasing snook on flies on a couple of different trips while fishing with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Jim Randle, from Sarasota, also got in on the action, catching and releasing several snook on my Snook Minnow fly on another trip. Fishing in the dark is a great way to beat the heat this time of year.
Jim Randle, also from Sarasota, had some action himself catching and releasing snook on flies on a couple of different night trips recently.
Look for snook and juvenile tarpon around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and more.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Montana Fly Fishing Trip Report
Capt. Rick Grassett with a beautiful Montana brown trout he caught and released on his annual trek north.
I hosted a group of friends and clients on my annual destination fly fishing trip to southwest Montana recently. I traveled from Sarasota to Bozeman and made the 2-1/2 hour drive to Medicine Lodge, on a 100,000 acre working ranch near the Beaverhead River, outside of Dillon, MT. I met up at the lodge with Steve Coburn, from WI, Jeff Coburn, from CO and Mike Perez and Dennis Kinley, from IN. We fished the Beaverhead and Madison Rivers with guide Dave King, owner of King Outfitters (406) 596-0209 in Dillon, and his talented group of guides and caught some quality fish.
I’ve fished with Dave for more than 20-years, his guides do a great job and know their fishery well. In spite of rumors of declining fishing, we have experienced great fishing for the last several years and longer!
Mike Perez, from Sarasota, watches Guide Dave King with a rainbow trout he caught and released.
Guide Dave King with a Montana brown trout he caught and released.
We fished 4, 5 and 6-weight fly tackle and caught and released brown and rainbow trout to more than 20” on streamers, dry flies and dry/dropper rigs. The dry fly action was often a hopper, sometimes with a nymph or with a smaller dry fly dropper and a few other bugs.
Wildlife was plentiful, we crossed paths with deer, moose and antelope during the week. This is an annual trip for me, so if you have an interest in technical fly fishing for big trout or if you want to learn the ropes and travel with an experienced group, please let me know.
Mike Perez with a Montana brown and rainbow trout caught and released with King Outfitters.
Dennis Kinley, from IN, with a healthy Montana brown trout caught and released with King Outfitters.
Back in Sarasota we are still reeling from Hurricane Debby’s flooding. In addition to record breaking flooding, this storm is an example of what often happens when large amounts of storm water overwhelm wastewater treatment facilities and there is a huge “dump” of hundreds of thousands of gallons of raw sewage. This is unacceptable!
Once things normalize, catch and release snook fishing around dock lights and bridges should be a good option. You might also find juvenile tarpon in a few places mixed with snook around dock lights. Juvenile tarpon in canals and creeks may also be a good option.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
I hosted a group of friends and clients on my annual destination fly fishing trip to southwest Montana recently. I traveled from Sarasota to Bozeman and made the 2-1/2 hour drive to Medicine Lodge, on a 100,000 acre working ranch near the Beaverhead River, outside of Dillon, MT. I met up at the lodge with Steve Coburn, from WI, Jeff Coburn, from CO and Mike Perez and Dennis Kinley, from IN. We fished the Beaverhead and Madison Rivers with guide Dave King, owner of King Outfitters (406) 596-0209 in Dillon, and his talented group of guides and caught some quality fish.
I’ve fished with Dave for more than 20-years, his guides do a great job and know their fishery well. In spite of rumors of declining fishing, we have experienced great fishing for the last several years and longer!
Capt. Rick Grassett with a beautiful Montana brown trout he caught and released on his annual trek north.
We fished 4, 5 and 6-weight fly tackle and caught and released brown and rainbow trout to more than 20” on streamers, dry flies and dry/dropper rigs. The dry fly action was often a hopper, sometimes with a nymph or with a smaller dry fly dropper and a few other bugs.
Wildlife was plentiful, we crossed paths with deer, moose and antelope during the week. This is an annual trip for me, so if you have an interest in technical fly fishing for big trout or if you want to learn the ropes and travel with an experienced group, please let me know.
Mike Perez with a Montana brown and rainbow trout caught and released with King Outfitters.
Back in Sarasota we are still reeling from Hurricane Debby’s flooding. In addition to record breaking flooding, this storm is an example of what often happens when large amounts of storm water overwhelm wastewater treatment facilities and there is a huge “dump” of hundreds of thousands of gallons of raw sewage. This is unacceptable!
Once things normalize, catch and release snook fishing around dock lights and bridges should be a good option. You might also find juvenile tarpon in a few places mixed with snook around dock lights. Juvenile tarpon in canals and creeks may also be a good option.
Dennis Kinley, from IN, with a healthy Montana brown trout caught and released with King Outfitters.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Capt. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Summer gag grouper have invaded the flats and they put up a tremendous fight! Caleb Brown and his son caught a bunch on a four hour trip out of CB’s Outfitters on Siesta Key this past week.
Six-year-old Liam, from Sarasota, caught over 30 fish on a six hour Boca grande trip with Capt. Brandon this pass week, he also helped his dad with a seven-foot bull shark. All in all the fishing was off the chain!
Caleb Brown and his son caught a bunch of grouper on a half-day trip with me this past week..
Six-year-old Liam caught over thirty fish on a half-day charter this pass week.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Summer gag grouper have invaded the flats and they put up a tremendous fight! Caleb Brown and his son caught a bunch on a four hour trip out of CB’s Outfitters on Siesta Key this past week.
Caleb Brown and his son caught a bunch of grouper on a 4 hr trip.
Six-year-old Liam caught over thirty fish.
Six-year-old Liam, from Sarasota, caught over 30 fish on a six hour Boca grande trip with Capt. Brandon this pass week, he also helped his dad with a seven-foot bull shark. All in all the fishing was off the chain!
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Capt. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Summer Sharks are now now mostly smaller types.
Summer sharks are in now mostly smaller types like Sand Sharks and Blacktips but are tons of fun on light tackle.
Other popular Shark species in the Sarasota area include Bonnethead Sharks, they’re another smaller Shark species found in shallow waters such as bays, estuaries, and flats, like those surrounding Sarasota and are most commonly caught during the summer months.
Book a 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. trip and beat the heat.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Summer sharks are in now mostly smaller types like Sand Sharks and Blacktips but are tons of fun on light tackle.
Summer Sharks are now now mostly smaller types.
Other popular Shark species in the Sarasota area include Bonnethead Sharks, they’re another smaller Shark species found in shallow waters such as bays, estuaries, and flats, like those surrounding Sarasota and are most commonly caught during the summer months.
Book a 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. trip and beat the heat.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
My niece Lauren, along with her two daughters, Shelby and Ava, shows off a Redfish she caught.
I took my niece Lauren and her two daughters, Shelby and Ava along with her husband Jake, fishing ‘Little Sarasota Bay’ while their family is down from Memphis, Tennessee visiting.
We avoided early morning showers and managed to catch and release plenty of fish. The two young girls helped reel in several trout and a snook, and Lauren did a wonderful job reeling in this nice redfish.
All the fish were caught with live shrimp using a cork. The water is a little dark but the fish still have to eat. Good luck on the water.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
I took my niece Lauren and her two daughters, Shelby and Ava along with her husband Jake, fishing ‘Little Sarasota Bay’ while their family is down from Memphis, Tennessee visiting.
My niece Lauren, along with her two daughters, Shelby and Ava, shows off a Redfish she caught.
We avoided early morning showers and managed to catch and release plenty of fish. The two young girls helped reel in several trout and a snook, and Lauren did a wonderful job reeling in this nice redfish.
All the fish were caught with live shrimp using a cork. The water is a little dark but the fish still have to eat. Here’s wishing all good luck on the water.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Pat Beckwith with a blueish caught and released on a Clouser fly while fishing Sarasota Bay.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with trout, blues and redfish in Sarasota Bay and tarpon in the coastal gulf recently I primarily fished the coastal gulf for tarpon but fished a few days in the bay when conditions weren’t good in the gulf or when targeting other species.
Fly angler Bob Snover, from NH, fished shallow water with me and caught and released his first red on a fly. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, fished deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay and had some action with bluefish on Clouser flies on another trip.
Bob Snover with his first red caught and released on a Grassett Flats Minnow fly while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Dennis Ondercin with one of a couple of tarpon he caught and released while fishing the coastal gulf with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Longtime friends and clients also had some action with tarpon in the coastal gulf. Dave Reinhart, from MA, fished a couple of days with me and was joined by his son Dan Reinhart, from VT, for one of the days. They jumped a couple of tarpon on live crabs and we leadered one. Dennis Ondercin, from OH and Cliff and Mason Ondercin, from Sarasota, fished a couple of days with me and had good action, jumping several tarpon and bringing 2 to the boat. Cliff also fly fished for tarpon with me on another trip and had a hook up in tough conditions. Great job!
Tarpon have thinned out but should continue to be an option in the coastal gulf. Look for snook and juvenile tarpon around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides and other algae blooms fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with trout, blues and redfish in Sarasota Bay and tarpon in the coastal gulf recently I primarily fished the coastal gulf for tarpon but fished a few days in the bay when conditions weren’t good in the gulf or when targeting other species.
Fly angler Bob Snover, from NH, fished shallow water with me and caught and released his first red on a fly. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, fished deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay and had some action with bluefish on Clouser flies on another trip.
Bob Snover with his first red caught and released on a Grassett Flats Minnow fly while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.
Longtime friends and clients also had some action with tarpon in the coastal gulf. Dave Reinhart, from MA, fished a couple of days with me and was joined by his son Dan Reinhart, from VT, for one of the days. They jumped a couple of tarpon on live crabs and we leadered one. Dennis Ondercin, from OH and Cliff and Mason Ondercin, from Sarasota, fished a couple of days with me and had good action, jumping several tarpon and bringing 2 to the boat. Cliff also fly fished for tarpon with me on another trip and had a hook up in tough conditions. Great job!
Dennis Ondercin with one of a couple of tarpon he caught and released while fishing the coastal gulf with Capt. Rick Grassett.
Tarpon have thinned out but should continue to be an option in the coastal gulf. Look for snook and juvenile tarpon around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides and other algae blooms fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Young Cooper caught and released this 9 pound redfish.
Charters out of CB‘s Outfitters located on Siesta Key to fish Sarasota Bay have produced some quality redfish and trout. The heavy rains a couple of weeks ago dirtied up the water, however it didn’t affect the fishing in most areas.
Over the last couple of days, the water has really cleared up and I had the pleasure to take my grandson Cooper out today. Cooper caught and released a nine pound redfish using a popping cork and a live shrimp. Several trout were also caught and released along with a few catfish.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Charters out of CB‘s Outfitters located on Siesta Key to fish Sarasota Bay have produced some quality redfish and trout. The heavy rains a couple of weeks ago dirtied up the water, however it didn’t affect the fishing in most areas.
Young Cooper caught and released this 9 pound redfish.
Over the last couple of days, the water has really cleared up and I had the pleasure to take my grandson Cooper out today. Cooper caught and released a nine pound redfish using a popping cork and a live shrimp.
Several trout were also caught and released along with a few catfish. All in all it was a beautiful day out on the warm waters of Sarasota Bay.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Capt. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
On the water with Capt. Brandon Naeve.
Casy from Indiana caught this beautiful trout while fishing with family on a CB’s guided fishing Charter trip this past week.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Casy from Indiana caught this beautiful trout while fishing with family on a CB’s guided fishing Charter trip this past week.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Capt. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Lisa Knox, a native of Chicago, with a nice Pompano.
Lisa Knox, a native of Chicago and Siesta Key, caught this beautiful Pompano while fishing Sarasota Bay on a CB’s Outfitter’s charter this past week with Capt. Brandon.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Lisa Knox, a native of Chicago and Siesta Key, caught this beautiful Pompano while fishing Sarasota Bay on a CB’s Outfitter’s charter this past week with Capt. Brandon.
Lisa Knox, a native of Chicago, holds a nice size Pompano.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Capt. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Lindsey displaying her first saltwater ladyfish.
Lindsey, visiting from Pittsburgh, caught her first saltwater ladyfish with Capt Brandon this past week on a half day bay trip out of CB’s Outfitter’s on Siesta Key.
The weather was spectacular and the fish were jumping as the say. All in all it made for a great half-day on the water as Lindsey got to pocket some great memories.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Lindsey, visiting from Pittsburgh, caught her first saltwater ladyfish with Capt Brandon this past week on a half day bay trip out of CB’s Outfitter’s on Siesta Key.
Lindsey displays her first saltwater ladyfish.
The weather was spectacular and the fish were jumping as the say. All in all it made for a great half-day on the water as Lindsey got to pocket some great memories.
I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Alan Sugar with a trout caught and released on a fly while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had decent action with reds and trout in Charlotte Harbor and trout in Sarasota Bay.
Dave Reinhart, from MA, fished a couple of trips in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me, catching and releasing several reds and trout on CAL jigs with shad tails and grubs. Mike Perez, from Sarasota and Dennis Kinley, from IN, also fished that area with me and caught and released numerous trout on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails.
Anglers fishing Sarasota Bay on several trips with me caught and released trout on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails.
Dave Reinhart with a red caught and released on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Dave, shown here with a trout he caught and released on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with Capt. Rick Grassett.
Look for reds, trout and snook in skinny water and snook around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and seasonal species such as pompano and Spanish mackerel. Also check the coastal gulf for tripletail, false albacore or early arriving tarpon when conditions are good.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had decent action with reds and trout in Charlotte Harbor and trout in Sarasota Bay. Dave Reinhart, from MA, fished a couple of trips in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me, catching and releasing several reds and trout on CAL jigs with shad tails and grubs.
Dave Reinhart with a red caught and released on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Mike Perez, from Sarasota and Dennis Kinley, from IN, also fished that area with me and caught and released numerous trout on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails. Anglers fishing Sarasota Bay on several trips with me caught and released trout on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails.
Look for reds, trout and snook in skinny water and snook around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and seasonal species such as pompano and Spanish mackerel. Also check the coastal gulf for tripletail, false albacore or early arriving tarpon when conditions are good.
Alan Sugar, from MI, with a trout caught and released on a fly while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides and other algae blooms fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Mark and his sons Justin and Brandon.
Great day on the water! Mark, from northern Illinois, and his sons Justin and Brandon, all contributed to catch the family inshore slam.
The inshore slam is catching redfish, snook, and trout all in a single fishing trip and the boys did their part by catching and releasing numerous trout and snook. Their bait of choice was a live shrimp under a popping cork. Mark did his part by catching several trout and this hefty redfish. The young boys were anxious to get out fishing on their Easter break vacation and said they enjoyed the outing very much.
We are finally getting some consistent warmer weather, which has really improved the fishing. Look for this trend to continue.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Great day on the water! Mark, from northern Illinois, and his sons Justin and Brandon, all contributed to catch the family inshore slam.
The inshore slam is catching redfish, snook, and trout all in a single fishing trip and the boys did their part by catching and releasing numerous trout and snook.
Mark from northern Illinois and his sons Justin and Brandon, enjoyed some good inshore fishing this past week.
We are finally getting some consistent warmer weather, which has really improved the fishing. Look for this trend to continue.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Capt. David Collica’s Weekly Fishing Report
Experiencing the thrill of fishing Sarasota Bay.
The shallow reefs have been a good spot for sheepshead, mangrove snapper, and cobia. Deeper structure has been holding large gag grouper, big grunts, and the occasional large mangrove.
With water temps getting close to 72, we are starting to see kingfish, Spanish mackerel, and Bonita following schools of sardines. Permit are starting their spring migration as well, they should start showing up on most offshore structure. Target them with free lined crabs and shrimp.
Farther offshore has been hot for African pompano, large yellowtail snapper, large mangrove snapper, and red grouper. Wahoo and big kings are starting to show up as well. You can find them on the outside of wrecks in 130’ and deeper. Red grouper is closed in 120’+, so make sure to stay shallower if you’re targeting them.
Capt. David Collica was born in Georgia but grew up in the Sarasota area. His main target growing up was big snook and sharks off Siesta Key. His inshore trips target snook, trout, and the occasional redfish, he also offers night fly fishing trips.
The shallow reefs have been a good spot for sheepshead, mangrove snapper, and cobia. Deeper structure has been holding large gag grouper, big grunts, and the occasional large mangrove.
With water temps getting close to 72, we are starting to see kingfish, Spanish mackerel, and Bonita following schools of sardines. Permit are starting their spring migration as well, they should start showing up on most offshore structure. Target them with free lined crabs and shrimp.
Experiencing the thrill of inshore fishing locally around Sarasota.
Farther offshore has been hot for African pompano, large yellowtail snapper, large mangrove snapper, and red grouper. Wahoo and big kings are starting to show up as well. You can find them on the outside of wrecks in 130’ and deeper. Red grouper is closed in 120’+, so make sure to stay shallower if you’re targeting them.
Capt. David Collica was born in Georgia but grew up in the Sarasota area. His main target growing up was big snook and sharks off Siesta Key. His inshore trips target snook, trout, and the occasional redfish, he also offers night fly fishing trips.
Capt. Ed Hurst’s Weekly Fishing Report
Mark Borsari enjoyed a good day fishing Sarasota Bay.
Sarasota was blessed with beautiful weather last week and the coming week looks just as good.
Mark Borsari, from MA, enjoyed a perfect day for fly fishing with a light breeze and clean water. Mark brought his new Orvis Helios rod with him.
He discovered casting the saltwater rod was a little bit different from his favorite trout rod. The new rod felt different but the casting science was the same.
In short order he was sending the Clouser deep minnow out 60-70 feet with ease, and caught numerous trout, ladyfish and a very nice pompano on his new rod. I love it when the stars line up.
I’m looking forward to the coming week. Stay tuned for more great fishing news.
Tight lines and calm winds!
Sarasota has been Ed's home since 1956. He's fished these area waters since he was nine years old. From 1995 until the present he's guided anglers exclusively in and around the backwaters of Sarasota Bay. Fly fishing is his passion and he's an Orvis Endorsed Guide.
Sarasota was blessed with beautiful weather last week and the coming week looks just as good.
Mark Borsari, from MA, enjoyed a perfect day for fly fishing with a light breeze and clean water. Mark brought his new Orvis Helios rod with him.
He discovered casting the saltwater rod was a little bit different from his favorite trout rod. The new rod felt different but the casting science was the same.
Mark Borsari, from MA, enjoyed a good fishing Sarasota Bay.
In short order he was sending the Clouser deep minnow out 60-70 feet with ease, and caught numerous trout, ladyfish and a very nice pompano on his new rod. I love it when the stars line up.
I’m looking forward to the coming week. Stay tuned for more great fishing news.
Tight lines and calm winds!
Sarasota has been Ed's home since 1956. He's fished these area waters since he was nine years old. From 1995 until the present he's guided anglers exclusively in and around the backwaters of Sarasota Bay. Fly fishing is his passion and he's an Orvis Endorsed Guide.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, with a Spanish Mackerel.
Spin fishing anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had decent action with reds, snook and trout in Charlotte Harbor and fly anglers had action with trout and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay.
Tom Keir, from IN, and Alan Sugar, from MI and Farlow Blakeslee, from SC, had some action catching and releasing trout on Clouser flies on a couple of trips in Sarasota Bay with me recently.
Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, fished Little Sarasota Bay with me on another trip and caught and released trout and Spanish mackerel on Clouser flies. Look for reds, trout and snook in skinny water and snook around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and seasonal species such as pompano and Spanish mackerel.
Farlow Blakeslee, from SC, with a trout, both caught and released on Clouser flies while fishing in Sarasota Bay.
Rick Weaver, from Pittsburg, PA, had good action catching and releasing reds, and snook on CAL jigs with shad tails while fishing Gasparilla Sound.
Keith McClintock, from IL, fished several trips in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me, catching and releasing several reds, snook, trout and pompano on CAL jigs with shad tails. Rick Weaver, from Pittsburg, joined him on one of the trips and they had great action with reds on CAL jigs with shad tails.
Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, IL with a nice looking Red.
Keith McClintock is show nhere with a nice sized Pompano.
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters will hold an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing school on Sat, Apr 13, 2024. The course, which will be last one until fall, is designed for beginning and intermediate fly casters. It will focus on basic fly casting principles, saltwater fly fishing techniques, leader construction and fly selection and for intermediate anglers, improving casting skills and correcting faults.
I will be the instructor of the class, which will run from 8:30 AM to approximately 2 PM. Cost is $225 per person and includes the use of fly tackle, a workbook and lunch. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at (941) 349-4400 to make reservations.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides and other algae blooms fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Spin fishing anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had decent action with reds, snook and trout in Charlotte Harbor and fly anglers had action with trout and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay.
Keith McClintock, from IL, fished several trips in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me, catching and releasing several reds, snook, trout and pompano on CAL jigs with shad tails. Rick Weaver, from Pittsburg, joined him on one of the trips and they had great action with reds on CAL jigs with shad tails.
Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, with a Spanish Mackerel.
Tom Keir, from IN, and Alan Sugar, from MI and Farlow Blakeslee, from SC, had some action catching and releasing trout on Clouser flies on a couple of trips in Sarasota Bay with me recently. Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, fished Little Sarasota Bay with me on another trip and caught and released trout and Spanish mackerel on Clouser flies.
Rick Weaver, from Pittsburg, PA, had good action catching and releasing reds, and snook on CAL jigs with shad tails while fishing Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande.
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters will hold an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing school on Sat, Apr 13, 2024. The course, which will be last one until fall, is designed for beginning and intermediate fly casters. It will focus on basic fly casting principles, saltwater fly fishing techniques, leader construction and fly selection and for intermediate anglers, improving casting skills and correcting faults. I will be the instructor of the class, which will run from 8:30 AM to approximately 2 PM. Cost is $225 per person and includes the use of fly tackle, a workbook and lunch. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at (941) 349-4400 to make reservations.
Keith McClintock is show nhere with a nice sized Pompano.
Look for reds, trout and snook in skinny water and snook around dock lights. Deep grass flats are usually a good option for action with trout and seasonal species such as pompano and Spanish mackerel.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Outfitter of the Year.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Jenny Goodell, and 13 year old Brooke, two fine anglers.
Pictured holding this Sarasota Bay trout are Jenny Goodell, and 13 year old Brooke. Two very fine anglers, both of these anglers are involved and belong to the International Women’s Fishing Association.
In fact, Brooke is the IWFA reigning top junior freshwater angler from last year. On our recent trip, they kept me quite busy as they caught and released over twenty trout in four hours. Using a popping corn with a DOA shrimp was quite an effective bait.
Besides catching the trout, Jenny landed a beautiful snook using that same bait combo. We couldn’t have asked for a better day as the water was clear, with light winds and the fish biting.
I have taken Brooke out before, she’s a special young lady and hopefully I will get to fish with her again in the future.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Dave also caught and released a 28″ red on a CAL jig with a grub fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Grassett.
Bill Morrison, from Anna Maria, with a big Spanish mackerel caught on a fly while fishing Sarasota Bay.
Shallow water fishing for reds and large trout is also a good option now, although they are very challenging in clear water. These conditions usually require long casts to avoid spooking fish.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Pictured below holding this Sarasota Bay trout are Jenny Goodell, and 13 year old Brooke. Two very fine anglers, both of these anglers are involved and belong to the International Women’s Fishing Association.
Jenny Goodell, and 13 year old Brooke, holding a Sarasota Bay Trout.
In fact, Brooke is the IWFA reigning top junior freshwater angler from last year. On our recent trip, they kept me quite busy as they caught and released over twenty trout in four hours. Using a popping corn with a DOA shrimp was quite an effective bait.
Besides catching the trout, Jenny landed a beautiful snook using that same bait combo. We couldn’t have asked for a better day as the water was clear, with light winds and the fish biting.
I have taken Brooke out before, she’s a special young lady and hopefully I will get to fish with her again in the future.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Carrie, from Hayward WI, with a nice looking Red.
I had the pleasure to take out fishing Steve and his wife Carrie. They are from the musky capital of the world Hayward, Wisconsin. The early part of the trip was slow however as the tide came in things started to pick up.
Both are excellent fisherman, and managed to catch and release, pompano, trout and some beautiful silver colored redfish. All of the fish were caught using a quarter ounce jig head with gulp or mirror lure little John tails.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.
I had the pleasure to take out fishing Steve and his wife Carrie. They are from the musky capital of the world Hayward, Wisconsin. The early part of the trip was slow however as the tide came in things started to pick up.
Carrie, from Hayward WI, with a nice looking Red.
Both are excellent fisherman, and managed to catch and release, pompano, trout and some beautiful silver colored redfish. All of the fish were caught using a quarter ounce jig head with gulp or mirror lure little John tails.
Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.