Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Click on photo to view gallery.
Fly anglers fishing the coastal gulf with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with tarpon recently. After an extended period of west wind, we finally switched to an east wind pattern for a few days. Justin Hamblett, from Sarasota, fished a day with me and caught and released a tarpon. After a couple of refusals, a fly change resulted in a hook up. Great job!
Dean and Jana Poetzl, from PA, also fished a day in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me recently.
Fly anglers fishing the coastal gulf with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with tarpon recently. After an extended period of west wind, we finally switched to an east wind pattern for a few days. Justin Hamblett, from Sarasota, fished a day with me and caught and released a tarpon. After a couple of refusals, a fly change resulted in a hook up. Great job!
Dean and Jana Poetzl, from PA, also fished a day in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me recently.
They had good action catching and releasing numerous trout to 4-lbs and a red on DOA Deadly Combos and CAL jigs with jerk worms and shad tails.
Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and Spanish mackerel. Fishing dock lights before dawn is usually dependable for snook and more and is a great way to beat the heat.
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. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Brian and his two sons had a great day on the water catching over 40 fish.
Brian and his two sons had a great day on the water catching over 40 fish with the highlight was this beautiful snook who decided to give Brody the thrill of his young life. FYI: because of the unusual circumstances we all find ourselves in I take particular caution with my boat and equipment. My boat is soaped down every day after each trip and I’ll only charter one trip per day until conditions are safer.
The weather has been warm but there have been some nice breezes out on the water. Also I find being out on the water does wonders for one’s mind and spirit.
If you can manage it, do something good for yourself, spend a day fishing.
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
Nyghee, and his son Nyghee Jr. with a healthy looking sized Redfish they caught fishing Sarasota Bay.
Nyghee, and his son Nyghee Jr. were in town from Augusta, Georgia to play in a peewee football tournament. Dad decided to stay in town an extra day so they could take in a little fishing on Sarasota Bay. We spent the morning throwing some top water lures, and jigs with gulp and live shrimp under a popping cork.
Many nice size trout were caught, as well as Redfish, Bluefish, Catfish and Ladyfish. One giant explosion on the top water lure which could’ve been either a large snook or Tarpon surprised dad who fished on for a short while before it came unbuttoned.
The excited father and son duo can’t wait to get back out and do it again.
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. Kelly Stilwell’s Weekly Fishing Report
The trout fishing has really taken a turn for the better in Big Sarasota Bay. The Razor family had a great time catching spotted seatrout, big bluefish, and a few ladyfish.
Everything was caught on jigs and soft plastic while in Sarasota Bay.
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. Terry Simmon’s Weekly Fishing Report
With a west wind all week it wasn’t as hot and there was a low to incoming tide in the mornings. Early in the week I chartered the Edward Faicco group and although we were able to catch some trout and bluefish we had to move around a lot, only catching a few fish in each new spot. We were using CAL lures with 3/8 ounce jig heads.
Mid week I chartered the Richard Kerswner group. With an overcast day and the water temps in the high 80’s we were able to catch several trout, bluefish and jack crevelle.
With a west wind all week it wasn’t as hot and there was a low to incoming tide in the mornings. Early in the week I chartered the Edward Faicco group and although we were able to catch some trout and bluefish we had to move around a lot, only catching a few fish in each new spot. We were using CAL lures with 3/8 ounce jig heads.
Mid week I chartered the Richard Kerswner group. With an overcast day and the water temps in the high 80’s we were able to catch several trout, bluefish and jack crevelle.
When you need a good dose of Vitamin Sea… ‘Let’s Go Fishing.’
Terry was born and raised in Bradenton, FL and has been guiding clients since 2000, fishing on Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico with live bait, artificial lures and fly fishing aboard his 22’ Bay Ranger which accommodates up to 4 anglers.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Scott Perez had good action catching and releasing trout while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Grassett.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good catch and release action with trout in Sarasota Bay recently. Scott Perez and his daughter, Harper, from Indiana, fished Sarasota Bay with me and they had steady action with trout, ladyfish and a bluefish on DOA Deadly Combos and CAL jigs with shad tails. A persistent west wind has kept me from tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf recently. Hopefully we’ll go back to a normal weather pattern soon so we’re able to fish the gulf.
Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf should be a good option now but conditions are important. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is also good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and Spanish mackerel. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is usually dependable for snook 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. Ed Hursts Weekly Fishing Report
Patrick Walton, from Orlando FL, fished with Capt.Ed Hurst out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters.
This past week Patrick Walton, from Orlando FL, fished with me out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters. Patrick caught trout, ladyfish, jacks and sea bass using DOA terrorize lures. The gold and root beer colors seemed to be the color of the day.
We fished Stevens Point and the Marina Jacks flats. My advice to you is to get out early as the temperature goes up quickly as the sun gets high. All it was a great day out on the water, and all fish were caught and released.
Happy Fourth of July, and have a safe and healthy holiday weekend.
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. Terry Simmon’s Weekly Fishing Report
This week, fishing aboard the “Coastal Fishing Adventures” out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key I chartered the Aaron Marsee group and we caught several trout, ladyfish and spanish mackerel on DOA lures using 3/8 ounce jig heads at middle grounds deeper water edge.
This week, fishing aboard the “Coastal Fishing Adventures” out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key I chartered the Aaron Marsee group and we caught several trout, ladyfish and spanish mackerel on DOA lures using 3/8 ounce jig heads at middle grounds deeper water edge.
Mid week I chartered the Jason Cobb group. Even though the water temps are in the high 80’s we were able to catch some really nice trout up to 20 inches. Later in the week I chartered the Bobby Downey group, it was really hot.
We were able to get several little trout and a couple larger ones. Then we targeted some snook at the big pass rocks using live bait.
Terry was born and raised in Bradenton, FL and has been guiding clients since 2000, fishing on Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico with live bait, artificial lures and fly fishing aboard his 22’ Bay Ranger which accommodates up to 4 anglers.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Cliff and Mason Ondercin displaying a false albacore (little tunny) that Mason caught and released while tarpon fishing in the coastal gul.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with tarpon in the coastal gulf recently. Cliff and Mason Ondercin, from Sarasota, fished several days with me. Cliff had numerous shots at tarpon with a fly one day and despite some refusals, he persisted until he jumped one. They also jumped a couple of other tarpon on spinning tackle with one broken off intentionally at the boat to save it from a hammerhead attack!
Another day we had a “blitz” of false albacore (little tunny) while we were tarpon fishing and they hooked up a couple of times, on a live bait and a DOA Baitbuster. Great job!
Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf is a good option now but conditions are important. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is also good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and Spanish mackerel. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is usually dependable for snook 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. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Visiting from Alabama these guys had a great day on the water with Capt. Brandon Naeve.
June is the month for Tarpon fishing, it’s also the time of year when 10 to 15 lb Bonita run, so the Tarpon are being fussy so keep your eye out for the Bonita Express. I visitors from Alabama fishing with me this past week and believe me they were all smiles. The weather has been spectacular, the waters are warming up, and the fish seem to be plentiful.
As I said before June is prime time for Tarpon fishing so if you’d like to get out and try your hand at some sport fishing, there’s really nothing quite like it, so why not book a charter.
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
Clark Keator fights a tarpon caught and released on a fly while fishing the coastal gulf with Capt. Grassett.
Fly anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with tarpon in the coastal gulf recently. Conditions were good when Clark Keator, from Orlando, tarpon fished a couple of days with me. He had numerous shots at tarpon with a fly, hooked one and fought the fish through numerous jumps before bringing it to the boat. Great job!
Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf is a good option now but conditions are important. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is also good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and Spanish mackerel. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is usually dependable for snook 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 Weekly Fishing Report
Bill Morrison with a Spanish mackerel he caught and released on a Grassett Flats Bunny fly in Sarasota Bay.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action catching and releasing trout, bluefish & Spanish mackerel on deep grass flats on flies and CAL jigs with a variety of tails in Sarasota Bay recently. In light of the current situation, social distancing and sanitizing procedures were followed on the boat.
Bill Morrison, from Holmes Beach, fished Sarasota Bay with me recently and had good action catching and releasing blues, Spanish mackerel and trout on my Grassett Flats Bunny fly.
Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay has been a good option for action particularly if conditions aren’t good in the gulf for tarpon.
Bill Morrison with a trout that he caught and released fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf is a good option now depending on conditions. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, blues and Spanish mackerel.
Fishing shallow flats for catch and release reds and snook is also a good option. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is usually dependable for snook 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. Kelly Kurtz’s Weekly Fishing Report
We’ve had some really good days lately on the water.
The fishing the last couple weeks has been very good on the week of the new moon. Anglers fishing with me have had some really good days catching and releasing snook, redfish, black drum, sea bass and mangrove snapper.
After 2018’s red tide it is great to see the fish starting to recover and grow in size, I also see the bay is well on its way to a total recovery. I cannot stress the importance of releasing these fish as the numbers are growing steadily will be returning to normal levels in the future.
Kelly is a Sarasota native and the owner and operator of Mangrove Charters. He's passionate about fishing and hunting. As a full-time fishing guide Kelly operates out of a 22 ft. Bayscout and specializes in light tackle using both artificial and live bait. Redfish are his favorite.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Mike Perez, from Sarasota, with a red he caught and released on a CAL jig with a grub tail while fishing Sarasota Bay recently with Capt. Rick Grassett.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing trout on deep grass flats and redfish in shallow water on CAL jigs with grub tails and flies in Sarasota Bay recently.
Tarpon numbers are increasing in the coastal gulf and a fly angler fishing with me caught and released the first tarpon of the season recently. In light of the current situation, social distancing and sanitizing procedures were followed on the boat.
Vince Sharp, from Sarasota, caught and released his first tarpon on a fly while fishing the coastal gulf with me. He was a student in a CB’s Saltwater Outfitters Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing school and wanted to hone his saltwater skills with tarpon as a goal. Well done!
Bill Morrison, from Anna Maria, with a nice trout caught and released on an Ultra Hair Clouser fly while fishing Sarasota Bay recently with Capt. Rick Grassett.
Bill Morrison, from Anna Maria, fished Sarasota Bay with me on another trip and had some action catching and releasing trout to 19”on an Ultra Hair Clouser fly. Mike Perez, from Sarasota, connected with several reds on a CAL jig with a grub while fishing Sarasota Bay with me recently.
Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf is a good option now depending on conditions. Fishing shallow flats for catch and release reds and snook is also a good option. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, blues and Spanish mackerel. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is usually dependable for snook 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. Kelly Stilwell’s Weekly Fishing Report
The Faveta family had a great day out on the water.
The fishing in Sarasota Bay has been consistently good. Last week the Faveta family had a good day out on the warm waters of Sarasota Bay. They caught lots of nice spotted seatrout, a shark or two, spanish mackerel, and ladyfish.
Everything was caught on jigs and live shrimp. Fish seem to love it! With the general lifting of the lockdown regulations we should start seeing more boats on the water. The fish have had a lot of time to themselves the past month or so, I’d say it’s high time we began interrupting them.
We were able to get several little trout and a couple larger ones. Then we targeted some snook at the big pass rocks using live bait.
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. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
It felt as thought I had Sarasota Bay all to myself.
Over the last couple weeks I’ve had a chance to scout around on the water and do some fishing on my own. What I’ve discovered is that the fishing is the best I’ve seen since the pre-red tide outbreak. This is the only silver lining I’ve found in this dark cloud that is the Coronavirus Pandemic.
I’ve been catching some of the biggest, and some of the very heftiest trout I’ve seen in a very long, long time. Redfish and snook are also cooperating. All of the fish I’ve been catching have been caught on artificial Lures.
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
They’re back! This morning’s trip with Christopher and Danielle out of the Dallas/Fort Worth area of Texas was very Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action with reds, snook and trout in shallow water in Sarasota Bay and Gasparilla Sound on CAL jigs with jerk worms, shad and grub tails and with snook on flies in the ICW at night recently.
Fly and spin fishing anglers also had some action on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay with trout and more.
Anglers practiced social distancing on the boat and we were miles from another boat or person during the course of my trips. Martin Marlowe, from NY and Bruce Marlowe, from SC, fly fished the ICW at night with me and had good action catching and releasing snook and a couple of blues on my Grassett Snook Minnow fly.
Mike Perez, from Sarasota, and Louis and Mikalah Smith, from IN, caught and released trout, Spanish mackerel and bluefish in Sarasota Bay on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with a variety of tails recently.
Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, IL, fished a couple of days with me and had good action catching and releasing several reds, snook and trout on CAL jigs with jerk worms, shad and grub tails in Gasparilla Sound. The best action was with reds in skinny water in Sarasota Bay.
Fishing shallow flats for catch and release reds and snook is a good option now. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, blues and Spanish mackerel.
Check the coastal gulf for tripletail, Spanish mackerel or false albacore when conditions are good. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is also a good option for snook and more.
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. Jeffri Durrance’s Weekly Fishing Report
Solomon Holton with a nice Spanish mackerel.
Spanish Mackerel are getting thick along the area beaches and lots of fun to catch with the occasional shark crashing the party. On light tackle it makes for exciting fishing.
King mackerel are also beginning to show up inshore as well. Both mackerels as well as the sharks readily eat shrimp, threadfins, pilchards and pinfish which can be caught with sabiki rigs in the same areas you find the mackerel.
We are finding black sea bass on hard bottom areas and catching them on live shrimp.
Remember, the best time to go fishing is when you can and be sure to save some for seed!
Jeffri is a fourth generation native Floridian who grew up in Bowling Green, Florida, located in Hardee County. While growing up on a cattle and citrus operation Jeffri fished many creeks and lakes in the central Florida area as well as the Peace River.
Capt. Ed Hurst’s Weekly Fishing Report
Bill McRoy celebrated his 82nd birthday on the water.
Bill McRoy, from Chelsea MI, celebrated his 82nd birthday fly fishing with me in Sarasota Bay. Bill has had celebrated his birthday fishing with me for a long, long, time. Both of us are moving a little slower these days but we’re still out there and enjoying more than ever.
We had a beautiful morning fishing Sarasota Bay. Bill caught numerous trout and several jack caravelle. We fished Enrico Puglisi baitfish patterns on a sink tip 8 wt fly line. The weather this past week has been nothing short of spectacular and there’s never been a better time than now to enjoy the solitude that only a day on the water with a pole in your hand can give you.
John Calhoun, from Ohio, sure looks happy to be out on the beautiful waters of Sarasota Bay.
John Calhoun, from Cincinnati OH, enjoyed a near picture perfect morning fishing Sarasota Bay and Big Pass with me this week.
John was spin fishing using DOA Terrorize root beer jigs. The fish kept John busy all morning as he managed to catch some trout, jacks, ladyfish and a few bluefish. It’s a great time to be away from the TV and outside enjoying yourself.
Unless you’re living under a rock you know a lot of activities have been curtailed these past few days. There are no crowds on the water and the weather has been absolutely gorgeous.
Mike Pemberton, from MI, caught this nice looking pompano fishing off the beach on Casey Key.
Finally Mike Pemberton and Sam Maffie, from Grand Rapids MI, fished Little Sarasota Bay with me this past week. Mike spin fished and Sam fly fished. They each caught normally legal size sea trout, ladyfish and jacks. All fish were released.
Mike caught a beautiful pompano pompano fishing from the beach on south Casey Key. Come on out and enjoy the wonderful weather. It’s a great time to be outside with an small group of family or friends enjoying nature. Sometimes it’s the simple things in life that help you keep everything in perspective. Tight lines and big smiles.
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. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Sean, on the left, and his son Ryan, we’re down visiting Sarasota for the first time from the state of Iowa.
Sarasota Bay waters are beautiful shade of blue and the fishing has never been better. Rylan and his dad Sean we’re down visiting Sarasota for the first time from the state of Iowa and booked a fishing charter with me out of CB’s Outfitters on Siesta Key.
They’re pictured here holding two of the numerous trout we caught. Rylan, who outfished his dad, also landed snook, jacks, mackerel and some ladyfish. We were looking to catch a redfish to complete the inshore slam but were unable to find one.
However, we talked to other captains after we got in and they were very successful in finding redfish. This time of year is probably the best time to find this kind of fishing success.
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
Click on photo to view gallery.
Fly anglers fishing the coastal gulf with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with tarpon recently. After an extended period of west wind, we finally switched to an east wind pattern for a few days. Justin Hamblett, from Sarasota, fished a day with me and caught and released a tarpon. After a couple of refusals, a fly change resulted in a hook up. Great job!
Dean and Jana Poetzl, from PA, also fished a day in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me recently.
Fly anglers fishing the coastal gulf with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with tarpon recently. After an extended period of west wind, we finally switched to an east wind pattern for a few days. Justin Hamblett, from Sarasota, fished a day with me and caught and released a tarpon. After a couple of refusals, a fly change resulted in a hook up. Great job!
Dean and Jana Poetzl, from PA, also fished a day in Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me recently.
They had good action catching and releasing numerous trout to 4-lbs and a red on DOA Deadly Combos and CAL jigs with jerk worms and shad tails.
Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and Spanish mackerel. Fishing dock lights before dawn is usually dependable for snook and more and is a great way to beat the heat.
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. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Brian and his two sons had a great day on the water catching over 40 fish.
Brian and his two sons had a great day on the water catching over 40 fish with the highlight was this beautiful snook who decided to give Brody the thrill of his young life. FYI: because of the unusual circumstances we all find ourselves in I take particular caution with my boat and equipment. My boat is soaped down every day after each trip and I’ll only charter one trip per day until conditions are safer.
The weather has been warm but there have been some nice breezes out on the water. Also I find being out on the water does wonders for one’s mind and spirit.
If you can manage it, do something good for yourself, spend a day fishing.
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
Nyghee, and his son Nyghee Jr. with a healthy looking sized Redfish they caught fishing Sarasota Bay.
Nyghee, and his son Nyghee Jr. were in town from Augusta, Georgia to play in a peewee football tournament. Dad decided to stay in town an extra day so they could take in a little fishing on Sarasota Bay. We spent the morning throwing some top water lures, and jigs with gulp and live shrimp under a popping cork.
Many nice size trout were caught, as well as Redfish, Bluefish, Catfish and Ladyfish. One giant explosion on the top water lure which could’ve been either a large snook or Tarpon surprised dad who fished on for a short while before it came unbuttoned.
The excited father and son duo can’t wait to get back out and do it again.
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. Kelly Stilwell’s Weekly Fishing Report
The trout fishing has really taken a turn for the better in Big Sarasota Bay. The Razor family had a great time catching spotted seatrout, big bluefish, and a few ladyfish.
Everything was caught on jigs and soft plastic while in Sarasota Bay.
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. Terry Simmon’s Weekly Fishing Report
With a west wind all week it wasn’t as hot and there was a low to incoming tide in the mornings. Early in the week I chartered the Edward Faicco group and although we were able to catch some trout and bluefish we had to move around a lot, only catching a few fish in each new spot. We were using CAL lures with 3/8 ounce jig heads.
Mid week I chartered the Richard Kerswner group. With an overcast day and the water temps in the high 80’s we were able to catch several trout, bluefish and jack crevelle.
With a west wind all week it wasn’t as hot and there was a low to incoming tide in the mornings. Early in the week I chartered the Edward Faicco group and although we were able to catch some trout and bluefish we had to move around a lot, only catching a few fish in each new spot. We were using CAL lures with 3/8 ounce jig heads.
Mid week I chartered the Richard Kerswner group. With an overcast day and the water temps in the high 80’s we were able to catch several trout, bluefish and jack crevelle.
When you need a good dose of Vitamin Sea… ‘Let’s Go Fishing.’
Terry was born and raised in Bradenton, FL and has been guiding clients since 2000, fishing on Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico with live bait, artificial lures and fly fishing aboard his 22’ Bay Ranger which accommodates up to 4 anglers.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Scott Perez had good action catching and releasing trout while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Grassett.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good catch and release action with trout in Sarasota Bay recently. Scott Perez and his daughter, Harper, from Indiana, fished Sarasota Bay with me and they had steady action with trout, ladyfish and a bluefish on DOA Deadly Combos and CAL jigs with shad tails. A persistent west wind has kept me from tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf recently. Hopefully we’ll go back to a normal weather pattern soon so we’re able to fish the gulf.
Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf should be a good option now but conditions are important. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is also good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and Spanish mackerel. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is usually dependable for snook 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. Ed Hursts Weekly Fishing Report
Patrick Walton, from Orlando FL, fished with Capt.Ed Hurst out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters.
This past week Patrick Walton, from Orlando FL, fished with me out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters. Patrick caught trout, ladyfish, jacks and sea bass using DOA terrorize lures. The gold and root beer colors seemed to be the color of the day.
We fished Stevens Point and the Marina Jacks flats. My advice to you is to get out early as the temperature goes up quickly as the sun gets high. All it was a great day out on the water, and all fish were caught and released.
Happy Fourth of July, and have a safe and healthy holiday weekend.
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. Terry Simmon’s Weekly Fishing Report
This week, fishing aboard the “Coastal Fishing Adventures” out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key I chartered the Aaron Marsee group and we caught several trout, ladyfish and spanish mackerel on DOA lures using 3/8 ounce jig heads at middle grounds deeper water edge.
This week, fishing aboard the “Coastal Fishing Adventures” out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key I chartered the Aaron Marsee group and we caught several trout, ladyfish and spanish mackerel on DOA lures using 3/8 ounce jig heads at middle grounds deeper water edge.
Mid week I chartered the Jason Cobb group. Even though the water temps are in the high 80’s we were able to catch some really nice trout up to 20 inches. Later in the week I chartered the Bobby Downey group, it was really hot.
We were able to get several little trout and a couple larger ones. Then we targeted some snook at the big pass rocks using live bait.
Terry was born and raised in Bradenton, FL and has been guiding clients since 2000, fishing on Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico with live bait, artificial lures and fly fishing aboard his 22’ Bay Ranger which accommodates up to 4 anglers.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Cliff and Mason Ondercin displaying a false albacore (little tunny) that Mason caught and released while tarpon fishing in the coastal gul.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with tarpon in the coastal gulf recently. Cliff and Mason Ondercin, from Sarasota, fished several days with me. Cliff had numerous shots at tarpon with a fly one day and despite some refusals, he persisted until he jumped one. They also jumped a couple of other tarpon on spinning tackle with one broken off intentionally at the boat to save it from a hammerhead attack!
Another day we had a “blitz” of false albacore (little tunny) while we were tarpon fishing and they hooked up a couple of times, on a live bait and a DOA Baitbuster. Great job!
Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf is a good option now but conditions are important. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is also good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and Spanish mackerel. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is usually dependable for snook 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. Brandon Naeve’s Weekly Fishing Report
Visiting from Alabama these guys had a great day on the water with Capt. Brandon Naeve.
June is the month for Tarpon fishing, it’s also the time of year when 10 to 15 lb Bonita run, so the Tarpon are being fussy so keep your eye out for the Bonita Express. I visitors from Alabama fishing with me this past week and believe me they were all smiles. The weather has been spectacular, the waters are warming up, and the fish seem to be plentiful.
As I said before June is prime time for Tarpon fishing so if you’d like to get out and try your hand at some sport fishing, there’s really nothing quite like it, so why not book a charter.
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
Clark Keator fights a tarpon caught and released on a fly while fishing the coastal gulf with Capt. Grassett.
Fly anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action with tarpon in the coastal gulf recently. Conditions were good when Clark Keator, from Orlando, tarpon fished a couple of days with me. He had numerous shots at tarpon with a fly, hooked one and fought the fish through numerous jumps before bringing it to the boat. Great job!
Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf is a good option now but conditions are important. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is also good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and Spanish mackerel. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is usually dependable for snook 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 Weekly Fishing Report
Bill Morrison with a Spanish mackerel he caught and released on a Grassett Flats Bunny fly in Sarasota Bay.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action catching and releasing trout, bluefish & Spanish mackerel on deep grass flats on flies and CAL jigs with a variety of tails in Sarasota Bay recently. In light of the current situation, social distancing and sanitizing procedures were followed on the boat.
Bill Morrison, from Holmes Beach, fished Sarasota Bay with me recently and had good action catching and releasing blues, Spanish mackerel and trout on my Grassett Flats Bunny fly.
Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay has been a good option for action particularly if conditions aren’t good in the gulf for tarpon.
Bill Morrison with a trout that he caught and released fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.
Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf is a good option now depending on conditions. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, blues and Spanish mackerel.
Fishing shallow flats for catch and release reds and snook is also a good option. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is usually dependable for snook 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. Kelly Kurtz’s Weekly Fishing Report
We’ve had some really good days lately on the water.
The fishing the last couple weeks has been very good on the week of the new moon. Anglers fishing with me have had some really good days catching and releasing snook, redfish, black drum, sea bass and mangrove snapper.
After 2018’s red tide it is great to see the fish starting to recover and grow in size, I also see the bay is well on its way to a total recovery. I cannot stress the importance of releasing these fish as the numbers are growing steadily will be returning to normal levels in the future.
Kelly is a Sarasota native and the owner and operator of Mangrove Charters. He's passionate about fishing and hunting. As a full-time fishing guide Kelly operates out of a 22 ft. Bayscout and specializes in light tackle using both artificial and live bait. Redfish are his favorite.
Capt. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Mike Perez, from Sarasota, with a red he caught and released on a CAL jig with a grub tail while fishing Sarasota Bay recently with Capt. Rick Grassett.
Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing trout on deep grass flats and redfish in shallow water on CAL jigs with grub tails and flies in Sarasota Bay recently.
Tarpon numbers are increasing in the coastal gulf and a fly angler fishing with me caught and released the first tarpon of the season recently. In light of the current situation, social distancing and sanitizing procedures were followed on the boat.
Vince Sharp, from Sarasota, caught and released his first tarpon on a fly while fishing the coastal gulf with me. He was a student in a CB’s Saltwater Outfitters Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing school and wanted to hone his saltwater skills with tarpon as a goal. Well done!
Bill Morrison, from Anna Maria, with a nice trout caught and released on an Ultra Hair Clouser fly while fishing Sarasota Bay recently with Capt. Rick Grassett.
Bill Morrison, from Anna Maria, fished Sarasota Bay with me on another trip and had some action catching and releasing trout to 19”on an Ultra Hair Clouser fly. Mike Perez, from Sarasota, connected with several reds on a CAL jig with a grub while fishing Sarasota Bay with me recently.
Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf is a good option now depending on conditions. Fishing shallow flats for catch and release reds and snook is also a good option. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, blues and Spanish mackerel. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is usually dependable for snook 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. Kelly Stilwell’s Weekly Fishing Report
The Faveta family had a great day out on the water.
The fishing in Sarasota Bay has been consistently good. Last week the Faveta family had a good day out on the warm waters of Sarasota Bay. They caught lots of nice spotted seatrout, a shark or two, spanish mackerel, and ladyfish.
Everything was caught on jigs and live shrimp. Fish seem to love it! With the general lifting of the lockdown regulations we should start seeing more boats on the water. The fish have had a lot of time to themselves the past month or so, I’d say it’s high time we began interrupting them.
We were able to get several little trout and a couple larger ones. Then we targeted some snook at the big pass rocks using live bait.
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. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
It felt as thought I had Sarasota Bay all to myself.
Over the last couple weeks I’ve had a chance to scout around on the water and do some fishing on my own. What I’ve discovered is that the fishing is the best I’ve seen since the pre-red tide outbreak. This is the only silver lining I’ve found in this dark cloud that is the Coronavirus Pandemic.
I’ve been catching some of the biggest, and some of the very heftiest trout I’ve seen in a very long, long time. Redfish and snook are also cooperating. All of the fish I’ve been catching have been caught on artificial Lures.
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
They’re back! This morning’s trip with Christopher and Danielle out of the Dallas/Fort Worth area of Texas was very Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action with reds, snook and trout in shallow water in Sarasota Bay and Gasparilla Sound on CAL jigs with jerk worms, shad and grub tails and with snook on flies in the ICW at night recently.
Fly and spin fishing anglers also had some action on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay with trout and more.
Anglers practiced social distancing on the boat and we were miles from another boat or person during the course of my trips. Martin Marlowe, from NY and Bruce Marlowe, from SC, fly fished the ICW at night with me and had good action catching and releasing snook and a couple of blues on my Grassett Snook Minnow fly.
Mike Perez, from Sarasota, and Louis and Mikalah Smith, from IN, caught and released trout, Spanish mackerel and bluefish in Sarasota Bay on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with a variety of tails recently.
Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, IL, fished a couple of days with me and had good action catching and releasing several reds, snook and trout on CAL jigs with jerk worms, shad and grub tails in Gasparilla Sound. The best action was with reds in skinny water in Sarasota Bay.
Fishing shallow flats for catch and release reds and snook is a good option now. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, blues and Spanish mackerel.
Check the coastal gulf for tripletail, Spanish mackerel or false albacore when conditions are good. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is also a good option for snook and more.
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. Jeffri Durrance’s Weekly Fishing Report
Solomon Holton with a nice Spanish mackerel.
Spanish Mackerel are getting thick along the area beaches and lots of fun to catch with the occasional shark crashing the party. On light tackle it makes for exciting fishing.
King mackerel are also beginning to show up inshore as well. Both mackerels as well as the sharks readily eat shrimp, threadfins, pilchards and pinfish which can be caught with sabiki rigs in the same areas you find the mackerel.
We are finding black sea bass on hard bottom areas and catching them on live shrimp.
Remember, the best time to go fishing is when you can and be sure to save some for seed!
Jeffri is a fourth generation native Floridian who grew up in Bowling Green, Florida, located in Hardee County. While growing up on a cattle and citrus operation Jeffri fished many creeks and lakes in the central Florida area as well as the Peace River.
Capt. Ed Hurst’s Weekly Fishing Report
Bill McRoy celebrated his 82nd birthday on the water.
Bill McRoy, from Chelsea MI, celebrated his 82nd birthday fly fishing with me in Sarasota Bay. Bill has had celebrated his birthday fishing with me for a long, long, time. Both of us are moving a little slower these days but we’re still out there and enjoying more than ever.
We had a beautiful morning fishing Sarasota Bay. Bill caught numerous trout and several jack caravelle. We fished Enrico Puglisi baitfish patterns on a sink tip 8 wt fly line. The weather this past week has been nothing short of spectacular and there’s never been a better time than now to enjoy the solitude that only a day on the water with a pole in your hand can give you.
John Calhoun, from Ohio, sure looks happy to be out on the beautiful waters of Sarasota Bay.
John Calhoun, from Cincinnati OH, enjoyed a near picture perfect morning fishing Sarasota Bay and Big Pass with me this week.
John was spin fishing using DOA Terrorize root beer jigs. The fish kept John busy all morning as he managed to catch some trout, jacks, ladyfish and a few bluefish. It’s a great time to be away from the TV and outside enjoying yourself.
Unless you’re living under a rock you know a lot of activities have been curtailed these past few days. There are no crowds on the water and the weather has been absolutely gorgeous.
Mike Pemberton, from MI, caught this nice looking pompano fishing off the beach on Casey Key.
Finally Mike Pemberton and Sam Maffie, from Grand Rapids MI, fished Little Sarasota Bay with me this past week. Mike spin fished and Sam fly fished. They each caught normally legal size sea trout, ladyfish and jacks. All fish were released.
Mike caught a beautiful pompano pompano fishing from the beach on south Casey Key. Come on out and enjoy the wonderful weather. It’s a great time to be outside with an small group of family or friends enjoying nature. Sometimes it’s the simple things in life that help you keep everything in perspective. Tight lines and big smiles.
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. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Sean, on the left, and his son Ryan, we’re down visiting Sarasota for the first time from the state of Iowa.
Sarasota Bay waters are beautiful shade of blue and the fishing has never been better. Rylan and his dad Sean we’re down visiting Sarasota for the first time from the state of Iowa and booked a fishing charter with me out of CB’s Outfitters on Siesta Key.
They’re pictured here holding two of the numerous trout we caught. Rylan, who outfished his dad, also landed snook, jacks, mackerel and some ladyfish. We were looking to catch a redfish to complete the inshore slam but were unable to find one.
However, we talked to other captains after we got in and they were very successful in finding redfish. This time of year is probably the best time to find this kind of fishing success.
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.