Capt. Andy Cotton’s Weekly Fishing Report
Night snook fishing for fly anglers has been good.
Anglers fishing aboard my boat the O’ Fish All out of CB’S Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key caught and released tarpon, snook, spotted seatrout, bluefish, and pompano. Fly anglers are getting numerous shots in shallow water with tarpon.
Also, night snook fishing for fly anglers has been really good with snook and juvenile tarpon under the lights. Spin fisherman have been getting spotted seatrout to 25 inches, bluefish, small sharks, ladyfish, and pompano using DOA CAL jerk Bait fished on a 1/4 ounce jig head.
Fishing low and slow with a jig around the passes in 5 to 9 foot of water have been key.
Capt. Andy loves fly fishing and light spinning tackle with artificial lures. He fishes out of an Action Craft 1720 flats skiff rigged with the latest electronics and outfitted with Orvis fly equipment and Shimano spinning tackle. Andy is the owner of O'Fish All Guide Service.
Capt. Bruce Burkhart’s Weekly Fishing Report
Fishing around Sarasota Bay is about the same as it’s been for the last few weeks. Gulp jigs under a popping cork have been the top producer but the silver CAL jigs have been doing the job also.
We have been fishing grass flats in about 6 to 8 feet of water and the action has been good. Trout were the most popular of the fish we caught. Going to different flats around the bay, anglers caught Pompano, Flounder, Jacks, Snapper and Ladyfish.
Bruce is a Florida native and has lived in Sarasota for thirty years. Capt. Bruce grew up on the east coast of Florida and started fishing with his dad when he was about six years old. Fishing has been a lifetime passion of his and in 2001 he obtained his U.S.C.G. Captain’s license.
Capt. Ed Hurst’s Weekly Fishing Report
Summertime and the living is easy in Sarasota, FL. There are still a few tarpon slinking around but I’m done with them personally. The 2018 tarpon season was a disappointing one for me. Between the storms and some red tide tarpon fishing was challenging to say the least. I’ve seen the red tide much worse in years pasts but there was enough around to upset the fish.
The storms were the biggest factor. Tarpon like nice quiet water. They have seen it all and continue to survive but that doesn’t mean the like rough churned up water. I’m back to fishing in the bay and believe it or not fishing has been pretty good. The red tide never really got into Sarasota Bay and I thank God for that.
Richard Philipson, Washington DC caught trout, bluefish, ladyfish and jacks while fly fishing with me this past week. There are some quality trout around but they are quite a bit smarter than the smaller ones.
We lost a few flies to the bluefish. The water is clear and 25 # test fluorocarbon leader material gets more takes but bluefish have extremely sharp teeth. To my way of thinking I would rather lose a couple of flies than not get the takes. The fluorocarbon leader also produces more takes from the trout especially the Gators.
We were throwing Enrico Puglisi baitfish patterns. Chartreuse/White, Gray/White, Tan/Pink/White worked well. I would suggest you start early. The heater turns up quickly this time of year. Get your morning of fishing in and then find a shady spot or hide out in the A/C. Happy Fishing!
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
Fly anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action with tarpon in the coastal gulf in Sarasota. We had multiple shots at tarpon and several hookups.
Steve Gibson, of Southern Drawl Kayak Fishing, battles a tarpon on fly tackle in the coastal gulf.
My friend Steve Gibson, of Southern Drawl Kayak Fishing, had a good day with me on Monday with multiple shots, jumping 3 tarpon and battling one to close to the boat.
Frank Zaffino, from Rochester, NY, also fly fished for tarpon several days later with me. He also had good action, jumping several tarpon.
The action was good but slowed following the new moon. Tarpon fishing should be good in the coastal gulf. Late season tarpon have usually spawned and are more aggressive.
There should also be good action with trout, blues and Spanish mackerel on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is always a good option for snook and more. Walking the beach and sight fishing snook in the surf can also be good this time of year.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure, 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 trout fishing has been very good this past week. Chad Keller and his kids’ Tyler and Reese had a good day on the water on Saturday. They caught some nice trout early then finished the morning with some scrappy snook and crafty mangrove snapper.
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 Simmons’ Weekly Fishing Report
That’s one nice looking Snook this young lady is holding.
This week, fishing aboard the “Gone Coastal” with Captain Terry Simmons, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key. I took the Matt McDaniel group out for a fun time on the water.
Dad wouldn’t have it any other way with Madelyn and Sydney out fishing dad. Madelyn and Sidney had a great time catching snook on topwater lures, trout, ladyfish and Spanish mackerel on DOA shad tail baits with 1/4oz mission fishing jig heads.
Finding clean water with moving tides are the key this time of the year.
Mornings have been the best, this week, but we did have to dodge some early morning showers.
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. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
DR.Lakkiriggi took his two daughters and father in law out for a day on the warm waters of the gulf.
It’s was a busy week on the waters surrounding Sarasota. The rain and lightning held off until the afternoons allowing for early morning charters to come off nicely. The bay is a little strained at times due to the rains and can make fishing challenging, so moving around to find the cleaner water can make the difference.
Trout seems to be the most reliable fish on my boat but large sail catfish gave quite a fight for several of my younger anglers this week. Small sharks, mangrove snapper, and ladyfish were also caught.
Visiting from Kansas City DR.Lakkiriggi decided to take his two daughters and father in law out on an early morning charter. The girls picked up quickly on the fishing techniques and were a joy to have on board.
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 Kurtz’s Weekly Fishing Report
Thanks to the nice weather fishing this week has improve in the gulf.
The fishing this week has started to improve as the water quality continues to improve. Last week seas were calm so I took advantage of the conditions and fished several days offshore.
Anglers caught mangrove and lane snapper, grunts, grouper, porgies and Spanish mackerel.
Inshore anglers caught and released snook, trout, snapper, Spanish mackerel and a few flounder.
Happy 4th of July to all my fellow anglers, have a great holiday and stay safe.
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. Jeffri Durrance’s Weekly Fishing Report
Joe Spath caught this nice looking speckled trout using a bucktail jig.
Speckled trout action has been very good in the bay around deep water flats with small sharks, bluefish, ladyfish, mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel all in the mix.
Along the beaches, tarpon are cooperating and offshore the red snapper are in season. Also this week, with help from Dr. David Holifield, we fished the Friendliest Fisherman tournament (part of the Offshore Grand Prix celebration) with D.J. Dahlstrom and Joe Spath.
The action was great with Joe using a bucktail jig to catch the biggest fish of the morning which was a 20” speckled trout. He really had the hot hand catching fish on nearly every cast for a while, it was a fun morning.
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. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Jim Dempsey, from IL, battles a tarpon he caught and released on a live crab in the coastal gulf while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Grassett.
Anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action catching and releasing tarpon on live crabs in the coastal gulf in Sarasota and trout on DOA Lures in Sarasota Bay.
Jim Dempsey. From IL, and Denis Clohisy, from WI, tarpon fished a couple of days with me during the past week. They had good action jumping several tarpon and catching and releasing two on live crabs.
The wind shifted west on our last day and tarpon in the gulf wasn’t an option.
Denis Clohisy battled this tarpon he caught and released on a live crab in the coastal gulf.
We fished deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay with CAL jigs and jerk worms or shad tails and DOA Deadly Combos where they had good action catching and releasing trout.
Denis Clohisy battled this tarpon that he caught and released on a live crab in the coastal gulf while fishing with Capt. Rick Grassett. Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf is very dependent on conditions, so when conditions are good we should have some opportunities. There should also be good action with trout, blues and Spanish mackerel on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay.
Fishing shallow water for snook and reds with lures and flies is challenging although they should also be a good option now. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is always 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. Terry Simmons’ Weekly Fishing Report
Darrell’s Anniversary Snook was a sweet catch.
Congratulations to Darrell and Wanda on 30 years of marriage. Darrell drove 9 hrs, straight after work, from Georgia.
Darrell had no idea what she had planned. Wanda wanted to surprise her husband with a guided fishing charter with me to celebrate their 30th anniversary.
With the incoming tide, I wanted to put them on snook, so we started out using a MirrOlure top dog. He was very accustomed to casting around the mangroves and “walking the dog” because he had fished a lot of bass tournaments.
After about 6 casts the snook started moving in on the lure and slamming it. He landed several and then it was her turn and within 3 casts a big snook slammed the lure and gave her quite a fight.
A Fish Called Wanda, and she happily responded.
As the big snook got close to the boat it made one more run for freedom and won. It was twice the size of his.
After the bite slowed down we left that spot going after Spanish mackerel. Once again she puts 4 mackerel in the boat and asks him where he was.
He kept working at it but started catching small trout, then as if planned she gets a nice 20″ speckled trout in the boat. And actually, he couldn’t be happier his wife outfished him, remarking “happy wife happy life.” They both really enjoyed their trip and he was quite surprised.
Again congratulations to Darrell and Wanda.
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. Andy Cotton’s Weekly Fishing Report
Alex Semerano with a nice spotted seatrout!
Anglers fishing aboard my boat the O’ Fish All out of CB’S Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key caught and released tarpon, snook, spotted seatrout, bluefish, and pompano.
Fly anglers fishing with me for tarpon last week had numerous shots at fish in shallow water. Anglers that fished Sarasota Bay with me caught and released spotted seatrout, bluefish, and pompano. Water temps in the bay are almost 90* by midday so we concentrated on the grass flats that are in the 6 to 10 range.
With fishing artificial lures or fly the key is to start early to find some consistent action before water temps heat up. Night snook fishing has continued to be good with fly anglers.
Spin anglers are scoring with DOA shrimp and the Yozuri pins minnow with the best action around lighted docks and structure with good moving water.
Capt. Andy loves fly fishing and light spinning tackle with artificial lures. He fishes out of an Action Craft 1720 flats skiff rigged with the latest electronics and outfitted with Orvis fly equipment and Shimano spinning tackle. Andy is the owner of O'Fish All Guide Service.
Capt. Jeffri Durrance’s Weekly Fishing Report
Dave Robinson displaying a nice Red Snapper.
This week saw action offshore fishing for red snapper. Several friends of mine, including Dave Robinson pictured here ho;ding a beautiful red snapper, made the trip out over 60 miles where red snapper, red grouper, scamp, mangrove snapper and lane snapper were caught.
Along the beaches, the tarpon are still schooling and bay trips are still producing speckled trout, black drum, mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel along with small sharks and some large gaff top sail cats.
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. Bruce Burkhart’s Weekly Fishing Report
Anglers fishing aboard the “Casual Lies” out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters had up and down fishing last week. With small spots of red tide floating around we had to skip around the bay a little bit.
Up in the north bay early in the week we did really well on Trout, Pompano, Jacks, and Ladyfish. Midweek I went back up to fish the same grass and the water was dirty and lots of floating weeds. We headed over to the Country Club Shores flat where the water was dirty two days earlier and it was clean with some big Trout and Flounder on it.
On the outgoing tide, we fished the shallow grass at Middlegrounds flat and 5&7 Flat and caught small Sharks, Trout, Mangrove Snapper, Jacks and Ladyfish on Greenback colored CAL jigs. There was good looking water at the inshore reefs so I grabbed some live shrimp and free-lined them down to the structure on the bottom. We ended up with some small Red and Gag Grouper and nice Mangrove Snapper.
Looks like the Red Tide has mostly moved on so I think the fishing should be picking up this next week.
Bruce is a Florida native and has lived in Sarasota for thirty years. Capt. Bruce grew up on the east coast of Florida and started fishing with his dad when he was about six years old. Fishing has been a lifetime passion of his and in 2001 he obtained his U.S.C.G. Captain’s license.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
This family was visiting from Tennessee and enjoying every minute fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Chuck Cress aboard the “Let’s Get Em”.
We had a lot of fun this week aboard the “Let’s Get Em”, my charter boat. I had families from Tennessee, Texas, and Florida aboard the boat.
I had some experienced anglers as well as a couple of first time anglers fishing with me. Snook (catch and release only) are still cooperating as are speckled trout, and nice size Mangrove snapper are plentiful once you locate them.
The picture here is of a dad and his two boys who were down from Tennessee. They enjoyed every minute fishing in Sarasota Bay. The best time to go fishing is when you can, so make it happen.
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. Terry Simmons’ Weekly Fishing Report
Let’s go fishing, there’s nothing like it when you need a good dose of Vitamin Sea.
This week, fishing aboard the “Gone Coastal” with Captain Terry Simmons, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key.
Although I generally do not take 4 anglers on a tarpon charter, this week, I made an exception.
I had some friends from all over the country that were here to bury their parents. After they were buried all the family wanted to do was catch a tarpon, to show their love and respect for their parents, who loved fishing for tarpon so much.
They bought a house here so they could stay during the season and catch as many as they could. Their family charted me for the entire week so that various members could get the chance to catch a tarpon. Some wanted to see them and some wanted to catch them.
On our first day out we saw thousands of tarpon, but tarpon being tarpon, just didn’t want to eat. We threw the kitchen sink (pinfish and crabs) at them but on our second day out we boated 1 for 3. Once we hooked up, two of the grandsons helped their father fight a 90 – 100lb tarpon to the boat. They all took turns getting that fish to the boat for picture sharing.
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. Jeffri Durrance’s Weekly Fishing Report
Nick Hoeksema with a nice trout he landed in Sarasota Bay.
Tarpon fishing has been fantastic this week for clients fishing with me on the Josie D. Greg Pratt with brother in laws Sam Browning and Larry Ochs had two great days jumping ten tarpon and landing seven.
None of the fish released were under a 100 pounds with the largest a 175-pound monster, the second large fish in only three days.
Customers have not landed fish this size in many years making this a real treat! The tarpon caught were eating crabs, pinfish, and pilchards.
The big one is still out there with your name on it so get out and hook-em up! Bay trips are still producing speckled trout and Spanish mackerel along with small sharks and some large gaff top sail cats.
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. Andy Cotton’s Weekly Fishing Report
On the water with Capt Andy Cotton.
Anglers fishing aboard my boat the O’ Fish All out of CB’S Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key caught and released tarpon, snook, sharks and a kingfish.
Tarpon fishing in the gulf this past week off of Longboat Key was great this week. Anglers fishing with me hooked and landed numerous tarpon on pinfish and crabs. Along with the tarpon bite came a few surprises with small sharks and one angler hooked and landed a 30lb king mackerel.
Fly angler John Smitherman on Tuesday hooked and lost a fish after 26 mins when the hooked pulled. He had numerous other shots at tarpon on a fly that day. Snook fishing at night and in the early morning hours has been good using small white flies and live shrimp.
If tarpon isn’t your game the inshore bite is consisting of trout, mackerel, ladyfish and pompano near the passes.
Capt. Andy loves fly fishing and light spinning tackle with artificial lures. He fishes out of an Action Craft 1720 flats skiff rigged with the latest electronics and outfitted with Orvis fly equipment and Shimano spinning tackle. Andy is the owner of O'Fish All Guide Service.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Jacob and his friend Daniel on a half day of fishing trip.
It’s Summertime in Florida. That means you need to get out early to catch fish before it gets too hot. Trout fishing has been excellent all week long with many of the fish being above the slot size.
If you are looking to just bend the rod ladyfish and catfish are a can’t miss the target. In fact, one of my clients caught 2 catfish on one topwater lure at the same time.
Grampa Herb who lives in Sarasota treated his grandson Jacob from Baltimore and his friend Daniel to a half day trip of fishing. At our first stop, we were catching trout on every cast using DOA shrimp and live shrimp under a popping cork.
The boys also got to enjoy and see several dolphins throughout the morning. Just remember you can’t catch fish if you don’t go fishing.
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. Terry Simmons’ Weekly Fishing Report
Richard Splawn with a nice snook he caught in Sarasota Bay.
This week, fishing aboard the “Gone Coastal” with Captain Terry Simmons, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key. I took Richard Splawn on a Sarasota Bay trip although we had to work to find clean water.
We saw small bait schools all over the bay with birds diving on it. Since we already had our bait we started working the flats picking up several speckled trout.
From there we started working on redfish and snook. We had one redfish take a gold spoon and we picked up three snook on shrimp and DOA shad tail artificial baits with mission fishing 1/4 oz jig head.
After that, we worked another flat with the good tide and picked up several gag groupers, mangrove snapper, trout and a three-foot bonnethead shark.
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. Andy Cotton’s Weekly Fishing Report
Night snook fishing for fly anglers has been good.
Anglers fishing aboard my boat the O’ Fish All out of CB’S Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key caught and released tarpon, snook, spotted seatrout, bluefish, and pompano. Fly anglers are getting numerous shots in shallow water with tarpon.
Also, night snook fishing for fly anglers has been really good with snook and juvenile tarpon under the lights. Spin fisherman have been getting spotted seatrout to 25 inches, bluefish, small sharks, ladyfish, and pompano using DOA CAL jerk Bait fished on a 1/4 ounce jig head.
Fishing low and slow with a jig around the passes in 5 to 9 foot of water have been key.
Capt. Andy loves fly fishing and light spinning tackle with artificial lures. He fishes out of an Action Craft 1720 flats skiff rigged with the latest electronics and outfitted with Orvis fly equipment and Shimano spinning tackle. Andy is the owner of O'Fish All Guide Service.
Capt. Bruce Burkhart’s Weekly Fishing Report
Fishing around Sarasota Bay is about the same as it’s been for the last few weeks. Gulp jigs under a popping cork have been the top producer but the silver CAL jigs have been doing the job also.
We have been fishing grass flats in about 6 to 8 feet of water and the action has been good. Trout were the most popular of the fish we caught. Going to different flats around the bay, anglers caught Pompano, Flounder, Jacks, Snapper and Ladyfish.
Bruce is a Florida native and has lived in Sarasota for thirty years. Capt. Bruce grew up on the east coast of Florida and started fishing with his dad when he was about six years old. Fishing has been a lifetime passion of his and in 2001 he obtained his U.S.C.G. Captain’s license.
Capt. Ed Hurst’s Weekly Fishing Report
Summertime and the living is easy in Sarasota, FL. There are still a few tarpon slinking around but I’m done with them personally. The 2018 tarpon season was a disappointing one for me. Between the storms and some red tide tarpon fishing was challenging to say the least. I’ve seen the red tide much worse in years pasts but there was enough around to upset the fish.
The storms were the biggest factor. Tarpon like nice quiet water. They have seen it all and continue to survive but that doesn’t mean the like rough churned up water. I’m back to fishing in the bay and believe it or not fishing has been pretty good. The red tide never really got into Sarasota Bay and I thank God for that.
Richard Philipson, Washington DC caught trout, bluefish, ladyfish and jacks while fly fishing with me this past week. There are some quality trout around but they are quite a bit smarter than the smaller ones.
We lost a few flies to the bluefish. The water is clear and 25 # test fluorocarbon leader material gets more takes but bluefish have extremely sharp teeth. To my way of thinking I would rather lose a couple of flies than not get the takes. The fluorocarbon leader also produces more takes from the trout especially the Gators.
We were throwing Enrico Puglisi baitfish patterns. Chartreuse/White, Gray/White, Tan/Pink/White worked well. I would suggest you start early. The heater turns up quickly this time of year. Get your morning of fishing in and then find a shady spot or hide out in the A/C. Happy Fishing!
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
Fly anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action with tarpon in the coastal gulf in Sarasota. We had multiple shots at tarpon and several hookups.
Steve Gibson, of Southern Drawl Kayak Fishing, battles a tarpon on fly tackle in the coastal gulf.
My friend Steve Gibson, of Southern Drawl Kayak Fishing, had a good day with me on Monday with multiple shots, jumping 3 tarpon and battling one to close to the boat.
Frank Zaffino, from Rochester, NY, also fly fished for tarpon several days later with me. He also had good action, jumping several tarpon.
The action was good but slowed following the new moon. Tarpon fishing should be good in the coastal gulf. Late season tarpon have usually spawned and are more aggressive.
There should also be good action with trout, blues and Spanish mackerel on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is always a good option for snook and more. Walking the beach and sight fishing snook in the surf can also be good this time of year.
Our natural resources are under constant pressure, 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 trout fishing has been very good this past week. Chad Keller and his kids’ Tyler and Reese had a good day on the water on Saturday. They caught some nice trout early then finished the morning with some scrappy snook and crafty mangrove snapper.
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 Simmons’ Weekly Fishing Report
That’s one nice looking Snook this young lady is holding.
This week, fishing aboard the “Gone Coastal” with Captain Terry Simmons, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key. I took the Matt McDaniel group out for a fun time on the water.
Dad wouldn’t have it any other way with Madelyn and Sydney out fishing dad. Madelyn and Sidney had a great time catching snook on topwater lures, trout, ladyfish and Spanish mackerel on DOA shad tail baits with 1/4oz mission fishing jig heads.
Finding clean water with moving tides are the key this time of the year.
Mornings have been the best, this week, but we did have to dodge some early morning showers.
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. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
DR.Lakkiriggi took his two daughters and father in law out for a day on the warm waters of the gulf.
It’s was a busy week on the waters surrounding Sarasota. The rain and lightning held off until the afternoons allowing for early morning charters to come off nicely. The bay is a little strained at times due to the rains and can make fishing challenging, so moving around to find the cleaner water can make the difference.
Trout seems to be the most reliable fish on my boat but large sail catfish gave quite a fight for several of my younger anglers this week. Small sharks, mangrove snapper, and ladyfish were also caught.
Visiting from Kansas City DR.Lakkiriggi decided to take his two daughters and father in law out on an early morning charter. The girls picked up quickly on the fishing techniques and were a joy to have on board.
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 Kurtz’s Weekly Fishing Report
Thanks to the nice weather fishing this week has improve in the gulf.
The fishing this week has started to improve as the water quality continues to improve. Last week seas were calm so I took advantage of the conditions and fished several days offshore.
Anglers caught mangrove and lane snapper, grunts, grouper, porgies and Spanish mackerel.
Inshore anglers caught and released snook, trout, snapper, Spanish mackerel and a few flounder.
Happy 4th of July to all my fellow anglers, have a great holiday and stay safe.
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. Jeffri Durrance’s Weekly Fishing Report
Joe Spath caught this nice looking speckled trout using a bucktail jig.
Speckled trout action has been very good in the bay around deep water flats with small sharks, bluefish, ladyfish, mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel all in the mix.
Along the beaches, tarpon are cooperating and offshore the red snapper are in season. Also this week, with help from Dr. David Holifield, we fished the Friendliest Fisherman tournament (part of the Offshore Grand Prix celebration) with D.J. Dahlstrom and Joe Spath.
The action was great with Joe using a bucktail jig to catch the biggest fish of the morning which was a 20” speckled trout. He really had the hot hand catching fish on nearly every cast for a while, it was a fun morning.
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. Rick Grassett’s Weekly Fishing Report
Jim Dempsey, from IL, battles a tarpon he caught and released on a live crab in the coastal gulf while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Grassett.
Anglers fishing with me recently, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action catching and releasing tarpon on live crabs in the coastal gulf in Sarasota and trout on DOA Lures in Sarasota Bay.
Jim Dempsey. From IL, and Denis Clohisy, from WI, tarpon fished a couple of days with me during the past week. They had good action jumping several tarpon and catching and releasing two on live crabs.
The wind shifted west on our last day and tarpon in the gulf wasn’t an option.
Denis Clohisy battled this tarpon he caught and released on a live crab in the coastal gulf.
We fished deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay with CAL jigs and jerk worms or shad tails and DOA Deadly Combos where they had good action catching and releasing trout.
Denis Clohisy battled this tarpon that he caught and released on a live crab in the coastal gulf while fishing with Capt. Rick Grassett. Tarpon fishing in the coastal gulf is very dependent on conditions, so when conditions are good we should have some opportunities. There should also be good action with trout, blues and Spanish mackerel on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay.
Fishing shallow water for snook and reds with lures and flies is challenging although they should also be a good option now. Fishing dock lights in the ICW at night is always 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. Terry Simmons’ Weekly Fishing Report
Darrell’s Anniversary Snook was a sweet catch.
Congratulations to Darrell and Wanda on 30 years of marriage. Darrell drove 9 hrs, straight after work, from Georgia.
Darrell had no idea what she had planned. Wanda wanted to surprise her husband with a guided fishing charter with me to celebrate their 30th anniversary.
With the incoming tide, I wanted to put them on snook, so we started out using a MirrOlure top dog. He was very accustomed to casting around the mangroves and “walking the dog” because he had fished a lot of bass tournaments.
After about 6 casts the snook started moving in on the lure and slamming it. He landed several and then it was her turn and within 3 casts a big snook slammed the lure and gave her quite a fight.
A Fish Called Wanda, and she happily responded.
As the big snook got close to the boat it made one more run for freedom and won. It was twice the size of his.
After the bite slowed down we left that spot going after Spanish mackerel. Once again she puts 4 mackerel in the boat and asks him where he was.
He kept working at it but started catching small trout, then as if planned she gets a nice 20″ speckled trout in the boat. And actually, he couldn’t be happier his wife outfished him, remarking “happy wife happy life.” They both really enjoyed their trip and he was quite surprised.
Again congratulations to Darrell and Wanda.
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. Andy Cotton’s Weekly Fishing Report
Alex Semerano with a nice spotted seatrout!
Anglers fishing aboard my boat the O’ Fish All out of CB’S Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key caught and released tarpon, snook, spotted seatrout, bluefish, and pompano.
Fly anglers fishing with me for tarpon last week had numerous shots at fish in shallow water. Anglers that fished Sarasota Bay with me caught and released spotted seatrout, bluefish, and pompano. Water temps in the bay are almost 90* by midday so we concentrated on the grass flats that are in the 6 to 10 range.
With fishing artificial lures or fly the key is to start early to find some consistent action before water temps heat up. Night snook fishing has continued to be good with fly anglers.
Spin anglers are scoring with DOA shrimp and the Yozuri pins minnow with the best action around lighted docks and structure with good moving water.
Capt. Andy loves fly fishing and light spinning tackle with artificial lures. He fishes out of an Action Craft 1720 flats skiff rigged with the latest electronics and outfitted with Orvis fly equipment and Shimano spinning tackle. Andy is the owner of O'Fish All Guide Service.
Capt. Jeffri Durrance’s Weekly Fishing Report
Dave Robinson displaying a nice Red Snapper.
This week saw action offshore fishing for red snapper. Several friends of mine, including Dave Robinson pictured here ho;ding a beautiful red snapper, made the trip out over 60 miles where red snapper, red grouper, scamp, mangrove snapper and lane snapper were caught.
Along the beaches, the tarpon are still schooling and bay trips are still producing speckled trout, black drum, mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel along with small sharks and some large gaff top sail cats.
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. Bruce Burkhart’s Weekly Fishing Report
Anglers fishing aboard the “Casual Lies” out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters had up and down fishing last week. With small spots of red tide floating around we had to skip around the bay a little bit.
Up in the north bay early in the week we did really well on Trout, Pompano, Jacks, and Ladyfish. Midweek I went back up to fish the same grass and the water was dirty and lots of floating weeds. We headed over to the Country Club Shores flat where the water was dirty two days earlier and it was clean with some big Trout and Flounder on it.
On the outgoing tide, we fished the shallow grass at Middlegrounds flat and 5&7 Flat and caught small Sharks, Trout, Mangrove Snapper, Jacks and Ladyfish on Greenback colored CAL jigs. There was good looking water at the inshore reefs so I grabbed some live shrimp and free-lined them down to the structure on the bottom. We ended up with some small Red and Gag Grouper and nice Mangrove Snapper.
Looks like the Red Tide has mostly moved on so I think the fishing should be picking up this next week.
Bruce is a Florida native and has lived in Sarasota for thirty years. Capt. Bruce grew up on the east coast of Florida and started fishing with his dad when he was about six years old. Fishing has been a lifetime passion of his and in 2001 he obtained his U.S.C.G. Captain’s license.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
This family was visiting from Tennessee and enjoying every minute fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Chuck Cress aboard the “Let’s Get Em”.
We had a lot of fun this week aboard the “Let’s Get Em”, my charter boat. I had families from Tennessee, Texas, and Florida aboard the boat.
I had some experienced anglers as well as a couple of first time anglers fishing with me. Snook (catch and release only) are still cooperating as are speckled trout, and nice size Mangrove snapper are plentiful once you locate them.
The picture here is of a dad and his two boys who were down from Tennessee. They enjoyed every minute fishing in Sarasota Bay. The best time to go fishing is when you can, so make it happen.
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. Terry Simmons’ Weekly Fishing Report
Let’s go fishing, there’s nothing like it when you need a good dose of Vitamin Sea.
This week, fishing aboard the “Gone Coastal” with Captain Terry Simmons, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key.
Although I generally do not take 4 anglers on a tarpon charter, this week, I made an exception.
I had some friends from all over the country that were here to bury their parents. After they were buried all the family wanted to do was catch a tarpon, to show their love and respect for their parents, who loved fishing for tarpon so much.
They bought a house here so they could stay during the season and catch as many as they could. Their family charted me for the entire week so that various members could get the chance to catch a tarpon. Some wanted to see them and some wanted to catch them.
On our first day out we saw thousands of tarpon, but tarpon being tarpon, just didn’t want to eat. We threw the kitchen sink (pinfish and crabs) at them but on our second day out we boated 1 for 3. Once we hooked up, two of the grandsons helped their father fight a 90 – 100lb tarpon to the boat. They all took turns getting that fish to the boat for picture sharing.
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. Jeffri Durrance’s Weekly Fishing Report
Nick Hoeksema with a nice trout he landed in Sarasota Bay.
Tarpon fishing has been fantastic this week for clients fishing with me on the Josie D. Greg Pratt with brother in laws Sam Browning and Larry Ochs had two great days jumping ten tarpon and landing seven.
None of the fish released were under a 100 pounds with the largest a 175-pound monster, the second large fish in only three days.
Customers have not landed fish this size in many years making this a real treat! The tarpon caught were eating crabs, pinfish, and pilchards.
The big one is still out there with your name on it so get out and hook-em up! Bay trips are still producing speckled trout and Spanish mackerel along with small sharks and some large gaff top sail cats.
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. Andy Cotton’s Weekly Fishing Report
On the water with Capt Andy Cotton.
Anglers fishing aboard my boat the O’ Fish All out of CB’S Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key caught and released tarpon, snook, sharks and a kingfish.
Tarpon fishing in the gulf this past week off of Longboat Key was great this week. Anglers fishing with me hooked and landed numerous tarpon on pinfish and crabs. Along with the tarpon bite came a few surprises with small sharks and one angler hooked and landed a 30lb king mackerel.
Fly angler John Smitherman on Tuesday hooked and lost a fish after 26 mins when the hooked pulled. He had numerous other shots at tarpon on a fly that day. Snook fishing at night and in the early morning hours has been good using small white flies and live shrimp.
If tarpon isn’t your game the inshore bite is consisting of trout, mackerel, ladyfish and pompano near the passes.
Capt. Andy loves fly fishing and light spinning tackle with artificial lures. He fishes out of an Action Craft 1720 flats skiff rigged with the latest electronics and outfitted with Orvis fly equipment and Shimano spinning tackle. Andy is the owner of O'Fish All Guide Service.
Capt. Chuck Cress’s Weekly Fishing Report
Jacob and his friend Daniel on a half day of fishing trip.
It’s Summertime in Florida. That means you need to get out early to catch fish before it gets too hot. Trout fishing has been excellent all week long with many of the fish being above the slot size.
If you are looking to just bend the rod ladyfish and catfish are a can’t miss the target. In fact, one of my clients caught 2 catfish on one topwater lure at the same time.
Grampa Herb who lives in Sarasota treated his grandson Jacob from Baltimore and his friend Daniel to a half day trip of fishing. At our first stop, we were catching trout on every cast using DOA shrimp and live shrimp under a popping cork.
The boys also got to enjoy and see several dolphins throughout the morning. Just remember you can’t catch fish if you don’t go fishing.
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. Terry Simmons’ Weekly Fishing Report
Richard Splawn with a nice snook he caught in Sarasota Bay.
This week, fishing aboard the “Gone Coastal” with Captain Terry Simmons, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key. I took Richard Splawn on a Sarasota Bay trip although we had to work to find clean water.
We saw small bait schools all over the bay with birds diving on it. Since we already had our bait we started working the flats picking up several speckled trout.
From there we started working on redfish and snook. We had one redfish take a gold spoon and we picked up three snook on shrimp and DOA shad tail artificial baits with mission fishing 1/4 oz jig head.
After that, we worked another flat with the good tide and picked up several gag groupers, mangrove snapper, trout and a three-foot bonnethead shark.
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.