Sarasota Bay Fishing Charters

The average price for a private 4 hour Sarasota Bay fishing trip is US $526, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $943 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Which fishing charters in Sarasota Bay are good for families?

Fishing charters in Sarasota Bay that received great reviews from families are:

What are the top fish species I can catch in Sarasota Bay?

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Sarasota Bay are:

What are the top fishing techniques in Sarasota Bay?

The top 3 fishing techniques in Sarasota Bay are:

What are the top types of fishing in Sarasota Bay?

The top 3 types of fishing in Sarasota Bay are:

Do Sarasota Bay fishing charters provide rods, reels and tackle?

Many fishing charters in Sarasota Bay provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

Who are the best rated captains in Sarasota Bay?

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Sarasota Bay are:

Who are the top awarded captains in Sarasota Bay?

Who are the top awarded captains in Sarasota Bay?

What fishing trips are offered by fishing charters in Sarasota Bay?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Sarasota Bay are:

2-hour fishing trips – US $360
3-hour fishing trips – US $399
4-hour fishing trips – US $557
6-hour fishing trips – US $816
8-hour fishing trips – US $1,157
10-hour fishing trips – US $1,863
12-hour fishing trips – US $2,250

Fishing in Sarasota Bay

Fishing in Sarasota Bay is a unique and memorable way to spend the day, no matter your level of angling experience. These productive waters are home to a wide array of species, each of them more fun to catch than the last.

Avid inshore and nearshore anglers come here to test their skills and see if the fishery is as good as the rumors claim. Most of the time, they get confirmation loud and clear.

What to Expect

Sarasota Bay stretches from South Sarasota all the way to Manatee County, and it’s teeming with prized fish that are always hungry. In this estuary’s brackish waters, the fishing action is solid all year, it’s only a matter of where to go and which setup to use.

Your choice of fishing grounds will depend on what you’d like to find at the end of your line. The grass flats are the hideout of Tarpon, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Snook, as well as Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and Pompano. If you’d like to have a productive day on the water with plenty of hookups, the flats won’t let you down.

When you cast your line around bridges, pilings, and piers, anything from Snapper and Sheepshead, to Jack Crevalle and Black Drum is in the cards. There are also many harbors around the bay, that have shallow waters and very good Trout, Snook, and Redfish action.

If you’d like to explore the nearshore bite, hit the reefs and wrecks – you’ll find a variety of local favorites like King Mackerel, Flounder, Bonito, Amberjack, Grouper, and Snapper waiting for you.

How to Catch ‘Em

Because the fishing conditions are good (to say the least) year-round, fish are always out and about, lurking for their next meal. The optimal time to go fishing in Sarasota Bay is when the water temperature hits 70 degrees, because this is when the fish are most active – not to mention hungry.

Both live bait and artificial lures are equally productive on these bountiful waters. A good assortment of lures is excellent for getting the attention of Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Jacks, and Snook, especially if you use them around oyster bars and grass beds. The best part is that both beginners or pros will equally enjoy finding the fishing style that suits them the most.

What Trip to Choose

You can spend your whole life exploring Sarasota Bay and still not cover all the ample opportunities it has. Because this is such a large body of water, heading out with a guide is a smart choice.

There are specialized trips suited for seasoned anglers, as well as shorter excursions that are perfect for families who love to go fishing together. Local captains usually have decades of expertise they share with their customers, and they’ll also take care of licenses and equipment. If you’re going fishing in Sarasota Bay in the summer, it’s highly recommended to book an early trip, to avoid the heat and make the most of the morning bite.

Just bring some drinks, snacks, appropriate clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses. And voila, your fishing adventure can begin!

Sarasota Bay

4.8 / 5

Based on 28545 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Sarasota Bay Fishing Seasons

January

As the year begins, temperatures are dropping, which means that the fish are hiding in deeper waters, creeks, and canals. This is where you’ll find plenty of Snook, Black Drum, Jack Crevalle, and Sheepshead.

February

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean that the fishing has to slow down. Hit the water on a sunny day and see how many Sheepshead, Redfish, Snapper, Tripletail, and Trout you can catch.

March

Whether it’s Black Drum or Jack Crevalle, Tripletail or Redfish, Snapper or Sheepshead, you can find them all in Sarasota Bay come March.

April

This is one of the prime fishing months in the area. Just about anything you can think of is on the menu – Spanish Mackerel, Permit, Pompano, Jack Crevalle, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, and many more.

May

If Tarpon fishing is your passion, then May is the time to chase your biggest catch yet. The same goes for Snook, Permit, Spanish Mackerel, Jacks, King Mackerel, and the list just goes on.

June

It’s getting quite hot on the water, so this is the time to start thinking about booking early-morning trips. Just about anything bites now, especially if you go fishing before sunrise or after sunset.

July

So much fish to catch, so little time! Come face-to-gills with massive Tarpon, fill your cooler with delicious Snapper, or chase Pompano, Permit, Redfish, and Spanish Mackerel.

August

In August the action is nothing short of phenomenal because you can find fish closer to shore and it’s usually a matter of minutes before you’re fighting a Jack, Snapper, Grouper, or Snook.

September

You can finally take a breather from the heat and focus on the excellent fishing season at hand this fall. You can find anything from Bonito, King Mackerel, and Flounder to Bluefish on your line.

October

Fall is here, and with it comes the top-notch Black Drum, Spotted Seatrout, and Redfish fishery. Other species are still very much active, but these three take the center stage in October.

November

It’s very pleasant on the water when the wind isn’t too strong. The Trout bite is solid, and both Snook and Redfish are roaming the flats and mangrove shorelines, ready to gulp down your bait.

December

Sheephead is back, as well as Tripletail, Snapper, and Jack Crevalle. If you’d like to stay closer to shore, Redfish action is good in December and you can easily hook a big one.

Sarasota Bay Fishing Calendar

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What anglers said about fishing in Sarasota Bay

Captain Louis went out of his way to provide a high quality tailored fishing trip, he taught us how to fish and took us to several hot spots. My son caught so many fish he lost count. Smiles all around for the adventure. We all loved it. We would book with him in the future.

5.0 / 5

Island Boat Tours & Adventures

This trip was expensive but worth every penny for the fun we all had (ages 9 to 77)!

5.0 / 5

This trip was expensive but worth every penny for the fun we all had (ages 9 to 77)!

Sarasota Sport Fishing, Fish Guaranteed!

Great beginning charter for those looking for fun family experience. May be a bit of a rough ride for small ones and elderly.

4.7 / 5

Great beginning charter for those looking for fun family experience. May be a bit of a rough ride for small ones and elderly.

Anna Maria Charter Fishing

Definitely watch the weather! It was windy so we didn’t get on all the big fish we wanted but still a great time and memory we won’t forget

5.0 / 5

Definitely watch the weather! It was windy so we didn’t get on all the big fish we wanted but still a great time and memory we won’t forget

Rodbender Fishing Charters

Just remember it is called fishing and not catching. We had caught a bunch of fish, just not the “monster” the captain was after.

5.0 / 5

Just remember it is called fishing and not catching. We had caught a bunch of fish, just not the “monster” the captain was after.

Home Again Old Florida Adventures

Rely on a fishing charter for your first time out. Definitely worth going with Reel Fishing SWFL. And it's a MUST to hire Miguel from Reel Fishing SWFL Charters. Fee is very reasonable compared to other Charters in the area. It was perfect for my husband and I. We received Miguel's full attention. We learned many things about saltwater fishing. The wildlife was beautiful. I can't say enough good things about this charter. We'd DEFINITELY charter again. Thanks Miguel for a wonderful time.

5.0 / 5

Reel Fishing SWFL Charters

Fantastic. Our trip way exceeded our expectations. Worth you time and money. You will love Jason as much we did. Do not miss this chance!

5.0 / 5

Fantastic. Our trip way exceeded our expectations. Worth you time and money. You will love Jason as much we did. Do not miss this chance!

Dreams Reelized Fishing

This is a difficult time of year for some species of fish. The captain DID deliver with what was here and provided a quality, well priced trip.

3.7 / 5

This is a difficult time of year for some species of fish. The captain DID deliver with what was here and provided a quality, well priced trip.

Neptune Charters Enterprise INC

Captain Joseph can get you into most fish any time of the year. Don't hesitate to book a trip with him.

5.0 / 5

Captain Joseph can get you into most fish any time of the year. Don't hesitate to book a trip with him.

Calusa Coast Charters Bradenton, Florida

The recent cold spell dampened the fishing a little, but we still had a great time.

5.0 / 5

The recent cold spell dampened the fishing a little, but we still had a great time.

Reel Fun Charter

Check the weather and remember to wear more layers that you think you'll need. It can be cold in January.

5.0 / 5

Check the weather and remember to wear more layers that you think you'll need. It can be cold in January.

High Class Hooker Charters - Sarasota

Weather can be the factor most days but when it cooperates you’ll have a great day on the water.

4.7 / 5

Weather can be the factor most days but when it cooperates you’ll have a great day on the water.

Reel Fishing SWFL Charters

Definitely fun fishing for red fish. But whatever you can get on is fun. There are so many areas and a diverse amount of species

5.0 / 5

Definitely fun fishing for red fish. But whatever you can get on is fun. There are so many areas and a diverse amount of species

Chasin Finns Riverview, Florida

Listen to the Captain. Deal with weather not behaving & you’ll catch fish.

5.0 / 5

Listen to the Captain. Deal with weather not behaving & you’ll catch fish.

Reel Fishing SWFL Charters

Book with Captain Bill! Extremely knowledgeable for anglers just starting out.

5.0 / 5

Book with Captain Bill! Extremely knowledgeable for anglers just starting out.

Skyway Fishing Tours

Have correct expectations. Time of year can really determine what fish will be available

5.0 / 5

Have correct expectations. Time of year can really determine what fish will be available

Sarasota Family Fishing Charters

Check with your captain a couple of days ahead of your trip to check boating conditions and be flexible for rescheduling. It can get cold at times out on the water in October, so dress in layers.

5.0 / 5

Check with your captain a couple of days ahead of your trip to check boating conditions and be flexible for rescheduling. It can get cold at times out on the water in October, so dress in layers.

Neptune Charters Enterprise INC

Trust your Capt to know what is bitting. They are on the water and know what to target and where to go. Some days are very good and some a little slower. Thats why it's called fishing and not just catching.

5.0 / 5

Windward Fishing Charters

An experienced captain can make it an excellent experience for you as a beginner.

4.7 / 5

An experienced captain can make it an excellent experience for you as a beginner.

Sarasota Family Fishing Charters Old Saybrook, CT

I would recommend bringing sun screen and lot of water. Also don't forget your camera because you will be filming great memories.

5.0 / 5

I would recommend bringing sun screen and lot of water. Also don't forget your camera because you will be filming great memories.

Lucky 13 Charters West Miami, FL

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Sarasota Bay?

Best Catch Fishing – Inshore & Nearshore
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(107 reviews)

Best fishing trip my son will never forget. Josh is great with kids and knows what he’s doing. All 3 spots we hooked fish. My son caught an Inshore Grand Slam in 90 minutes of fishing. Red Fish, Trout, and a 22” Snook! Stop looking and book with Josh!

David O.

Dandy Charter Fishing
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(97 reviews)

Matt, our Capt, a great guy. Easy going, enjoyable conversation. He took good care of us and put is on the fish!

Bob C.

Paradise Fly Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(221 reviews)

Caught many fish and really enjoyed our time with Captain Chris and First Mate Phil. Will go with Captain Chris again in the future. Very enjoyable trip! Thank you!

Sarah S.

Reel Addiction Inshore Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Sarasota

4.7 / 5

(63 reviews)

Our guide, John, was very good- very easy to talk with and easy going, we could tell he was doing his best to find us some good spots to fish. We had to move to a few different locations as the fish just weren't biting much. We were just hoping to have caught more local fish that we could take home for the price of the charter.

Kaitlin G.

Reel Fun Charter
Fishing charter in Cortez

5.0 / 5

(49 reviews)

Great time fishing today. Plenty of fish caught. Redfish, snook, sea catfish, and barracuda. Learned some new techniques from Capt Terry TALBERT aboard his Reel Fun Charters. A great on the water . Thanks Capt. Terry..

Scott W.

Dandy Charter Fishing
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(97 reviews)

Matt Dandy gave us an excellent fishing trip. He had first class equipment and knew all the spots to catch fish. This guy is top of the list for us

John C.

So Salty Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bradenton Beach

5.0 / 5

(44 reviews)

Capt Anthony put my son and his two friends on a ton of fish in tough windy conditions! They had a blast!! Thanks again Capt Anthony!!!

David B.

Calusa Coast Charters
Fishing charter in Siesta Key

5.0 / 5

(14 reviews)

Joe was friendly and knowledgeable. We had a great trip and would highly recommend his services.

Nicholas B.

Home Again Old Florida Adventures
Fishing charter in Longboat Key

5.0 / 5

(96 reviews)

Did a half day charter with Captain JD and left wishing we did a full day. The time flew by as he’s a fantastic Captain who knows where the fish are, and he’s a class act, just a pleasure to fish with. I’ve done a number of charters over the years and he’s top of the list. I would highly recommend.

Mike R.

Rodbender Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(646 reviews)

Once again, we had 2 great morning trips with Captain Scott. We were able to fish for the king mackerel and ended up catching 3- 1 which we were able to keep and eat. Winds were definitely problematic both days but we were also able to have some fun inshore with jacks and grouper.

James K.

Stellar Action Fishing Charters – 23’
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(125 reviews)

Cap'n Darius is the man! I would highly recommend to anyone looking to catch some fish and learn a few things along the way.

Michael M.

Chasin’ Tail Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(402 reviews)

Our family had a fantastic time fishing with Captain Mike! We caught a lot of fish and enjoyed our time out on the water. He also told us where to have them prepared! Thanks again Captain Mike and Chasin' Tail Charters we look forward to next year. Highly recommend this charter

Susan B.

Windward Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(147 reviews)

Tim was a great guide and very lax! He knew all the good spots and was super helpful with everything! 100% recommend!

Hannah D.

Sarasota Sport Fishing, Fish Guaranteed!
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(22 reviews)

Just like advertised we got caught fish, explored the area and had fun. The 2 people that were hesitant about fishing are ready to go again with more fishing next time.

Kevin M.

Sarasota Sport Fishing, Fish Guaranteed!
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(22 reviews)

We had a great time out with our guide! Caught a variety of species and even saw a barracuda, who was stealing our catch as we brought them in!

Julie S.

Reel Tight Fishing Charters – Siesta Key
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(158 reviews)

Caught flounder,sheepshead,amber jacks,groupers, and mangrove snapper. A lot of action and the captain worked hard to keep us in the action.

Trevor W.

Best Coast Fishing Charters – Sarasota, FL
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(17 reviews)

Dalton was excellent super attentive and helped with instructions for the kids and wife. We had a great time and would book Dalton again.

John R.

Sarasota Sport Fishing, Fish Guaranteed!
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(22 reviews)

My 7yr old (first time fishing saltwater) and I had a great time, hooked up on a bunch of smalls but a variety of species and we were consistently on fish. Good value! Thanks

Sebastian B.

Chasin’ Tail Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Sarasota

5.0 / 5

(402 reviews)

Beautiful morning and a great ride to Sarasota Bay with Mike. He put us on the bite even though the Fish were not too hungry. Mike kept at it as we crisscrossed the bay searching for the bite. Great morning on the water.

Mark C.