Man we have had a wet and cool winter so far here on Anna Maria Island. Not to many days where the temperature get into the 70’s which in my opinion is unusual. The cooler temperatures have been making the inshore fishing tougher than expected, so we have been venturing to nearshore reefs when the weather allows us. If you are looking to fill a cooler up with some tasty treats, this is definitely the time of year to do it!
Nearshore fishing off Anna Maria Island
The natural bottom reefs that lines the coast of Anna Maria Island and Long Boat Key are full of life right now. Early season the Hogfish bite was the best I have ever seen. We are use to getting 1 or 2 keepers a trip, this year we were seeing multiple limits of Hogfish greater than 15 inches. It has slowed down a bit, but still catching a few of these awesome fish a trip.
Along with the Hogfish we are getting a variety of other fish nearshore, from Mangrove Snapper, Porgies, Gag and Red Grouper, Sheepshead, trigger fish, you name it we are catching them right now and most are able to be iced down for a fish fry. All of these fish are being caught bottom fishing with Shrimp and Squid on a 2 ounce knocker rig. I have found positioning your self on the current side of the ledge is best.
We have also been seeing good numbers of Gag Grouper this winter out on the hard bottom. Catching these fish on light tackle can be a lot of fun! Pound for pound these fish win the pulling contest! Unfortunately, they are currently out of season, so we can not keep them, but they sure are fun to catch!
Book your next fishing charter with Wildman Adventures
Whether you are a local or here visiting our beautiful island, now is the time to be out of the reefs to catch some tasty fish for the freezer. As Spring approaches, the weather will change and we will be back on the Inshore grind soon. Anna Maria Island will start getting busier as our busy season approaches. So if you are looking to book a fishing charter please make sure you get on the books soon as we will book up fast! Tight Lines, Capt. Wes
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