Seasonal Fishing Guide for Sarasota Bay

Seasonal Fishing Guide for Sarasota Bay

Sarasota Bay is a year-round fishing destination, offering a variety of species to target no matter the season. However, understanding how fish behavior changes with the weather and water temperature can make a big difference in your success on the water. Here’s a seasonal breakdown of what to expect when fishing Sarasota Bay.

Winter Fishing (December - February)

As the water cools, many species migrate into the bay’s deeper channels and around structures like docks, bridges, and reefs. This is the time to focus on bottom fishing for:

   •   Sheepshead – Found around pilings and rock formations, these fish are plentiful in winter and bite readily on shrimp or fiddler crabs.

   •   Redfish – Schooling redfish can be found in the shallows, especially during sunny afternoons when the water warms up.

   •   Flounder – Target sandy bottoms near docks and channels for flounder using live shrimp or soft plastics.

   •   Mangrove Snapper – These versatile fish stay active near structures year-round.

   •   Black Drum – Large black drum can often be found near bridges and docks, feeding on crustaceans.

*Pro Tip: Focus on fishing during the warmest parts of the day and look for areas with less wind exposure.

Spring Fishing (March - May)

Spring brings rising water temperatures and increased fish activity, making it one of the best seasons to fish Sarasota Bay. The inshore reefs and nearshore waters come alive with:

   •   King Mackerel and Spanish Mackerel – These fast-moving fish follow bait schools and provide thrilling action on light tackle.

   •   Cobia – Often found cruising near structure or following rays, cobia are a prized catch during spring.

   •   Triple-Tail – Look for these fish near floating debris or buoys and cast shrimp or small jigs for a strike.

   •   Snapper – Both mangrove and lane snapper are active around reefs and structures during this time.

*Pro Tip: Troll or cast spoons and live bait near bait schools to attract mackerel and cobia.

Summer Fishing (June - August)

When the summer heat sets in, early mornings and evenings become the best times to fish. The warm water brings in species that thrive in higher temperatures, including:

   •   Sharks – Blacktip, bonnethead, and lemon sharks are common in summer and can be caught using fresh-cut bait.

   •   Spanish Mackerel – These speedsters stay active, especially near bait schools and grass flats.

   •   Mangrove Snapper – Found near docks, mangroves, and reefs, they’re a reliable summer catch.

   •   Whiting and Key West Grunts – Both species are abundant in sandy-bottom areas and are great for family fishing trips.

Pro Tip: Stay hydrated, use plenty of sunscreen, and fish during cooler parts of the day for a more comfortable and productive trip.

Fall Fishing (September - November)

Fall offers a mix of the action-packed fishing seen in spring and the cooler weather of winter. As fish prepare for their migration or feeding frenzy before winter, you’ll find:

   •   Reef Fish – King mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and snapper are abundant around artificial reefs.

   •   Cobia, Permit and Triple-Tail – These species return, and they’re often spotted near buoys or other floating structures.

   •   Redfish – Schools of bull redfish gather in the shallows, creating incredible opportunities for anglers.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the weather, as fall storms can influence fishing conditions. Look for feeding activity near bait pods.

Plan Your Sarasota Bay Adventure

Sarasota Bay offers something for every angler, no matter the time of year. By adjusting your tactics and targeting seasonal species, you can enjoy the rich diversity of this beautiful fishery year-round. Whether you’re after a trophy redfish in the winter, a powerful king mackerel in spring, or a thrilling shark battle in summer, Sarasota Bay is the place to be.

Keep Em Tight and Never Give Up The Fight!

Capn Doug We’re Tearin’ Em Up! in Sarasota, Fl.