The main attraction this time of year in Anna Maria Island is the tarpon, otherwise known as the silver king, these prehistoric fish are some of the most sought after gamefish during the summer on the west coast of Florida. Tarpon are here along the beaches from Siesta key all the way up past Egmont key to feed before they make their journey to spawn. Tarpon fishing can be challenging but when you hook into a fish that is over 100 pounds and see it jump clear out of the water it is a sight to behold. Some of the best fishing is right around the first full moon in June which is happening right now. Some of the best baits to use for tarpon are pinfish and threadfin herring, and also small blue crabs and pass crabs that flush out of some of the passes. Longboat pass on the north end of Longboat Key and around the Skyway Bridge in Tampa Bay are some good places to target the Tarpon with crabs and also bring dipnet and catch your own crabs to use for bait. 

The mangrove snapper have been cooperating in Tampa Bay and it will only get better as the summer goes on. these fish are around pretty much every structure in Tampa Bay and they are usually very plentiful. The fish are veryt tasty and provide for a good fight on light tackle. They are also one of the fish that we can keep o pun our fishing charters in the bay and provide for excellent table fare. 

If you are looking for a fun fishing charter to get out on the water and catch some fish give me a call at 813-220-8725 to book your trip and make some memories. We are located in Bradenton and also north to Apollo Beach and south to Sarasota and Siesta Key. 

Don't miss out on a great summer to catch fish!