Situated along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Anna Maria Island is a charming beach community known for its laid-back vibes, sugar-sand beaches, and abundant fishing opportunities. For anglers, the island provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day.
The island’s various grassy shorelines, private docks, bridges, and piers provide ample spots to sway a fishing rod. Wading into the shallow grass flats with a lightweight spinning outfit allows you to target species like trout, redfish, and snook. Alternatively, bottom fishing from one of the area’s piers gives you a shot at snapper, grouper, and other bottom dwellers. When visiting Anna Maria Island, transportation is made easy with our golf cart rentals. You don’t need to rely on a rental car. Instead, you can rent a golf cart at Anna Maria Island. Anna Maria Island is a fun place to explore on our golf carts, especially on the streets where they are allowed.
Fishing Trips
No boat? No problem.
Many local charter captains offer half-day or full day fishing trips around Anna Maria Island and surrounding waters. Climb aboard one of the charter boats and get ready for an action-packed excursion. The knowledgeable guides will take you to productive areas and supply all the bait and tackle needed for a wonderful outing.
Places to Fish Around the Island
Historic Bridge Street Pier – One of the most popular spots, this pier offers easy access and the chance to catch snook, snapper, sheepshead, and more. It’s lighted at night for after-dark fishing.
Rod & Reel Pier – Extending far out over the water north of the island, this pier produces everything from Spanish mackerel to grouper. It also has a bait and tackle shop right on site.
City Pier – Located in the town of Anna Maria, this short T-shaped pier is a community favorite. Fish for snook, redfish, and snapper right in town.
Beaches & Flats – Wade fishing the grassy flats and sandy potholes scattered around the island provides shots at trout, redfish, and other species. Top spots include Bean Point and southern tip of Anna Maria.
Types of Fish Species Found Around the Island
The waters surrounding Anna Maria Island are home to a diverse range of fish species that draw fishers from near and far. Some of the popular targets include:
- Snook – This hard-fighting fish is a prized light tackle catch. The area’s bridges, docks, and mangrove shorelines offer the structure snook love to ambush prey. Live bait like shrimp and pinfish are top producers.
- Redfish – These spotted fish cruise the island’s grass flats searching for crabs and other food. Bouncing jigs along the bottom or fishing live shrimp under a popping cork are effective tactics.
- Speckled Trout – Good numbers of trout can be caught along the seagrass beds and sandy potholes on the flats. Twitch baits, soft plastic jigs, and live shrimp fished on the bottom all work well.
- Snapper – Mangrove snapper and lane snapper frequent structures like docks and bridges. A live shrimp or cut bait fished on the bottom is a surefire way to catch them.
- Tarpon – The silver king makes its presence known around the island from spring through summer. Sight casting with live crabs or baitfish is the preferred method for targeting these giants.
With its great mix of habitats, Anna Maria Island serves up awesome fishing experiences for anglers of all skill levels.
Come experience the very best of Old Florida charm and seaside fun.
With plenty to do in addition to fishing, Anna Maria Island promises memorable adventures and new discoveries like exploring the island by renting a golf cart at Crabby Joes Cart Rentals
When not actively fishing, be sure to explore the island’s live with Anna Maria Golf Cart Rentals. Pay a visit to the local bait and tackle shops, chat with fellow anglers about hot spots and techniques, or simply relax on the beach and take in the seaside surroundings. The island offers a variety of boutique shops, eateries, and lodging options for visitors.
A day spent fishing on Anna Maria Island offers the chance to reel in treasured catches while soaking up the charm of Old Florida. With its unspoiled beaches, small town feel, and fantastic fishing, this island destination promises an unforgettable experience.