Anna Maria Island Fish Species

Common Questions:

What types of fish can I catch on Anna Maria Island?

On Anna Maria Island, you can catch a variety of species, including snook, redfish, trout, grouper, snapper, tarpon, and cobia. Whether you’re fishing inshore or venturing out into the Gulf, there's an abundance of fish for every angler. Captain Mark Maloney with Gulf Goats Charters specializes in targeting these species for the best possible experience.

When is the best time to catch snook on Anna Maria Island?

Snook are abundant year-round in the waters surrounding Anna Maria Island, but the best time to catch them is typically in the warmer months, from spring through fall. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most productive times for snook fishing. Captain Mark knows exactly where to find them during peak seasons.

What’s the best bait for redfish on Anna Maria Island?

Redfish are commonly caught on live bait like shrimp, pinfish, and mullet. Soft plastic lures and cut bait can also be effective. With years of local experience, Captain Mark can suggest the best bait for redfish depending on the season and conditions, ensuring a successful outing.

Can I catch trout on Anna Maria Island year-round?

Yes, spotted sea trout are available year-round on Anna Maria Island. However, the peak season is typically from winter to spring. Captain Mark Maloney will guide you to the best spots, whether you're fishing in the bay or the deeper waters of the Gulf.

What are the best fishing spots for grouper on Anna Maria Island?

For grouper, the best fishing spots are often found in deeper waters, around reefs, and structures offshore. Gulf Goats Charters, with Captain Mark, offers deep-sea fishing trips where you'll have access to prime grouper grounds. Expect a thrilling catch on these guided trips.

When is the best time to catch tarpon in Anna Maria Island?

Tarpon are typically most active from late spring to early summer, especially around May and June. They are highly sought after for their size and acrobatics. Gulf Goats Charters offers guided tarpon fishing trips where Captain Mark will take you to prime tarpon hotspots during the season.

Can I catch snapper on Anna Maria Island?

Yes, snapper can be found year-round around Anna Maria Island, with the best catches occurring in the summer months. Snapper are often caught in deeper waters, and Gulf Goats Charters specializes in deep-sea fishing trips where you'll have the chance to reel in both red and mangrove snapper.

What is the best fishing method for catching cobia on Anna Maria Island?

Cobia are typically caught by sight-fishing or trolling. They are known to follow large fish or swim close to the surface, making them an exciting target. Captain Mark Maloney knows the right spots and techniques for catching cobia, ensuring a thrilling experience for anglers on Anna Maria Island.

Are there good fishing opportunities for kingfish on Anna Maria Island?

Yes, kingfish are abundant in the Gulf waters around Anna Maria Island, especially during the spring and fall. These fast and powerful fish can be caught on trolling rigs or live bait. Gulf Goats Charters offers offshore trips that target kingfish, and Captain Mark can guide you to the best locations.

What is the fishing season for cobia around Anna Maria Island?

Cobia season on Anna Maria Island typically peaks in the spring, from March to May. They are often found swimming near the surface in search of food, making them an exciting catch. Captain Mark of Gulf Goats Charters offers guided trips during this season to help you land a prized cobia.

A Gulf Goats Charters Fishing Charter targets the top Anna Maria Island Fish species including Great Barracuda (Also Called Giant Barracuda, Picuda ), Gag Grouper (Also Called Charcoal Belly, Velvet Rockfish, Grouper ), Goliath Grouper (Also Called Atlantic Goliath Grouper, Guasa, Mero, Grouper, Itajara), Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish (Also Called Dolphinfish, Common Dolphin, Mahi-Mahi, Dorado, Dourade ), Permit (Also Called ), King Mackerel (Also Called Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel ), Redfish (Also Called Red Drum, Channel Bass, Spottail Bass), Blacktip Shark (Also Called Shark, Blacktip Shark ), Snook (Also Called Common Snook, Sergeant Fish, Thin Snook), Tarpon (Also Called Silver King, Silverfish, Sábalo ), Blackfin Tuna (Also Called Deep-Bodied Tunny ), Sea Trout (Also Called Speckled Trout, Spotted Sea Trout). We primarily Fish the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa Bay.