Here in Bradenton and Anna Maria Island spring is here in full force and so are the spring breakers and snow birds. We have been experiencing great weather for the most part with the occasional strong cold front around. The fishing has been awesome with perfect spring time water temperatures lately and lots of happy guests on our fishing charters. Easter is right around the corner and the fishing will get even better.

On our inshore fishing charters we have mainly been targeting snook, redfish, spotted seatrout, and Spanish mackerel. With the snook and redfish we are having good success with an incoming tide on the shallow grass flats close to mangrove shorelines and islands. Once the tide is high enough we are fishing as close to the mangroves as possible to present our baits in the deep undercuts. For the spotted seatrout and Spanish mackerel we are having the most luck on the grass flats and scattered grass patches in Tampa Bay in about five to ten feet of water. We have also encountered plenty of ladyfish, some jack crevelle, and small lemon sharks. We are primarily fishing with live pilchards. The bait has been at the skyway fishing piers and also showing up on some of the shallow grass flats at the mouth of the Manatee River.

Just off the beaches of Anna Maria Island and out a couple miles into the Gulf of Mexico we are starting to see the migratory king mackerel show up around some of the artificial reefs and areas of live hard bottom that are holding a good amount of bait. Accompanying the king mackerel are Spanish mackerel, bluefish, blacktip sharks, cobia, and bonita. This can be action packed fishing and these fish are all great fun on light tackle. We are using the same live pilchards to catch these fish. Once we locate them we live chum in hopes of creating a feeding frenzy. When this happens it is an unforgettable sight.

If you are looking for a fishing charter in the Bradenton/Anna Maria Island area give me a call or text 813-220-8725 Email: onamissionfishing@gmail.com to inquire and book a trip. We are owner operated and kid friendly. We welcome anglers of all ages and skill levels.