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Looking Forward To a Great Spring
Capt. Taylor Cowieson
January 30, 2024
Bradenton - Saltwater Fishing Report
As we approach the end of January it is looking like we have got the harshest part of our cold, wet winter over with here in Anna Maria Island/Bradenton. We are still getting cold fronts but the days are getting longer, and with more sunlight that means warmth for the fish! The spring fishing is going to be fantastic so make sure to get your fishing charter booked.
As the water temps slowly start to creep back up into the mid to high 60s with some brief warming trends in between cold fronts the inshore flats fishing will get better and better. Snook, seatrout, and redfish are the main targets. We look for mangrove points with current, oyster beds, and areas adjacent to deeper water. Most of the times in the spring we are using live bait for the best results. The bait is still in deep water this time of year but will gradually start to get onto the shallow grass flats as the springs goes on. On some of the deeper grass flats outside the Manatee River we are getting good action with spotted seatrout, Spanish mackerel, ladyfish, and jack crevelle. The reefs and major bridges in Tampa Bay are producing good sheepshead action as these fish start to heavily spawn. Sheepshead primarily feed on crustaceans. I like to use live shrimp. You can also use small mud crabs.
Within the next 4 to 6 weeks we should start to see the king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, bonita, sharks, and cobia as they migrate up our coastal beaches. They are chasing schools of sardines, pilchards, and threadfin herring. When these fish make it to our area along the beaches of Anna Maria Island and the artificial reefs just a couple miles into the Gulf of Mexico it can provide for great fishing action! These fish provide great fun and unforgettable battles on rod and reel. Right now getting out to some of the artificial reefs and natural ledges in the Gulf has been producing some great sheepshead, Key West grunts, mangrove snapper, and lane snapper. All of these are great eating fish.
Tarpon will start to funnel into Tampa Bay and just off our beaches in April and May. If you are looking to go tarpon fishing give me a call! There are a couple different ways that I enjoy fishing for these beautiful fish. Finding a school of migratory fish cruising a couple hundred yards off the beach is one of the coolest ways to hook into a tarpon. I also fish for them around the Sunshine Skyway bridge and Egmont Key depending on conditions. Tarpon are purely a game fish and we always practice catch and release.
As we get closer to March and April we are approaching the height of our season. It is best to book your fishing charter soon to ensure that you get the day you are looking for. Call me or text 813-220-8725 to inquire and book your fishing charter. This is a great way to spend with family and friends and make awesome memories. We are kid friendly and cater to all skill levels including people that have never fished before! We are based in Bradenton and Anna Maria Island.
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