With over 1000 species of fish located off the shorelines of the Siesta Key barrier island, the reputation for outstanding fishing in this area needs no introduction. Freshwater lakes, warm water canals with deep pockets, and deep sea access in the Gulf of Mexico provide ample opportunity to cast a line when fishing in Siesta Key, depending on the experience you’re looking for on your next Siesta Key Vacation.
Fish by Boat
If you’re new to fishing in the gulf, there are plenty of companies that would love to take you out on your next vacation. Siesta Key Fishing Charters and Chasin’ Tail Fishing Charters are just a few. Just some of the fish they can lead you to include grouper, snapper, amberjack, king fish, American red snapper, blackfin tuna, cobia, and other reef species.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to rent a boat and venture out on your own, that’s absolutely doable too. Blue Wave Boat Rental LLC is happy to bring the boat to you and provide a little bit more flexibility when it comes to your adventures (boats can be rented overnight, even on a weekly or monthly basis and can also be brought out into the Gulf). Whether you’re looking for a party barge or a speedboat, they’ve got it. They also offer charters that are customizable to your group in case you’re looking for someone to show you where fishing in Siesta Key is best before you venture out on your own.
</center?Fish by Land
Blind Pass Lagoon connects to Little Sarasota Bay, near the Jim Neville Marine Preserve and has some of the best fishing on the island. Tucked into the south side of Siesta Key, you can fish from the shore, sea wall, or pier all while enjoying access to the Turtle Beach parking lot and amenities (picnic pavilions and grills, restrooms, and kids’ playground, and duh, the beach). You’re sure to walk away with some mackerel and bluefish from here! If you’re up for a bigger challenge, walk about half a mile south of Turtle Beach to Old Midnight Pass where Siesta Key merges with Casey Keys. Here you can opt to fish in the bay or the gulf and you’re likely to pull out cobia, grouper, flounder, and king fish.
Another great spot is located on the north end of the island, where Siesta Key meets Lido Key. Big Pass is a long, skinny inlet with a smooth, rocky bottom that opens up to the vast waters of the Gulf of Mexico. From the shoreline, cast out for some snapper, grouper, and snook and enjoy the view as the boats cruise past during your next stay in our rentals.
Gear, Rules and Regs for Siesta Key Fishing
If you’re need of some Siesta Key fishing gear, don’t feel obligated to go buy new poles and accessories for your stay. SB’s Saltwater Outfitters is the perfect one stop shop to rent a fishing pole or a boat, as well as pick up some live bait and staples for your upcoming adventure.
Fishers that are non-residents and over the age of 16 will require a Florida state fishing license. These can be picked up at local bait shops and sporting goods stores, select marinas, some hardware stores, and online at http://myfwc.com/license/. Also please consider what rules and regulations are in effect during your visit, as they change with the seasons. If you plan to keep your catch, special stamps are required for certain species.
