Fishing is an age-old practice dating back millennia to ancient eras. Today, the angling scene has grown in leaps and bounds, with around 55 million Americans flocking the waterways annually to participate in recreational fishing. If you’re an avid angler looking for the ultimate fishing getaway, look no further than the scenic barrier island of Siesta Key. This Florida gem is chock-full of beautiful fishing spots, offering a variety of species, including gray snapper, cobia, and spotted seatrout. As you prepare for your fishing escape, here’s a three-day itinerary for the Siesta Key fishing journey of a lifetime.
Day 1: Hit the Gulf for Deep Sea Fishing
The Gulf of Mexico is a favorite for beginners and seasoned anglers, drawing nearly three million fisherfolk. The warm emerald blue waters make the Gulf one of the world’s most ecologically diverse waterbodies, offering species such as yellowtail snapper, king mackerel, and Atlantic tarpon. Deep sea fishing usually begins from ten miles out, extending to 100 miles offshore. The easiest way to enjoy a deep sea fishing experience is by chartering a boat with an experienced crew to sail you to the best fishing spots.
Siesta Key Fishing Charters is one of the island’s most highly-rated fishing charters, offering the Gulf Coast’s largest charter fishing service. They offer several trips, including inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing. The inshore fishing charter involves live casting and light tackle within the docks and intercostal grass flats, with species such as trout, snook, redfish, and Spanish mackerel on offer. The tour can accommodate up to six people, with a variety of four to eight-hour charters.
During the nearshore fishing charter, sail three to four miles off the coast and enjoy a bottom fishing excursion. The most common species you’ll likely catch include mackerel, kingfish, snapper, and grouper. The offshore fishing charter sails eight miles, offering a trolling experience with catches that include tuna, amberjack, cobia, and snapper.
If you prefer a secluded fishing journey, Siesta Key Fishing Charters provide private tours and charters. A list of recommended items includes lotion sunscreen, beach towels, flip-flops, beverages, hats, swimsuits, and easy snacks. The fishing charters can accommodate kids of all ages, making it an excellent activity for a wholesome family experience.
Day 2: Head to Blind Pass Lagoon for Jetty Fishing
After your offshore escapades, head to the Blind Pass Lagoon and relish a day of jetty fishing. Blind Pass Lagoon dates back over a century when a hurricane passed by Little Sarasota Pass, closing off a segment of the channel connecting the bay to the Gulf. Today, Blind Pass Lagoon features a boat ramp at Turtle Beach, providing boat access to the bay area. You can head out for a fishing excursion from the sea wall, the shore, or the pier while relishing access to Turtle Beach. Blind Pass Lagoon features several saltwater species, including mangrove snapper, heardhead sea catfish, crevalle jack, and common snook. Charter a boat at one of Siesta Key’s numerous boat rental companies and head out for a thrilling day of light tackle fishing.
You can employ different fishing tactics in Blind Lagoon depending on your desired catch, including bottom fishing using live or cut bait. Bottom fishing uses a weighted hook or lure to target fish at the lower depths of the lagoon, allowing you to cast further while keeping the baited hook in one location. Another popular technique for fishing in Siesta Key in the lagoon is drift fishing, which involves using a popping cork or bobber to keep the bait closer to the water’s surface. The lures utilize the lagoon’s current, spreading out over a larger area in pursuit of a catch. One significant advantage of jetty fishing is it targets specific species, ensuring more precise results.
Blind Pass Lagoon fishing trips are ideal for anglers of all skill levels since you can customize your excursion to suit your needs. Carry a cooler box with your favorite drinks and snacks and enjoy a full day out on the waters of Blind Pass Lagoon, searching for the perfect catch.
Day 3: Sample Local Fresh Fish at Big Water Fish Market
Complete your fishing journey by sampling the local fresh catches at Big Water Fish Market. This famous seafood market lies at 6639 Midnight Pass Road near the south bridge in Crescent Beach Shopping Center. Owner Scott Dolan officially opened Big Water Fish Market on the 11th of November, 2011, to provide a premium fish market for locals and visitors. Since its inception, the market has gained a reputation for its clean, boutique-style design, creating a delightful environment for the ultimate seafood shopping experience. Aside from a vibrant fish market, Big Water serves a sumptuous menu of fish dishes. Enjoy delights like Fried Grouper Bites, New England Clam Chowder, Seared Tuna, Grilled Shrimp, or Steamed Mussels. Fresh local catches include snapper, red grouper, hogfish, amberjack, and triple tail. The market opens from 10 AM to 8 PM, while the restaurant operates from 11 AM to 9 PM.
Basics of a Siesta Key Fishing Trip
As you plan your angling experience to Siesta Key, there are several things you should keep in mind. Firstly, ensure you acquire a Florida fishing license. Since you plan a brief fishing journey, taking the three- to seven-day permit should suffice. Florida offers its freshwater and saltwater combo license to residents only, so purchase yours separately. If you’re on a rented charter boat, you don’t need a fishing license since the guide’s permit covers the trip. You can carry your fishing gear if you plan on heading out solo, but if you’re taking a chartered vessel, they usually provide everything you’ll need. When fishing in Blind Pass Lagoon, pack essentials like lures, landing nets, a bucket, reels, rods, and a tool kit. Saltwater scissors and pliers help remove hooks, cut fishing lines, and tighten knots. If you’re new to the island and looking for the best spots to cast your lines, speak with the locals or bait shop owners for pointers. Charted boats are an excellent go-to if you’re a newcomer since the captain will help you find the best fishing areas and advise on the ideal techniques for a successful fishing trip.
Book Your Siesta Key Vacation Rental Today
Siesta Key is one of the Sunshine State’s most beloved vacation destinations. From its pristine sugar-white sandy beaches to the gorgeous turquoise waters of the Gulf and inviting year-round weather, Siesta Key has all the ingredients for a relaxing getaway. If you’re looking for the ultimate journeys for fishing in Siesta Key, this picturesque barrier island is the ideal spot to unleash your inner angler.
As you plan your Florida holiday, look to Rent Siesta Key for the best lodging on the island. We offer an expansive list of high-end vacation homes, perfect for solo travelers, couples, or large groups. Our properties include rentals with beach views, luxury condos with hot tubs, on-the-beach rentals, houses with pools, and pet-friendly options, ideal for vacationing with your beloved pawed pal. We have over 15 years in the Siesta Key vacation rental space, serving over 50,000 guests. We’ve eliminated booking, processing, and admin fees, offering you the best rates in town. Contact us today to secure your Siesta Key vacation rental and relish a one-of-a-kind fishing journey.
