Since Siesta Key is nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay, there are a variety of waters, temperatures, and depths that produce a wide range of fish species. Siesta Key also offers different estuaries, mangroves, and reefs, which provide many different environments to fish to your liking!
Often called “cradles of the ocean”, an estuary is where freshwater from rivers mix with salt water from the ocean. Many recreational fish and shellfish in Florida tend to live in sheltered estuaries. The Sarasota Bay region has five embayments, two of which are close to the Siesta Key area. Little Sarasota Bay offers quiet mangroves, while Roberts Bay features busier bird rookery islands.
From surf casting, fly fishing, shore fishing, or even bridge fishing, there are many locations and options available for you to recreationally fish in Siesta Key!
Licenses & Permits
Siesta Key offers freshwater and saltwater fishing permits for as low as $17.00 and are available at the county tax collectors’ offices. Some sporting goods stores and retailers in the area do offer licenses as well! There are typically 3-day, 7-day, and annual licenses for both residents and non-residents, so you can easily cater to your trip. If you wish to purchase by phone, call 888-FISH-FLORIDA.
Fish Known in the Area
Inshore, you can find fish such as: snook, redfish, sea trout, tarpon, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, ladyfish, Jack crevalle, pompano, and mangrove snapper.
Offshore, you can find fish such as: grouper, red snapper, mangrove snapper, shark, Amberjack, kingfish, permit, and dolphin.
Fishing Charters
If you are interested in a full package experience while on vacation, you may want to check out some of the many fishing charter companies local to Siesta Key. For expertise on the best fishing spots, license coverage, and equipment, a fishing charter may be the best option for you!
Earning the 2019 Expertise “Best Fishing Guides in Sarasota” award, Reel Tight Fishing Charters is a family friendly charter for all ages and skill levels. Providing bait, license, rods, reels, and tackle, you can book a trip length from 4-8 hours long and come back with some incredible catches. The beauty of this excursion is that each trip is unique.
If you have never gone fishing before and want to learn, Reel Tight offers fly fishing lessons as well which provides a 1:1 training with an experienced captain. Ride on the “Bad Juju” beavertail boat with your gear and learn to love the art of recreational fishing. You can make a reservation online in advance or call (941) 444-9749 for more information.
Double Nickel Charters is located on the southern side of the island and specializes in offshore sport fishing charter. From bottom fishing, trolling, and deep sea fishing, this charter service has a variety of options for you to select from. If you select deep sea fishing, you can look forward to experienced captains who specialize in long range grouper fishing which is typically available all year long! Multiple packages are available from half day, six hour, and either hour trips. Call to schedule your next adventure at (941) 893-7793.
