Sarasota River Fishing Charters

Call Capt Jim at (941) 371-1390 for a current river fishing report

Sarasota River Fishing is dedicated to anglers who enjoy river fishing in the Myakka and Manatee Rivers located in Sarasota Florida. There is just something magical about drifting along with the current, casting a lure to every likely fish-holding spot, waiting for that exciting strike! River fishing allows anglers to experience the true, unspoiled Florida as most flow through undeveloped areas. On most Florida River Fishing Charters I use my 14’ Alumicraft boat which comfortably fished two anglers plus the guide. A shallow draft boat is required for fishing the rivers in the winter when the water is low.

The Myakka River and Manatee River are a thirty minute
drive from Sarasota, Fl. Both are similar in that they have
dams that create a lake with freshwater fishing up river and
are tidally influenced with brackish water below the dams.
Florida River Fishing Charters to both Lake Manatee and
Upper Myakka Lake have very good fishing for bass, catfish,
specks (crappie), and bream (bluegill and other panfish).

Florida River Fishing Charters

The tidal portions below the dams hold these species as well, along with saltwater fish such as snook, redfish, tarpon,
ladyfish, and jack crevelle.

Bluegill and other panfish, known as bream (pronounced “brim”) here in the South are not abundant but are of quality size in both the Myakka River and Manatee River and are common catches on Florida River Fishing Charters. A small black Beetlespin is the most productive lure and these feisty fish are great fun on ultra-light tackle.

Florida River Fishing Charters
Bream are most often targeted using a 3 wt or 4 wt rod and a
small baitfish pattern.

Florida River Fishing Charters

The prime time to experience Florida River Fishing Charters
is from October through March when the weather is cool
and the water levels are low.

Florida River Fishing Charters offer clients several options. Snook are the premier gamefish in Florida and are the most targeted species. Artificial lures are used as they allow anglers to cover a lot of water. Plugs, soft plastics, and spinnerbaits are the most productive lures for snook. Largemouth bass are also fooled by these same lures.

Florida River Fishing Charters
Anglers seeking a few fish for dinner will have success targeting catfish, which are plentiful in the rivers. Live worms and cut bait fished in the deeper holes will catch white catfish, channel catfish, and yellow bullhead.

Florida River Fishing Charters
Bass, snook, and catfish will intercept a fly meant for panfish and are a handful on light tackle. Heavier tackle is used to fish for snook in the tidal portions of Florida rivers.