As they say, cast a line and the fish will bite. Fishing in Siesta Key is a favorite pastime of many and if you’re planning a visit to the Sunshine State, we highly recommend making some time to reel in the memories, one cast at a time. Our Siesta Key fishing guide includes where to fish, fishing charter options, and rules and regulations.
While the beaches of Siesta Key are a great place to start, anglers may want to change up the scenery here and there when it comes to fishing on the island. Here are some of the top fishing spots in Siesta Key:
Point of Rocks - Some of the best fishing in Siesta Key can be found at Point of Rocks, a popular snorkeling and swim spot. Made up of limestone, molluscan grindstone, and quartz rock formations, the area attracts a wide range of marine life. You’ll find plenty of bait and game fish like King and Spanish Mackerel, Snook, Snapper, and Grouper.
Blind Pass Lagoon - Blind Pass, also known as Turtle Beach Lagoon, offers calmer waters to fish from. With little waves, the lagoon is ideal for wade and shore fishing. Species include Snook, Redfish, Trout, and Sheepshead.
Phillippi Creek/Phillippi Estate Park - Located north of Siesta Key in Sarasota, Philippi Creek is a great year-round inshore fishing spot. Cast a line from the fishing pier and catch Snook and Jack Crevalle. The best time to fish here is during the winter months when the Snook are in search of warmer waters.
Big Pass - Known for its inshore and near-shore fishing, Big Sarasota Pass is ideal for boat anglers. The pass connects Sarasota Bay with the Gulf and sits nestled between Siesta Key and Lido Key. Here, you can fish for Pompano, Bluefish, Mangrove Snapper, Snook, and more. Big Pass is accessible by boat, or if you’re traveling with kids in tow, Shell Beach nearby also gives you access to Big Pass.
Siesta Key Fishing Charters - Whether inshore, offshore, or near shore fishing, Siesta Key Fishing Charters can customize any charter to your specific party! No matter your skill level or age, they are happy to accommodate your group to make your Siesta Key vacation as memorable as possible. Catching inshore includes Snook, Redfish, Trout, and mixed Snappers, while near shore and offshore catches include Grouper, AmberJack, Barracuda, King Fish, Mackerel, and more!
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters - Fish the shallow back-country waters in and around Sarasota Bay or the inshore reefs of the Gulf of Mexico with CB’s. Perfect for all skill levels, you’ll learn about the waters of Siesta Key and get a chance to hook all kinds of species, including Snook, Speckled Trout, Cobia, Kingfish, and way more.
- CB’s Saltwater Outfitters
- Economy Tackle in Sarasota
Non-residents ages 16 and up will need a fishing license for saltwater and freshwater fishing. You can get licenses at local bait shops, sporting goods stores, and online at https://myfwc.com/license/.
For full details on limits and seasonal restrictions, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website.
Browse our collection of Siesta Key vacation rentals to find the perfect home base for your next fishing trip. From beachfront condos that will have you at the water in a few steps to accommodations with private pools, Beachside Management has everything you need for a successful beach vacation.
