Anna Maria Island Fishing Report August 6, 2025 Just Reel Fishing Charters: Anna Maria
Fish early, dress properly and stay hydrated for fishing success
Anna Maria Island anglers are eager to get out on the water to fish despite the relentless heat and high water temperatures. Although the summertime fishing can be good, dehydration, sunburn and mild heat stroke are the price of admission.
This being said, take extra precaution when planning to spend extended periods of time on the water. Make sure to carry an abundance of fluids, the most important — cool water. Gatorade is also positive choice as it can help replenish your electrolytes, which can burn out in a hurry when you’re in the heat exerting yourself catching many fish.
Other items to add to your repertoire should include clothing that is designed to block out the UV rays. Lightweight long sleeved shirts are good choice — preferably ones with a hood attached to keep the sun off your neck and head.
If you don’t have a hooded long sleeve, then a wide brim hat will suffice. The bigger the brim, the better, as it will cast shade on your head and shoulders. Yes, some of those hats may look ridiculous, but when you’re playing it “made in the shade,” you’re not going to care as long as you keep cool.
You also want to plan your day accordingly to try to beat the heat. Try getting out on the water as early as you can, as the morning hours tend to be slightly cooler than the hours during the midday sun.
You may find that the fishing is better during these cooler morning hours, especially when fishing the shallows of the bays and inland waters. The fish feel the heat too, so it’s best to try to catch them early when they are motivated to feed.
And, remember don’t be afraid to call it early. If you feel the heat is starting to bother you, it’s time to go in. Get in the AC, take a break and sip some water to cool off.
Don’t let dehydration settle in on you because recovering can be a lengthy process and possibly a little uncomfortable, too. If you stay hydrated, keep in the shade and expose yourself to the heat and small doses, fishing in the heat of summer can be enjoyable.
A good angler always knows their limitations so stay cool out there.
On my Just Reel charters, I’m trying to get my clients out as early as I can to beat the heat.
Not only are the cooler parts of the morning more comfortable, but it seems the fish are biting better during these times, too.
Spotted seatrout are cooperating quite well during the morning hours, especially while fishing depths of 8-12 feet.
Whether it’s deep grass flats or structure in the bays, these trout are firing off, yielding a great early morning bite. Mangrove snapper are following the same pattern, although they seem to be slightly more tolerant of the high water temps. In many instances, I’m finding mangoes in the same areas as the trout which adds variety to the bite.
Spanish mackerel and ladyfish are feeding in the same areas, creating great action on medium spinning gear.
Targeting catch-and-release snook is proving to be productive on my morning charters. Being out early to target linesiders is imperative as by 9 a.m. numerous swimmers and sun bathers begin frequenting the beaches making it hard to fish.
You may find some redfish along the beaches, too so keep your eyes peeled in case the opportunity presents itself.
Finally, shark encounters are frequent — especially blacktip sharks. Small chunks of fresh-cut mackerel are quickly being devoured by the predators.
