Longboat Key Fishing Charters
Located 30 miles south of Tampa Bay, Longboat Key offers high-quality fishing opportunities because of the rich estuary it sits on. The mix of salt and fresh water creates an estuary called Sarasota Bay where both baitfish and gamefish flourish. With beautiful water and a variety of different habitats to explore in search of target species, this is heaven for anglers and tourists alike.
Longboat Key Inshore Fishing
One of the most popular ways to fish around Longboat Key is to drift the grass flats in Sarasota Bay. Grass flats are a common spot to catch popular inshore species like speckled trout, redfish, and sheepshead. The water here runs 4-10 feet deep and holds a variety of other fish including ladyfish, pompano, jacks, and many more.
Two of the most sought after bucket list fish also reside in the coastal waters of Longboat Key.
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For many anglers snook and tarpon are the target of their trip and Longboat Key happens to be a frequent stop on their annual migration around the Gulf. These powerful fish can grow into giants that crush lures and peel off when they decide to bite. This is one of the only areas in the Gulf where you can check off two bucket list fish in one day.
Longboat Key Nearshore Fishing
If you want to target bigger fish head to the two inlets of the area, Big Sarasota Pass or New Pass. The water movement and changing tides draw all sorts of bait action and the bluefish and Spanish mackerel are sure to follow.
Longboat Key Deep Sea Fishing
Heading further out you can target various species of deep-dwelling fish including grouper, snapper, triggerfish, and hogfish. To Target these fish the best approach is to locate deep structure and then drop down baited lines.
To find pelagic species, you will want to head out to deep water channels or drop offs and troll with a spread of lures or baits. The offshore species that patrol these waters commonly get very large and a battle with them can last for hours. Whatever you decide to target, it will be a trip to remember.
Things to Do in Longboat Key
With everything from waterfront restaurants to an aquarium, Longboat Key has something for everyone. A trip to the ocean means hitting the beach for at least one day or rest and relaxation. Luckily, Longboat Key has beaches with beautiful blue water and stunning white sand that will help anyone relax. Looking for something a little different? Head to the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, it’s full of exotic animals and is sure to entertain people of all ages. If you are getting hungry or maybe a little parched, head to any of the amazing restaurants or bars that Longboat Key has to offer. No matter what you’re looking for, Longboat Key is the perfect spot for your next trip.
Longboat Key Tides and Weather
View Longboat Key tide times and charts here, and Longboat Key weather forecasts here.
