Fishing Bradenton Area Waters

Founded in 1944, Jiggs Landing is a true fishing outpost on Ever's Reservoir. This local hangout draws countless anglers, boaters, and wildlife enthusiasts. The fishing camp boasts cabin and gear rentals, including fishing tackle, kayaks and boats. You’ll find a wide variety of fish here, including Largemouth and Sunshine Bass, Crappie, and Bream. Besides the unique ambiance of the settlement, the ability to drift down the Bradenton River and into the reservoir allows for countless fishing opportunities. If you’re feeling hungry and a little adventurous, head up-river to the Linger Lodge for some unique eats!

There are many freshwater lakes that are perfect for anglers of all abilities, including Lake Manatee, which is a Florida State Park. This park extends nearly three miles along of the south shore of Lake Manatee and serves as a 2400-acre freshwater reservoir. for the county. You can cast from land or troll across the water by boat to catch Largemouth Bass, Speckled Perch, Bluegill, Shell Crackers, and Catfish. Be sure to bring your tent or RV, there are nearly fifty campsites that are perfect for anglers spending time on the lake!

If fishing from a pier is more your style, you’ll find several impressive options on your next excursion, including the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park. This State Park is part of the old Sunshine Skyway Bridge structure and spans nearly 1.5-miles into the tides of Tampa Bay—it is also part of one of the longest fishing piers in the world! You’ll find bathrooms, and a bait shop that is open 24 hours a day. Be sure to bring your camera, locals are known to catch Snook, Tarpon, Grouper, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, and many more. A unique aspect of this fishing site is that you can drive on, and park your car or RV next to your favorite spot along the pier.

The histroic Anna Maria City Pier and Rod & Reel Pier offer more than just spectacular fishing. You’ll typically find locals and visitors strolling the boardwalks, snapping pictures of the amazing vistas, and stopping by the restaurants for a quick bite. Don’t let the view fool you, there is amazing fishing to be found here! You’ll have a chance to reel in some serious game fish, including Redfish, Snook, Spanish Mackerel, Pompano, and even Sharks. Besides, even if you don’t catch much during your outing, you can bask in the island sun and soak in the serene vistas of Tampa Bay.

You’ll find countless fishing charters and captains that are delighted to rent gear, give tips, and even guide you to the ‘hot spots’ around the area. Offshore fishing raises the chances of landing some spectacular fish, which are typically found in the deeper waters of the Gulf of Mexico. There are over 13 artificial reefs off of the Anna Maria coastline, all of which provide unique challenges and species, including Mahi Mahi, Amberjack, Grouper, Permit, Mackerel, Tarpon, and more. Novice and seasoned fishermen will enjoy the wide variety of fish, endless opportunities, and amazing experiences of fishing the plentiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

You’ll probably need a Florida Fishing License, so be sure to review the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website before dropping a line in the water. Please be considerate of the local marine life, their habitat, and use all conservational practices to ensure that Bradenton Area fisheries are here for all generations to enjoy. Don’t forget that angling is all about the experience and not necessarily about landing a lunker, so enjoy your time on the water!