Fall is a great time of year for fishing for Tripletail.

We’ll fall has finally arrived in our area and the fishing is starting to improve. In the last week Tripletail, and Spanish mackerel have begun showing up nearshore.

Fishing inshore on the grass flats has produced trout, redfish and snook which are all treated as catch and release. We’ve also caught snapper, jacks, ladyfish and a few flounder.

It’s a great mix and you never know what you’re gonna hook. The water is starting to clear up and the fishing is improving every day.

Capt. Capt. Kelly Kurtz

Kelly is a Sarasota native and the owner and operator of Mangrove Charters. He's pas­sion­ate about fishing and hunting. As a full-time fishing guide Kelly operates out of a 22 ft. Bayscout and specializes in light tackle using both arti­fi­cial and live bait. Redfish are his favorite.

We’ll fall has finally arrived in our area and the fishing is starting to improve. In the last week Tripletail, and Spanish mackerel have begun showing up nearshore.

Fishing inshore on the grass flats has produced trout, redfish and snook which are all treated as catch and release. We’ve also caught snapper, jacks, ladyfish and a few flounder.

It’s a great mix and you never know what you’re gonna hook. The water is starting to clear up and the fishing is improving every day.

Capt. Capt. Kelly Kurtz

Kelly is a Sarasota native and the owner and operator of Mangrove Charters. He's pas­sion­ate about fishing and hunting. As a full-time fishing guide Kelly operates out of a 22 ft. Bayscout and specializes in light tackle using both arti­fi­cial and live bait. Redfish are his favorite.

Pat Beckwith had good action catching and releasing trout, blues and Spanish mackerel on Clouser flies.

Anglers fishing with me out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key had some action catching and releasing trout, blues, Spanish mackerel, jacks and tripletail on flies and DOA Lures recently.

Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, fished Sarasota Bay with me and had some action catching and releasing trout to more than 20 inches, blues, and Spanish mackerel on Clouser flies. I did some scouting one day with my friend Steve Gibson, of Southern Drawl Kayak Fishing. With good conditions, we hunted tripletail, found a few and he caught and released several on flies.

Mostly small but still wary and a fun sight-fishing option. Marshall Dinerman, from Lido, and Mike Kreisberg, from Longboat Key, also fished Sarasota Bay with me and caught and released numerous trout, jacks and a juvenile cobia on CAL jigs with a variety of tails.

Look for reds, snook and large trout in shallow water. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, Spanish mackerel, jacks, blues and more.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills and discharges, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

Anglers fishing with me out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key had some action catching and releasing trout, blues, Spanish mackerel, jacks and tripletail on flies and DOA Lures recently.

Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, fished Sarasota Bay with me and had some action catching and releasing trout to more than 20 inches, blues, and Spanish mackerel on Clouser flies. I did some scouting one day with my friend Steve Gibson, of Southern Drawl Kayak Fishing. With good conditions, we hunted tripletail, found a few and he caught and released several on flies.

Mostly small but still wary and a fun sight-fishing option. Marshall Dinerman, from Lido, and Mike Kreisberg, from Longboat Key, also fished Sarasota Bay with me and caught and released numerous trout, jacks and a juvenile cobia on CAL jigs with a variety of tails.

Look for reds, snook and large trout in shallow water. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, Spanish mackerel, jacks, blues and more.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills and discharges, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

Heidi, and her new husband Nicolas, decided to spent some time on their honeymoon fishing Siesta Key.

Heidi and Nicolas, from Wyoming, spent their honeymoon on Siesta Key this past week. They were looking for ways to enjoy Florida’s natural beauty. Nicolas, who’s an outdoor enthusiast, booked a fishing charter with me through CB’s Outfitters.

We started out on a spectacular October morning looking for schools of redfish that have been running in the area’s shallow waters. A suddenly huge irruption on Heidi’s top water Lure got our immediate attention.

After several long runs and much excitement Heidi was able to get this large snook to the boat. Afterwards she safely released this prized sport fish they continued with their trip by catching some large trout and blue fish. All in all it was a great day on the water.

I’m looking forward to the next month’s weather and some great fishing that goes along with it as temperatures begin to cool down.

Capt. Chuck Cress

Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.

Heidi and Nicolas, from Wyoming, spent their honeymoon on Siesta Key this past week. They were looking for ways to enjoy Florida’s natural beauty. Nicolas, who’s an outdoor enthusiast, booked a fishing charter with me through CB’s Outfitters.

We started out on a spectacular October morning looking for schools of redfish that have been running in the area’s shallow waters. A suddenly huge irruption on Heidi’s top water Lure got our immediate attention.

After several long runs and much excitement Heidi was able to get this large snook to the boat. Afterwards she safely released this prized sport fish they continued with their trip by catching some large trout and blue fish. All in all it was a great day on the water.

I’m looking forward to the next month’s weather and some great fishing that goes along with it as temperatures begin to cool down.

Capt. Chuck Cress

Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.

Rusty Chinnis caught and released this nice cobia on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing the coastal gulf.

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing trout, blues, jacks and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay and a bonus cobia in the gulf on flies and DOA Lures on several recent trips.

Dan Patterson, from Siesta Key, fished with me and had some action catching and releasing several Spanish mackerel and trout on Clouser flies. Scott and Harper Perez, from Indianapolis, also fished Sarasota Bay with me and caught and released trout on CAL jigs with shad tails and DOA Deadly Combos.

Mark Betten, from Sarasota, and Todd Hesket, from Denver, also had some action with trout, blues and jacks on CAL jigs with shad tails.

I scouted the coastal gulf one day and found a nice cobia swimming on the surface in a bait school. Rusty Chinnis, from Longboat Key, was with me and he caught and released the cobia on a CAL jig with a shad tail. Right time, right place!

Look for reds, snook and large trout in shallow water. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, Spanish mackerel, jacks, blues and more.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing trout, blues, jacks and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay and a bonus cobia in the gulf on flies and DOA Lures on several recent trips.

Dan Patterson, from Siesta Key, fished with me and had some action catching and releasing several Spanish mackerel and trout on Clouser flies. Scott and Harper Perez, from Indianapolis, also fished Sarasota Bay with me and caught and released trout on CAL jigs with shad tails and DOA Deadly Combos.

Mark Betten, from Sarasota, and Todd Hesket, from Denver, also had some action with trout, blues and jacks on CAL jigs with shad tails.

I scouted the coastal gulf one day and found a nice cobia swimming on the surface in a bait school. Rusty Chinnis, from Longboat Key, was with me and he caught and released the cobia on a CAL jig with a shad tail. Right time, right place!

Look for reds, snook and large trout in shallow water. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, Spanish mackerel, jacks, blues and more.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

Darby White with sons Noah and Carter caught these beautiful school redfish in boca grande. The weather this time of years is simply amazing, and October is a premium month for fishing so if at all possible grab your kids and book a trip through CB’s outfitters.

So give them a call and get out on the water if you can somehow manage it.

Capt. Capt. Brandon Naeve

I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.

Darby White with sons Noah and Carter caught these beautiful school redfish in boca grande.

The weather this time of years is simply amazing, and October is a premium month for fishing so if at all possible grab your kids and book a trip through CB’s outfitters.

So give them a call and get out on the water if you can somehow manage it.

Capt. Capt. Brandon Naeve

I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.

The Weber’s were on the water this past week with me and hooked this nice looking Red fishing Sarasota Bay.

Usually my Charter’s are with customers from out of town, or out of state. However, local Sarasota residents Mr. and Mrs. Weber decided to get out on the water and do something different for a change. They booked a charter with me through CB’s Outfitters’ based out of Siesta Key.

They aren’t avid fisherman but they both had great patience and we’re able to catch and release some nice fish. They caught Jacks, small snapper, and a beautiful red fish, shown here, to end the day. It was spectacular October weather and they proved to be great people to spent time with.

Capt. Chuck Cress

Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.

Usually my Charter’s are with customers from out of town, or out of state. However, local Sarasota residents Mr. and Mrs. Weber decided to get out on the water and do something different for a change. So they booked a charter with me through CB’s Outfitters’ on Siesta Key.

They aren’t avid fisherman but they both had great patience and we’re able to catch and release some nice fish. They caught Jacks, small snapper, and a beautiful red fish, shown here, to end the day. It was spectacular October weather and they proved to be great people to spent time with.

Capt. Chuck Cress

Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.

Capt. Brandon Naeve and his son display a Baby Goliath Grouper caught this past week.

Fishing ‘Day Trips’ in south Florida can be exciting to say the least. My son and I did a ‘Day Trip’ down to the Everglades for ‘Baby Goliath Grouper’ and I can say without a doubt it was awesome. There’s nothing that compares to reeling in one of these prehistoric looking fish.

Jim Dougherty and his wife Amy also caught some beautiful fish down in Boca Grande with me this past week. Boca Grande is on fire with Snook right now.

The weather this time of years is simply amazing so if at all possible get out on the water if you can.

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action in Sarasota Bay with me recently.

Bill Morrison, from Anna Maria, and Don Morrison, from MA, fished a trip with me and had great action with trout and Spanish mackerel on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails. Dave Reinhart, from MA, fished skinny water with me on a blustery day later in the week.

Fish were turned on ahead of an approaching front. He caught and released a slam, including a 28” snook, 28” redfish, trout and a couple of pompano that were sight fished on top of a bar in 18” of water, all on CAL jigs with a grub tail! Not big numbers of fish but a great day for quality fish and variety.

Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, blues and Spanish mackerel. Check the coastal gulf for Spanish mackerel, false albacore and tripletail when conditions are good. Shallow water fishing for reds and large trout is also a good option now, although they are very challenging in clear water. These conditions usually require long casts to avoid spooking fish.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Brandon Naeve

I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.

Shara King had good action catching and releasing trout, Spanish mackerel, snook and a tripletail on flies and DOA Lures while fishing in Sarasota.

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action catching and releasing trout, Spanish mackerel, tripletail and snook in Sarasota Bay and the ICW on flies and DOA Lures on several trips recently.

Dave and Shara King, from Dillon, MT, fished a couple of trips with me and had good action catching and releasing trout, Spanish mackerel, tripletail and snook in Sarasota Bay on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails. They also fished dock lights in the ICW with me on another trip and had good action catching and releasing numerous snook on my Grassett Snook Minnow fly and DOA Tiny TerrorEyz.

Look for reds, snook and large trout in shallow water. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, Spanish mackerel, jacks, blues and more.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action catching and releasing trout, Spanish mackerel, tripletail and snook in Sarasota Bay and the ICW on flies and DOA Lures on several trips recently.

Dave and Shara King, from Dillon, MT, fished a couple of trips with me and had good action catching and releasing trout, Spanish mackerel, tripletail and snook in Sarasota Bay on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails. They also fished dock lights in the ICW with me on another trip and had good action catching and releasing numerous snook on my Grassett Snook Minnow fly and DOA Tiny TerrorEyz.

Look for reds, snook and large trout in shallow water. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, Spanish mackerel, jacks, blues and more.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

Sarasota’s Pat Beckwith had great action catching and releasing blues, Spanish mackerel and trout on flies.

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing trout, jacks, blues and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay with flies and DOA Lures on several trips recently.

Spin fishing anglers scored on trout and jacks on CAL jigs with shad tails and DOA Deadly Combos. Fly anglers Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota and Lyle Beckwith, from Alexandria, VA, caught and released trout to 24”, blues and Spanish mackerel in the 4 to 5-lb class on Clouser flies fished on sink tip fly lines. On the reel and into backing fast.

Look for reds in shallow water. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, jacks, blues and more. Since heat is still an issue, fishing dock lights for snook and juvenile tarpon before dawn is also a good option.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing trout, jacks, blues and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay with flies and DOA Lures on several trips recently.

Spin fishing anglers scored on trout and jacks on CAL jigs with shad tails and DOA Deadly Combos. Fly anglers Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota and Lyle Beckwith, from Alexandria, VA, caught and released trout to 24”, blues and Spanish mackerel in the 4 to 5-lb class on Clouser flies fished on sink tip fly lines. On the reel and into backing fast.

Look for reds in shallow water. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, jacks, blues and more. Since heat is still an issue, fishing dock lights for snook and juvenile tarpon before dawn is also a good option.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

On the water with Capt. Chuck Cress.

Red fish are in the bay and they’re being caught at a good clip. I had some friends visiting from Illinois and we fished several days and did quite well on redfish, snook, and trout. All the fish were caught on artificial Lures.

The mornings are starting to feel like maybe fall is on the way. With those cooler temperatures I expect the fishing to just get better as time goes on and the calendar moves into October.

Sarasota Bay water is in great shape and quite clear this time of year, hope to see you out there soon!

Capt. Chuck Cress

Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.

Red fish are in the bay and they’re being caught at a good clip. I had some friends visiting from Illinois and we fished several days and did quite well on redfish, snook, and trout. All the fish were caught on artificial Lures.

The mornings are starting to feel like maybe fall is on the way. With those cooler temperatures I expect the fishing to just get better as time goes on and the calendar moves into October.

Capt. Chuck Cress

Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.

When you need a good dose of vitamin sea… see us!

This week, fishing aboard “Coastal Fishing Adventures” with Captain Terry Simmons, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key.

Fishing in the Bay, in September, has been a little challenging especially with high humidity and water temps still in the high 80’s. On days like this we keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

On Wednesday I chartered the Koty & Raven Sparks group for an inshore charter. We started the morning working with a low tide around several of the flats on the outside drop offs.

With the abundance of whitebait in the bay I wanted to try artificial baits to see if the fish were looking for something different. Kinda like, if you’ve been eating fish all week and now you might want a steak. We threw various colored DOA shrimp under a popping cork, DOA shad tails on jig heads, spoons and mirrolure top water baits.

We caught several jack cravell, ladyfish, trout, catfish, bluefish and then we caught several very nice slot and over slot redfish from 26 to 29 inches. The redfish were hungry and wanted to play. My clients couldn’t have been happier sometimes with three on at a time and they were on their bucket list. Great memories.

When you need a good dose of Vitamin Sea… “Let’s go Fishing”

Capt. Capt. Terry Simmons

Terry was born and raised in Bradenton, FL and has been guiding clients since 2000, fishing on Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico with live bait, artificial lures and fly fishing aboard his 22’ Bay Ranger which accommodates up to 4 anglers.

This week, fishing aboard “Coastal Fishing Adventures” with Captain Terry Simmons, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key.

Fishing in the Bay, in September, has been a little challenging especially with high humidity and water temps still in the high 80’s. On days like this we keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

On Wednesday I chartered the Koty & Raven Sparks group for an inshore charter. We started the morning working with a low tide around several of the flats on the outside drop offs.

With the abundance of whitebait in the bay I wanted to try artificial baits to see if the fish were looking for something different. Kinda like, if you’ve been eating fish all week and now you might want a steak. We threw various colored DOA shrimp under a popping cork, DOA shad tails on jig heads, spoons and mirrolure top water baits.

We caught several jack cravell, ladyfish, trout, catfish, bluefish and then we caught several very nice slot and over slot redfish from 26” to 29”. The redfish were hungry and wanted to play. My clients couldn’t have been happier sometimes with three on at a time and they were on their bucket list. Great memories.

When you need a good dose of Vitamin Sea… “Let’s go Fishing”

Capt. Capt. Terry Simmons

Terry was born and raised in Bradenton, FL and has been guiding clients since 2000, fishing on Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico with live bait, artificial lures and fly fishing aboard his 22’ Bay Ranger which accommodates up to 4 anglers.

The red tide is subsiding, and the water is clearing up.

Anglers fishing with me the last couple trips caught and released trout, a few snook, jacks, ladyfish, and mangrove snapper which were all released.

Once again our bay is now going to need time to recover, so proper release methods will help ensure the surviving fish a chance to reproduce. In 2021, most signs indicated good water quality in Sarasota Bay, despite lingering impacts from long-lasting red tides in 2017 and 2018.

Capt. Capt. Kelly Kurtz

Kelly is a Sarasota native and the owner and operator of Mangrove Charters. He's pas­sion­ate about fishing and hunting. As a full-time fishing guide Kelly operates out of a 22 ft. Bayscout and specializes in light tackle using both arti­fi­cial and live bait. Redfish are his favorite.

Anglers fishing with me the last couple trips caught and released trout, a few snook, jacks, ladyfish, and mangrove snapper which were all released.

Once again our bay is now going to need time to recover, so proper release methods will help ensure the surviving fish a chance to reproduce. In 2021, most signs indicated good water quality in Sarasota Bay, despite lingering impacts from long-lasting red tides in 2017 and 2018.

Capt. Capt. Kelly Kurtz

Kelly is a Sarasota native and the owner and operator of Mangrove Charters. He's pas­sion­ate about fishing and hunting. As a full-time fishing guide Kelly operates out of a 22 ft. Bayscout and specializes in light tackle using both arti­fi­cial and live bait. Redfish are his favorite.

The last few weeks the water around Sarasota Bay has been clean and fishing has been good. Fishing out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters aboard the Casual Lies anglers have had a variety of fish to catch. The grass flats have been holding Trout, Jacks, small Cobia and Sharks up to 25 pounds.

Down in Little Sarasota Bay I was fishing with Ray Markham and Rosemary from the Florida Outdoor Writers and we caught Small Snook, Jacks, some large Trout and few nice Redfish. I expect with the water starting to cool off a bit the fishing should stay good in our entire area.

Capt. Capt. Bruce Burkhart

Bruce is a Florida native and has lived in Sarasota for thirty years. Capt. Bruce grew up on the east coast of Florida and started fishing with his dad when he was about six years old. Fishing has been a lifetime passion of his and in 2001 he obtained his U.S.C.G. Captain’s license.

The last few weeks the water around Sarasota Bay has been clean and fishing has been good. Fishing out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters aboard the Casual Lies anglers have had a variety of fish to catch. The grass flats have been holding Trout, Jacks, small Cobia and Sharks up to 25 pounds.

Down in Little Sarasota Bay I was fishing with Ray Markham and Rosemary from the Florida Outdoor Writers and we caught Small Snook, Jacks, some large Trout and few nice Redfish. I expect with the water starting to cool off a bit the fishing should stay good in our entire area.

Capt. Capt. Bruce Burkhart

Bruce is a Florida native and has lived in Sarasota for thirty years. Capt. Bruce grew up on the east coast of Florida and started fishing with his dad when he was about six years old. Fishing has been a lifetime passion of his and in 2001 he obtained his U.S.C.G. Captain’s license.

Trey and Abby caught these beautiful fish in Sarasota Bay while fishing this week with Capt. Brandon Naeve.

Trey and Abby, fishing with me out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action in Sarasota Bay on Monday.

Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, blues and Spanish mackerel. As we approach the halfway mark on the month of September both the temperatures and the humidity are both still running on the high side.

Hey this is South Florida, what did you expect. All in all the fish were running hot and these two hauled in a few beauties for themselves.

Capt. Capt. Brandon Naeve

I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.

Trey and Abby, fishing with me out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action in Sarasota Bay on Monday.

Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, pompano, blues and Spanish mackerel. As we approach the halfway mark on the month of September both the temperatures and the humidity are both still running on the high side.

Hey this is South Florida, what did you expect. All in all the fish were running hot and these two hauled in a few beauties for themselves.

Capt. Capt. Brandon Naeve

I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.

Gianna Tornabene, from Naperville, IL, had some action fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing trout, snook and juvenile tarpon in Sarasota with DOA Lures on several trips recently.

Ross Tornabene and his daughter, Gianna, from Naperville, IL, caught and released several nice trout on CAL jigs with a variety of plastic tails and DOA Deadly Combos on a trip in Sarasota Bay with me this past week.

They also jumped a couple of juvenile tarpon and caught and released a tarpon and snook on a DOA TerrorEyz.

Red tide has cleared in Sarasota Bay and fish are returning to normal patterns. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, jacks, blues and more. Since heat is still an issue, fishing dock lights for snook and juvenile tarpon before dawn is also a good option.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing trout, snook and juvenile tarpon in Sarasota with DOA Lures on several trips recently.

Ross Tornabene and his daughter, Gianna, from Naperville, IL, caught and released several nice trout on CAL jigs with a variety of plastic tails and DOA Deadly Combos on a trip in Sarasota Bay with me this past week.

They also jumped a couple of juvenile tarpon and caught and released a tarpon and snook on a DOA TerrorEyz.

Red tide has cleared in Sarasota Bay and fish are returning to normal patterns. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, jacks, blues and more. Since heat is still an issue, fishing dock lights for snook and juvenile tarpon before dawn is also a good option.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

Pat Beckwith, from Sarasota, with a shark caught and released on a Clouser fly while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett recently.

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing snook before dawn and trout, blues and a bonus shark on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay on flies on several trips recently.

Red tide has cleared in Sarasota Bay and fish are returning to normal patterns. A recent scouting trip showed very clear water in some areas, plentiful baitfish and birds.

Fly anglers scored with baitfish fly patterns on sink tip lines and spin fishing anglers had action on CAL jigs with a variety of plastic tails and DOA Deadly Combos. A shark surprised us when it ate a Clouser fly and quickly took the angler into her backing! Some of the larger trout were caught and released in shallow water on DOA PT-7 top water baits. Fly poppers and Gurglers should also be a good shallow water option for trout.

Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and more. Since heat is still an issue, fishing dock lights for snook and juvenile tarpon before dawn is also a good option.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had some action catching and releasing snook before dawn and trout, blues and a bonus shark on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay on flies on several trips recently.

Red tide has cleared in Sarasota Bay and fish are returning to normal patterns. A recent scouting trip showed very clear water in some areas, plentiful baitfish and birds.

Fly anglers scored with baitfish fly patterns on sink tip lines and spin fishing anglers had action on CAL jigs with a variety of plastic tails and DOA Deadly Combos. A shark surprised us when it ate a Clouser fly and quickly took the angler into her backing! Some of the larger trout were caught and released in shallow water on DOA PT-7 top water baits. Fly poppers and Gurglers should also be a good shallow water option for trout.

Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action with a variety of species including trout, blues and more. Since heat is still an issue, fishing dock lights for snook and juvenile tarpon before dawn is also a good option.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

The warm waters of Sarasota Bay look pretty good to these father and son Wisconsin natives.

Wisconsin native Brian along with his sons, Luke and Jake, together caught this beautiful trout while fishing North Sarasota Bay this past week. The fishing was pretty steady considering the red tide that had just moved out.

Meanwhile fishing the deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action this time of year with a variety of species including the above mentioned trout, pompano, blues and Spanish mackerel.

If you’re so inclined check out the coastal gulf for false albacore and tripletail.

Capt. Capt. Brandon Naeve

I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.

Wisconsin native Brian along with his sons, Luke and Jake, together caught this beautiful trout while fishing North Sarasota Bay this past week. The fishing was pretty steady considering the red tide that had just moved out.

Meanwhile fishing the deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is a good choice for action this time of year with a variety of species including the above mentioned trout, pompano, blues and Spanish mackerel.

If you’re so inclined you can check the coastal gulf for false albacore and tripletail when conditions are good.

Capt. Capt. Brandon Naeve

I've been a fishing guide the Sarasota , Boca Grande area for over 25 years. My Sarasota trips are mostly family oriented 1/2 day fishing trips involving kids who love to catch all the family fun fish. My Boca Grande trips are for the more experienced spin or fly fishing angler.

Capt. Rick Grassett with a nice brown trout caught and released on a fly while fishing in Dillon, MT.

I hosted a group of friends and clients on my annual destination fly fishing trip to southwest Montana recently. Rusty Chinnis, from Longboat Key, and I traveled from Sarasota to Bozeman and met up with Kirk Grassett, from DE, Nick Delle Donne, from PA and Denton Kent, from VA and made the 2-1/2 hour drive to Medicine Lodge, on a 100,000 acre working ranch near the Beaverhead River, outside of Dillon, MT.

We met up there with Mike Perez and Dennis Kinley, from IN, who drove and met us at the lodge.

Despite some restrictions due to heat and low water, we caught and released some quality trout. We fished the Beaverhead, Big Hole and Madison Rivers with guide Dave King, owner of King Outfitters (406) 596-0209 in Dillon, and his talented group of guides.

I’ve fished with these guides for more than 20-years, they work hard, do a great job and know their fishery well. We had great action on 5 and 6-weight fly tackle with brown and rainbow trout to more than 20” on streamers, dry flies, dry/dropper and nymph rigs. The dry fly action was with a variety of grasshopper patterns, sometimes with a nymph dropper, or with a smaller dry fly and a few other bugs. Like fishing everywhere, there were good days and slower days but overall it was great!

Back in Sarasota red tide is an issue, but there are areas of clean water that are fine. Catch and release snook fishing around dock lights and bridges should be a good option now. There should be tarpon in areas of upper Charlotte Harbor and Tampa Bay. Juvenile tarpon in canals and creeks may also be a good option. You might also find them in a few places mixed with snook in dock lights. Due to the nature of red tide, conditions may change from day to day so be ready to adjust if necessary.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

I hosted a group of friends and clients on my annual destination fly fishing trip to southwest Montana recently. Rusty Chinnis, from Longboat Key, and I traveled from Sarasota to Bozeman and met up with Kirk Grassett, from DE, Nick Delle Donne, from PA and Denton Kent, from VA and made the 2-1/2 hour drive to Medicine Lodge, on a 100,000 acre working ranch near the Beaverhead River, outside of Dillon, MT.

We met up there with Mike Perez and Dennis Kinley, from IN, who drove and met us at the lodge.

Despite some restrictions due to heat and low water, we caught and released some quality trout. We fished the Beaverhead, Big Hole and Madison Rivers with guide Dave King, owner of King Outfitters (406) 596-0209 in Dillon, and his talented group of guides.

I’ve fished with these guides for more than 20-years, they work hard, do a great job and know their fishery well. We had great action on 5 and 6-weight fly tackle with brown and rainbow trout to more than 20” on streamers, dry flies, dry/dropper and nymph rigs. The dry fly action was with a variety of grasshopper patterns, sometimes with a nymph dropper, or with a smaller dry fly and a few other bugs. Like fishing everywhere, there were good days and slower days but overall it was great!

Back in Sarasota red tide is an issue, but there are areas of clean water that are fine. Catch and release snook fishing around dock lights and bridges should be a good option now. There should be tarpon in areas of upper Charlotte Harbor and Tampa Bay. Juvenile tarpon in canals and creeks may also be a good option. You might also find them in a few places mixed with snook in dock lights. Due to the nature of red tide, conditions may change from day to day so be ready to adjust if necessary.

Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by residential, industrial and agricultural runoff, toxic spills and intentional releases, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Capt. Capt. Rick Grassett

Rick is the owner of Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. He's a full time fishing guide and outdoor writer based in Sarasota, FL. He’s been guiding since 1990 and is an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing guide here at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, the 2011 Orvis Out­fit­ter of the Year.

Eight year old Parker had the best day of his life.

Eight year old Parker said it was the best day of his life. He and his dad Eric were staying on Siesta Key enjoying the last few days of his Summer vacation before school finally started up again when they decided to take in some fishing.

The father and son pair managed to catch and release several fish. Beside the red fish pictured they also caught snook, trout, bluefish, Jacks and snapper.

Young Parker loves to fish and I’m sure this will be a day he remembers for a long time to come.

Capt. Chuck Cress

Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.

Eight year old Parker said it was the best day of his life. He and his dad Eric were staying on Siesta Key enjoying the last few days of his Summer vacation.

The father and son pair managed to catch and release several fish. Beside the red fish pictured they also caught snook, trout, bluefish, Jacks and snapper.

Young Parker loves to fish and I’m sure this will be a day he remembers for a long time to come.

Capt. Chuck Cress

Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.

This Honeymooning couple got lucky… fishing!

Honeymoon couple gets lucky! Cole and his new bride Shelby Are from Missouri and are enjoying their honeymoon on Siesta Key. Using shrimp under a popping cork Shelby hooked a couple of snook before Cole landed this beautiful red fish using a jig and Gulp jerk bait.

We fished little Sarasota Bay And saw no Signs of red tide. The bay water was clean and we saw plenty of signs of life including jumping mullet, bait and manatees. It may not be the best time of year for fishing, however with patience and persistence your trip can still be successful.

Capt. Chuck Cress

Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.

Honeymoon couple gets lucky! Cole and his new bride Shelby Are from Missouri and are enjoying their honeymoon on Siesta Key.

Using shrimp under a popping cork Shelby hooked a couple of snook before Cole landed this beautiful red fish using a jig and Gulp jerk bait.

We fished little Sarasota Bay And saw no Signs of red tide. The bay water was clean and we saw plenty of signs of life including jumping mullet, bait and manatees. It may not be the best time of year for fishing, however with patience and persistence your trip can still be successful.

Capt. Chuck Cress

Fishing has been a lifetime passion for me. Depending on the skill level of my clients what I like to do is put them on big fish using artificial lures. I like to educating and passing on my knowledge of local history and the many sights the area has to offer while we are on the water.