For some of Florida’s most incredible pier and surf fishing opportunities, nothing beats Anna Maria Island where you’ll have several locations to catch some of the most popular and coveted game fish in Florida. Get out there and get fishing!
Top fishing locations on the island the multiple historic piers, public beaches, rock jetties, public docks, private docks at Anna Maria Island waterfront rentals, and several other bay and Gulf access points.
Below are a few tips to help you get started and to guarantee the fishing adventure of a lifetime on this beautiful island.
Tip #1 – Get your fishing license ahead of time
All of those in your group who are 16 years or older will need a local license to fish, even if you don’t plan on taking anything. You can easily obtain it for a small fee online.
Separate permits are required to take spiny lobsters, tarpon or snook.
Tip #2 – Rent your equipment to avoid having to bring it
You can rent everything you need to fish on Anna Maria Island so that you won’t need to lug around your own equipment, which can be a major advantage if you’re flying in.
To fish at the piers, you can rent rods and purchase bait from the City Pier or Rod and Reel pier for low rates, along with everything else that you’ll need to fish there.
Tip #3 – Fish from the Rod and Reel Pier or the City Pier
Rod and Reel Pier Location: 875 N Shore Dr., Anna Maria, FL
City Pier Location: 100 N Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL
Both the Rod and Reel Pier and the City Pier are excellent spots to fish from and located right by each other, and although these piers can sometimes be crowded you’ll be able to find a spot any time of the day.
Both piers extend a far way into the ocean so that you’ll be able to catch a wide range of different species.
You also get the advice of the friendly local fishermen at either of these piers who can help you catch the particular type of fish that you’re after.
Tip #4 – Fish during sunrise and sunset to avoid the heat
Many expert fishermen will tell you that the low light hours of sunrise and sunset are two of the best times to fish on Anna Maria Island, as you can avoid the heat while several types of game fish are more active and feeding during these hours.
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It doesn’t get much better than that, and our vacation rentals are also absolutely loaded with amenities so that your fishing excursion is as comfortable as possible. Check out our full selection of Anna Maria Island waterfront rentals here, many of which have docks on location!
Tip #5 – Fish from the beaches and jetties throughout the island
You can always fish from any of the public beaches, beach access points, rock jetties, or public docks throughout the island. The beaches and rocks throughout the north side of Anna Maria Island are a favorite spot for local fishermen as they are often less crowded than the piers.
Tip #6 – Book an Anna Maria Island waterfront rental
Booking a waterfront rental is one of the best ways to fully experience fishing on Anna Maria Island.
You’ll be able to step right outside of your rental, walk to the water and fish from your dock anytime you want!
