(941)349-7777
The west coast of Florida is one of the best places to fish in the United States. The waters off of Siesta Key beaches host more than 1,000 species of fish. Grouper, snapper, snook, and speckled trout are just a few of the top 10 gamefish species you can catch year-round.
While there are numerous private tour companies that provide fishing experiences for all levels of experience, sometimes you just want to dangle your legs off one of the piers or docks or head to the beach, sink your line into the ocean, and watch the sun go down with friends and family.
Below is a list of some of the best Siesta Key fishing spots for everyone from beginners to experts to enjoy – all a short drive or walk from our monthly vacation condos on Siesta Key.
Blind Pass Lagoon
At the south end of the island tucked behind Turtle Beach lies Blind Pass Lagoon, one of the best Siesta Key fishing spots.
Fish for mackerel and bluefish in this consistent spot. Cast your line from the shore, seawall, or piers. Blind Pass Lagoon connects to Little Sarasota Bay, near the Jim Neville Marine Preserve.
From this fishing spot, you’ll have access to Turtle Beach’s parking lot, picnic pavilions and grills, restrooms, and kids’ playground, and, of course, the beach itself.
On your way down, pick up some live bait – shrimp works well – at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters. It’s about a five-minute drive away at 1249 Stickney Point Rd.
Point of Rocks
Catch flounder, snook, snapper, and more along this unique rock formation at the south end of Crescent Beach.
As its name implies, Point of Rocks is a formation of rocks, underwater caves, and coral that attracts all kinds of reef-loving fish. It’s also a great place for spotting marine life and snorkeling, so watch out for swimmers before you cast your line.
Unfortunately, there is no parking or facilities here, so bring with you what you need for the day.
Big Pass
Big Pass is a long, skinny inlet with a smooth, rocky bottom at the far northwest end of the island. It opens out to the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico and separates Lido Key from Siesta Key.
Here, you can find great shore fishing. Catch mangrove snapper, grouper, and snook in the shallow pass as you watch boats go by.
If you’re in the area. Head west on N. Shell Road, where you’ll find one of the most tucked away white-sand beaches in Siesta Key called Shell Beach – perfect for swimming, sunset viewing, and, of course, fishing.
Siesta Drive Bridge
Anglers will love the fishing under Siesta Drive Bridge at the north end of Siesta Key. This bridge connects the north side of the island to the mainland, and is a very popular spot for catching structure-loving fish like gag grouper, snapper, and sea bass. This fishing spot has lots of parking, but no facilities.
Old Midnight Pass
For the experienced angler, Old Midnight Pass will present a welcomed challenge. This pass offers the option of both gulf and bay fishing.
Park at Turtle Beach and walk south about half a mile until you reach the narrow strip of land that connects Siesta and Casey keys. Catch fish like cobia, grouper, flounder, and kingfish along these beaches.
And if you’re wondering if you can still fish off the old Siesta Key fishing pier, we have an article about that too!
Fishing Licenses & Regulations
Remember: non-residents ages 16 and up will require a license when fishing from public spots on shore. Licenses can be picked up at local bait shops and sporting goods stores, some marinas and hardware stores, and online at http://myfwc.com/license/
Be sure to abide by fishing regulations, which might include limits and seasonal restrictions. If you plan to take your catch and have it for dinner, be sure to plan ahead. Special stamps are required for certain species – snook and tarpon, to name a couple. No special stamps are required for catch-and-release fishing.
Learn more about our monthly vacation condos on Siesta Key and book online today!
