Beginner's Guide to Saltwater Fishing

Beginner’s Guide to Saltwater Fishing Tackle: What You Really Need

Saltwater fishing in Sarasota and Bradenton offers incredible opportunities for beginners. Whether you are casting from a pier, fishing the flats, or heading out in a kayak, the Gulf Coast provides access to species like redfish, snook, trout, and flounder. If you are new to the sport, the wide variety of rods, reels, and tackle can feel overwhelming. The key is starting with the right essentials instead of overloading your tackle box.

At Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports, we help new anglers focus on what truly matters so they can fish confidently from day one.

Start With a Versatile Rod and Reel

For most beginners fishing in the Sarasota and Bradenton area, a 7-foot medium or medium-heavy spinning rod paired with a saltwater-rated spinning reel is a smart choice. Spinning setups are easy to handle and forgiving for new anglers learning to cast.

Make sure your reel is built for saltwater use to prevent corrosion. A reliable rod and reel combo will cover most inshore fishing situations and give you flexibility as you gain experience.

Choose the Right Line and Leader

Fishing line is one of the most important parts of your setup. Many anglers prefer braided line because it is strong, sensitive, and allows for longer casts. A 10 to 20-pound braid works well for targeting common inshore species.

Adding a fluorocarbon leader is essential in saltwater fishing. Fluorocarbon is less visible underwater and provides extra abrasion resistance when fishing around docks, mangroves, or oyster bars.

Keep Terminal Tackle Simple

You do not need every hook size available. Start with a small selection of circle hooks and jig heads that match the bait you plan to use. Circle hooks are great for beginners because they increase hook-up success and are better for catch and release.

Carry a few basic weights like split shot or egg sinkers to adjust for current and depth. Swivels are also helpful for connecting your main line to your leader and reducing line twist.

Live Bait and Artificial Lures

Both live bait and artificial lures are effective in Sarasota and Bradenton waters. Live shrimp and pinfish are reliable options for beginners and consistently attract popular inshore species.

If you prefer artificial lures, start with soft plastic paddle tails, jerk baits, and a topwater lure. These cover different water conditions and are simple to use while you build confidence.

Do Not Overlook Basic Gear

In addition to tackle, a few basic tools will improve your experience. Pliers for hook removal, a small landing net, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and a well-organized tackle box are all essential. If you are kayak fishing, Dolphin Paddlesports can help outfit your kayak with rod holders and storage options for a smoother trip.

Get Local Guidance Before You Fish

Fishing conditions in Sarasota and Bradenton change with the seasons, tides, and weather. Stopping by Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports before you head out allows you to get up-to-date advice on what is biting and which setups are working best.

Contact Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports Today

If you are ready to start saltwater fishing in Sarasota or Bradenton, Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports has the gear, bait, and local expertise you need. Whether you are shopping for your first rod and reel or gearing up for your next trip, our team is here to help. Visit us today or contact Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports to get started on the water.

Eddyline, Bonafide & Native Kayaks- Now at Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports

March 1, 2025

We are excited to announce that Dolphin Paddlesport has added new brands to its inventory! We’re thrilled to introduce the ultralite kayak brand, Eddyline, along with two exceptional fishing kayak brands, Native and Bonafide. Follow the links to discover more about each brand.

With 32 years of experience in the kayak industry, we continuously strive to stay aligned with the ever-evolving world of paddlesport. Our offerings now include paddle, pedal, and power capabilities, featuring electric motors from Bixpy and Newport.

Check out our selection of boats through our online store. Local delivery available upon request and we offer bi-weekly demos. Call 941-922-9671 for more detials!

Woman paddling an Eddyline Caribbean 12FS Sit-on-Top Kayak

Fishing Report-Friday February 28, 2025

February 28, 2025

Signs of spring are near!! Despite some inconsistent weather these past few weeks, things are starting to shape up nicely both offshore and in. African pompanos are being caught in 100+ feet of water using both live and dead baits on big structures such as D reefs, springs and wrecks. The mangrove snapper bite has been fantastic along with sheepshead, hogfish, porgies, cobia and pompano. There are also still plenty of nice tripletail cruising the crab lines. Always check any floating debris this time of year as they can easily hold a tripletail. Bigger bait is starting to show up which is a nice sign of spring, as well as some decent snook starting to move out. Inshore trout and redfish bite has been phenominal with a lot of overslot trout being reported this week specifically. Redfish reports from the north and south bay have been nonstop with anglers catching them on soft plastics as well as live bait. Now is the time to book if you are interested in tarpon charters for this spring/summer. They’ll be here before we know it!! Let us know if you are interested and we can help get you in touch with a guide.

Tight Lines!!!

Fishing Report! Friday January 24, 2025

January 24, 2025

High winds and cold temps have been keeping people much closer to shore than normal these past few weeks. Offshore reports are scattered in between tough conditions, but nearshore fishing within 15 miles has been very productive when able to get out. Hogfish reports have been strong, mainly nearshore ledges on live shrimp or shrimp rigged on a hogball. Sheepshead and redfish have been all over nearshore structure in about 40′ these past couple weeks as well. A few mentions of tripletail so far with some absolute giants in the mix. Inshore bite has really been great despite the wind and cold. Live shrimp or soft plastics working SLOW on the bottom is the ticket for the cold. Thumpershrimp 3″ gold glitter or rootbeer colors are working great as well as the Vudu shrimp and golden bream lil jons. Think shrimpy patterns! There have been several pompano reports recently on the flats, as well as trout and some nice redfish primarily around docks and rocks. We have live shrimp as well as a full selection of frozen baits. Stop in and see us!

Tight Lines!!

Kayak and Paddleboard Scratch and Dent Sale: The Perfect Holiday Gift Opportunity

December 16, 2024

The holiday season is here, and if you’re searching for the ultimate gift for the paddle enthusiast in your life, look no further than our Kayak and Paddleboard Scratch and Dent Sale! It’s the perfect chance to snag high-quality equipment at unbeatable prices—because adventure on the water doesn’t need to come with a hefty price tag.

Why Scratch and Dent?

These kayaks and paddleboards may have minor cosmetic imperfections, but they’re every bit as sturdy and performance-ready as new ones. A scratch here or a dent there doesn’t affect their ability to glide through Florida’s beautiful waterways. And the best part? You’ll enjoy significant savings while giving the gift of adventure.

Why This Sale is Perfect for the Holidays

Budget-Friendly Options
The holidays can stretch your budget, but with discounted prices on our scratch-and-dent inventory, you can give a premium gift without breaking the bank.
Perfect for All Skill Levels
Whether the recipient is a seasoned paddler or just getting started, our kayaks and paddleboards are ideal for all experience levels.
Florida’s Year-Round Paddling Season
In Florida, paddle season is every season! Your loved one will have the chance to hit the water right away, exploring serene rivers, mangroves, or open bays.
Environmentally Friendly
By choosing scratch-and-dent items, you’re helping to reduce waste while supporting a more sustainable approach to outdoor recreation.

Make Their Holiday Special

Imagine their excitement when they unwrap a kayak or paddleboard, opening the door to countless adventures on the water! Whether they love tranquil sunrise paddles or adrenaline-pumping rides through coastal waves, this gift will create memories that last a lifetime.

Visit Us Today!

Stop by during our Scratch and Dent Sale to find the perfect holiday gift! Don’t wait—supplies are limited, and these deals won’t last long. We’re conveniently located in Sarasota and serve paddlers from Bradenton, Venice, and beyond.

Fishing Report! Monday, December 9, 2024

December 9, 2024

Wintertime fishing is at its best! With some inconsistent weather, the offshore reports have been scattered. The past week has produced some nice numbers though before the wind started to blow. Red snapper, muttons and yellowtails were being reported at about 150′ along with some larger African pompanos. The hogfish bite has been exceptional this past week and should continue on with the colder weather. Most of those being caught with live shrimp or shrimp rigged on a hog ball. Mangrove snappers continue to bite at a range of depths. A long, light leader and live shrimp is the way to go. Gag grouper have been reported like crazy this week as well as a few nice cobia. Inshore redfish bite has been absolutely awesome this past week with some very large trout and sheepshead in the mix. Its time for artificials!! Golden bream, or soft plastics with browns, golds and reds are working best at the moment. Working them slowly over oyster beds and grass flats on the low tides is highly recommended. Quarter or eighth ounce gold spoon are working well for redfish also. As always, stop in and see us with any questions, TIGHT LINES!!

!!! FREE SEMINAR THIS WEEK !!!

This Thursday, December 12th @ 6 pm, Capt Geoff Page will be discussing tactics for WINTERTIME FISHING WITH ARTIFICIALS!! He will also go over how to choose the right set ups for different applications and rigging techniques. No reservation is needed. See you then!

Fishing Report!! Monday November 25, 2024

November 25, 2024

Fall fishing is certainly going strong!! Offshore reports have been limited due to some very windy conditions recently. However, weve had some decent reports from the 150′ range for yellowtails, big mangrove snappers and blackfin tuna. Some American red snapper but need to go a bit deeper for those. Kingfish are being reported from those depths as well but there have also been quite a few caught closer to the beach. The hogfish bite has been outstanding the past few days mostly caught on live shrimp. Big tripletail have shown up with a massive 13lb fish mentioned today. Cobia have been everywhere from the beach out to 100′. The bigger cobia usually are in deeper water but you could definitely luck into a giant in the shallows. Spanish mackerel and bonita have been blowing up on bait schools off of the beach as well. Inshore we have it all!!! Sheepshead around most structure at the moment, pompano off of the beaches and in the passes. Flounder in the passes and off of the beach. Massive trout on the flats currently with some every nice snook mixed in and redfish have been lingering under the mangrove edges waiting for your bait. Live shrimp are working well currently and the whitebait has been thick!! Soft plastics of choice at the moment have been golden bream lil jons, pearl NLBN paddletails and K-tails, Zman Prawnstars and DOA jerkshads.

Stop in and see us! Happy Thanksgiving!!

**BLACK FRIDAY SPECIALS**

We have some fantastic deals planned for this Friday!! Including discounts on certain reels, hooks, tackle boxes, sunglasses, braided line and more!!

Fishing Report-Friday January 30, 2026

January 30, 2026

Well, this is it! Wintertime fishing at its finest. These past couple weeks we have seen a bit of inconsistent weather and high winds. This makes it tough to get offshore, but if you have the boat it can still be productive. Red grouper are being caught in about 100′. Gag grouper being caught and released in about 40-50′. Hogfish bite has been great on nearshore ledges in about 40′. Cobia have been scattered on nearshore structure and smaller fish being caught in the bay this week. Mangrove snapper have been reported in 50′ as well as some keepers caught in Phillippi Creek. Mangroves seem to be almost always available inshore and off. One of the best eating fish in my opinion. There have also been some decent snook on nearshore structure, the water is warmer the deeper you go. They are down there escaping the cold. A few mentions of tripletail this week as well. Typically the larger fish will surface after a front. Inshore, its a sheepshead and pompano kind of week!! Sheepshead can be found on nearshore structure, inshore structure ( docks, rocks and oyster beds.) Pompano are still going strong off of the beach, big pass and inshore channels. Live shrimp or ‘Silly Willy” jigs have been working great. There are schools of massive jack crevalle in Phillippi Creek this week along with those keeper mangs. We have also seen some very consistant reports of redfish in the bay and even a couple smaller snook! This time of year I like to use a lot of artificials. Work them slow. Mirro-lure Lil Jons in golden brean, new penny, and watermellon red are great colors. The redfish and trout love them! As always, stop in and see us with any questions or if you need any recommendations!

Tight Lines

1 Day Flash Kayak Sale & Kayak Seminar 12.13.2025

December 3, 2025

Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports will have both a sale and seminar on December 13th, 2025.

Flash Sale:10% Off Lightweight Kayaks, Hurricane & Eddyline

The sale will last for ONE day only and apply to the well known lightweight kayaks- Hurricane and Eddyline. Only boats that are in stock, will have a sale price. We will be open from 8am to 6pm that Saturday. You cannot reserve, put a hold on, or layaway any Hurricane or Eddyline kayak prior to the sale to get the future discounted price. First come, first serve and kayaks must be paid in full. We have a fair amount of Hurricane kayaks in stock, including kayaks in their new mint and coral colors. We have a very limited stock of Eddyline kayaks. Need a local delivery? We provide that as well from Anna Maria to Englewood. Delivery fees apply and delivery will need to be scheduled for future date/time. . Signup for our newsletter to stay informed.

Kayak Paddling Seminar:

Our kayak seminar will be taught by Dick Pfaff. Dick is a professional certified instructor/tour guide, with over 30 years of paddling experience. He will go over types of kayaks, paddles and PFD’s to help you make the right decision for purchase or rent. He will also spend some extra time on lightweight kayaks. If you plan to attend this seminar, please give us a call and reserve your spot. The seminar must have minimum of 6 guests. Seminar will be held at the Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports’ shop.

We look forward to seeing you at the shop!

Why Local Kayak Shops Matter More Than Buying Online

February 6, 2026

If you are shopping for a kayak, it can be tempting to click “add to cart” and have one delivered straight to your driveway. Online shopping is quick and convenient, and for many people, it feels like the easiest way to get started. While ordering online can work in some cases, buying from a local kayak shop often makes a bigger difference than most paddlers realize.

For Sarasota kayakers and kayak anglers, visiting a trusted local shop can save you time, money, and frustration while helping you get on the water with confidence.

Expert Advice Makes All the Difference

Kayaks are not one-size-fits-all. The right kayak depends on where you plan to paddle, your experience level, your height and weight, and whether you want to fish, explore, or simply enjoy a relaxing day on Sarasota Bay.

When you shop online, you are usually relying on reviews from strangers who may paddle in completely different conditions. When you shop locally, you get real guidance from people who understand Florida waters and can help match you with the perfect kayak for your goals.

See the Kayak Before You Buy It

Photos and product descriptions can only tell you so much. Comfort, seat support, stability, storage space, and overall feel are things you truly need to experience in person.

Shopping at a local kayak shop allows you to inspect the kayak up close, compare models side by side, and get a better idea of what you are investing in. This is especially important for fishing kayaks, where small details like rod storage and gear space can make a huge difference.

Get Properly Outfitted From the Start

Many people buy a kayak online and then realize they still need the essentials: a paddle, personal flotation device, dry bags, anchor systems, roof racks, or upgraded seating. Suddenly, that “easy” purchase turns into multiple follow-up orders and unexpected costs.

A local shop helps you get everything you need at once so you can hit the water prepared.

Local Knowledge You Cannot Get Online

Paddling in Florida comes with unique challenges, including tides, wind, shallow flats, boat traffic, and sudden weather changes. A local shop can recommend the best kayak styles for Sarasota Bay, mangrove tunnels, the Myakka River, and beyond.

That kind of Sarasota-specific knowledge can help beginners avoid common mistakes and enjoy safer, smoother adventures.

Online Convenience With Local Support

At Economy Tackle / Dolphin Paddlesports, we understand that sometimes ordering online is the most convenient option. That is why many of our products are available online, making it easy to browse kayaks, accessories, and gear from anywhere.

However, coming into the shop is always the best way to ensure you are getting the right fit, the right setup, and the right advice before you buy.

Visit Economy Tackle / Dolphin Paddlesports and Let Us Help You

Economy Tackle / Dolphin Paddlesports has deep roots in Sarasota, evolving over the years into one of the area’s most trusted sources for recreational and fishing kayaks. When you shop with us, you are not just buying a kayak, you are gaining a team that truly cares about your experience on the water.

Whether you shop online or visit in person, we cannot wait to help you find the perfect kayak and get ready for your next adventure. For more information, contact our team today!