Fishing Report! Friday, October 18, 2024

Well, it has been an interesting few weeks for us here on the west coast of Florida. But after Hurricane Milton, we are finally finding some normality. We are now back to our normal hours, we are receiving  live bait and have plenty of new fall items arriving daily!! With that being said we do have a few fishing reports to mention as well. Some of the local Captains have been getting some very nice mangrove snapper on the nearshore reefs this week. Not too many reports further out than that at the moment but kingfish season will soon be upon us. Inshore action seems to be starting up right where it left off with a good amount of bait being mentioned in the north and south bay. There were some GIANT snook caught mid week in the south creek area on cut mullet. Lots of smaller snook and trout caught in the bay this week as well. I’ve had a few mentions of redfish and with the amount of bait around thats no surprise! The redfish action should really be heating up in these next few weeks so keep your eyes open for birds diving on bait and big ‘mullet-like’ pushes.

Stop in and see us with any questions! As always, TIGHT LINES!!

Recent News

Fishing Report! Friday 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

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.

Kayak and Paddleboard Scratch and Dent Sale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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

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

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!!

Our Loss is Your Gain! Hurricane Milton Scratch and Dent Sale on Kayaks and Paddleboards

The recent storm took a toll on some of our inventory, leaving us with a selection of kayaks and paddleboards that now have a few scratches and dents. While these blemishes are purely cosmetic, we’re offering significant discounts to help you get out on the water at a fraction of the regular cost!

If you’ve been considering a kayak or paddleboard, now’s the perfect time to dive in and snag a great deal. Here’s why our Hurricane Milton Scratch and Dent Sale on Kayaks and Paddleboards is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Hurricane Milton Scratch and Dent Sale on Kayaks and Paddleboards

 

1. Quality Gear at Unbeatable Prices

This sale offers substantial savings on kayaks and paddleboards that have minor cosmetic damage. Each piece is still fully functional and ready for adventure, just with a few scratches or scuffs. If you’re looking to get top-quality equipment for less, this sale is for you.

2. Enjoy the Water Without Worrying About Perfection

For many of us, a kayak or paddleboard is a well-loved piece of gear that gains character with each use. With these scratch-and-dent models, you can enjoy paddling through beautiful Florida waters without worrying about keeping your gear in pristine condition. The “lived-in” look just adds to the charm!

3. Perfect for Beginners and Experienced Paddlers Alike

Whether you’re just starting out or have been on the water for years, these kayaks and paddleboards are an excellent investment. For beginners, it’s a budget-friendly way to get high-quality equipment without committing to the full price. Experienced paddlers will appreciate the functionality and durability of these boards at a fraction of the cost.

4. Top Brands with Slight Imperfections

Our inventory includes some of the most reliable and well-known brands in the industry. You can enjoy the quality and performance of these trusted brands for much less than you’d pay for a brand-new, unblemished model. All of the gear in our sale has been inspected to ensure it’s ready for the water.

5. Local, Friendly Service to Help You Choose the Right Fit

Our team is here to answer any questions you have about our scratch-and-dent models and to help you select the best option for your paddling needs. We’re passionate about getting people out on the water and making kayaking and paddleboarding accessible to everyone.

6. Get Ready for a Florida Adventure

With cooler weather and calmer waters, it’s a fantastic time of year to explore Florida’s waterways. A scratch-and-dent kayak or paddleboard is the perfect way to get outdoors and discover hidden coves, quiet lakes, and coastal scenery.

Visit Us Today and Take Advantage of These Great Deals

Our Hurricane Milton Scratch and Dent Sale won’t last forever! If you’re ready to save on kayaks and paddleboards, come visit us and check out our inventory while it lasts. Our team is excited to help you find the perfect piece to start your next water adventure.

Get out on the water for less – visit us today and make the most of these unbeatable deals!

Fishing Report!! Monday October 28, 2024

Fall fishing is firing off!! Just this week we have had red snapper, yellowtail snapper in about 150′, big mangroves, lane snapper and sailfish reports coming from offshore. The nearshore wreck fishing can’t be beat with solid reports of cobia all week. The tripletail have shown up this week on the crab lines with several keepers mentioned already, Blackfin tuna have been in scattered depths but are abundant with tons of bait being reported inshore and offshore. The spanish mackerel have arrived and the kings are following close behind. Inshore action is going strong with bait being extremely plentiful. Redfish have been nonstop this week. A few trout and smaller snook being mentioned in the bay as well. Even a few reports of backwater juvenile tarpon! It is not uncommon to see migratory schools off the beach this time of year heading south. Theyre usually tough though with one thing on their mind….migration. Hoping to see some bigger schools of redfish these upcoming weeks in the north bay but only time will tell. We are getting live shrimp every day and have some great deals on terminal tackle also. Stop in and see us!!

Tight Lines!!

UPDATED – Fall Kayak Demo and Fishing Seminar

Come join us November 2025!

We will be hosting a FREE Kayak Demo Day and Kayak Fishing Seminar at the end of November 2025!

Thinking about buying a kayak for someone special this Christmas? Wanting to get into kayak fishing yourself? This weekend will be all about kayaking and kayak fishing. Come try our large variety of boats and hear from our experts!

Demo Day will be Saturday November 22nd from 9am to Noon. Location Ackerman Park (400 Apex Rd, Sarasota, FL). This will be your chance to try numerous kayaks and experience before you buy.  During demo day you will be joined by our kayak specialists. Our knowledgeable team can assist and answer any and all questions. All paddling levels welcome and great for beginners. Pedal, paddle, compare and discuss with our demo team.

Sunday November 23rd at 1pm hear from Chris Lender at the Economy Tackle shop. Chris is our Hobie Pro Staff Fishing Team Member and Florida Redfish Series Champion and Ambassador and 3rd place WINNER of the Hobie Saltwater Series Tournament of Champions. Hear the pro’s, cons and perks of kayak fishing our salty bays and gulf. Learn the safety, tackle, gear and must-have add ons for the ultimate kayak fishing experience. Bring your questions and get ready for an informative and friendly session!

Check out Chris Lender’s social media pages on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for all his latest fishing adventures and tournaments.

Sign up for our Newsletter to get the latest updates about the demo.If poor weather is a possibility, Demo Day will be cancellled and resheduled for a later date. Notification will come through email but you can also call the store to confirm, Friday before 6pm and Saturday after 8am.

** We will have a variety of kayaks to try but please call with any specific requests.

 

🚣‍♂️ Get Help With Professional Kayak Repair Services and Parts! 🌊

Need help with kayak repairs? Whether looking for parts on a Do-It-Yourself project or professional kayak repair service, we can help!

🔧Our Services Include (But Are Not Limited To):

  • ✅ ABS Plastic Welding & Epoxy Repairs –  Expert fixes of cracks, holes, and structural damage.
  • ✅ Hobie Kayak Service & Repairs – General Hobie Mirage drive maintenance, kayak and part replacements, and warranty support for Hobie models.
  • ✅ General Kayak Rehab – From deep cleaning and power washing to replacing worn fittings, lines, and handles—so, you can bring your kayak back to life!
  • ✅ Accessory & Rudder System Installations – Professional installation of accessories and rudder systems to enhance performance and convenience.

Located in the Sarasota area and need help with transport? We offer pick-up and delivery services. 🚚

🛶 Prefer to Handle Repairs Yourself? We’ve Got the Supplies You Need!

We carry a wide range of high-quality parts and accessories to help you repair or upgrade a kayak on your own. For example, we offer:

  • ✅ Bungee Cord by the Foot – Available in multiple sizes to suit your needs
  • ✅ Handles – Bow, stern, and midship handles for easy carrying and control
  • ✅ Kayak Accessories – Enhance your paddling or fishing experience with useful add-ons
  • ✅ Seat & Outfitting Components – Includes replacement seats, thigh braces, and foot pegs
  • ✅ Rudder & Skeg Parts – Parts for repairs or upgrades to your steering systems
  • ✅ Repair Materials – Epoxies and sealants for durable hull and deck fixes

Check out of list of kayak accessories online here to get you started.

📞 Got questions or ready for a repair? Then give us a call today! In short, whether you’re patching up or leveling up, we’ve got you covered!

               

 

Fishing Report-Friday 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