Live Bait Available: Shrimp and Worms

How to Catch Redfish from a Kayak in Sarasota: Complete Guide

Of all the inshore species that call Sarasota Bay home, the red drum, universally known as redfish, stands out as the ultimate kayak fishing target. They’re powerful, aggressive, and found in water shallow enough that a kayak gives you a significant tactical advantage over motorized boats. When the water is clear and the tide is right, you can spot a tailing redfish from 50 yards away and make a precise cast that larger boats simply cannot match.

This guide covers everything you need to know to consistently catch redfish from a kayak in Sarasota Bay, from reading the water and understanding their seasonal behavior to the specific tackle, techniques, and presentation strategies that produce fish.

Related Resource: The ultimate guide to kayak fishing in Sarasota Bay

Understanding Sarasota Bay Redfish

Red drum are year-round residents of Sarasota Bay. Unlike some migratory species, redfish don’t leave; they simply move between different habitats as water temperature, tides, and seasons change. This makes them one of the most reliable target species for local kayak anglers.

Redfish in Sarasota Bay fall into two general categories:

  • Slot fish (18 to 27 inches): These are the bread-and-butter of Sarasota Bay redfish fishing. Slot fish are commonly found on the grass flats, along mangrove edges, and around oyster bars throughout the year.
  • Bull redfish (over 27 inches): Larger redfish over the slot are also present, particularly in deeper channels and passes, especially in fall and winter. These fish are catch-and-release and provide some of the most exciting kayak fishing action of the year.

Seasonal Patterns: When and Where to Find Redfish

Spring (March–May)

Spring is one of the best times to kayak fish for redfish in Sarasota Bay. Water temperatures are comfortable (70s°F), baitfish are abundant, and redfish are feeding aggressively after a slower winter. Focus on the grass flats of the mid-bay on incoming tides, and check the mangrove edges on outgoing tides as fish retreat to the shade and structure.

Summer (June–August)

Summer redfish action is concentrated in the early morning hours before the sun gets high and the wind picks up. Fish push into very shallow water early, putting kayak anglers in a perfect position to intercept them. Sight-fishing to tailing redfish on the flats in the first two hours of daylight is one of Sarasota’s greatest fishing experiences. Beat the heat by being on the water at first light and off by 10 a.m.

Fall (September–November)

Fall is peak redfish season in Sarasota Bay. Large schools of slot-sized redfish gather on the flats and are highly visible and catchable. Schools of 20 to 100 fish are not uncommon, and finding one means fast, furious action. This is also when bull reds move through the deeper passes and channels heading south.

Winter (December–February)

Cold fronts push redfish off the shallow flats and into deeper, warmer water. Focus on channels, deep holes, and the leeward side of islands and points during cold snaps. When the weather moderates between fronts, fish push back onto the flats and can be found tailing in the midday sun, absorbing warmth.

Reading the Water for Redfish

The biggest advantage a kayak angler has over other anglers is the ability to get shallow, get quiet, and get close. Here’s how to read the water and find redfish:

Tailing Fish

A tailing redfish is the gold standard of inshore fishing. When redfish feed head-down on crabs and shrimp in shallow water, their tails wave above the surface. Look for a slow, deliberate waving motion (not a splashy commotion, which is usually mullet). The tail of a redfish is distinctive, coppery-gold with a black spot at the base.

Waking Fish

Redfish moving through very shallow water push a V-wake ahead of them that is visible from a distance. When you see a wake moving purposefully through shallow grass, it’s almost certainly a redfish (or a school of them). Intercept the path of the wake rather than chasing it.

Working Structure

Even when you can’t see fish, redfish follow predictable patterns around structure. Oyster bars concentrate redfish on falling tides as they pick crabs off the exposed shells. Mangrove points and pockets hold fish on incoming tides. Channel edges adjacent to grass flats are feeding highways; fish cruise these transitions constantly.

Kayak-Specific Redfish Tactics

The Stealthy Approach

Kayak fishing’s greatest advantage, stealth, only works if you use it. When approaching a redfish on the flats, stop paddling at least 30 yards away. Use your anchor or stake-out pole to hold position. Cast ahead of the fish, not at it. Let the lure settle, then begin a slow retrieve.

Anchoring Up on Structure

Rather than constantly moving and spooking fish, anchor upcurrent from a productive piece of structure (an oyster bar edge, a mangrove point, a grass channel) and let the fish come to you. This tactic is particularly effective on falling tides when fish predictably work along edges.

Drift Fishing the Flats

On days with a gentle breeze, use the wind to drift quietly across the flats, covering ground and scanning for activity. Keep a rod rigged with a weedless soft plastic ready to cast to any fish you spot. This mobile approach lets you cover large areas efficiently.

Best Tackle for Sarasota Bay Redfish

Rod and Reel Setup

For kayak redfish fishing in Sarasota Bay, a 7-foot medium or medium-heavy spinning rod paired with a 2500 to 3000 series reel is the ideal setup. Spool with 15 to 20 lb braided line and add a 20 to 30 lb fluorocarbon leader (18 to 24 inches) tied with a uni-to-uni or FG knot.

Top Lures for Redfish

  • Gold spoon (1/4 to 3/8 oz): The all-time classic Sarasota Bay redfish lure. Cast ahead of a tailing fish and retrieve slowly along the bottom.
  • Weedless soft plastic paddletail (3 to 4 inches): Perfect for working through grass without hanging up. Chartreuse/white, root beer, and red/gold are proven Sarasota Bay colors.
  • Popping cork with live or artificial shrimp: Excellent for fishing mangrove edges and grass pockets. The popping sound attracts fish and suspends the bait at the right depth.
  • DOA Shrimp (gold glitter): One of the most productive lures for Sarasota Bay redfish, particularly on the flats. Fish it weightless or on a light jighead with a slow, twitching retrieve.

Live and Natural Bait

  • Live shrimp: The universal Sarasota Bay bait. Fish under a popping cork over grass or free-lined near mangroves.
  • Pinfish: Excellent live bait for larger redfish and bull reds in passes and channels.
  • Fiddler crabs: The best bait for redfish around oyster bars, irresistible to fish feeding on natural crab prey.
  • Cut mullet or crab: Excellent on the bottom for redfish that aren’t actively feeding on the surface.

Stop by Economy Tackle for the latest intel on what’s working in Sarasota Bay. Our staff fish these waters regularly and can point you to the hottest lures and bait of the current season.

Fighting and Landing Redfish from a Kayak

Redfish are strong, stubborn fighters that will test your tackle and your balance. When a big red runs, let it go; fighting it to a standstill immediately in a kayak risks flipping you or breaking off a fish. Apply steady pressure, keep the rod tip up, and let the drag do the work.

To land a redfish from a kayak, reach under the fish and cradle it with both hands. Redfish do not have teeth that will cut you, but their gill plates are sharp; keep your hands clear of the gills. Use a net if you have one, particularly for larger fish. Minimize air exposure, wet your hands before handling, and release the fish headfirst into the water with a gentle forward push.

Regulations for Sarasota Bay Redfish

Refish regulations can change, seasonally, annually, or in response to FWC management decisions. Always verify the current rules of myfwc.com before heading out. When in doubt, release the fish.

Final Tips for Kayak Redfish Success

  1. Fish early. The first two hours of daylight consistently produce the most redfish activity, especially in summer.
  2. Use the tide. Falling tides are generally most productive; they concentrate fish and create a current that triggers feeding.
  3. Go slow. You will catch more fish by covering less water more carefully than by rushing from spot to spot.
  4. Watch the birds. Wading birds like roseate spoonbills and herons are visual fish finders; they feed on the same baitfish and crabs that redfish target.
  5. Match the hatch. Observe what baitfish are present and choose lures that imitate them in size and color.

Recent News

Live Bait vs. Artificial Lures for Inshore Florida Fishing: When to Use Each

Ask ten anglers whether they prefer live bait or artificial lures, and you’ll get ten different answers, usually delivered with strong opinions. The truth is that both have a place in your arsenal, and knowing when to reach for each one is what separates a productive day on the water from a slow one.

If you’re fishing Sarasota Bay and the surrounding inshore waters of Southwest Florida, here’s what experience actually teaches you about this debate.

The Case for Live Bait

Live bait works because it’s real. The scent, the movement, the vibration in the water — fish have been eating these things their entire lives. On tough days when the fish are pressured, lethargic from temperature swings, or simply not in a chasing mood, live bait often gets bites that artificials can’t buy.

Shrimp is the universal inshore bait in Florida. Snook, redfish, trout, flounder, sheepshead, snapper — virtually everything that swims inshore will eat a live shrimp. Fished under a popping cork, free-lined on a light jighead, or drifted along the bottom, shrimp is a go-to choice for beginners and experienced anglers alike. It’s also widely available at Economy Tackle and bait shops throughout the Sarasota area.

Pinfish and grunt are the preferred live bait for targeting larger snook and redfish. Hook a lively pinfish near a mangrove edge or under a dock light at night, and you’re presenting exactly what big snook are already hunting. Pinfish are easy to catch on a small hook and a piece of shrimp, and a live well full of them is serious ammunition.

Mullet in various sizes covers a wide range of situations. Finger mullet are excellent for redfish on the flats and snook along shorelines. Larger cut mullet fished on the bottom is one of the most effective redfish and black drum baits on the market, especially in passes and deeper structure.

Live bait shines when fish are inactive, water temperatures are extreme (very cold or very hot), visibility is low, or you’re targeting a specific large fish that’s been finicky. It also tends to produce faster results for beginners who are still learning to work with artificials effectively.

The downsides are real, though. Live bait requires a live well or aerated bucket, burns through your supply quickly if fish aren’t cooperating, and limits how much water you can cover. You’re committed to fishing an area rather than searching for fish.

No Live Bait Needed

The Case for Artificial Lures

Artificials let you fish faster, cover more water, and target specific behaviors and depths with precision. A good angler with the right lure can consistently match or outfish live bait under the right conditions.

Soft plastic paddle tails and shrimp imitations are the workhorses of inshore Florida fishing. Rigged on a light jighead, a soft plastic can be worked through the water column, bounced along the bottom, or slowly retrieved just under the surface. They’re effective for trout on the flats, redfish in the grass, and snook around structure. Brands like DOA, Z-Man, and Gulp have proven track records in Sarasota Bay.

Topwater lures produce some of the most exciting fishing you’ll experience inshore. Early morning on a calm flat, a walking topwater bait worked slowly over the grass can draw explosive strikes from trout and snook. The visual element of the strike is addictive. When conditions are right, nothing beats it.

Gold spoons are one of the oldest and most reliable redfish baits in existence. A weedless gold spoon wobbled across a shallow flat mimics a fleeing baitfish and triggers instinctive reaction strikes from redfish and trout. They’re also castable in the wind, durable, and inexpensive.

MirrOlures and suspending twitch baits are particularly effective for trout in cooler months when fish are holding in specific depth ranges. A slow, twitching retrieve that keeps the lure in the strike zone longer produces well when fish aren’t actively chasing.

Artificials are the better choice when fish are actively feeding, when you need to cover water to locate schools, when you’re sight-fishing and need precise casts, or when you simply don’t have access to fresh live bait. They require more skill and practice to use effectively, but that investment pays off over time.

When Live Bait Wins

Live bait has a clear edge in these situations:

Fish are inactive due to cold fronts or dramatic temperature drops. Sarasota Bay sees water temperatures dip into the low 60s in winter, and fish slow down considerably. A live shrimp sitting in their face is far easier to eat than a lure requiring a chase.

Visibility is poor. After heavy rain, strong tidal flow, or wind chop, water clarity drops, and fish are relying on scent as much as sight. Live bait produces scent trails that artificials can’t replicate.

You’re targeting sheepshead, flounder, or black drum specifically. These species respond far better to live or cut bait than to most artificial presentations.

Beginners who are still developing their retrieve techniques will consistently catch more fish on live bait while building confidence on the water.

When Artificials Win

Artificials have a clear edge in these situations:

Fish are actively feeding on the surface or chasing bait. When you can see bait getting pushed and birds working, an artificial cast into the action often outperforms live bait because you can keep up with the school.

You’re covering a lot of water looking for fish. Kayak anglers working the flats of Sarasota Bay can cover significant ground more efficiently with artificials, stopping to work live bait only once fish are located.

Sight-fishing on shallow, clear flats. A soft plastic or gold spoon dropped 18 inches in front of a tailing redfish is often more effective than fumbling with live bait and potentially spooking the fish.

You need to make repeated casts to the same area without burning through your bait supply.

The Smart Approach: Use Both

The most productive inshore anglers don’t commit exclusively to one or the other. They start with artificials to locate fish and cover water, then switch to live bait when they’ve found where fish are holding or when conditions call for it. Keeping a small supply of live shrimp on the kayak as a backup is almost always worth it.

At Economy Tackle, we stock both a full selection of proven inshore lures and fresh live and frozen shrimp daily. Whether you’re heading out with a box of soft plastics or need to load up on shrimp before an early morning tide, stop by, and we’ll make sure you’re set up for the conditions.

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Fishing Florida’s Tarpon Season from a Kayak: What You Need to Know

There are fish, and then there are tarpon. Few inshore species command the same respect, obsession, and outright awe as the Silver King. Hooking one from a kayak puts you in a category of angling that very few anglers ever experience, and Southwest Florida is one of the best places in the world to do it.

If you’ve been thinking about targeting tarpon from your kayak this season, here’s what you need to know before you head out.

When Tarpon Arrive in Southwest Florida

Tarpon begin showing up along Florida’s Gulf Coast in earnest starting in April. By May, the migration is in full swing, and June and July represent the peak of tarpon season in the Sarasota and Charlotte Harbor region. Fish push through the passes, stack up along beaches, and work their way into bays and backwater areas following bait pods and favorable water temperatures.

Water temperature is the key driver. Once Gulf waters consistently hit the low to mid 70s, tarpon become increasingly active and catchable. By late spring, fish are rolling on the surface, daisy-chaining in passes, and showing themselves in numbers that can genuinely take your breath away.

The season winds down through August as many fish continue their migration south or push offshore, though resident fish and late-season stragglers keep things interesting well into fall in some years.

fishing for tarpon in sarasota on kayak

Best Areas Near Sarasota for Kayak Tarpon Encounters

You don’t need to travel far. Some of the most productive tarpon waters in Florida are right in the Sarasota area.

Longboat Pass and New Pass are the top producers during the migration. Tarpon stack in these cuts as they move between the Gulf and the bay, and a kayak angler positioned on the edges of the current can intercept fish that boat traffic pushes away from the channel center. Early morning, before boat traffic picks up, is prime time.

Big Pass near Siesta Key is another reliable corridor. The bridge pilings and channel edges hold fish and give kayak anglers natural structure to work around.

Sarasota Bay itself sees tarpon working through during the migration, particularly along the deeper grass flat edges and near the ICW. Sight-fishing opportunities on calm mornings can be exceptional when fish are rolling.

The beaches along Lido Key and Longboat Key hold migrating tarpon tracking just outside the first sandbar during May and June. Kayak anglers who launch from public beach access points and work parallel to the shore can find fish that are almost within casting distance of the sand.

The Tackle You Need

This is not the time for your trout rod. Tarpon are large, powerful, and will destroy underpowered gear. Rigging correctly before you launch is non-negotiable.

For spinning gear, a quality 7’6″ to 8′ heavy rod paired with a 6000 to 8000 class reel is the standard starting point. Spool with 50 to 65 lb braided line. Braid gives you the sensitivity to feel what’s happening and the strength to apply serious pressure during a fight.

For baitcasting setups, a heavy flipping or casting rod in the 7′ to 7’6″ range with a high-capacity reel spooled with 65 lb braid is a strong choice. Baitcasters allow for precise placement when sight-casting to rolling fish.

Leader selection is critical. Tarpon have abrasive mouths and gill plates that will cut through light fluorocarbon in seconds. Use 60-80 lbs fluorocarbon leader, typically 4 to 6 feet in length, attached to the braid with a quality knot. A circle hook in the 6/0 to 10/0 range is the right terminal choice for most live bait presentations.

Live Bait vs. Lures: Which Approach to Take

Both work, and the right choice depends on conditions and how the fish are behaving on a given day.

Live bait is the most consistent producer for kayak tarpon fishing in the Sarasota area. Live crabs, particularly blue crabs and pass crabs, are considered among the top tarpon baits in Florida. Large live mullet, threadfin herring, and pinfish are also excellent options. Free-lining live bait in a pass on an incoming tide with fish actively moving through is as productive as it gets.

Artificial lures shine when fish are in a chasing mood or when you’re targeting rolling fish on open flats and beaches. Large swimbaits, tarpon-specific snook plugs, and streamer-style lures in the 6 to 8 inch range can draw aggressive strikes. Working a large paddle tail or a surface plug past a daisy chain of rolling tarpon is a sight you won’t forget, regardless of whether they eat.

Presentations need to lead the fish. Cast well ahead of the direction they’re moving and bring the bait across their path. A tarpon that has to turn to chase a bait is far more likely to commit than one that sees the lure coming straight at it.

Fighting and Releasing Tarpon from a Kayak

This is where things get real. A 100 lb tarpon on the end of your line and a 12-foot kayak under you is a combination that demands respect and preparation.

When the fish jumps, bow to the king. Drop your rod tip toward the fish during jumps to create slack and reduce the chance of a thrown hook or a broken rod from the impact. Tarpon jump repeatedly and violently, and keeping tension through every leap is how gear gets destroyed.

Be prepared to be moved. Tarpon will pull a kayak significant distances and in directions you don’t choose. Know your surroundings before you hook up. Avoid fishing near heavy boat traffic, bridge pilings, or areas with strong crossing currents that could put you in a dangerous position.

Keep the fight as short as possible. Tarpon are powerful, but they tire, and a fish that’s been fought to exhaustion takes longer to recover and faces a higher risk of post-release mortality. Apply steady, confident pressure throughout the fight. Don’t let the fish sit still and recover mid-fight.

For the release, keep the tarpon in the water at all times if possible. If you need to touch the fish, support it horizontally and never hold a tarpon vertically by the lower jaw, as this can damage internal organs. Hold the fish upright in the water, pointing into any available current, until it kicks free on its own.

One important note on Florida regulations: Tarpon are a catch-and-release-only species, and no harvest is permitted. Tarpon over 40 inches must remain in the water at all times when caught, per FWC guidelines. Only hook-and-line fishing is allowed; snagging, snatch hooking, and spearing of tarpon are prohibited.

Anglers pursuing a Florida state or world record may purchase a tarpon tag through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for $50, with a limit of one tag per person, per year.

Please note that fishing regulations can change frequently, sometimes daily, weekly, or seasonally, and vary by location based on factors such as water conditions, fish populations, and conservation needs. Always verify current rules with the FWC before heading out.

Safety Considerations

Tarpon fishing from a kayak is exhilarating. It’s also the kind of fishing that requires you to think ahead.

File a float plan with someone on shore before heading out to passes or beaches. Know the tide schedule and how it affects current strength in the passes you’re fishing. Wear your PFD. This is non-negotiable when targeting large fish that can put you in unpredictable situations quickly.

Carry a line cutter or knife accessible without digging through gear. If a fish wraps you in your own line or runs under the kayak, you need to be able to cut free immediately. Keep your hooks attended and never leave a rigged rod where it could contact your body during a sudden run.

The experience of fighting a tarpon from a kayak is unlike anything else inshore fishing offers. It requires preparation, the right gear, and sound judgment on the water. Get those things right, and you’ll have stories worth telling for a long time.

Stop by Economy Tackle before tarpon season heats up. We carry the tackle, leader material, live bait, and local knowledge to get you ready. Visit us at floridakayak.com or come see us in Sarasota.

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Economy Tackle Is Hosting the 2026 Paddling Film Festival on Earth Day

Some nights remind you why you got into paddling in the first place. April 22nd is one of those nights.

Economy Tackle is proud to host the 2026 Paddling Film Festival at Burns Court Cinema in Sarasota, bringing one of the paddling world’s most celebrated annual events right to our backyard. Whether you’re a seasoned kayak angler, a weekend paddler, or someone who’s been thinking about getting on the water, this is an evening worth clearing your calendar for.

Paddling Film Festival 2026
 

What Is the Paddling Film Festival?

Now in its 21st year, the Paddling Film Festival is an internationally recognized showcase of the best paddling films from around the world. The annual World Tour kicks off each January at the Toronto International Boat Show and travels to venues across the globe, putting the sport’s most breathtaking footage in front of audiences who live and breathe time on the water.

The films span the full range of paddling culture: whitewater kayaking, sea kayaking, SUP, canoe expeditions, fishing from human-powered craft, and everything in between. The common thread is a love of wild places, moving water, and the particular kind of freedom that only comes from a paddle in your hands.

You can get a preview of this year’s lineup at the official Paddling Film Festival trailer and learn more at paddlingfilmfestival.com.

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026 (Earth Day)

Doors Open: 5:30 PM

Show Begins: 6:00 PM

Location: Burns Court Cinema, 506 Burns Court, Sarasota, FL 34236

Tickets are available online and in-store at Economy Tackle.

Why Earth Day

Hosting this event on Earth Day is fitting in a way that goes beyond coincidence. Paddlers are among the most connected people to the natural environments they move through. The rivers, bays, flats, and coastlines that make Southwest Florida one of the great paddling destinations in the country are worth protecting, celebrating, and experiencing firsthand. This night does all three.

Sarasota Bay and the surrounding waters have been central to Economy Tackle’s identity for decades. We’ve watched countless customers walk in unsure about kayak fishing, get outfitted, and come back with stories they couldn’t stop telling. That’s the paddling lifestyle in action, and the Paddling Film Festival captures exactly that spirit on screen.

This Year’s Lineup

Here’s a look at the films on the program for our screening. Click any title to watch the trailer.

1000 Miles to Tuk

A paddling journey of a thousand miles through Canada’s remote north, tracking the Mackenzie River system to the Arctic Ocean. Big landscapes, bigger commitment.

How to Self Rescue on a Paddleboard

An essential film for anyone on a board. Practical, empowering, and a reminder that knowing what to do when things go sideways is part of being a confident paddler.

Patso

A character-driven paddling story with heart. Watch the trailer to get a feel for what this one brings to the night.

A Little Bit Different

A film about finding your own path on the water. Expect something that challenges what you thought paddling could look like.

Riverbound. The Story Has Just Begun

A river paddling story built around the idea that every expedition opens a door to the next one. Moving, wide-open, and hard to shake.

Gabon Uncharted

An expedition into the wild waterways of Gabon, West Africa — one of the last truly uncharted paddling frontiers on the planet. Stunning and genuinely adventurous.

Six films. One night. Grab your tickets here before they sell out.

What to Expect on the Night

Burns Court Cinema is one of Sarasota’s most beloved independent theaters, and it’s the right setting for this kind of event. Doors open at 5:30, giving you time to get settled, connect with other local paddlers, and soak in the atmosphere before the films begin at 6:00.

The lineup is curated to inspire. You’ll watch athletes push into remote river canyons, sea kayakers cross open water stretches that most people would never attempt, and everyday paddlers find something extraordinary in the places closest to home. The filmmaking quality is exceptional, and the effect on an audience of people who love being on the water is hard to describe until you’ve experienced it.

Expect to leave wanting to paddle something. That’s kind of the whole point.

Come See Us Before You Go

If the films do what they tend to do and leave you fired up to get on the water, Economy Tackle is ready for you. We carry a full selection of fishing kayaks, paddle kayaks, and everything needed to get outfitted for Sarasota Bay and beyond. Our staff knows the local water and can point you toward the right gear, the right launch spots, and the right setup for wherever the films inspire you to go.

Tickets for the Paddling Film Festival are available online and in-store. Grab yours early, bring a friend who’s been on the fence about paddling, and join us for a night of adventure at Burns Court Cinema.

We’ll see you there. Then we’ll see you on the water.

Buy tickets online or in-store at Economy Tackle. Visit floridakayak.com for more information.

 

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Fishing Report- Friday March 20, 2026

Spring is here! With hopes of this being the last cold front of the season, things sure are heating up out there! We’ve had a few reports of bait showing up in the bay, once the temps rise a few more degrees it should start to come in nicely. With high winds preventing people from getting too far offshore, some have still been able to capitalize on some nice red grouper and mangrove snappers in about 100′ of water. Pleanty of cobia showing up and theyre at scattered depths. A few hogfish were mentioned this week off of Anna Maria Island in about 40′. Some mackerel have been reported off of the beach and in the bay and the pompano have been nonstop all week! Some smaller permit mixed in with them. Black drum are being reported off of turtle beach as well. Inshore redfish and trout and very consistent the past couple weeks and plenty of snook starting to cruise the flats! Things will only get better in the upcoming weeks. There have even been a few small schools of tarpon reported out off the beach. It wont be long!!

***UPCOMING EVENTS***

TARPON FISHING SEMINAR!

THURSDAY APRIL 23RD W/ CAPT AJ GRANDE 5:30PM

NO RESERVATION NEEDED

Tight Lines!!

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2026 PADDLE N’ GO SPRING KAYAK SALE, DEMO AND SEMINAR!!

Our annual spring kayak sale and demo day is here! Plus we will host another kayak fishing seminar with local legend, Chris Lender.

Demo Day:

Our free demo day will be hosted at Ken Thompson Park on lido key, Saturday March 21st @ 9a to Noon. 

Come try before you buy. We will host a variety of kayaks from pedal to paddle driven, sit-in to sit-on top.

We host the largest selection of kayaks in Sarasota Florida, from:

Hobie, Hurricane, Eddyline, Perception, Wilderness System and Pelican. 

This paddling event is for all levels of experience. We have knowledgeable team of staff, as well as some of our company brand reps to assist and answer any and all of your questions.

**Sale exlcudes Hobie products, trailers and electronics.

 

Kayak Fishing Seminar

Join local legend and Hobie Pro Staff memeber Chris Lender as he discusses the pro’s and con’s of kayaking fishing our salty bay waters.

Chris is a

  • Florida Redfish Series Champion
  • Florida Redfish Series Ambassador
  • 3rd Place WINNER of the Hobie Saltwater Series Tournament of Champion

The seminar will be held at 6018 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL in our kayak shop and display area Sunday March 22nd @ 11am.

Lender offers insights to using the Hobie Pro Angler 360, shares his favorite rods and reels, and gives tips on what lures to use in our waters.

This is an event not to miss. No registration needed. Come as you are and enjoy this very popular kayak fishing seminar.

 

Hope to see you there! Tight lines and happy paddling. 

 

 

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Fishing Report-Monday March 9, 2026

The weather has been absolutely beautiful and the fishing has been a reflection of just that! Warmer weather and calmer winds have allowed many to get out nearshore and offshore these past couple weeks. Sailfish were reported about 50 mi out last week, big amberjacks and gag grouper on the deeper structure and in about 150′. Big mangrove snapper and porgies have been steadily reported in anywhere between 50′-100′ of water. Cobia, sheepshead and hogfish have been on nearshore structure as well as cobia and sheepshead in the bay. Smaller permit and pompano have been mentioned from the beach this past week, mainly from the south Siesta Key area.  Warmer water has been bringing the snook out of the backwater and trout and redfish have been plentiful in the north and south Sarasota Bay. There have been several reports of flounder and mackerel in the bay this week as well. Mangrove snapper near the mouth of Phillippi Creek as well as some larger jack crevalle. The bait is still small but in the coming weeks along with this warming trend we should start to see some bigger baitfish and hopefully a few king fish reports!! Stop in and see us!

 

Tight Lines!!

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Mangrove Tunnel Kayaking: Sarasota’s Hidden Paddling Gem

Some of Sarasota’s most memorable paddling experiences aren’t found in open water at all, they’re tucked inside narrow, shaded mangrove tunnels that wind through the coastline like a natural maze. Mangrove tunnel kayaking has become one of the most popular activities for both locals and visitors, offering a completely different perspective on Florida’s coastal ecosystem.

 

At Economy Tackle, located at 6018 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL, we help paddlers of all experience levels get outfitted for this unique adventure. In this guide, we’ll cover what makes mangrove tunnel kayaking special, where to find the best tunnels near Sarasota, and what to know before you go.

What Is Mangrove Tunnel Kayaking?

Mangrove tunnels form where red and black mangroves grow densely along the water’s edge, their branches and roots creating narrow, shaded corridors just wide enough for a kayak or paddle board to pass through. Paddling through these tunnels feels like entering a completely different environment, quiet, cool, and full of wildlife.

 

Unlike open-water paddling, mangrove tunnels require more precise steering and a slower pace, making them a favorite for paddlers looking for a scenic, immersive experience rather than a long-distance workout.

A Bit of History

Many of Sarasota’s mangrove tunnels, including the ones found locally, actually started out as mosquito ditches. They were originally carved or dredged decades ago as a mosquito control measure, based on the belief that mosquitoes couldn’t breed in saltwater. That practice has since been discontinued, largely because mangroves are now a protected habitat, and because the ditches didn’t prove effective at controlling mosquito populations. Today, those same channels have become some of the most popular paddling routes in the area.

Why Mangrove Tunnels Are Worth Exploring

Unique Scenery and Shade

Mangrove tunnels offer a striking contrast to Sarasota’s open bay waters. Sunlight filters through the canopy above, creating a cool, shaded paddle that’s especially appealing during Florida’s hot summer months.

Abundant Wildlife

Mangrove ecosystems are some of the most biologically productive habitats in Florida. While paddling through the tunnels, it’s common to spot:

 

  • Wading birds like herons, egrets, and ibises perched along the roots
  • Small fish and juvenile snook using the mangroves as shelter
  • Crabs and other invertebrates clinging to exposed roots at low tide
  • Occasionally, manatees or dolphins in nearby open channels

Best Mangrove Tunnel Locations Near Sarasota

Lido Key Mangrove Tunnels (Ted Sperling Park)

One of the most popular mangrove paddling destinations in the area, the Lido Key mangrove tunnels at Ted Sperling Park offer a well-known network of narrow channels winding through dense mangrove growth. It’s a favorite for experienced kayakers looking for a relaxing route close to the beach.

Longboat Key

Additional mangrove tunnels can be found on the southern end of Longboat Key, near Longboat Key Bayfront Park, offering a quieter alternative to the more well-known Lido Key routes.

Sarasota Bay’s Backwater Areas

Beyond Lido Key, several backwater sections of Sarasota Bay feature smaller mangrove passages worth exploring. These areas tend to be quieter, with less foot and paddle traffic than more well-known tunnel systems.

Phillippi Creek’s Mangrove Edges

While not a true tunnel system, portions of Phillippi Creek wind through mangrove-lined banks that offer a similar shaded, secluded paddling experience, especially appealing for anglers or paddlers looking to combine mangrove scenery with fishing opportunities.

What to Bring for Mangrove Tunnel Kayaking

Mangrove tunnel paddling requires slightly different preparation than open-water kayaking. Here’s what we recommend bringing:

 

  • A shorter, more maneuverable kayak or paddle board, easier to navigate tight turns and narrow passages
  • A properly fitted PFD, required and essential, even in calm, shallow water
  • Bug spray that covers both mosquitoes and no-see-ums, mangrove areas can have both, especially near dusk
  • Polarized sunglasses, helpful for spotting wildlife and navigating shaded, dappled light
  • A dry bag, to protect your phone or camera for capturing wildlife photos
  • A whistle, useful for signaling if you become separated from your group in narrow channels
  • Plenty of water, especially during summer months when heat and humidity make dehydration a real risk

Tips for a Great Mangrove Tunnel Paddle

Know Before You Go: This Isn’t a Beginner Route

 Despite their calm appearance, the tunnels are not always beginner friendly. The tight turns are difficult to navigate, and when incoming or outgoing tides move through the narrow channels, they can create a rushing, stream-like current that’s tough for inexperienced paddlers to manage. The tunnels are also where most paddlers end up falling out of their kayak, usually from reaching too far to grab a root or limb to help turn the boat. If you’re newer to kayaking, the wider, protected areas near the buoys close to the tunnels make a much better starting point.

If you do plan to paddle the tunnels, a few precautions go a long way. Go on slack tide, the window around high or low tide when water movement is minimal, rather than mid-tide when currents run strongest. Always wear a life vest, since a capsize in tight quarters gives you little room to react. And skip the tunnels around full and new moons, when tides swing wider and currents through the narrow channels get noticeably stronger.

 

Time Your Trip with the Tide

Some mangrove tunnels become too shallow to paddle at low tide, so it’s worth checking tide charts before heading out. Mid to high tide generally offers the easiest passage through narrower sections, though be aware that moving tides also create the swift currents mentioned above.

Go Slow and Stay Quiet

Wildlife viewing improves significantly when you paddle quietly and avoid sudden movements. Many birds and fish will simply hold still or continue their normal behavior if you don’t disturb the water or make excessive noise.

Paddle with a Buddy

While mangrove tunnels are generally calm, the tight, winding passages can be disorienting for first-time visitors. Paddling with a partner or in a small group adds an extra layer of safety and makes it easier to navigate unfamiliar routes.

Respect the Ecosystem

Mangroves are a protected and ecologically vital habitat in Florida. Avoid grabbing or damaging branches and roots, and be mindful of nesting birds, particularly during spring and early summer.

Renting the Right Gear for Mangrove Paddling

If you’re new to mangrove tunnel kayaking, renting the right equipment makes a big difference. As the best paddle shop in the Sarasota area, Economy Tackle offers kayaks and paddle boards well-suited for tunnel paddling, along with local guidance on tide timing and the best routes for your experience level.

 

Plan Your Mangrove Tunnel Adventure

Mangrove tunnel kayaking offers a completely different side of Sarasota’s coastline, quiet, shaded, and teeming with wildlife just beneath the surface. Whether you’re a first-time paddler sticking to the wider, protected areas or a seasoned kayaker ready to tackle the tunnels themselves, this is an experience worth adding to your Sarasota paddling list.

 

Stop by or give us a call to rent the right gear and get personalized route recommendations for your next mangrove tunnel paddle.

 

Economy Tackle 6018 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 941-922-9671

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Best Kayak Fishing Spots in Sarasota, FL

Sarasota’s calm bays, mangrove-lined shorelines, and abundant inshore fisheries make it one of the best places in Florida for kayak fishing. Whether you’re chasing snook along a mangrove edge or sight-fishing for redfish in shallow grass flats, a kayak gives you access to water that larger boats simply can’t reach.

 

At Economy Tackle, located at 6018 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL, we’ve spent years helping local anglers and visiting fishermen find the right kayak fishing setup, and the right spots to use it. This guide covers Sarasota’s top kayak fishing locations, the gear you’ll want to bring, and a few tips to help you land more fish on your next trip.

Why Kayak Fishing Works So Well in Sarasota

Sarasota Bay and the surrounding waterways are shallow, calm, and full of structure, mangrove roots, oyster bars, grass flats, and channel edges that hold bait and predator fish alike. A kayak lets you fish these areas quietly, without spooking fish the way a motorized boat often does.

 

Kayak fishing also gives you access to backwater areas and mangrove creeks that are too shallow or too narrow for most powerboats, opening up water that receives far less fishing pressure.

Top Kayak Fishing Spots Around Sarasota

Sarasota Bay

Sarasota Bay is the heart of local inshore fishing, offering a mix of grass flats, deeper channels, and mangrove shorelines. It’s an excellent spot for:

 

  • Redfish and snook along mangrove edges, especially early morning and late afternoon
  • Spotted seatrout over grass flats in slightly deeper water
  • Sheepshead around dock pilings and rock structure in cooler months

 

The bay’s protected nature also makes it beginner-friendly, so newer kayak anglers can focus on fishing without worrying about heavy wind or waves.

Phillippi Creek

Just south of downtown Sarasota, Phillippi Creek offers a quieter, more secluded kayak fishing experience. Its mangrove-lined banks and brackish water attract snook, snapper, and juvenile tarpon during warmer months. The creek’s narrow channels are perfect for a kayak’s maneuverability, letting you fish tight spots larger boats can’t reach.

Lido Key Mangrove Tunnels

The mangrove tunnels near Lido Key aren’t just a scenic paddle, they’re also a productive fishing area. Snook and juvenile tarpon often hold in the shaded, current-fed water along the mangrove roots. Light tackle and accurate casting are key here, since the tunnels can be tight and require precise boat control. Action picks up noticeably in the summer months, when higher tides push more water (and more baitfish) through the tunnels.

The Intracoastal Waterway

For anglers looking for a mix of species and slightly deeper water, the Intracoastal Waterway near Sarasota offers channel edges, drop-offs, and current lines that attract feeding fish. It’s a great option when tides are moving well and fish are actively feeding along structure.

 

Keep boater safety in mind here: kayaks cannot sit or anchor in the channel, and you should never create a hazard for passing boat traffic. Stick to fishing the sides of the channel rather than sitting directly in the middle, where oncoming boat traffic passes through.

Gear You’ll Want for Kayak Fishing in Sarasota

A dedicated fishing kayak setup makes a big difference in comfort and efficiency on the water. At Economy Tackle, we recommend anglers consider the following:

 

  • A stable fishing kayak with rod holders and a comfortable seat for long days on the water
  • A kayak anchor to hold position over productive structure without drifting off target
  • Rod holders and tackle storage, keeping your gear organized and accessible while fishing
  • A paddle leash to avoid losing your paddle mid-fight with a fish
  • A proper PFD designed for fishing, offering mobility without sacrificing safety

 

If you don’t own your own fishing kayak yet, renting is a great way to test different setups before committing to a purchase.

Tips for a More Productive Kayak Fishing Trip

Fish the Tides

Tidal movement drives feeding activity throughout Sarasota’s waterways. Incoming and outgoing tides create current along mangrove edges and channel drop-offs, concentrating baitfish and triggering predator activity. Planning your trip around moving water, rather than the dead slack of high or low tide, will generally produce better results.

Approach Quietly

One of the biggest advantages of kayak fishing is stealth. Paddle slowly and avoid unnecessary noise, especially near shallow flats or mangrove shorelines where fish can spook easily from vibration or shadow.

Match Your Kayak to Your Fishing Style

Anglers targeting open bay flats may prefer a longer, faster kayak for covering more water, while those fishing tight mangrove creeks often benefit from a shorter, more maneuverable kayak. If you’re unsure which style fits your fishing plans, our team can help match you with the right setup.

Bring the Right Bait and Lures

Live shrimp and pilchards are productive year-round for snook, redfish, and trout throughout Sarasota’s inshore waters. Soft plastics and topwater lures also produce well, especially around mangrove edges early in the morning.

Renting a Fishing Kayak Near Sarasota

If you’re visiting the area or simply don’t want to transport your own kayak, renting is a convenient option. When you rent a fishing kayak from Economy Tackle, you’ll get:

 

  • A stable, fishing-ready kayak with rod holders
  • Guidance on current conditions and productive areas based on the day’s tides
  • Required safety gear, including a PFD
  • Local advice on bait, tackle, and technique for the season

 

Many anglers combine a kayak rental with a stop at our tackle counter, picking up fresh bait and terminal tackle before heading out to the water.

Plan Your Kayak Fishing Trip Today

Sarasota’s shallow flats, mangrove creeks, and productive bay waters make it one of the best places in Florida for kayak fishing, whether you’re a seasoned angler or trying it for the first time. From gear recommendations to local knowledge about where the fish are biting, our team is here to help you have a successful trip.

 

Stop in, give us a call, or check out our full lineup of fishing kayaks, rods, tackle, and safety gear before your next trip out on Sarasota’s waters.

 

Economy Tackle 6018 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 941-922-9671

 

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Fishing Report Video August 18th, 2026

It’s Captain Juan in our bi-weekly fishing report. This week’s topic — >>> REDFISH, RedFish, redfish. Follow the link HERE to see what’s happening in the bay with Sarasota’s #1 fishing report.

Want tips on catching reds? Come in the shop and talk to any of our local experts and guides — or — do some light reading with this article on catching red drums. 

Redfish are one of the most popular game fish in our waters, right alongside snook and tarpon. Also known as red drum, they get their name from their dark red to reddish-bronze coloring. Their most recognizable feature is the dark spot near the tail. While many have a single spot, some have multiple spots scattered across their bodies. This powerful inshore species can grow to more than 90 pounds.

Each fall, mature redfish return to the passes to spawn, making every large over-slot fish valuable breeding stock.

Redfish weren’t always as abundant as they are today. Overfishing and habitat destruction during the 1960s and 1970s contributed to significant population declines. Today, regulations vary by management region, and Sarasota falls within the Sarasota Bay Region, which extends from State Road 64 in Manatee County south to near the Venice Municipal Airport. Regulations can change, so always check current FWC rules before heading out.

But remember — catch-and-release has become widely accepted among recreational anglers for redfish and many other species — and is an important part of keeping our fishery healthy. Handle your catch carefully, especially larger breeding fish, and give them a chance to swim away strong.

 

 

 

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