Inshore Fishing Association is hosting a kayak fishing
tournament this Sunday in Sarasota
Register & Captain’s Meeting- Centennial Park Saturday 6pm
Weigh In – Economy Tackle Sunday 1-3 pm
Northwest Bradenton is home to one of the best beginner-and-family paddling networks in this part of Florida — a run of connected coastal preserves that stay calm and mangrove-sheltered almost year-round. If you’re coming from Lakewood Ranch or anywhere in Manatee County, this guide covers how to plan a trip to Robinson Preserve, Emerson Point Preserve, or Neal Preserve, which kayak actually makes sense for this water, and what’s worth having in the tackle box if you plan to fish along the way rather than just paddle.
Robinson PreserveRobinson Preserve is 600+ acres of coastal habitat with two dedicated kayak launches — a north launch at 1704 99th St NW and a south launch (“the Expansion”) at 10299 9th Ave NW, both in Bradenton. Mangrove tunnels, a 53-foot observation tower, and calm water make this the easiest entry point in the area for first-timers and families, though it’s worth checking a map or satellite view of the trail system before you head out, since the channels braid enough to make it easy to lose track of which way you came.
About 20 minutes northwest of downtown Bradenton in Palmetto, Emerson Point Preserve sits at the western tip of Snead Island, where the Manatee River meets Terra Ceia Bay. A wooden-dock launch about 0.6 miles from the entrance winds through mangrove tunnels out to the bay, and a second launch at the preserve’s beach drops you straight into the river mouth — a good pick if Robinson tends to feel crowded on weekends, with free entry, picnic tables, and portable restrooms on site.
Neal Preserve covers 120 acres on Perico Island, with a mangrove-lined shoreline along the Intracoastal grass flats. The put-in isn’t inside the preserve itself — launch from the west side, just before the causeway, where you’ll drop into Anna Maria Sound and the Intracoastal. It’s a good option for a shorter paddle paired with a walk-in observation platform inside the preserve, and it tends to see less foot traffic than Robinson, making it a nice choice if you’re hoping for a quieter morning on the water.
Robinson, Emerson Point, and Neal are all shallow and tide-dependent. Plan around a moving tide rather than dead low or dead high, when the flats can be too skinny to paddle or fish effectively, particularly in the narrower mangrove channels at Robinson where a falling tide can leave you dragging a kayak over exposed mud.
Morning trips are the most comfortable option through August, both for temperature and for avoiding the afternoon thunderstorms that build up regularly over the preserves in summer. Aim to be off the water by early afternoon during the wettest stretch of the season.
The calm water at Robinson Preserve is ideal for a parent-and-child or two-adult paddle, since there’s little current to fight and the channels are wide enough for a longer boat. A tandem kayak turns a Robinson Preserve trip into an easy, low-stress outing rather than a workout, which is exactly why it’s one of the most requested rental categories for this part of our service area.
If you’re coming from Lakewood Ranch, a lighter single kayak that one person can load solo makes the extra drive far more practical, especially for a quick after-work paddle at Emerson Point or Neal. A pedal-drive kayak is also worth considering if fishing is part of the plan — it frees up your hands while you work the mangrove edges, and it’s easier on your shoulders over a longer session than constant paddling.
The grass flats along Neal Preserve and the mangrove edges throughout Robinson hold redfish and snook, particularly on the moving tide. A shorter, more maneuverable kayak makes it easier to work the tighter mangrove pockets than a longer touring kayak would, especially where the channels narrow after the observation tower at Robinson.
Live shrimp under a popping cork is the easiest, most reliable approach for a family trip that mixes paddling with a little light tackle fishing along the way — minimal rigging, and it works consistently on the species you’re likely to find here, which makes it a good option if you’re introducing a child to fishing for the first time.
These preserves have long stretches with very little shade, so pack more water than you think you’ll need and reapply reef-safe sunscreen through the day. A simple waterproof phone case or handheld GPS is worth having too — the mangrove tunnels at Robinson Preserve in particular can feel disorienting the first time through, so it’s worth studying a map or satellite view of the trail system before you launch.
If you’re bringing kids along in a tandem kayak, a dry bag for snacks, spare clothes, and sun protection makes the trip smoother than trying to keep loose items from ending up in the bilge. A simple cooler bungee-corded to the tandem’s rear hatch is an easy add for a full-morning outing.
Robinson, Emerson Point, and Neal are managed conservation areas, and staying on marked paddle trails helps protect the mangrove root systems that hold the fish in the first place. Redfish and snook limits and seasons change from year to year in Manatee County waters, so check current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission rules before keeping anything you catch.
Robinson, Emerson Point, and Neal Preserves all sit roughly 25–30 minutes from Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports at 6018 S Tamiami Trail in Sarasota — longer during high peak tourist season — and about the same distance from most of Lakewood Ranch.
Yes — the calm, mangrove-tunnel trails and shallow water make Robinson Preserve one of the most beginner- and family-friendly paddling spots in the region.
Florida saltwater fishing license requirements apply the same way from a kayak as from a boat or shore; check current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission rules before you go, since requirements and exemptions can change.
Yes, Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports rents tandem kayaks from our Sarasota location, which is a practical way to try a boat before committing to a purchase.
As a full Hobie dealer, we keep both tandem and lightweight single kayaks in stock — tandems available to demo, rent, or buy, and lightweight singles available to demo or buy — which matters here more than almost anywhere else in our service area, given how well-suited Robinson, Emerson Point, and Neal are to exactly those two boat types. If a kayak needs a repair — a cracked hatch, a worn cart wheel, a steering cable — our shop handles that in-house.
| Economy Tackle / Dolphin Paddlesports
6018 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 (941) 922-9671 Hours: Mon–Sat 8:00am–6:00pm | Sun 9:00am–3:00pm |
Northwest Bradenton is home to one of the best beginner-and-family paddling networks in this part of Florida — a run of connected coastal preserves that stay calm and mangrove-sheltered almost year-round. If you’re coming from Lakewood Ranch or anywhere in Manatee County, this guide covers how to plan a trip to Robinson Preserve, Emerson Point Preserve, or Neal Preserve, which kayak actually makes sense for this water, and what’s worth having in the tackle box if you plan to fish along the way rather than just paddle.
Robinson Preserve is 600+ acres of coastal habitat with two dedicated kayak launches — a north launch at 1704 99th St NW and a south launch (“the Expansion”) at 10299 9th Ave NW, both in Bradenton. Mangrove tunnels, a 53-foot observation tower, and calm water make this the easiest entry point in the area for first-timers and families, though it’s worth checking a map or satellite view of the trail system before you head out, since the channels braid enough to make it easy to lose track of which way you came.
About 20 minutes northwest of downtown Bradenton in Palmetto, Emerson Point Preserve sits at the western tip of Snead Island, where the Manatee River meets Terra Ceia Bay. A wooden-dock launch about 0.6 miles from the entrance winds through mangrove tunnels out to the bay, and a second launch at the preserve’s beach drops you straight into the river mouth — a good pick if Robinson tends to feel crowded on weekends, with free entry, picnic tables, and portable restrooms on site.
Neal Preserve covers 120 acres on Perico Island, with a mangrove-lined shoreline along the Intracoastal grass flats. The put-in isn’t inside the preserve itself — launch from the west side, just before the causeway, where you’ll drop into Anna Maria Sound and the Intracoastal. It’s a good option for a shorter paddle paired with a walk-in observation platform inside the preserve, and it tends to see less foot traffic than Robinson, making it a nice choice if you’re hoping for a quieter morning on the water.
Robinson, Emerson Point, and Neal are all shallow and tide-dependent. Plan around a moving tide rather than dead low or dead high, when the flats can be too skinny to paddle or fish effectively, particularly in the narrower mangrove channels at Robinson where a falling tide can leave you dragging a kayak over exposed mud.
Morning trips are the most comfortable option through August, both for temperature and for avoiding the afternoon thunderstorms that build up regularly over the preserves in summer. Aim to be off the water by early afternoon during the wettest stretch of the season.
The calm water at Robinson Preserve is ideal for a parent-and-child or two-adult paddle, since there’s little current to fight and the channels are wide enough for a longer boat. A tandem kayak turns a Robinson Preserve trip into an easy, low-stress outing rather than a workout, which is exactly why it’s one of the most requested rental categories for this part of our service area.
If you’re coming from Lakewood Ranch, a lighter single kayak that one person can load solo makes the extra drive far more practical, especially for a quick after-work paddle at Emerson Point or Neal. A pedal-drive kayak is also worth considering if fishing is part of the plan — it frees up your hands while you work the mangrove edges, and it’s easier on your shoulders over a longer session than constant paddling.
The grass flats along Neal Preserve and the mangrove edges throughout Robinson hold redfish and snook, particularly on the moving tide. A shorter, more maneuverable kayak makes it easier to work the tighter mangrove pockets than a longer touring kayak would, especially where the channels narrow after the observation tower at Robinson.
Live shrimp under a popping cork is the easiest, most reliable approach for a family trip that mixes paddling with a little light tackle fishing along the way — minimal rigging, and it works consistently on the species you’re likely to find here, which makes it a good option if you’re introducing a child to fishing for the first time.
These preserves have long stretches with very little shade, so pack more water than you think you’ll need and reapply reef-safe sunscreen through the day. A simple waterproof phone case or handheld GPS is worth having too — the mangrove tunnels at Robinson Preserve in particular can feel disorienting the first time through, so it’s worth studying a map or satellite view of the trail system before you launch.
If you’re bringing kids along in a tandem kayak, a dry bag for snacks, spare clothes, and sun protection makes the trip smoother than trying to keep loose items from ending up in the bilge. A simple cooler bungee-corded to the tandem’s rear hatch is an easy add for a full-morning outing.
Robinson, Emerson Point, and Neal are managed conservation areas, and staying on marked paddle trails helps protect the mangrove root systems that hold the fish in the first place. Redfish and snook limits and seasons change from year to year in Manatee County waters, so check current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission rules before keeping anything you catch.
Robinson, Emerson Point, and Neal Preserves all sit roughly 25–30 minutes from Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports at 6018 S Tamiami Trail in Sarasota — longer during high peak tourist season — and about the same distance from most of Lakewood Ranch.
Yes — the calm, mangrove-tunnel trails and shallow water make Robinson Preserve one of the most beginner- and family-friendly paddling spots in the region.
Florida saltwater fishing license requirements apply the same way from a kayak as from a boat or shore; check current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission rules before you go, since requirements and exemptions can change.
Yes, Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports rents tandem kayaks from our Sarasota location, which is a practical way to try a boat before committing to a purchase.
As a full Hobie dealer, we keep both tandem and lightweight single kayaks in stock — tandems available to demo, rent, or buy, and lightweight singles available to demo or buy — which matters here more than almost anywhere else in our service area, given how well-suited Robinson, Emerson Point, and Neal are to exactly those two boat types. If a kayak needs a repair — a cracked hatch, a worn cart wheel, a steering cable — our shop handles that in-house.
| Economy Tackle / Dolphin Paddlesports
6018 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 (941) 922-9671 Hours: Mon–Sat 8:00am–6:00pm | Sun 9:00am–3:00pm |
Nokomis and Osprey don’t get talked about as much as Sarasota or Venice, but this stretch of coastline — anchored by Blackburn Point, Dona Bay, and the historic grounds at Spanish Point — is some of the most sheltered, beginner-friendly paddling water on the Gulf Coast, with fishing that holds up just as well for experienced anglers. It’s also the closest part of our service area to Economy Tackle, which makes it a realistic before- or after-work trip rather than a full-day commitment. Here’s what a local trip through Nokomis and Osprey actually looks like, from where to launch to what to have tied on before you push off.
Blackburn Point Park in Osprey has been recently updated with paved, shaded kayak and canoe launches at 800 and 421 Blackburn Point Road. It’s one of the easiest, most car-friendly put-ins in the area, with good parking and a straightforward launch that doesn’t require carrying gear far — a big advantage on a hot August morning when you’d rather spend your energy paddling than hauling a loaded kayak across a sandy lot.
Nokomis Beach is Sarasota County’s oldest public beach, and North Jetty Park nearby offers launch access out toward Venice Inlet, Snake Island, and Bird Island. It’s a great option if you want to mix a paddle with sandbar time, and it’s one of the few spots in this guide with direct Gulf access, which also means it’s more exposed to wind and boat traffic than the backwater launches further inland.
A quieter put-in than the jetty, Loreto Court Ramp gives access upstream to Shakett Creek, Fox Creek, and Salt Creek, and downstream to Dona Bay, Roberts Bay, the Intracoastal, and the Venice Inlet. It’s a good choice for anglers who want backwater creek fishing without the boat traffic near the inlet, and its central location makes it easy to choose your route once you’re actually on the water and can see conditions.
For a slower, more nature-focused paddle away from motorized traffic, Oscar Scherer State Park offers 1,400 acres of protected uplands and waterway. It’s less about fishing and more about a calm, scenic paddle — a good pairing trip if you’re staying in the area for the day, and it’s one of the better spots locally for spotting wading birds and the occasional gopher tortoise along the banks.
The creek systems feeding Dona Bay and Roberts Bay — Shakett, Fox, and Salt Creek — are current-driven, and moving water is what turns the fish on. Fish these on a rising or falling tide rather than at slack water, when the narrower creek sections can go nearly still and the bite can shut down almost completely.
Near North Jetty and the Venice Inlet, an incoming tide tends to produce the most consistent action, pushing baitfish — and the predators following them — toward the passes. Early morning remains the best window through August, before boat traffic picks up on the water and before the sun gets high enough to push fish off the shallow structure.
Shakett, Fox, and Salt Creek are classic snook and redfish water — tight mangrove shorelines, moving current, and enough depth variation to hold fish through the heat of an August afternoon. A quieter approach pays off here; these creeks see enough pressure that spooky fish are common in the shallower stretches, so a slow, deliberate paddle beats rushing from spot to spot.
Near the jetty and inlet, expect a mixed bag of trout, snook, and the occasional tarpon rolling through on the Gulf side, especially on an incoming tide. This is bigger, more open water than the creeks, so conditions matter more — check wind before committing to the jetty over the sheltered backwater, since a stiff onshore breeze can make the paddle back considerably harder than the one out.
Because a lot of this water is narrow and current-driven, a lighter, more maneuverable kayak matters more here than raw speed or storage capacity. A shorter kayak handles the tighter creek sections around Loreto Court and Blackburn Point far more easily than a longer touring model, and it’s easier to turn quickly when you spot a fish holding tight to a mangrove root.
A quality spinning reel in the 3000–4000 range — something that can handle both a finesse jig in the creeks and a bigger topwater plug at the inlet — covers nearly everything you’ll run into around Osprey and Nokomis. Round out the tackle box with a mix of jig heads, live shrimp hooks, and a few topwater plugs for the jetty, plus a couple of weedless soft plastics for the more snag-prone creek sections.
A reliable anchor trolley or stake-out pole is worth having, since current in Shakett and Fox Creek can be stronger than it looks from the bank. Bring sun protection and extra water — Oscar Scherer and the creek paddles have long stretches with no shade — and a dry bag for cameras or phones if you’re planning to stop at Spanish Point or the beach at North Jetty.
Blackburn Point and the surrounding creeks are popular with both anglers and casual paddlers, so keep a respectful distance from anyone already fishing a spot rather than cutting in close. As with the rest of Sarasota County, snook and redfish are subject to Florida’s seasonal closures and slot limits, so double-check current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations before keeping anything.
Osprey and Nokomis both sit within about 10–18 minutes of Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports at 6018 S Tamiami Trail in Sarasota — among the closest launch areas in our entire service area.
Yes. The paved, shaded launches and calm water make Blackburn Point one of the more approachable put-ins for paddlers who are newer to kayaking or fishing from a kayak.
Historic Spanish Point is a museum and preserve rather than a fishing access point, but it pairs well with a Blackburn Point trip if you want to combine local history with time on the water.
Economy Tackle sells spinning reels across a range of sizes for both creek and inlet fishing, and our staff can help match a reel to the kind of water you’re planning to fish around Osprey and Nokomis.
We’re a short drive from both Blackburn Point and Loreto Court, and as a full Hobie dealer we keep lighter, easier-to-load kayaks in stock for paddlers who want something quick to launch on a weekday morning. Our tackle counter is stocked for exactly this kind of backwater and inlet fishing — live shrimp and pinfish for the creeks, and heavier inshore gear for the jetty and inlet on the days fish push toward open water.
| Economy Tackle / Dolphin Paddlesports
6018 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 (941) 922-9671 Hours: Mon–Sat 8:00am–6:00pm | Sun 9:00am–3:00pm |
Venice, Florida sits at the southern edge of Sarasota Bay, right where the Intracoastal Waterway, the Gulf of Mexico, and a network of quiet backwater creeks all meet. That mix makes it one of the most versatile spots on this stretch of coast for kayak fishing and paddling — sheltered creeks for calm mornings, open bay water for covering ground, and a Gulf inlet for anglers chasing bigger fish on the move. Whether you’re loading a kayak for a slow morning stalking redfish in the mangroves or hand-launching a paddleboard for a sunset cruise, this guide covers where to put in near Venice, when to go, what’s likely to be biting, and the gear worth having in the hatch before you leave the dock. It’s built from the same local knowledge our staff shares with customers at the counter every week, not a generic list pulled from a map.
Legacy Park, at 395 E. Venice Avenue, is a paved, easy-access launch that puts you onto Roberts Bay with a straightforward paddle to Curry Creek. The park’s paved trail, shaded pavilions, restrooms, and picnic areas make it a comfortable stop before or after a trip, and the calmer water near the launch is forgiving if you’re still getting the hang of loading and unloading a kayak. From here, Curry Creek’s mangrove edges and quiet bends are an easy paddle away.
A few minutes north in Nokomis, Riverview Park’s hand-launch drops you straight into Dona Bay, with Shakett Creek (locals pronounce it “shake-it”) within easy paddling distance. The launch has a natural canal-bank surface, paved parking, and restrooms on site, and it’s open from 6 a.m. to sunset with no launch fee. Dona Bay’s mix of open water and creek mouths makes it a versatile put-in for working both grass flats and mangrove structure in the same trip.
For paddlers who want a quieter, more sheltered trip, Curry Creek Preserve is an 80-acre preserve with a dedicated paddle launch. It’s a solid backup option on breezy days when the open bay isn’t cooperating, and it tends to see less boat traffic than the launches closer to the inlet, which also makes it a comfortable choice for less experienced paddlers or a family outing.
Like most of Sarasota Bay, the water around Venice fishes best on a moving tide rather than at dead high or dead low, when the flats can be too skinny or the current too slack to get fish feeding. An incoming tide pushing water into the creeks and around the mangrove edges tends to trigger the most consistent action, especially for redfish and snook holding tight to structure. A falling tide can be just as productive along the edges of Curry Creek and Shakett Creek, where baitfish get pulled out of the shallows and predators wait for them along the drop-offs.
In August, plan around the heat rather than the calendar. Early morning — ideally at first light — and the last couple of hours before sunset are the most productive windows, before and after the midday sun pushes fish into deeper, cooler water and slows the bite considerably. A midday trip is still worth taking for the paddle itself, just don’t expect the same level of action you’d get bookending the day, and be ready for fast-building afternoon thunderstorms that are typical of a Gulf Coast summer. Work topwater lures over the grass flats right at first light to draw reds up, then shift your target once the heat sets in — shaded docks, mangroves, and deep holes hold fish through the hottest part of the day.
The grass flats and mangrove-lined creeks around Venice hold the same core inshore species found throughout Sarasota Bay: redfish and snook tucked against mangrove roots and oyster bars, and speckled trout working the deeper grass flats, particularly on the drop of the tide. Near the Gulf side and the inlet, tarpon occasionally roll through during summer, along with a mixed bag of jack crevalle and ladyfish for anyone looking for fast action on lighter tackle.
Live shrimp and pilchards fished on a jig head or suspended under a popping cork will out-produce most artificials through the heat of late summer. That said, it’s worth keeping a soft-plastic paddletail rigged and ready for the cooler, overcast mornings when fish will chase moving bait more aggressively. A weedless gold spoon is also a smart choice for working skinny water tight against the mangroves, where a treble-hook lure would snag constantly.
Because much of this water is skinny and mangrove-choked, a kayak or paddleboard genuinely out-fishes a center console here — you can slide into water a bigger boat simply can’t reach, and you can do it quietly enough that fish don’t scatter before you’ve made a cast.
A stable, shallow-draft kayak is the right starting point for Venice’s creek systems. A pedal-drive model, like a Hobie Mirage or Native Slayer LTE, is particularly useful here because it frees up both hands for casting while you hold position against the current — something that matters more in the tighter creek sections than it does out on open water, and it also means less arm fatigue if you’re planning a full morning on the water.
If you’re running live bait, an onboard livewell is close to essential in August. We also carry the Baitshark baitwell, which floats beside the kayak instead of taking up deck space — it needs no bubbler while it’s in the water, and the natural in-and-out flow keeps bait alive longer. The creeks warm up fast, and without aerated, circulating water, bait won’t survive long enough to matter. A compact kayak livewell is a low-cost addition that pays for itself the first time it saves a trip, and it’s one of the most common upgrades our staff recommends to regulars fishing this stretch.
Quality inshore spinning tackle in the 2500–4000 size range, spooled with 10–15 lb braid and a fluorocarbon leader, covers nearly everything you’ll encounter around the oyster bars and mangrove structure near Venice. Round it out with polarized sunglasses and reef-safe sunscreen — sight-fishing the flats here is genuinely productive if you can actually see into the water, and a wide-brim hat with UPF sun gloves makes a long August morning far more bearable.
Venice Inlet sees a fair amount of paddle and boating traffic, so give other anglers plenty of room and avoid running a kayak straight through a spot someone is already working. Snook and redfish both have seasonal and slot regulations in Florida that change from year to year, so it’s worth checking current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission rules before keeping any fish rather than assuming last season’s limits still apply. Tides near Venice Inlet can run surprisingly strong, so paddle with caution if you’re heading out that way.
Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports is located at 6018 S Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, roughly a 20-minute drive north of most Venice launch points via US-41 — longer during high tourist season — an easy stop before or after a trip.
Most of the public launches mentioned here — Legacy Park, Nokomis Riverview Park, and Curry Creek Preserve — are free, public access points that don’t require a permit for hand-launched kayaks or paddleboards. Parking rules and hours vary by location, so it’s worth checking current signage.
Fall through spring generally offers the most comfortable conditions, but summer months like August can still be excellent if you fish the early morning and evening tide windows rather than the middle of the day.
Yes. Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports rents kayaks and paddleboards from our Sarasota location, which is a convenient option if you’re traveling to the area or want to try a pedal-drive model before buying one.
Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports has outfitted Gulf Coast anglers and paddlers since 1948, and our shop is an easy stop on the way to Venice. We carry the area’s deepest selection of live and artificial bait and inshore rods and reels, and we’re a full Hobie, Native, Bonafide, and Hurricane kayak dealer with kayaks available to demo, rent, or buy outright. If your kayak needs a tune-up before the trip — a rudder repair, a new livewell, or a fin-drive swap — our repair team can usually turn it around the same week.
| Economy Tackle / Dolphin Paddlesports
6018 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 (941) 922-9671 Hours: Mon–Sat 8:00am–6:00pm | Sun 9:00am–3:00pm |
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.
Paddle boarding has a reputation as a fitness activity or solo adventure sport, but it’s also one of the best family-friendly activities Sarasota has to offer. With calm, protected water throughout Sarasota Bay and a couple of board sizes to fit different family members, families with kids of nearly any age can enjoy paddling together.
At Economy Tackle, located at 6018 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL, we help families get outfitted for a safe, fun day on the water. This guide covers everything you need to know about planning a family paddle boarding trip in Sarasota, from choosing the right gear to picking the best locations for younger paddlers.
Unlike some water activities that require significant strength or experience, paddle boarding is approachable for a wide range of ages and skill levels. Kids as young as five or six can often ride along with a parent, while older kids and teens frequently pick up the basics of paddling on typtheir own within just a few minutes.
Sarasota Bay’s calm, shallow water makes it an especially forgiving environment for families, with minimal current or wave action in most protected areas.
Larger Boards for Stability and Extra RidersMost of our paddle boards are designed for a single paddler, but a larger, wider board — like our 11-foot models — offers more stability and enough room for a small child or a dog to ride along with an adult. That makes it a great option for a parent who wants to bring a younger child on board without them paddling solo.
We don’t carry boards built specifically for kids, but our 10-foot boards tend to work well for younger or smaller paddlers who are ready to try paddling on their own.
As a general rule: longer boards suit taller or bigger paddlers, or adults paddling with a child or dog aboard, while shorter boards suit smaller paddlers, including many younger kids. Our team at Economy Tackle can help match your family with the right board based on the ages, sizes, and comfort levels of everyone joining the trip.
This launch point gives families the best of both worlds — open water for easier paddling and shaded mangrove tunnels for a more adventurous, scenic route. It’s a great option if your group wants variety in a single outing.
Vamo Park works well for families as long as you stay on the near side of the Intracoastal Waterway rather than crossing it. The mangrove islands just south of the launch create a protected area that’s sheltered from wind and boat traffic, making it a calmer spot for younger paddlers.
Bayfront Park is a great spot for exploring Sarasota Bay, with nearby mangrove islands that provide some protection from wind and boat activity.
Every paddler should wear a properly fitted personal flotation device (PFD). By law, any child under six must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD. Adults should wear one too, both to set a good example and for their own safety.
For a family’s first paddle boarding trip, plan a shorter outing close to shore rather than a long-distance adventure. This keeps kids engaged without overexerting them and makes it easy to head back in if anyone gets tired or uncomfortable.
Even in Sarasota’s generally calm waters, wind can pick up quickly in the afternoon. Plan family outings for the morning when winds are typically lighter, and always check the forecast before heading out.
Florida sun can be intense, especially on the water where reflection increases UV exposure. Reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and rash guards or sun shirts are all smart additions to your family paddle boarding gear.
Especially for younger paddlers, staying hydrated and fueled makes a big difference in how long everyone enjoys the outing. A simple dry bag can keep snacks and water accessible without getting wet.
If your family doesn’t own paddle boards yet, renting is a low-commitment way to try the activity together before investing in your own gear. Inflatable paddle boards have also become a popular choice for families, since they store easily in a closet or garage and don’t require a roof rack or truck to transport — worth keeping in mind if you eventually decide to buy rather than rent.
When you search for paddle board rentals near me, look for a shop that can match your family with the right board size for everyone’s age and comfort level. Economy Tackle is a solid option for renting recreational-style paddle boards in the Sarasota area, and our team can point you toward the best nearby launch spots based on your kids’ ages and paddling experience.
Sarasota’s calm waters and scenic mangrove areas make it one of the best places in Florida for a family-friendly paddle boarding adventure. With the right gear, a bit of planning, and a location suited to your family’s experience level, paddle boarding can become a favorite shared activity for kids and parents alike.
Economy Tackle 6018 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 941-922-9671
Stop by or give us a call to find the right paddle board rentals for your family’s next outing on Sarasota Bay.