Welcome to your one-stop shop for all things fishing, kayaking, and paddling! Whether you’re a seasoned angler, a kayaking enthusiast, or just looking to explore the world of water-based outdoor activities, we’ve got you covered with information, tips, and recommendations to make your adventures on the water a success.
Explore our comprehensive guides on fishing gear and tackle. Learn about rods, reels, lines, lures, and baits to help you catch your next big fish.
Discover various fishing techniques such as fly fishing, baitcasting, trolling, and more. We provide tips and tricks for different types of fishing environments, from freshwater lakes and springs, to our saltwater oceans.
Explore popular all the popular fishing destinations here in Sarasota Bay. Whether you’re interested in bass fishing in shore, or deep-sea fishing out in the Gulf, we’ll help you plan your fishing trips.
Learn about responsible fishing practices, including catch and release, to help conserve fish populations and protect the environment.
Find the perfect kayak for your needs, whether it’s a recreational kayak for calm waters, a touring kayak for longer expeditions, or a pedal kayak for fishing adventures.
Master essential paddling techniques, including strokes, turns, and safety tips, to ensure a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience.
Explore the must-have accessories for your kayak, from life vests and paddles to kayak storage and transport solutions.
Discover stunning kayaking destinations, from serene rivers and tranquil lakes to more challenging open water coastal paddling routes.
Learn about different types of paddle sports, including stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). We provide guides on gear, techniques, and popular paddle sports locations.
Get essential safety tips and develop your paddling skills, so you can confidently navigate various water bodies with our demo days, schedule them here.
Explore the gear and equipment needed for paddle sports, including SUP boards, and safety gear.
Plan your next paddling adventure, whether it’s a peaceful day trip down a spring, exploring many of the nearby mangrove tunnels, or a lazy day enjoying Sarasota Bay.
No matter your experience level or interests, Economy Tackle and Dolphin Paddlesports has the experts here to help you make the most of your fishing, kayaking, and paddling adventures. Feel free to ask any specific questions or seek guidance on any aspect of these outdoor activities. Let’s embark on a water-filled journey together!
Signs of spring are near!! Despite some inconsistent weather these past few weeks, things are starting to shape up nicely both offshore and in. African pompanos are being caught in 100+ feet of water using both live and dead baits on big structures such as D reefs, springs and wrecks. The mangrove snapper bite has been fantastic along with sheepshead, hogfish, porgies, cobia and pompano. There are also still plenty of nice tripletail cruising the crab lines. Always check any floating debris this time of year as they can easily hold a tripletail. Bigger bait is starting to show up which is a nice sign of spring, as well as some decent snook starting to move out. Inshore trout and redfish bite has been phenominal with a lot of overslot trout being reported this week specifically. Redfish reports from the north and south bay have been nonstop with anglers catching them on soft plastics as well as live bait. Now is the time to book if you are interested in tarpon charters for this spring/summer. They’ll be here before we know it!! Let us know if you are interested and we can help get you in touch with a guide.
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!
The holiday season is here, and if you’re searching for the ultimate gift for the paddle enthusiast in your life, look no further than our Kayak and Paddleboard Scratch and Dent Sale! It’s the perfect chance to snag high-quality equipment at unbeatable prices—because adventure on the water doesn’t need to come with a hefty price tag.
Why Scratch and Dent?
These kayaks and paddleboards may have minor cosmetic imperfections, but they’re every bit as sturdy and performance-ready as new ones. A scratch here or a dent there doesn’t affect their ability to glide through Florida’s beautiful waterways. And the best part? You’ll enjoy significant savings while giving the gift of adventure.
Why This Sale is Perfect for the Holidays
Budget-Friendly Options
The holidays can stretch your budget, but with discounted prices on our scratch-and-dent inventory, you can give a premium gift without breaking the bank.
Perfect for All Skill Levels
Whether the recipient is a seasoned paddler or just getting started, our kayaks and paddleboards are ideal for all experience levels.
Florida’s Year-Round Paddling Season
In Florida, paddle season is every season! Your loved one will have the chance to hit the water right away, exploring serene rivers, mangroves, or open bays.
Environmentally Friendly
By choosing scratch-and-dent items, you’re helping to reduce waste while supporting a more sustainable approach to outdoor recreation.
Make Their Holiday Special
Imagine their excitement when they unwrap a kayak or paddleboard, opening the door to countless adventures on the water! Whether they love tranquil sunrise paddles or adrenaline-pumping rides through coastal waves, this gift will create memories that last a lifetime.
Visit Us Today!
Stop by during our Scratch and Dent Sale to find the perfect holiday gift! Don’t wait—supplies are limited, and these deals won’t last long. We’re conveniently located in Sarasota and serve paddlers from Bradenton, Venice, and beyond.
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!
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!!
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.
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!
Choosing the right rod and reel combo can make or break your saltwater fishing experience. With so many options available, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you are fishing the flats in Sarasota, casting from a pier in Bradenton, or heading offshore occasionally, having a reliable and well-matched setup is essential.
At Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports, we help anglers select rod and reel combos that match local conditions and target species.
Start With the Right Rod Length and Power
Rod length and power are two of the most important factors. For most inshore saltwater fishing around Sarasota, a 7-foot rod is a versatile choice. It provides good casting distance while maintaining control.
Power refers to the rod’s strength. A medium or medium-heavy power rod works well for common Gulf Coast species like redfish, snook, sea trout, and flounder. Medium power offers flexibility for lighter lures, while medium-heavy gives you more backbone when fighting larger fish near docks or mangroves.
Understand Rod Action
Rod action describes where the rod bends when pressure is applied. Fast action rods bend mostly near the tip, providing better sensitivity and quicker hook sets. This is ideal for artificial lures and detecting subtle bites.
Moderate action rods bend more toward the middle, which can help when using live bait or treble-hook lures. For most Sarasota anglers, a fast action rod offers the best all-around performance.
Choose the Right Reel Type
Spinning reels are the most popular option for saltwater beginners and experienced anglers alike. They are easy to use, simple to cast, and versatile for various techniques.
When selecting a reel, look for smooth drag performance and a size that matches your rod. For inshore fishing, a 2500 to 4000 size spinning reel is typically ideal. This size range provides enough strength and line capacity without feeling too heavy.
Consider Line Capacity and Drag Strength
Your reel should hold enough line to handle long runs from species like snook or larger redfish. Braided line is commonly used because it is strong and allows for greater casting distance with smaller diameter line.
Pair your braided main line with a fluorocarbon leader for added abrasion resistance and low visibility in clear Gulf waters. Make sure your reel’s drag system is smooth and adjustable, as consistent drag pressure is critical when fighting strong fish.
Corrosion Resistance Is Essential
Saltwater is harsh on fishing equipment. A quality saltwater rod and reel combo should include corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel components, sealed bearings, and anodized aluminum parts.
Look for reels labeled specifically for saltwater use. Rinsing your gear with fresh water after each trip will also extend its lifespan and maintain performance.
A Reliable All-Around Setup for Sarasota Anglers
For beginners and anglers who want a dependable all-around setup, consider a 7-foot medium or medium-heavy fast action rod paired with a 3000 size saltwater spinning reel. Spool it with 10 to 20-pound braided line and add a fluorocarbon leader.
This combination works well for fishing the flats, mangroves, docks, and nearshore waters in Sarasota and Bradenton. It offers versatility without being overly specialized.
Contact Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports Today
If you are unsure which rod and reel combo is right for you, the team at Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports is here to help. We carry quality saltwater setups designed for local fishing conditions and can recommend the perfect match for your experience level and target species. Visit us in the Sarasota and Bradenton area or contact Economy Tackle/Dolphin Paddlesports to gear up for your next trip.
Our next Women on the Waterkayaking excursion is happening on March 5, 2026 at Blackburn Point! We’ll launch from the south side of Blackburn Road, at the kayak launch near the swing bridge and paddle into Oscar Scherer Park for a beautiful morning on the water.
If you’d like to join us, registration is required. The deadline to sign up is February 28, 2026.
Event Details:
Arrival: 8:30 AM (for setup)
Launch: 9:00 AM sharp
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Group Size: Limited to 25 women
Guides: 3 experienced kayak guides
Spots are limited, so be sure to reserve yours as soon as possible!
Kayak Rentals
We offer a variety of rental kayaks, including both sit-in and sit-on-top styles. To reserve a rental kayak, you must visit the store to:
Sign a waiver
Pay the $45 rental fee
Boat selection is first come, first served, with no exceptions. If there’s a specific kayak you’d like to try, we recommend signing up early to secure your choice.
Bringing Your Own Kayak?
You’re welcome to bring your own kayak! If you need assistance securing it to your vehicle, stop by the store and one of our team members will gladly demonstrate proper tie-down techniques using one of our rental kayaks. We also have straps and foam blocks available for purchase if needed. Planning to transport your kayak on your vehicle in the future? We can outift your car with a brand-new Thule or Yakima rack system to get you adventure-ready!
Give us a call today at 941-922-9671. We can’t wait to see you on the water! 🌊
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
