AMI Fishing Report: July/August 2025

The summer heat is on, and the inshore waters around Anna Maria Island and its adjacent passes are delivering stellar fishing opportunities. The 2025 Tarpon run was a resounding success for our captains and clients, with epic battles and trophy catches, but it has now wrapped up for the season. No matter—the inshore bite around Anna Maria Island, Longboat Pass, and Tampa Bay’s southern reaches remains hot!

Inshore Fishing: The flats, mangrove shorelines, and channels around Anna Maria Island are teeming with action. Snook are stacked along mangrove edges and docks, particularly near Longboat Pass and the southern end of Tampa Bay, slamming live pilchards or pinfish. Redfish are schooling on the shallow flats around Anna Maria and in the grass beds near Palma Sola Bay, eagerly hitting cut bait or shrimp. Spotted seatrout are plentiful on the deeper grass flats, especially in 4-8 feet of water, with soft plastics and topwater lures drawing strikes at dawn or dusk. During the midday heat, focus on deeper channels near the passes for fish seeking cooler waters.

Conditions and Tips: Water temperatures are hovering in the mid-to-high 80s, so plan for early morning or late afternoon trips to beat the heat and find active fish. Tides are key—target incoming or outgoing tides around Longboat Pass and the mouth of Tampa Bay for the best bite. Pack sunscreen, stay hydrated, and wear polarized sunglasses to spot tailing reds or cruising snook in the shallows.

The Tarpon run may be over for 2025, but the inshore fishery around Anna Maria Island is firing on all cylinders through July and August. Book with one of our experienced captains to get in on the action!