AMI Fishing Report - October, November and December 2025

Nice Gag grouper!

As the summer heat fades into fall and early winter, the inshore waters around Anna Maria Island and its adjacent passes are offering prime fishing opportunities. The 2025 redfish run peaked with massive schools and non-stop action, but it has now tapered off as cooler temperatures set in. No matter—the inshore bite around Anna Maria Island, Longboat Pass, and Tampa Bay’s southern reaches remains strong and diverse! The best Anna Maria Island fishing charters are ready to go!

Inshore Fishing: The flats, mangrove shorelines, and channels around Anna Maria Island are buzzing with activity through these transitional months. In October, redfish continue to school heavily on the shallow flats and grass beds near Palma Sola Bay, crushing cut bait, live shrimp, or soft plastics—expect multiple hookups in schools of 300+ fish. Snook ramp up along mangrove edges and docks, especially near Longboat Pass, hitting live pinfish or pilchards as water cools. Spotted seatrout hold steady on grass flats in 3-6 feet, responding well to topwater lures or jigs at first light. By November, the bite stays hot for snook, redfish, and trout, though early cold fronts may slow things briefly—focus on protected areas. Come December, sheepshead move in strong around structure like docks and reefs, slamming fiddler crabs or shrimp; redfish and black drum join them on deeper edges, while trout shift to 4-8 foot channels and pompano start showing on sandy flats with jigs or shrimp.

Nearshore Fishing: Just off the coast in 10-40 feet of water, the nearshore reefs, wrecks, and ledges are firing up with migratory and bottom species. October sees strong runs of Spanish mackerel and kingfish trolling live bait or spoons along the beaches and near Longboat Pass—expect fast-paced action with kings up to 30 pounds. Bonito and jack crevalle add to the mix on surface lures. In November, the kingfish bite peaks with larger schools, while gag grouper and mangrove snapper start showing on structure with live pinfish or cut bait; cobia occasionally cruise the wrecks. By December, cooler waters bring consistent reef fishing for hogfish, lane snapper, and sheepshead on shrimp or crabs, with Spanish mackerel lingering on calmer days—focus on artificial reefs within 5 miles for steady pulls.

Conditions and Tips: Water temperatures drop from the mid-70s in October to the low-60s by December, so target warmer afternoons or sunny spells when fish are more active in the shallows. Tides are crucial—aim for moving water around Longboat Pass and the mouth of Tampa Bay for optimal bites, especially after fronts pass. Dress in layers for cooler mornings, stay hydrated, and use polarized sunglasses to spot schooling reds or cruising snook on the flats.

The redfish frenzy may have eased, but the inshore fishery around Anna Maria Island is thriving through October, November, and December 2025. For the best AMI charter fishing experience, book with one of our experienced captains to get in on the action!