March Madness

Capt. Tom Chaya
March 25, 2012
Anna Maria - Saltwater Fishing Report

Warm weather and good tides provided excellent rallies offshore and inshore. King Mackerel were feeding in big numbers from 30 feet on out. I prefer running chumlines and having the fish congregate. We were averaging about 30 kings per day with an average size of 15 pounds. The largest of the week was 28 pounds. Any bait holding spot over hard bottom worked well. Slow trolling live baits through bait schools is another excellent method when the fish are scattered. These areas were also holding little tunny and large spanish mackerel. Flounder fishing was also good in these areas. Dropping a weighted shiner enticed quite a few on the edges of rock areas. We were averaging a half dozen a trip with the best ones at the 20 inch range. On the inshore scene the flats fishing was good on the strong tides. A few schools of reds are cooperating around Joes island. Big trout are just about everywhere. Drifting the flats is a good way to locate the schools. There are some large gator trout in the 24-28 inch range. These are filled with eggs and should probably released carefully. Snook numbers are better and are hitting on shiners around the mangroves. Tom Chaya

More Fishing Reports:

• All Reports by Capt. Tom Chaya
• Anna Maria Fishing Reports
• West Florida (Englewood to Cedar Key) Reports
• Florida Fishing Reports
• Browse All Fishing Reports