As everyone who knows and loves Anna Maria Island can attest: It’s been a tough summer.
But there are positives, and as an AMI fishing guide, I’m lucky to be experiencing them firsthand, every day.
A Summary of Post-Storm Positives for AMI Fishing Charters
Three big blessings have come together this season to give us AMI anglers something to be happy about:
- As large-scale cleanup and recovery continue on the island itself, the conditions on the water are absolutely fantastic. The fishing right now is better than I’ve seen it in years.
- On top of that, we’ve got perfect weather. Spending this fall on the water, it’s been great to see people—especially locals from Bradenton and Sarasota—just be comfortable and have a chance to take deep breaths and enjoy the day.
- And then there’s the real wild card, the thing we never expect to happen this time of year: the temporary slowdown in tourism. While this is a real mixed blessing to say the least, there’s good to be found here, too—namely that locals have a chance to explore better-than-average fishing, and to reconnect with the area that we all love so much.
Fall 2024 AMI Fishing Report
Like I said, the fishing right now has been pure joy. There is so much life, so many fish, and the water looks healthy.
Every time I head out, I’m seeing lots of redfish, snook, and trout around right now, along with some cobia lingering offshore. And whenever this wind settles down a little bit, I’ll be able to take some local people hogfishing, too!
Want to know more about why fishing for these species is awesome?
Redfish: Check out our September report on redfish here.
Snook: You can read more about AMI snook fishing charters in our blog, and about the species on the FWC website.
Trout: It’s not a super popular to fish for trout in southwest Florida, but the trout fishing sure is awesome right now. Learn more about them from the FWC.
Cobia: For nearshore and offshore AMI charters, sport anglers love some big, hard-fighting cobia. And on top of that, they’re delicious. Check out their species profile here.
Hogfish: Speaking of offshore charters, check out our blog about the beauty of fall deep-sea fishing charters off AMI.
Fall 2024 AMI Weather for Anglers
No matter the time of year, a trip out on the boat is always a cool, breezy relief from Florida humidity. That’s no exception during this warm November we’ve had so far. But even better, the weather has been absolutely beautiful recently—especially when we get out early. I’m talking low 70s, clear skies, and smooth seas. Right now is the perfect climate for a good day of fishing.
Fall 2024 AMI Charters are Chill and Ready to Go
Here’s the reality: After the impact of several direct-hit hurricanes on southwest Florida, it’s been a slow season so far—and that means even fewer people fishing.
Fewer tourists is tough for all local businesses. But on the bright side, Anna Maria charters are enjoying that sweet combo of lots of fish and few people to fish them. There’s so many quiet, fantastic, fish-filled spots out there right now.
Already this November there have been several Bradenton locals on my boat experiencing joy (and stress relief) during these stressful times. That’s why I’m in this business, and that’s why I do it right here in Bradenton. I love fishing here, and I love this community.
I just want to get the word out there about what the AMI charters community continues to offer our friends and neighbors. We haven’t gone anywhere. In fact, we’re back in business and showing our fellow locals some of the best parts of living in southwest Florida, even now.
When it comes to getting the most out of your fishing charters, Anna Maria Island, FL still offers the best personalized service for small groups and one-on-one trips. Now’s your chance to remember why you love our little slice of paradise. AMI Excursions is here for you.
