Cap’n Doug’s 10 Tips For Catching Fish in Sarasota  
& The Basics (scroll down)

#1

Use Sharp Hooks
  (1/0 or 2/0 Bait Holder or Circle Hooks)
and Fresh Leader
  (25lb Mono is fine but Fluorocarbon is better)

#2

Match the Hatch
  Use whatever is locally available in relation to live bait I.e. shrimp, whitebait, crabs, sand fleas, cut bait, etc. (Note* I’ve seen folks use a little bit of cut bait on the tip of their hook to  catch the most fish ever on my boat!)

#3

Fish Structure Docks, Bridges, Rocks, Reefs, Grass-flats.
  Anywhere little fish can hide. I’ve caught my biggest Redfish (46”) behind someone’s house on their dock.

#4

Don’t stay anywhere too long.
  I’m good for about 20 mins in a spot with no bites, then we gotta move!

#5

After you cast your bait out there, let it sit for a moment.
  Give the fish time to smell, see or feel the vibrations coming from the bait I catch most of my fish when the rod is in the rod holder and I’m eating, making a phone call or taking a drink, go figure?

#6

Be cool at the Bait Shop,  Go To Hart’s Landing for the “Phattist” Shrimp Around!
  Talk to the other anglers and get their opinions, tactics, especially locals, they usually know what’s up. No-one knows everything, don’t be a know-it-all. Ask Questions and Listen.

#7

Use good equipment, and know how to use it.
  Walfart Rods usually suck, and will only last a few fishing excursions, Go to a local fishing tackle ( All About Fishing & Economy Tackle) They will direct you towards the better equipment. Practice casting at home, Don’t cast over your head, this is dangerous and inefficient, side cast or flip your baits so as to not kill them with your Superman Cast.

#8

Bring your wife, daughter or young son fishing with you.
  They’ll probably, most likely catch the most and biggest fish. Test this one for yourself or ask any fishing guide.

#9

Use Gloves or De-hooking device with all fish. 
  Every fish has some sort of defense, Slime, Poop, Spikes, Teeth, Sharp Gills, etc, they’ll get you one way or another, Watch Out, especially for saltwater catfish!

#10

Remember why you are fishing.
  I fish for species that I can eat, fishing for snook, reds, etc is fun, even when they are closed season, BUT Please be careful with the fish while removing the hook. There’s nothing worse than having your Catch and Release Fish floating away, lifeless.

How To Catch Redfish in Sarasota Video

See Cap’n Doug abroad the Phat Katt II, show you the ropes on redfish fishing and more video links

The Basics of Fishing 

Be The Best Possible Angler That You Can Be, Armed With Knowledge 

Practice makes perfect.

As a first step towards perfecting your saltwater fishing skills, consider going on a trip where you can practice alongside more experienced anglers. Cap’n Doug and Tearin’ Em Up! Fishing Charters would be ideal for this, with dedicated staff that will be delighted to help you through each step of the process, from baiting to reeling. Public fishing piers can also be a good place to pick up basic skills. 

Find A Pro Guide Here

Be Familiar with Equipment 

This may seem like the most obvious tip, but it’s important to take the time to become familiar with the processes of casting, knot tying, and baiting. These are things you can practice without even setting foot on a boat, and once you start to get the hang of these essential steps, your next saltwater fishing venture will be that much more pleasurable. 

Go Fishing

Sun, moon, wind and weather

Picking the proper location and time of day for saltwater fishing can make all the difference in the world. Acquaint yourself with how the phases of the moon and sun affect where fish can be found, and which times of day are ideal for different types of fish. Wind and weather conditions can also have a huge effect on fish migration patterns as well. 

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Follow the tides

It’s equally important to find out what the tides will be on the day you plan to fish. Fishing on the ebb tide normally presents the best conditions for saltwater fishing, although in general the best tides range from half rising to half falling. 

Book You Fishing Memory Here

Research the area

If you’re new to saltwater fishing, you’re most likely also going to be new to the waterways in your area. Before you venture out on the waters, take the time to look over navigation charts and study the most promising areas to fish. Educate yourself about the different species of fish available and which types of tackle are best to use. Check with the locals for additional saltwater fishing tips particular to the area. 

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Fish on the perimeter

The edges of the perimeter are the best place to start saltwater fishing, so that the minimum number of fish will be scared away in the event that a fish is  . 

Fishing Charters

Learn how to spot fish

Beachfront locations with holes, pockets and reefs are often the best places to go for saltwater fishing. Channels that lead to deeper water are also a good place to look. Keep your eyes open for feeding fish in hot spots. Circling gulls and birds are also an excellent indicator of where fish may be. 

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Don’t give up too quickly

One of the most important saltwater fishing tips to remember is not to move too quickly from spot to spot. Consider trying at least two different lures or bait, and be sure to thoroughly probe all points that look promising.

Pro Fishing Guides Here

Contact a Professional Guide

Inshore, Nearshore Reefs & Deep Sea Captains Here