The fishing off the shore of Sarasota, Florida is some of the top in the state, with a wide variety of species and waters to explore. Sarasota itself has a varied geography, with Sarasota Bay at its center. The city also features a number of barrier islands between the bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The chief barrier islands in the city limits are Lido and Siesta Key (key being the customary word in Florida for an island). In addition, the city includes St. Armands Key, Otter Key, Coon Key, and Bird Key. These keys are perhaps best known for their white sand beaches.
A major island which remains outside of the boundaries of Sarasota is Longboat Key. The island is separated by a county line which was put in place in 1921 at the request of John Ringling, of circus fame, when he initiated developing the southern tip of the key and wanted to steer clear of taxation.
Sarasota and it’s beautiful beach rental accommodations have been a main winter destination for northerners since the turn of the century, remarkably made famous when John Ringling commenced bringing his show to Florida to spend the off season. These days, Sarasota is a major hub for arts and culture in Florida, with a large concentration of prosperous residents, high end shopping and gourmet food.
Of course, with all of this culture, it’s easy to fail to remember that the chief activity in Sarasota and the barrier keys is fishing. Fishing in and around Sarasota is rich and abundant. Because of Sarasota’s central location, it’s easy for a charter vessel to make its way north to the waters of Tampa Bay or all the way south to Charlotte Harbor. Fishing in the backcountry using fly fishing tactics or a light spinning tackle is a great manner to see nature and discover some of the marshlands that generally go unfished by the ordinary tourist. This inshore fishing can be very productive. Snook, redfish, tarpon and trout are all usual in the inland waters and are often trophy size.
Charters are obtainable in great abundance and extraordinary variety. Varying types of charters will take you and your family out to sea for full or half day excursions and will usually supply the fishing license, bait, and tackle.
As you may imagine, in a city where fishing and the beach life are so principal, the cuisine will reflect that connection to the sea. In Sarasota, seafood is king, with many first-rate restaurants throughout the city. Many of these dining establishments are known as the top in the area and each boasts its own ambience and attitude. If you are staying in one of Sarasota’s many gorgeous romantic travel inns, the proprietors are delighted to point you in the right direction and provide you with the best suggestions around town.
For a long-established local favorite, Marina Jack has an excellent view and superior food with four different restaurants in one that include fine dining, outdoor patio, indoor piano bar and lounge. The Phillippi Creek Village Oyster Bar is a family restaurant with an abundance of seafood choices. It’s an old Sarasota attraction with an wonderful tropical waterfront setting. Another restaurant with spectacular views which is in style among locals and tourists is the Chart House on Longboat Key. This restaurant takes in fresh seafood daily from the waters just outside its windows. It is a fashionable dining experience with a relaxed attitude. The best way to depict Sarasota as a city is upscale culture with a laid back Gulf of Mexico vibe. An awesome destination for your next vacation.