Sarasota fishing report for the week of October 22, 2026. The fall pattern is firmly in place, with active bait in the passes and fish feeding well on the flats in the cooler mornings.
What’s Hitting
Snook are working the passes and beaches, redfish are on the flats of Sarasota Bay and mangrove edges, and trout are on the grass. Spanish mackerel and bluefish are crashing bait at the passes, and tripletail are around channel markers. Sheepshead are starting to show around docks and bridges.
Looking ahead, snook will gradually move into the bays and backwaters, while redfish and trout stay strong on the flats.
Where to Find Them
Fish Big Sarasota Pass and New Pass on the outgoing tide for mackerel and snook. Work the flats off Longboat Key and Siesta Key for reds and trout, and check channel markers for tripletail. Dock lights hold snook after dark.
Tides & Conditions
With the moon heading to full, tides are building. Moving water in the passes is the best window, and calm mornings make the flats productive. Check a current tide chart and wind forecast.
Tackle & Tactics
Live shrimp and pilchards are tough to beat. A small silver spoon for mackerel, a paddle-tail jig for reds and trout, and live bait for snook.
Move often: if you have not found fish in 15 minutes, change grass edges or depth.
Local Intel This Week
Public access includes Centennial Park, Blackburn Point Park and Ken Thompson Park near Longboat Pass. Check current FWC regulations and seasons before keeping any fish, especially snook and redfish.
This Week’s Tip
Match the leader to the clarity. Clear cool water calls for lighter fluorocarbon.
More Sarasota Resources
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