What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Sarasota, Florida for the first time?

Go out into the Gulf--more likely to catch good fish. Better yet, head a little north to Brandenton where Grouper, Red Fish etc. are legal to catch this time of year. Farther north, as I've been told, allows for fishing in deeper water closer to shore in the Gulf.

The only problem with May is the love bugs but they really weren't that bad, though we didn't hit them at the height of their season. After a couple of months of enforced lockdown due to the virus, this was a more than welcomed diversion.

4 hour trip was fun, good overall experience.great boat and crew. But I would suggest the 8 hour trip next time. Hour ride to fishing spot, hour ride back. Moving from spot to spot to where the fish are. Seems like we only fished for 30 minutes.

This was my first time fishing in Sarasota so I don't have a good basis for rating the experience. he weather was a bit tough the day we went so that may have affected fishing conditions

Get an experienced charter captain. Shop charter prices. Some charters are expensive whole others lower priced. Check recommendations.

We caught plenty for dinner. I had hoped to catch larger fish. They averaged 8 -12 inches. Great variety. Mostly bottom fishing. Still a lot of fun.

Book with Captain Scott. He is very knowledgeable, safe, and friendly. Be patient and enjoy the experience. It was a great time for us.

Even tho we didn’t catch anything we could keep it wasn’t captain Scott’s fault. He tried really hard to find the fish. Weather just didn’t cooperate.

If possible (not sure it is), check when fish are more likely to be moving and plentiful. Also, don’t forget the sunscreen!

Make sure you get a Captain that knows his stuff! Trust the crew and have fun no matter what you catch!

Make sure your captain knows the best areas to catch your “menu” fish. You may want to call ahead to discuss.

Weather was pefect. Grouper was tough to keep because it was either out of season or less than 20 inchs.

Plenty of good captains to take you out to catch a variety of fish. Do your research on captains, we learned they are not all as advertised.

Local knowledge is important, particularly with regards to local fishing areas/weather. Camille was knowledgeable and looked after our family for our 4 hour trip

There are different kinds of water for different experiences. Try them all. Fabulous for salt water fly fishing too!!

Maybe wait till the weather forecast is good as I’ve fished Sarasota twice and been disappointed with the weather.

Wear clothing that breathes but blocks the sun. Wear sunglasses and sunscreen. And whatever you do, go fishing with Sarasota Family Fishing and Captain Scott.

Don't expect to catch many keepers, but lots here to catch! Saw manatee and dolphin too!

March can still be a little cold and windy. Be prepared for weather conditions.

It's tough fishing Sarasota in the summer. But it was fun putting a few fish in the boat.

Get ready for fun! The fishing was hot and heavy! Snapper and Grouper were plentiful.

Visit Hart’s Landing and ask book a trip with Captain David. You will be so glad you did!

Take the fishing as it comes. It can truly be a great experience with the right Captian.