Good fishing spots abound in Manatee

Whether you’re looking for fresh or saltwater fish, a river or lake, a pier or a shoreline, Manatee County will not disappoint.

Sunshine skyway piers: The Sunshine Skyway Piers are still considered one of the top and easiest-to-access fishing spots in the area. The eastern spans of both the north and south piers were closed in 2008 for safety concerns. However, there are still plenty of fishing opportunities on the western spans. The piers are always open and include a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week bait and tackle shop.

Rod and reel, Anna Maria piers: Located off North Bay Boulevard on the north end of Anna Maria Island, the piers provide excellent opportunity to drop lines for some easy fishing.

Lake Manatee: Located in Lake Manatee State Park, this spot is great for catching a variety of freshwater species. Shoreline fishing and dock fishing are available.

Lake Evers: Next to the former site of Jigg’s Landing, Lake Evers does not offer much in the way of shoreline fishing, but it’s excellent for boaters or kayakers who want to chase an array of freshwater fish.

Bean Point: Located at the northernmost point of Anna Maria Island, Bean Point offers wade fishermen the opportunity to catch any of the species cruising along the beaches. Anglers can park at Rod and Reel Pier and wade northwest to the point.

EMERSON POINT: Another great wading or kayaking spot, Emerson Point is at the western end of Snead Island and at the end of Emerson Point Preserve.

SNEAD CUT: Located in Palmetto and next to the Bradenton Yacht Club, the cut has long been an ideal spot for snook fishermen.

LONGBOAT PASS AND SURROUNDING AREAS: The pass’s often ripping currents are great for ambush feeders such as snook, but this also is a great area for mangrove snapper around the ledges. Anglers can park at the southern end of Coquina Beach and walk to the shorelines around the pass. Do not attempt to wade in the pass because there is a high risk of drowning.

RAYS CANOE HIDEAWAY ON THE UPPER MANATEE RIVER: There is a boat and kayak launch as well as kayak and canoe rentals. The river is great for freshwater fish, as well as saltwater fish depending on the amount of saltwater intrusion.