Angler fly fishing aboard the boat

Fly Fishing Charters

Inshore fishing with Captain David White offers a dynamic and exciting adventure in the calm, protected waters around Anna Maria Island and Tampa Bay. Targeting species like Snook, Redfish, and Spotted Seatrout, these trips take you into the shallow estuaries, flats, and mangroves where these fish thrive.

About Your Fly Fishing Adventure

I am an avid fly fisherman and have traveled the country in search of the wide variety of species that the United States holds. I pride myself on tying all of the flies that my clients use. This gives us an advantage to match what our fish are feeding on at the time, and we aren't tethered to whatever the local fly shop may or may not have at the time. We often bring live bait and spinning equipment as well. Most days we're sight-casting the clear flats of Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, and Tampa Bay, matching the fly to whatever the fish are keyed on that tide.

Provided by Captain David

  • Top-Quality Fishing Gear: Rods, reels, and tackle appropriate for your fishing trip type.
  • Expert Guidance: Personalized instruction and tips to help you make the most of your fishing experience.
  • Refreshments: Bottled water to keep you hydrated.

Why Choose Captain David

  • Expertise and Local Knowledge: With years of experience fishing the waters around Anna Maria Island and Tampa Bay, Captain David White offers unparalleled expertise and insight into the best fishing spots and techniques.
  • Personalized Experience: Each trip is customized to suit your preferences and skill level, ensuring a memorable and successful fishing adventure.
  • Commitment to Safety and Enjoyment: Captain David prioritizes your safety and comfort, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable day on the water.

Pick up Location

This is the public boat ramp on Holmes Beach that we pick up our clients. It has a public restroom with a water fountain as well.

6398 Marina Way, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Park across the street from the tennis courts, by the public restroom.

We are happy to pick you and your group up at place of residence, given it's an accessible location by boat, and a reasonable distance from our normal operating area.

  • 4 Hour Trip

    Enjoy a dynamic 4-hour trip on the water, where you'll maximize your chances of catching a variety of inshore species and create lasting fishing memories.

    $700

    Includes 4 Persons. $50 extra per person up to 6 maximum people.

  • 6 Hour Trip

    Dive deeper into the inshore waters with a 6-hour fishing trip, offering extended time to explore and catch a variety of species.

    $1000

    Includes 4 Persons. $50 extra per person up to 6 maximum people.

  • Full Day

    Experience a full day on the water, maximizing your chances to reel in multiple inshore species and create unforgettable fishing memories.

    $1400

    Includes 4 Persons. $50 extra per person up to 6 maximum people.

What To Bring On Your Fishing Trip

Essential Items

  • Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the Florida sun with a high-SPF sunscreen.
  • Hat and Sunglasses: A wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses will help keep you cool and reduce glare on the water.
  • Comfortable Clothing: Dress in light, breathable clothing suitable for the weather. A long-sleeved shirt can provide extra sun protection.
  • Footwear: Non-slip, water-resistant shoes or sandals are ideal for comfort and safety on the boat.
  • Camera: Capture the memories of your fishing adventure with photos of your catch and the beautiful surroundings.
  • Snacks and Drinks: While water is provided, you might want to bring additional snacks and beverages to keep your energy up throughout the trip.
  • Personal Medications: Bring any necessary medications you might need during the trip.

Optional Items

  • Rain Gear: Just in case of an unexpected shower.
  • Cooler: If you plan to keep your catch, bring a cooler with ice for transport after the trip.
  • Personal Fishing Gear: If you prefer to use your own rods and reels, feel free to bring them along.
Client with their catch Client with their catch Client with their catch Client with their catch Client with their catch Fisherman on a boat holding a pompano

What Species Do We Target?

You can click on any fish to see details.

  • Redfish
  • Tarpon
  • Sea trout
  • Snook
  • Permit

Saltwater Fly Fishing on Anna Maria Island: A Premier Adventure

If you're still not convinced. Read our Full Story

Anna Maria Island and Holmes Beach are renowned for offering some of the most diverse and thrilling saltwater fly fishing experiences north of the Everglades. Whether you're aiming for snook, trout, redfish, pompano, permit, or the impressive tarpon, the waters surrounding Anna Maria Island present a world-class setting for fly anglers.

Fly fishing around Anna Maria Island is nothing short of paradise for anglers. The region's shallow flats, mangrove-lined shores, and abundant baitfish create the perfect environment for a range of coveted species. With a fly rod in hand, you can pursue the elusive snook hiding in the mangroves or spot permit cruising across the flats. Each species offers a distinct challenge, making every cast an exciting opportunity to hook the fish of your dreams.

Our 24-foot center console, complete with a full tower, provides an exceptional perspective for spotting fish that might otherwise be missed. While it's not a typical poling skiff, this setup allows us to cover more ground and locate fish with remarkable precision. From this elevated vantage point, we can track fish as they move along the flats, giving you the best chance to present your fly effectively.

What sets our fly fishing excursions apart is the personal touch we add to every trip. I meticulously tie all of my own flies, crafting each one to match the specific conditions and target species. Whether it's a shrimp pattern for snook or a crab fly for permit, every fly is designed to enhance your chances of success. I'm passionate about sharing this craft with my clients, ensuring each fly is both functional and a work of art.

For a truly unique adventure, we often fish under the cover of darkness using underwater dock lights. These lights attract various species, creating a feeding frenzy that's ideal for fly anglers. Instead of searching for fish, we focus on the excitement of casting and catching in a visually stunning setting.

The combination of diverse fish species, stunning scenery, and expert guidance makes fly fishing around Anna Maria Island and Holmes Beach an unparalleled experience. Whether you're an experienced fly angler or a newcomer to the sport, our trips are designed to deliver a memorable adventure. Discover why fly fishing here is my favorite pastime—and why it could become yours too.

Ready to explore the premier saltwater fly fishing opportunities that Anna Maria Island and Holmes Beach offer? Book your trip with us today and experience the incredible fishing adventures awaiting in these waters. Whether under the sun or stars, you're in for an unforgettable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer fly fishing charters on Anna Maria Island?

Yes — fly fishing on Anna Maria Island is one of our specialties. We sight-cast the gin-clear flats of Tampa Bay for Redfish, Snook, and Spotted Seatrout, and chase tarpon on the fly along the beaches in season.

Do I need to be an experienced fly caster?

No. Captain David is a hands-on flats fishing guide who helps newcomers with casting and presentation while putting experienced fly anglers on demanding shots across the Bradenton and Anna Maria Island flats.

What does a fly fishing charter cost?

Fly charters start at $700 for a 4-hour trip including up to 4 anglers. We provide fly gear if you need it, or you can bring your own; your Florida fishing license is always covered.

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