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Family-Friendly Shark Fishing on Anna Maria Island
- Published Date: December 9, 2025
- Fishing
- Anna Maria Island, Florida, USA
- $400 - $450 price range
- Updated Date: December 11, 2025
Summary
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Family Catches of the Day
Family Fishing Fun on Anna Maria Island
Hey there, fellow fishing enthusiasts! If you're looking for a perfect family day out on the water, you've just stumbled upon a real gem. Captain Norvin Eubank's half-day fishing trip off Anna Maria Island is the kind of experience that'll have your kids begging to go fishing every weekend. Trust me, I've seen it happen!
Trip Overview
Picture this: you and your crew, out on the crystal-clear waters of Anna Maria Island, with the sun on your faces and the promise of adventure in the air. For five action-packed hours, Captain Norvin will be your guide to the underwater world of redfish, snook, trout, and more. This isn't your average "sit and wait" fishing trip – it's hands-on, educational, and tailored for families who want to create lasting memories together. Whether you're seasoned anglers or first-timers, Captain Norvin's got the know-how to make sure everyone's having a blast and reeling in some impressive catches.
What to Expect on the Water
Alright, let's talk nitty-gritty. You'll be inshore fishing, which means calmer waters and a smoother ride – perfect for those little ones who might not have their sea legs yet. Captain Norvin's boat is set up for comfort and safety, so you can focus on the fun stuff. He'll show you easy-to-learn techniques that'll have you fishing like a pro in no time. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like seeing a kid's face light up when they feel that first tug on the line!
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
What sets this trip apart? It's all about the personal touch. Captain Norvin isn't just any old fishing guide – he's like that cool uncle who always has the best stories and knows all the secret fishing spots. He's got a way of explaining things that makes even the most complex fishing concepts easy for kids to grasp. Plus, he's got an eagle eye for spotting wildlife, so don't be surprised if you catch glimpses of dolphins, manatees, or sea birds during your trip. It's like a nature documentary come to life!
Species You'll Want to Hook
Now, let's talk about the stars of the show – the fish! Anna Maria Island's waters are teeming with some real beauties, and each one offers a unique challenge and thrill.
Summer Flounder: These flat, camouflage masters are a hoot to catch. They're masters of disguise, blending in with the sandy bottom. But once you spot one, it's game on! Kids love the challenge of trying to see these sneaky fish before they make their move. Summer flounder are most active in the warmer months, and their delicate white meat makes for some mighty fine eating if you decide to keep your catch.
Sea Trout: Ah, the speckled sea trout – a favorite among local anglers. These guys are known for their distinctive spots and their willingness to put up a good fight. They're active year-round, but the big ones (we call 'em "gator trout") are more common in the cooler months. Sea trout are great for beginners because they'll often hit lures with gusto, giving kids that exciting "fish on!" moment.
Redfish: Now we're talking! Redfish, or red drum, are the bulldogs of the flats. They're strong, stubborn, and when they decide to run, hold onto your rod! These copper-colored beauties are a blast to catch, especially on light tackle. They're around all year, but fall is prime time when they school up in the shallows. The signature black spot on their tail makes for great photo ops!
Bonnethead Shark: Don't worry, parents – these aren't the kind of sharks you're thinking of. Bonnetheads are like the puppy dogs of the shark world. They're small (usually 2-3 feet), curious, and put up an impressive fight for their size. Catching one of these guys is always a highlight for kids – it's not every day you can say you caught a shark! They're most common in the summer months when the water's warm.
Blacktip Shark: For those looking for a bit more excitement, blacktip sharks offer a real rush. These acrobatic predators are known for their spectacular leaps when hooked. They're typically in the 3-5 foot range, so they're manageable but still provide a serious challenge. Blacktips are most common in late spring and summer. Remember, we practice catch and release with these beauties to keep the population healthy.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, folks, if you're not itching to get out on the water by now, check your pulse! This half-day family fishing trip with Captain Norvin is the real deal. It's more than just fishing – it's about creating those moments that your kids will be talking about for years to come. Whether you're reeling in your first redfish, marveling at a leaping blacktip, or just soaking in the beauty of Anna Maria Island, this trip has something for everyone in the family.
Remember, the boat only takes up to 2 guests, so it's an intimate, personalized experience. No meals are included, but trust me, you'll be too excited about the fishing to even think about food! So why wait? Grab your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and book your spot now. The fish are biting, and Captain Norvin's ready to show you and your family the time of your lives. See you on the water!
Learn more about the species
Blacktip Shark
Blacktip Sharks are a thrilling catch in the waters around Anna Maria Island. These sleek predators typically run 4-5 feet long, with distinctive black-tipped fins. You'll find them patrolling nearshore waters, often around sandbars or near the passes where bait fish congregate. Summer and early fall are prime times for Blacktips, when water temperatures are warmest. Anglers love targeting these sharks for their acrobatic fights - they're known for spectacular leaps when hooked. While not the biggest shark out there, they more than make up for it with their energetic runs and jumps. To catch a Blacktip, use stout tackle spooled with at least 50-pound braid. Fresh cut bait like mackerel or mullet works well. Here's a local tip: chum the water to get them excited, then present a live bait on the surface. The commotion often triggers their predatory instincts, leading to explosive strikes. Just be ready for a fight - these sharks don't give up easily!
Bonnethead Shark
Bonnethead Sharks are a unique catch around Anna Maria Island. These small cousins of the hammerhead typically run 3-4 feet long, with a distinctive shovel-shaped head. You'll find them cruising the shallows, especially over sandy or grassy bottoms in less than 10 feet of water. Summer and early fall are great times to target Bonnetheads. They're often found in small groups, making for exciting action when you locate them. Anglers enjoy catching these sharks because they're relatively small, put up a good fight, and are one of the few shark species known to eat plants along with crustaceans and small fish. To hook a Bonnethead, use medium tackle with 20-30 pound line. Fresh cut bait works well, but here's a local tip: try using a piece of blue crab. Thread it onto a circle hook, and you're in business. These sharks may be on the smaller side, but they'll give you a run for your money once hooked!
Redfish
Redfish, or Red Drum, are a prized catch in our Anna Maria Island waters. These copper-colored beauties with the distinctive black tail spot typically run 20-30 inches inshore, but can grow much larger offshore. You'll find them in shallow bays, around oyster beds, and near mangroves, often in water barely deep enough to cover their backs. Fall is prime time for Redfish, but they're around all year. They're ambush predators, so look for them near structure or tailing in very shallow water during high tides. Anglers love Redfish for their hard-fighting nature and excellent food quality - the meat is mild and versatile for cooking. To target Reds, try sight-fishing with light tackle in clear shallows. They'll hit everything from live bait to artificial lures. One local trick: use a gold spoon on cloudy days. The flash mimics a fleeing baitfish and can trigger aggressive strikes. Just be ready for a strong run when you hook up - these fish don't give up easily!
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, also called Spotted or Speckled Trout, are a favorite target around Anna Maria Island. These silvery fish with dark spots typically run 14-24 inches, though some monsters can hit 40 pounds. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, grass flats, and around structure like oyster beds or docks. These guys love to hang out in 1-4 feet of water, especially early mornings or evenings when they're actively feeding. Spring and fall are great seasons to chase Sea Trout, but you can catch them year-round here. They put up a good fight and make excellent table fare with their mild, flaky meat. Anglers enjoy targeting Sea Trout for their willingness to hit artificial lures. Try working a topwater plug or soft plastic shrimp imitation over grass flats at dawn. My go-to trick is using a popping cork rig with a live shrimp - the noise draws them in, and they can't resist a well-presented bait. Just remember, a light touch on the hookset works best with their soft mouths.
Summer Flounder
Summer Flounder are a unique flatfish species, with both eyes on the left side of their body. They typically grow 15-20 inches long, but can reach up to 26 pounds. You'll find them on the seafloor in coastal waters, using their camouflage to blend in with the bottom. They're ambush predators, feeding on smaller fish and crustaceans. Around Anna Maria Island, we target these "chameleons of the sea" in depths of 30-100 feet, especially near structure or sandy areas. Fall is prime time, from September to November. Anglers love Summer Flounder for their tasty white meat and the challenge of hooking them. They put up a good fight for their size too. To land one, try drifting or slow-trolling with live bait like minnows or mullet. I like to use a fish-finder rig with a circle hook - it's easier for flounder to grab. Be patient and wait for that distinctive thump before setting the hook. These flatfish can be tricky, but they're worth the effort!
About the Flight Risk Charters
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha 250 SHO engine
Maximum Cruising Speed: 60
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250
