Hook into Sarasota Bay: Private 4-Hour Inshore Fishing with Captain Bill Phillips
Spend four focused hours fishing Sarasota Bay with Master Captain Bill Phillips. Expect hands-on instruction, nearshore structure (including Bean Point and the 1-, 3- and 7-Mile reefs), and practical guidance on limits and filleting.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book an early departure
Morning trips offer calmer seas, cooler temperatures and better sight fishing over flats.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication before boarding—runs to reef lines can be choppy.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and water
Long sun exposure on the water adds up; bring a refillable bottle and SPF rated for marine use.
Wear non-slip shoes
Closed, grippy footwear improves stability on wet decks and aids in safe movement during fishing.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Bean Point sandbar for low-tide shore watching and quick photo stops
- •Nearshore seagrass edges off Anna Maria Island where birds and baitfish signal feeding fish
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •Snook
Conservation Note
Operators commonly practice selective harvest and catch-and-release; follow Florida Fish and Wildlife regulations and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce environmental impact.
Sarasota Bay and the surrounding barrier islands have supported subsistence and commercial fisheries for centuries; local captains still rely on traditional knowledge of tides, winds and bird activity.
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Cut glare for better sight fishing and protect your eyes from reflected sun.
Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Protects skin during prolonged sun exposure and minimizes harm to marine life.
Non-slip deck shoesEssential
Provide traction on wet surfaces and protect feet during boarding and casting.
Motion-sickness meds or wristbands
Helpful if you’re sensitive to boat motion—take or apply before leaving shore.
Common Questions
Is fishing gear provided?
Yes—Captain Bill supplies rods, tackle, bait and all required licenses, so you only need to bring personal items like sunscreen and snacks.
Can I keep what I catch?
You may keep fish that meet Florida state regulations; the captain will advise on size and bag limits and can fillet or bag your catch.
Is there a minimum age to join?
Participants must be at least 12 years old to book this excursion.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; trips may be canceled for inclement weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Anna Maria, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; you should be able to stand and move on a small boat for several hours.
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