Like most resort areas on Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach is blessed with miles of sugar white sand that gently slopes into the warm coastal waters. The Gulf side of the beach is a favourite for just strolling along the water’s edge, picking shells and swimming under lifeguard supervision.

The bay side tends to offer more in water craft activities that include parasailing, and jet ski riding. Here you are also likely to find several boat charters that specialize in deep sea fishing.

There are a couple of small parks in Bradenton Beach, worthy of note only because one, Herb Dolan Park, offers great views across to Sarasota and Tampa Bay whilst the other, Katie Peirola Park, is a great spot for sunsets.

The City Pier has recently reopened following hurricane damage in 2004 and is popular for fishing. It was interesting to hear that when the old wooden bridge connecting Bradenton Beach to the mainland was replaced the island side of the bridge was retained as a fishing pier. Today, after its two million dollar refurbishment the pier is home to a restaurant, tackle shop and restrooms.  Whether you are into fishing or not, this is a lovely spot for a stroll and to watch the catch coming in.

Bridge Street is the historic centre of Bradenton Beach and, as it was directly at the end of the old wooden bridge linking it to the mainland; it became a thriving and prosperous community. When the old bridge was replaced it lost some of its appeal and many businesses closed down. However, today after a major restoration project, Bridge Street has rediscovered its charm and can offer the visitor quaint little shops selling antiques, paintings and a variety other crafts. There are some lovely pavement cafes as well as more up market restaurants and bars.

At the end of the day, if the weather is good, head back to the beach, the pier or Katie Peirola Park, and be prepared to witness a spectacular sunset across the Gulf of Mexico. There is nothing better to lift the soul after an enjoyable day exploring this little piece of paradise in central Florida.

We choose a villa a Bradenton, which would be a good base to explore the area. Bradenton was an ideal location to visit not only the numerous beaches around but also Busch Gardens.

A favourite for the whole family was Anna Maria Island.

Driving along the coast road from Bradenton Beach to Holmes Beach and then onto the northern tip was Anna Maria Island.

On arrival at Anna Maria Island we found free car parking just along from the South Pier, across the road was a small shopping mall with restaurants, clothes shops and an Ice Cream Parlour.

We wandered along the pier and found at the end a restaurant, outside seating and people fishing. Our Boys who were 13 and 10 wanted to join in. This was not a problem as the Pier had a bait shop which not only sold bait but hired out fishing rods by the hour. So for a few dollars we had and lovely afternoon with the boys fishing. The adults were happy sitting in the glorious sunshine enjoying a cold drink which were also readily available from the bait shop.

After a couple of hours we decided to visit the Ice Cream Parlour “Two Scoops” to cool down and then make our way back home. The boys loved this unexpected experience that they asked to return the next day.

We decided that we would go to Wal-Mart to purchase rods, which they could keep. New rods in hand we returned to the pier the very next day.

Whilst there we even caught sight of many Dolphins, Sting Rays, Pelicans and various Fish on the end of the rods.

The locals at the bait shop, restaurant and pier were most welcoming, friendly and chatty. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and plan to return next year. We would recommend a visit along to Anna Maria island whether you want to fish are just laze on the beautiful white sandy beach.

After we had gone through the formalities, over a beer I asked Bob where I could pick up tools and other DIY equipment (I was oblivious to Home Depot and LOWES).

After a few more beers Bob asked if I would like to go fishing.

I had not been fishing for 35 years since I was 8 years old but because I was in Florida on holiday and Bob was obviously good company I decided to accept his offer.

I quickly felt I had been a bit to eager to accept his invitation when he then informed me he would like to be in the water for 6am, that I should be at his house for around 5am which is in Oviedo (near Sanford) meaning I would have to be up and out for around 4am.

The following Sunday morning Carol (thinking I was mad) made sure I had the obligatory sun blocks and creams before I went on my way.

Upon arrival at Bobs he informed me we would need to pick up supplies on our way to the boat ramp. We called into a supermarket and unbeknown to me Bob picked up 2 sandwiches (subs 18inches long and 6in wide) Diet coke and a pack of beer.

At about this time I again began to feel a little uneasy about what I had let myself in for.

The boat was in the water for just after 6am.

We motored around for a while looking for a good spot to cast our lines.

We ended up on Indian River just north of the astronaut hall of fame on SR 405.

By 7:30am we had opened our first beer (Bob assuring me it was 5pm somewhere in the world) and were eating the first half of our sub. We were passing the time of day in conversation just getting to know one another and Bob instructing me on the finer points of fishing when I was suddenly struck by the tranquillity of the occasion.

Here we were sat in the Florida sunshine in almost silent surroundings eating a sandwich and drinking beer. The time just disappeared.

By 3 o’clock in the afternoon the boat had been visited by 3 Manatee and an alligator. In addition 4 dolphins had decided to shadow the boat for most of the day.

To use an American term it was awesome. I just sat in the boat and watched these creatures in their natural habitat. What I had previously seen only in captivity I now had the privilege of seeing in the wild.

Bob could not understand why I sat so long in silence he had thought I wasn’t well. I was so involved in what I was witnessing I didn’t even remember to take any photos.

In the space of a few hours I had seen and done things I had never done before.

Not the mad rides or the enormity of the theme parks but the simple pleasure of sitting in a boat, drinking beer and observing the natural world, not being interrupted by anything or anyone. Bob and I have become very good friends and have been fishing and drinking together on many occasions but that day was definitely a day to remember.

Brian Pearson

Many visitors seek to try some fishing whilst on their vacation, as a very relaxing way to soak up the sun’s rays whilst letting the world go by, without a single thought about work!

Regulation

But a little preparation is needed - fishing is very heavily regulated in Florida, and these thoughts are presented as a summary to avoid breaching the regulations.  But regulations do change - so it is essential to check that your day’s fishing remains legal.  Freshwater Fishing regulations are updated annually, and can be collected (free of charge) at outlets selling fishing equipment, such as Wal-Mart.

Firstly, a licence is required - this can be obtained from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.  The licence is not expensive, and can be purchased for a 7 day period from the Commission’s website (the licence can be mailed, but payment allows you to start fishing immediately, without waiting for the licence to arrive through the post).

There are exemptions from the licence fee - but many anglers choose to support the commission by purchasing a licence, even though they may be exempt (eg senior, juniors).

Where to fish

Finding a lake to fish is never a problem - they are plentiful, each with their own specific requirements (eg whether swimming or camping is permitted, types of fish which must be released, limits on catches etc).  The Kissimmee Chain consists of  Lake Toho, East Lake Toho, Lake Cypress, Lake Hatchineha, Lake Kissimmee, and the canals that connect them. Other lakes connected by natural creeks are Lakes Tiger, Marion, Jackson, Rosalie, and Walk-in-the-Water. There are other chains of lakes just a little further afield.

Where to Buy Fishing Equipment

For general supplies, a trip to the local Wal-Mart may be all that is required.  There are several 24 hour superstores in the Kissimmee area.  For more specialist equipment, try one of the dedicated stores, such as Bass Pro (a large store at the Festival Bay Outlets at the top end of International Drive).

Sea Fishing

If freshwater fishing is not your choice, try sea fishing - there are plenty of charter opportunities from the wonderful beaches along the Gulf Coast.  Trips can be for just a couple of hours or all day - to suit your requirements and enthusiasm.

The One That Got Away

If all else fails, stop off at the supermarket for a choice of fabulous freshly caught fish!

You do not have to be an avid fisherman to experience a day of fun and relaxation while on a boat in sunny Florida.  Fishing is for all ages.  There are many licensed fishing guides in Florida capable of taking you and your family out on the water to show you as great time.

On our last trip to Orlando, my wife and I decided to try it.  I would prefer a challenging day out on a Bass boat and trying to angle a Largemouth Bass.  The boats have a flat deck and they are fast.  The guides know of the “hot spots” in lakes and lead you to these areas. 

However, my wife is more of a landlubber. So, I compromised.  I found Fishing Charters Inc. Captain Rick launches out of Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho).  This is actually a chain of lakes which is located in Osceola County.  It is 18,000 acres and spans 42 miles.  His boat is a pontoon boat which is much slower, has handrails, a canopy, and made her feel safer in the water.

We went Bass fishing and caught a few.  As with most guides, the price you pay covers poles, bait, license, and soft drinks. You may bring food, sunscreen, and sunglasses. A half-day trip for two cost $250 an additional $50 per person. We enjoyed the scenery, the fishing, and hearing about the history of the lake.  His company also has trips in southern Florida for salt-water fish like Snook and Tarpon.

There are many ocean charters available throughout the state. Some of these are more challenging and one could catch a Marlin or Sailfish. One issue with the ocean charters is experiencing sea-sickness.  Even the novice boater can get the nausea and aftermath of the effects of sea-sickness. 

I found a charter which leaves out of New Smyrna Beach which I want to try next trip.  It is called the Pastime Princess.  This ship can take up to 60 passengers. The website shows the schedule. It sails for both day and night time trips. 

The trip is fairly priced and costs $65 for adults and $40 for children 16 and under.  Those riders who are not fishing pay $34.  The cost includes rod, reel, license, bait, tackle, and fish cleaning.  That’s right if you want to keep the fish and cook it back at your villa, they will prep it for you.  They have a cafe on-board with food you may purchase for reasonable prices.  The phone number is 356-427-5393