richardtriff Loc: NEW JERSEY...BELOW TRENTON

Hey Fellas,

I have been reading these posts for the last few years...I pretty much started fishing semi-seriously in the last couple of years..mostly bass at a local lake and a retention pond in SOUTH JERSEY. Picked up an inflatable Sea Eagle last year and have been out a few times last year...learning as I go..

In Januaru I'm heading to Lakewood Ranch in Bradenton ,Flo...wouldn't mind doing both freshwater(off bank) and saltwater(off surf) --no boats or guides....any suggestions??

Richard T...but call me TRIFF

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

TRIFF: Here are some easy things you can accomplish for yourself. Google the Florida Game and Fish Commission and ask for their monthly fishing report for both fresh and saltwater. When you get there, visit the local bait stands where you intend to fish. Those folks will know a lot about local conditions, bait, and what is being caught. Next, when there, mix and mingle with the local fishermen/women who are actually fishing. They are usually friendly and helpful. Finally, if you have the bucks, hire a guide for 1/2 day to fish where you have planned to do your fishing. Ask a lot of questions about everything, and write it down. Don't talk, ask questions, and listen! Just Sayin...RJS

DanK58 Loc: Englewood Florida

Hey TRIFF, Welcome to the stage. I'm relatively new to the west coast of Florida and saltwater fishing. I'm about and hour down to coast from you Venice/Englewood area. You should Check out some of the piers and beaches around Tampa and St. Petes.

Anybass Loc: Pa.

Triff, good tips from RJ. Also, don't underestimate the canals and small fishable lakes in and around communities or near golf courses. A lot require permission. Some give some don't. If eating fish caught, I would avoid taking ones where fertilizer drain off could be issue.
There are some interesting canals and ponds south of you around Sarasota. Not sure up your way. That is where DNR could be helpful. Have been vacationing in the Venice area for some years. Last year met a fisherman who showed me some of the places I mentioned. In one of the canals, you could easily cast to the other side. We caught a lot of 1 1/2- 3 lb LM. The best was a 6lb 8oz LM he caught on a frog. Released it and I will be knocking on its lily pad next Spring. Rubber worms and plastic frog are dynamite since lot of different cover to navigate through.
If shore fishing, keep in mind nearly all bodies of water have gators. Small ones a nuisance but larger ones need to be cautious. I like to sit in an area away from the shore for awhile to see what is going on in the lake. If possibly want to link up in Spring you have my name, Anybass. Good luck.

richardtriff Loc: NEW JERSEY...BELOW TRENTON

RJS,

I will do all you suggest....thanks...incidentally this Flo gig is not my permanent residence..I am a So.Jersey resident.

Thanks,TRIFF(short for a long Italian name)

richardtriff Loc: NEW JERSEY...BELOW TRENTON

Thanks for the info....this is just a vacation spot for a couple of weeks....I intend to search around the golf courses..I've had success with my teaching buds at those type locations ..I'll get the lay of the land this trip..

TRIFF

richardtriff Loc: NEW JERSEY...BELOW TRENTON

Anybass...all good points...like the golf course ponds....appreciate the eat/no eat advice....gators...duly noted..

TRIFF

jeretired Loc: Venice, FL

Hi Guys, just a quick note: We've had a condo in Venice for the last 15 years and just recently getting serious about saltwater fishing. Before you haphazardly jump into fishing random golf courses for all the bass that hang out within, suggest you check out YouTube for the many videos of the (mostly) kids with the same intentions.
Inevitably, residents with no sense of humor, call the cops and spoil the fun. Luckily, I have access to a couple of great ponds with super neighbors, but strangers aren't welcomed at all (and they're identified quickly). Just a word of caution, out sux to ruin an otherwise great day of fishing.....☘

richardtriff Loc: NEW JERSEY...BELOW TRENTON

Yes...I'm aware of the potential issues with trespassing etc and neighbors that want their privacy...I will take head..thanks

Anybass Loc: Pa.

jeretired, you are so right. The fisherman I met last year lives near Sarasota and has access to just such places in addition to the ones he showed me that don't need permission. Such a shame that there is not more latitude given by residents for those wishing to enjoy the sport. If ever interested in linking up let me know. Have a great Christmas.

Anybass Loc: Pa.

Best of luck.