Bradenton/Sarasota advice

[Railroad Bill]

Hey all. I'm heading down to the Bradenton area the last week of March and could use some recommendations for bass waters please! I'll be visiting my parents and have access to a couple fishing kayaks. I'm not looking for your super secret spots, I just wanna get out and enjoy some warm weather and catch a few bass! Any advice and water recommendationscwould be greatly appreciated.

[Deadeye]

Hey Bill,

I'm not personally familiar enough with that area to give you any places top try, BUT that time of year should be perfect for great Bass fishing.

Bass should be fairly shallow looking for or just coming off of beds. If the water is clear enough to see beds great, if not try blind casting to the more "stand alone" patches of pads and grasses. For whatever reason the bass seem to prefer those smaller patches than then giant long patches.

As for baits, really depends on what you like to fish with. Craws, T-Rigged Worms, Jigs all work when hopped/dragged through the patches. Cranks worked around the edges and bends work. A-Rigs work great if you see schooling activity.

Colors for me the more natural Black/Blue, Watermelon or Watermelonseed for plastics. Chrome with Black-Blue backs for cranks. Grubs or Swimbaits in white-- but size is most important. Try different sizes until you find what they are eating. 3-4 inches is a good place to start.

Hope this helps and enjoy your trip.

[FlatsNBay]

I would try myakka state park off of SR 70 or the put in at Snook Haven on the myakka River in Venice if it is still there? Used to be a few bucks to put in there.

[Railroad Bill]

Thanks guys! I've been looking at some fishing stuff online today (it's snowing here right now, I can't wait for warm weather) and found Ward Lake and the Braden River. Anybody ever fish either one of these?