Manatee River in Florida

[SteveGibson]

I don't know why I haven't fished this great river more, but I hadn't fished it in more than 20 years. Kind of forgot about it over the years.

Ran into a guy at Lake Manatee who suggested I give it a try. He said the fishing is better and the bluegill larger.

He was right.

First time I fished it, I caught about 80 bluegill and most of them were at least 3/4 of a pound. Also hooked five channel cats and landed one -- a 6-pounder. Most of the action came on my Myakka Minnow fly.

All fish were taken on TFO 2-weight fly rod.

 

 

 

 

[Magnolia Rick]

Dude I'd be back there every time I could. Nice I mean nice looking gill.

[SteveGibson]

Bill,
I'm assuming you're in the Sarasota area and wanting to know about a launch spot on the Manatee River? If so, yes, I can help. I launch at Ray's Canoe Hideway. Take I-75 north to State Road 64. Head east to Upper Manatee River Road. Turn left and go about 4 miles. The address is 1289 Hagle Park Road
Ray's website is http://www.rayscanoehideaway.com/