Ken Thompson Park: Boat Ramp Status & Fishing Guide
Current conditions at Ken Thompson Park are poor because the punishing 28 mph Northeast winds are churning up Sarasota Bay, creating excessive chop and murky water clarity across the flats.
⚠️ Navigational Warning
- STATUS: Shoreline stabilization work ongoing (Feb 2026). Some pier sections may be restricted.
- RAMP LOGISTICS: 3-Lane Ramp. Trailer parking fills by 9:30 AM on weekends.
- AMENITY TIP: Washdown station available; bring your own hose nozzle just in case.
- CURRENT: Strong tidal flow from New Pass. Use 1oz+ weights to hold bottom.
- RESTRICTED AREA: Do not fish near Mote Marine intakes or research docks.
Current Conditions
- Status: Poor
- Wind: 28 mph NE
- Next Tide: Low at 01:38 (-0.121 ft)
Fishing Strategy & Ramp Access
Avoid the exposed open bay side and instead fish the extremely shallow, protected mangrove pockets near the boat ramp using a weedless gold spoon to target redfish hunkered down away from the wind.
Local Pro Tip
Skip the main concrete pier. The wooden boardwalks through the mangroves are the secret for keeper Mangrove Snapper and Sheepshead. Drop a live shrimp vertically into the roots. Post-launch, you can walk to the Salty Dog or New Pass Grill for bait and food.
Recommended for Ken Thompson Park
Captain Dawson has the local knowledge to safely navigate these bridge fenders and pilings while the shore access is down.
VIEW CAPTAIN DAWSON'S AVAILABILITY ↗Fishing Forecast (48 Hours)
Upcoming best fishing times for Ken Thompson Park (Boat Ramp & Boardwalks) based on solunar, tide, and wind data.
- Thu Night: Good Conditions (2:00 AM - 4:00 AM)
- Fri Morning: Good Conditions (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM)
- Fri Afternoon: Good Conditions (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
- Fri Evening: Good Conditions (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
About Ken Thompson Park (Boat Ramp & Boardwalks)
Ken Thompson Park (City Island) is the primary hub for Sarasota boaters. Hosting a high-volume 3-lane ramp and a washdown station, it is the busiest launch in the city. For shore anglers, the wooded mangrove boardwalks offer a superior alternative to the often-crowded main pier.