New Pass Bridge (Lido Side): Pompano & Bait Shop Guide
Current conditions at New Pass Bridge (Lido Side) are Fair because the 14 mph southerly wind combined with the strong tidal push through the inlet makes for challenging but fishable water movement.
⚠️ Navigational Warning
- ⚠️ SAFETY: Extreme rip currents. No swimming or wading near the bridge pilings.
- GEAR: Heavy tidal flow. Minimum 1-2oz weights required to hold bottom.
- LOGISTICS: Limited parking at New Pass Grill. Use North Lido Beach Nature Trail lot for overflow.
- TRAFFIC: Heavy boat channel—watch your backcast and wake.
Current Conditions
- Status: Fair
- Wind: 14 mph S
- Next Tide: High at 00:29 (1.329 ft)
Best Bet for Anglers
Do not use light tackle in this heavy current; instead, bounce 3/4 oz to 1 oz Pompano Jigs (Doc's Goofy Jigs) along the deep channel edges on the outgoing tide.
Local Pro Tip
Master the 'New Pass Drift'. Time your trip for the outgoing tide. Use a jig head tipped with a Sand Flea or live shrimp, and drift from the bridge span out toward the Gulf. For shore anglers, drop your bait vertically alongside the concrete pilings for Mangrove Snapper and Sheepshead—don't cast out, the fish are hugging the structure.
Fishing Forecast (48 Hours)
Upcoming best fishing times for New Pass Bridge (Lido Side): Pompano & Bait Shop Guide based on solunar, tide, and wind data.
- Thu Evening: Fair Conditions (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
- Thu Night: Fair Conditions (10:00 PM - 12:00 AM)
- Fri Morning: Fair Conditions (5:00 AM - 7:00 AM)
- Fri Afternoon: Fair Conditions (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
About New Pass Bridge (Lido Side): Pompano & Bait Shop Guide
New Pass is the fastest water in Sarasota and the undisputed 'Pompano Capital' of the county. Famous for its ripping current and the adjacent New Pass Grill & Bait Shop, this is the epicenter of the local Winter/Spring Pompano run. It offers a unique 'Burgers & Bait' experience where you can grab a world-famous cheeseburger and live shrimp in one stop.