Phillippi Creek & Estate Park: Winter Snook Sanctuary
Current conditions at Phillippi Creek are Good because the light 6 mph easterly breeze keeps the water surface textured but calm, while the strong 1.8 ft high tide provides plenty of water for fish to move deep into the mangrove shorelines.
⚠️ Navigational Warning
- RAMP ALERT: Kayak/Canoe Launch Only. No motorized boat ramp at the park.
- NAV NOTICE: US-41 Bridge is low; check tide clearance for T-Tops.
- SPEED: Entire creek is a strict Manatee/Idle Speed Zone. Expect a long transit.
- CHOCOLATE MILK RULE: Avoid for 3 days after heavy rain (muddy runoff shuts down bite).
Current Conditions
- Status: Good
- Wind: 6 mph E
- Next Tide: Low at 00:53 (-0.4 ft)
Boat Ramp & Launch Conditions
Target the deep channel bends and undercut banks near the residential docks using a slow-sinking twitchbait or a live shrimp suspended under a popping cork to entice snook and redfish as the tide begins its slow retreat.
Local Pro Tip
Thermal Refuge: Winter is the prime season. Target the deeper bends and holes where the darker, tannin-rich water holds heat better than the open bay. Avoid fishing immediately after a storm (Chocolate Milk Rule).
Fishing Forecast (48 Hours)
Upcoming best fishing times for Phillippi Creek: Winter Snook Sanctuary based on solunar, tide, and wind data.
- Tue Evening: Good Conditions (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
- Tue Night: Peak Conditions (2:00 AM - 4:00 AM)
- Wed Morning: Peak Conditions (5:00 AM - 7:00 AM)
- Wed Afternoon: Peak Conditions (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
- Wed Evening: Peak Conditions (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM)
About Phillippi Creek: Winter Snook Sanctuary
Phillippi Creek is Sarasota's premier winter warm-water refuge. Accessed via Phillippi Estate Park (Shore/Kayak) or by boat from the bay, this creek holds massive Snook and Jack Crevalle during cold snaps.