Braden River Fishing

The Braden River is similar to the other two rivers in that there is a freshwater river and a reservoir that is created by a dam. Evers Lake is created by a dam on the Braden River a few miles west of I 75. This lake is deep and relatively uniform was very little bottom contour. Depending on water level it averages about 17 feet deep. There is good shoreline vegetation with some lily pad fields.

The freshwater portion of the Braden River that flows from I 75 for several miles to Evers Lake can offer some pretty good fishing. Bass and bream are the most targeted species. There are deeper holes on the outside corners with plenty of fallen timber and vegetation. Docks are also plentiful. Cooler months are best and bass and bluegill beds can often be seen.

Access to Evers Lake in the Braden River is available from the park at Jiggs landing. There is an excellent boat ramp here along with parking and restroom facilities. There is also a small shop that sells bait and snacks. Evers Lake in the Braden River are located in a high population area. That, along with the good launching facilities, results in an area that does get a fair amount of fishing pressure. Is a pretty lake, which can be a tough lake to fish.

The “Magical” The portion of the Braden River between the dam and word empties into the Manatee River is saltwater. Unlike the Manatee River and Myakka River, the Braden River in this portion is not brackish at all and does not hold freshwater species. It is also a bit more developed than those other two rivers, with houses and boat docks being prevalent.

However, the fishing in the Braden River can be outstanding! It is a short river, a tributary of the Manatee River and is very close to Tampa Bay. This results in a good population of fish migrating up into the Braden River in the cooler months. Most notably, snook and jack crevelle will push up into the river to find refuge in its deeper holes. Jacks in particular school up heavily there. Other saltwater species such as redfish, ladyfish, and mangrove snapper are taken regularly.

The launching spot for anglers fishing the saltwater portion of the Braden River is conveniently located on State Road 64 right where it crosses the Braden River. This is on State Road 64 about 2 miles west of I 75. There is a decent boat ramp with the dock, a clean porta potty, and plenty of safe parking. The Braden River has a bit more of an urban feel to it, however it is a very short drive away from local beaches and can offer some fantastic fishing.