OP...
You mention you're headed to Anna Maria Island for vacation. Are you staying in the City of Anna Maria (on the north end of the island), Holmes Beach (in the central area of the island), or Bradenton Beach (in the southern area of the island)?
As zephyr88 said, the island got slammed last year by two hurricanes, Helene and Milton. The southern area (Bradenton Beach) took the brunt of it, but even the northern tip (City of Anna Maria) was hit hard. We drove through the island a couple of weeks ago. Much of it is returning to normal, but it's pretty obvious the area got hit.
The building at the end of the City of Anna Maria pier on the northern tip of the island is still standing, but the pier itself is heavily damaged. Also, a local favorite, the Rod 'n Reel restaurant (also on another pier just west of the other pier), is gone. It survived Helene but was taken out by Milton.
You're heading down at a great time to go tarpon fishing. It's big deal in late spring/early summer. When you are standing on the northern tip of the island one can see many boats to the northwest as that's where they're catching tarpon.
Also, the beaches facing the Gulf is where loggerhead turtles lay their eggs (beginning in May).
I'm pretty certain you'll be able to get some names from some of the locals. I'll see from my contacts if I can dig up a name as well.
