Premier charter fishing guide service in Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound. As I been writing this blog the past two weeks I have been shopping for a kayak. Youll be watching in awe as these mighty creatures swim back and forth giving you a run for your money. Bass are one of the least picky fish out there. Its always a good time to go fishing in Fort Myers, and theres never a low season really. May through September is the best season. Find many different fishing hot spots with GPS coordinates. Large Gator Trout can be found roaming the citys numerous canals, as well as the broad Caloosahatchee River. Estero, FL. In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, Florida FWC has advice and reminders on how to safely navigate the post hurricane landscape and how you can help get the sunshine state back on its feet. If you didnt plan on angling when you packed for your trip, they have fishing equipment and bait available at their on-property stores. South Florida has another advantage -- you can go lobster fishing after sundown. Inshore anglers love a challenge, and Snook certainly puts up a good fight. Weve just described the top species of fish to target in the local waters. Fishing in the area is good at any time of the year. Change location, depth, or bait to avoid catching fish you do not intend to keep. Anyway, to my surprise, i pulled out this 2 1/2 pounded the other day! New Pass is a channel located just 5.4 miles from Estero, in Lee County, in the state of Florida, United States, near Coconut, FL. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Replied on December 8, 2021 Beaches give anglers an opportunity to experience shore fishing in Fort Myers. Redfish is inactive in the region between January and February. These Amazing Spots Near Fort Myers, Florida (New Pass) Are Perfect To Go Fishing Few things in the world are more relaxing - or more exciting, depending on the day - than fishing. To read the rest of the articleKayak Buyers Guide. The Gulf is also within reach if youre chartering a boat, so its the only way to get to those offshore monsters. Fort Myers, FL 33908. Traditionally, many anglers choose to go fishing in the Gulf waters and in deeper waters around Pine Island and Sanibel. 18 in. Cayo Costa State Park. Gina's expert tip: This . I grew up fishing for anything that swims but really cut my teeth fishing for trout, chain pickerel, bass, and bullheads in my teenage years. Here is some information from REI: Figuring out the right size (length) of paddle is surprisingly straightforward. Fort Myers Beach Fl Fishing: A Classic Florida Beach Town With Amazing Fishing Spots. 28 1/4" red fish free lined a pinfish with a circle hook (5), My biggest Florida Bass so far, (a little under 3lbs), was caught in a canal. A storm hitting the keys or even Texas could have an impact on your fishing in Fort Myers. Most of the fishing is done inshore, offshore, or within the Caloosahatchee River. Featuring snook, redfish, seatrout, jack crevalle and many, many more and located in Fort Myers. North Fort Myers is a populated place in US with an estimated population of 39407 and an average elevation of 4 meters above sea level, located in the America/New_York timezone. If you are going to be targeting offshore species, you will most likely need to book a charter. Inshore species are generally smaller, so a shrimp on a jighead tends to work well. There are plenty of beaches and piers to keep you busy for a few days. Yes, you might give your arms a workout, but the experience more than makes up for the pain. Lots to explore by kayak or trolling motor. This site is owned and operated by TheBookOnGoneFishing.com. The main species caught here are snook, trout, and sometimes tarpon on the bayside when they are in shallow. You can also target them in the estuaries and salt marshes. The higher oxygen levels mean that the fish will be feeding much more actively as well. Fort Myers is known for its subtropical climate and great weather conditions. They can usually be found migrating into the flats of southwest Florida in the late spring and early summer and departing by late August. They've closed down a crap ton of spots. (5.5-6) When I reeled this beast in the boat captain had to record and summit to every single detail more about the catch to FWC. One of the nicest parks I have seen. Sharks become much more active at night, especially in areas with lots of artificial light. Fort Myers. The river is wide enough for you to never get affected by traffic but small enough to the point where you can do a half snook half bass day if you wanted to. If you are interested in a private fishing charter or a split charter, contact Queen Conch Charters today. Read on to figure out your preferred way of enjoying a day of fishing in Fort Myers. There are also specialized fishing trips. Bring the family and have a blast on the watermore, The Bait Station carries all major brands of rods, reels and tackle SALTWATER we carry shrimp pinfish crabs pass fiddler and blue We carry all of the Frozen bait Freshwater we carrymore, We Specialize in providing Deep Sea Fishing up to 6o miles offshore on our 32' SailFish Center Consul equipped with the most advanced electronics. Where to stay: Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina puts you right next to the beach. Promotes Catch and Release and wildlife conservation. With that in mind, there are strict regulations to follow when it comes to fishing for certain species. I'm having a hard time identifying it lol. They like warmer water, but dont like when the sun is directly on them, so if you go fishing anytime other than the afternoon, you should have good luck. 6 oz. Youll get a hefty reward in the form of a delicious meal, as these are some of the tastiest fish found in all of Florida. Tropical storms can ruin an entire trip, but you would have to be very unlucky to book a trip when one happens. Inside the massive J.N. The list below outlines the Lat/Lon location coordinates of many different reefs, wrecks, natural bottom structure and other places to fish in the waters off of Lee County, Florida. Where to stay: A five-minute car ride from the preserve will land you at the waterfront Tarpon Lodge and Restaurant. Its the perfect place to fish during the winter months. Favorite Bass: Largemouth. Jupiter, Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami all have good Florida lobstering grounds and a fraction of the divers. You can find them around mangroves, mouths of rivers, docks, and any other spot close to shore that has structure. For some, its the bright lights and big-city atmosphere of Miami. Crabby Charters is one of Ft Myers most successful deep sea fishing charters. Become a Pro subscriber to see when and where fish are being caught and logged in Fishbrain. Punta Gorda, FL. 6. The Fantastico was a 200 foot Honduran freighter ship that sank in the Gulf of Mexico in March of 1993. Avoid dropping the fish, especially onto hard surfaces. . Tarpon Street Pier and Midpoint Bridge are great fishing spots to target snook in the area. For a complete breakdown if fishing is good in St. Augustine, please check out this article. Have a drink at the lively bar to celebrate your catch, then tuck into your seaview room the hotel straddles the open ocean and the quieter bayside (the latter with views right onto Buck Key). See if you can hook the Inshore Slam: a spotted seatrout, redfish, and snook, all in the same day. There are also other exotic fish ( mayan cichild, Oscar, spotted tilapia, etc) in that canal system so you should have a good time catching new species of fish.Good lures to use for peacock . I grew up fishing for anything that swims but really loved fishing for trout, chain pickerel, bass, and bullheads in my teenage years. On the other hand, its not easy to catch. And where do the tarpon run up north every season? The best time of the year to fish for tarpon in the region is between the early spring and the early fall. The fishing around Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach is amazing, with thousands of acres of shallow water to fish. The worst time of the year to experience trout in the region is between November and December. Snook like to feed on shrimp, pinfish, and pogies. This area offers great fishing for multiple species, but specifically great fishing for flats fish. Anyone thinking of having a tasty dinner after catching and keeping one of these fish may face a hefty fine if caught, and possible toxic health effects if eaten. Fort Myers offers some great spots to find trophy Trout, all while enjoying a cold drink. Such a blend is rare, so consider making the most out of this opportunity! My PB: Between 10-11 lbs. And if you are using artificial bait, you should try anything flashy, topwater baits and flies work as well. About Us. Theres also a good chance of reeling in one of these beautiful creatures in the freshwater canals. Jun 06, 2019 - Pine Island Sound. Yes, as you said, these species have been catch and release only through May 31, 2021. Tarpon fishing in Fort Myers is the most productive between May and July. Keep in mind that this is an estuary system and a natural entrance to the back bay in other words, the bait fish are plenty. The fish get bigger out here, like the goliath grouper, amberjack, king mackerel, and even some species of shark. Bunche Beach Preserve is 700 acres of buttonwood forest, mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and coastal grasslands that eventually lead onto a beach fringing the San Carlos Bay. If you visit the town, youll have an adventure that you wont forget. Come by Three . You cover a lot more ground, youre able to get to some sweet honey holes, and you get the help of a professional captain. 2. Find others through search. For a complete breakdown of the best time to fish Florida, please check out this helpful article. We have the best Fort Myers fishing spots. The only question is what you want to target. For a complete breakdown if fishing is good in Fort Myers, please check out this article. About FMB Guide. While in open water, snook are usually going to be just outside of a drop off waiting for food to go by them. So grab your favorite fly fishing rod and reel, and head out to New Pass. It makes a lot of sense for anglers to target bull sharks on the flats. Adding a business to Yelp is always free. Some areas may look different right now, but the way our community makes people feel hasn't changed. They are most active in the spring and summer, only slowing down during the late fall and winter. There are piers, bridges, and beaches abundantly available, and there are always people fishing in their favorite spots. Dec 8, 2021, While Snook is out of season it remains open for Hendry County. However, the destination is not only about fishing. Whether youre fly fishing, baitcasting, spinning, trolling or chumming your chances of getting a bite here are good. Treat yourself to endless family-friendly attractions, restaurants and resorts in Fort Myers. Theres a couple of tranquil wildlife-viewing decks and fishing piers inside the nature reserve, too, and you can switch between the different landscapes to keep it varied. Most species in the area like warm water, but not the high sun. So, anglers find it easy to book a charter that meets their needs and budgets. Inside the massive J.N. that is powered by twin Yamaha 300more, During my trip I saw an alligator, snake, ducks, turtle's, a gar fish, other fish, heron's and othermore, Park amenities include benches, boat docks, fishing pier, pavilion, playground, and sand volleyballmore, You can fish , hike the trails and even camp . Both have a different feel you may like the difference I end up in Marco more because i have friends nearby and I know more of the fishing spots. Fort Myers night fishing charters are also available. One thing they have in common? Since then, I've lived across the country and have really taken that passion for fishing to a new level. Amazing! This ones a no-brainer. Inshore fishing is the most popular in Fort Myers as well as flats fishing, nearshore fishing, and offshore fishing. For the rest of their lives, they enjoyed the citys incredible weather and scenery. (219) 663-3256. Florida fishing trips are the perfect private expedition for solo fishermen, couples, a family outing, or groups. An email address is required to associate with your Fishidy premium subscription. With Fort Myers being on the Gulf of Mexico, it is susceptible to tropical storms. Where to stay: The Inns of Sanibel lie a few minutes drive from Tarpon Bay. Fishing spots in Sarasota, Venice and Fort Myers Florida. Spring & Fall is the best time to catch largemouth bass in the Fort Myers-area. Anglers should plan their Fort Myers fishing adventures in advance. The best time of the year to experience permit fishing in Fort Myers is between May and July. Only $99.99! There are also specialized fishing trips. Naples Pier and Fort Myers Beach Pier: Both attract many a fisherman (along with a few hungry pelicans) because of the variety of fish that thrives beneath the piers. From long, sandy beaches to inshore bays and bayous, fishing in Sanibel has everything you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Tarpon are 40-100lb in that Canal its also full of cichlids and red ear sun fish and Blue Tilapia. In the Fort Myers/Sanibel Island area, great fishing spots are everywhere you look! Fort Myers isnt a very big city, so you can get around pretty easily. If youre running into this issue and cant decide, it may be best to book a charter that focuses on multiple species or whatever species are in season. Year-round availability. Here is some information from each store, first Black Creek is more that you have to go into the store the online store does not have enough information to share online. Definitely go with a guide unless youre an absolute pro. Snapper tend to be more active during the early summer, but inshore species are usually biting year-round. Today, Tom F. and I fished from about 9:00 am to about 4:00 pm. 2023 Copyright Freshwater Fishing Advice, link to Best Water Temperatures for Perch Fishing (Complete Guide), link to Seasonal Guide: Best Times to Catch Big Bass. Where to stay: There are no accommodations on Fisherman Key itself, so instead stay just across the channel near Johnathon Harbour. There, youll find several options managed by Resort Harbour Properties, all in large, airy towers with views over San Carlos Bay. The staff is 5 star, and will really make it a fun trip. This river is saltwater and has great fishing for snook and trout. You can bring your own, or you can rent a kayak at a number of spots down the Caloosahatchee River. They like to live around places that have plenty of cover from the sun in the afternoon but can be found roaming for food in the morning and evening. Join our newsletter for exclusive features, tips, giveaways! The beaches and marinas make for easy shore and surf casting conditions, and the number of available fishing charters should give away just how common angling is around these parts. North Fort Myers, FL; Fishing ; 10 Awesome Vacations Your Fishing Family Will Love . Night Fishing: A night fishing trip is ideal for catching snapper. Fish from the shoreline or take your rod with you on a kayak tour for better water access. Use knotless, rubberized landing nets and rubberized gloves to avoid removing the slime layer from the fishs body. Fort Myers' islands, beaches and neighborhoods have a way of leaving a lasting impression. The evening is also a great time to fish for the same reasons, the only downside is that the peak of fishing in the evening tends to be a smaller window when compared to the peak of fishing in the morning. According to the opinions of many fishing experts, Fort Myers is a paradise for inshore fishermen. Anglers can consider booking half-day fishing trips, full-day fishing trips, or even longer trips in Fort Myers. Since then, I've lived across the country and have really taken that passion for fishing to a new level. There are four properties to choose from, each with water access and suite options leave a little time for shelling on the white-sand beaches, too. Fort Myers has a rich history that can be felt just by walking down the streets of this beautiful place. A fishing trip on a charter boat will get you to some of the best marshes and backcountry waters in a matter of minutes. In fact, Lee County is considered one of the greatest areas in . Details: 5 lb. A few things to keep in mind if youre a beginner: Youll need a fishing license if youre not on a registered charter or on a licensed pier (theres literally an app for that, so its not hard to get). You should try to book your trip according to your target species peak season. And if you snag something, either toss it back or make sure it meets size limits for keeping. For a complete breakdown of the best times to fish in Englewood, check out this article. The only downside was the small cost. Bonita Beach Dog Beach Park. Great place to visit !more, Fishing was even allowed. Anglers can catch cobia, and gag grouper as well as permit when fishing in nearshore waters. Best Fishing Spots in Fort Myers Surf/Shore Fishing. Seeing how diverse Fort Myers is in the habitats it boasts, its no surprise that there are many ways of exploring its waters. A few spots for parking and some shade." more. Beyond that, youre out into the deep sea of the Gulf. Mound Key Archaeological State Park. Fort Myers has plenty of species to choose from, sometimes making it hard to pick just one to target. Cobia, snook, and tarpon plaster the waters here on a good day make it a paddling expedition, or get out and wade in the shallows. For a list of the best charters in Fort Myers, check out this guide. Tides will always have an impact on fishing, but that shouldnt steer you away from ocean fishing. Some fishable structures extend a few feet into the water, while others extend 2,000 or more feet into the Gulf of Mexico or Atlantic Ocean. August through December is the best timeframe. A few spots for parking and some shade.more, Extending out into the Gulf of Mexico, this concrete fishing pier is perfect for looking at themore, He took us to a number of great fishing spots where we caught sharks, grouper, red snapper, amongstmore. (Note: Two sections of the Great Calusa Blueway, an epic paddling trail, converge here). Fishing in Fort Myers Beach is ingrained in the . By clicking the links below, you will be taken to the charters respective profile on Fishing Booker where you can read reviews, learn more about the charter, view photos, and book online at the best rate. When youre in Fort Myers, its very easy to find a spot to sink your line. You can rent one and head down to Sanibel and Pine Island for a chance to battle some big fish. Fishing the waters of Fort Myers on the Gulf of Mexico in southwest Florida can prove a highly productive adventure. BOOK YOUR CHARTER TODAY. Our Fort Myers Peacock Bass fishing trips are 3 hours long with a 2 person maximum. Weve covered the top species in Fort Myers. Fort Myers and surrounding Islands Inshore Fishing SpotsOnly $99.99. If you dont see much stirring (probably trout), head toward the mouth of the creek. Fort Myers Beach. Mark Combs, who manages the Fish Tale Marina, has 35 years of bottomfishing experience off Fort Myers. There are a few spots on the island that are open to fishing and there are spots on both sides. There were also water fountains available. By this time of summer, the heat has really warmed up the water which can make the fish and your live bait a little lethargic. Depending on which species you intend to target, you can opt for freshwater, saltwater, or a combo permit. Located in the southwest part of Florida, Fort Myers is home to some great fishing. Spring is a great time of the year to target such species as barracuda, cobia, black drum, groupers, jack crevalle, king mackerel, ladyfish, permit, bull shark, mangrove snapper, redfish, snook, spotted seatrout, tripletail, and others. Lobsters are great travelers and they tend to move around more at night. We fish for Snook, Trout, Redfish and Shark with the spotlight being on the water temperature. From fly fishing to shore casting, here are some of the best spots to try your luck. Large "Gator" Trout can be found roaming the city's numerous canals, as well as the broad Caloosahatchee River. So lets dive into the world of Fort Myers top fishing targets! Traditionally, anglers book half-day trips when they go fishing in inshore waters. 2 lb. Snook fishing is excellent in the waters around Fort Myers. Things to Do Lori Sorrentino August 17, 2022 Fort Myers, beaches, best beaches, . Land the fish quickly and if possible, release them while still in the water. Know your fishing regulations and have the necessary equipment ready to release fish that you do not plan to keep. I also have enjoy learning and listening to interesting people. Welcome to Fort Myers. All Rights Reserved. Hope this post was helpful to you and that you have a very successful trip fishing with your friends and family! Its no surprise then that notable people like Thomas Edison called it their favorite place to spend the winter. Fort Myers is a good choice for anglers, who want to find a good place to experience fishing during the winter months. spots 248 waterbodies 47 fishes Waterbodies Fish Weather To map. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge is Tarpon Bay, where more than 200 species can be found in the salt- and -freshwater ecosystem.