Hey there, anglers! Ready to hit the waters of Fort Myers for some serious fishing action? Our 6-hour private trip is just the ticket for anyone looking to tangle with some of Southwest Florida's most prized inshore species. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got you covered. We'll cruise the local honey holes, toss lures, and hopefully put you on some fish that'll make your arms ache and your camera roll fill up. Let's dive into what makes this trip a must-do for any fishing enthusiast visiting Fort Myers.
Picture this: You're stepping aboard a well-equipped fishing boat, the sun's just peeking over the horizon, and the smell of saltwater fills your nose. That's how your day starts with us. Over the next 6 hours, we'll hit up some of Fort Myers' best inshore spots. We're talking mangrove-lined shores, grass flats, and hidden coves where the big ones like to hang out. Your experienced captain knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you're in for a treat. We'll be targeting a mix of species including redfish, tarpon, mangrove snapper, and snook â all heavy hitters in the inshore game. Don't worry if you're new to this; we'll show you the ropes and have you casting like a pro in no time. And for you experienced anglers, get ready to swap some fish tales and maybe learn a new trick or two.
When it comes to gear, we've got you covered from rod to reel. We use top-notch equipment that's well-maintained and suited for the species we're after. You'll be working with light to medium tackle, perfect for the inshore action we'll encounter. We might be tossing soft plastics, working topwater lures, or even live bait depending on what's biting. The beauty of inshore fishing is its versatility â one minute you might be sight-casting to tailing redfish, the next you could be battling a tarpon that's trying to jump right out of the water. It's all about reading the conditions and adapting, which is where your captain's expertise really shines. Oh, and don't forget to bring some snacks and drinks. Nothing works up an appetite quite like a day on the water!
Folks have been hauling in some real beauties lately. We've seen redfish pushing the 30-inch mark, snook that'll make your drag sing, and some surprisingly chunky mangrove snapper. Tarpon season's been heating up too, with some lucky anglers getting to dance with the silver kings. Remember, it's not just about size â it's about the experience. That said, we always aim to put you on fish that'll give you a story to tell back home. The waters around Fort Myers are teeming with life, and each trip brings its own surprises. Who knows? You might just land that fish of a lifetime.
Let's talk about the stars of the show â the fish you'll be chasing on this trip. First up, we've got snook. These linesiders are the pride of Florida inshore fishing. They're ambush predators with a mean streak, known for their explosive strikes and powerful runs. Snook love to hang around structure, so we'll be working mangrove shorelines and dock pilings. They're catch-and-release most of the year, but even a photo with one of these beauties is worth bragging about.
Next, we've got redfish, or red drum if you're feeling fancy. These copper-colored bruisers are a favorite among anglers for their hard-fighting nature and their willingness to eat just about anything. In the shallows, you might spot their tails waving above the water as they root for crabs â it's sight-fishing at its finest. Reds can range from "rats" (small ones) to "bulls" (the big boys), and they all put up a great fight.
Tarpon, the silver king, is the ultimate game fish for many. These prehistoric-looking creatures can grow to over 100 pounds and are known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked. Tarpon fishing is as much about the chase and the jump as it is about landing them. It's a test of skill, patience, and sometimes, pure luck. Peak season is late spring through summer, but we can find some year-round in the right spots.
Sea trout, or spotted seatrout, are another inshore favorite. They might not be the biggest fish in the sea, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and taste. These guys are often found over grass flats and are suckers for a well-presented artificial lure. They're also great eating if you're looking to take home a fresh dinner.
Last but not least, we've got mangrove snapper. Don't let their size fool you â these little guys can be tricky to catch and are pound-for-pound some of the strongest fish in the bay. They hang tight to structure and have a knack for cutting leaders, so finesse is key. They're also delicious, making them a popular target for anglers looking to fill the cooler.
There's something special about fishing the waters around Fort Myers. Maybe it's the way the sun paints the sky as we head out in the morning. Or it could be the thrill of watching a snook crush a topwater lure in the shallows. For some, it's the peace and quiet of being on the water, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whatever it is, this trip has a way of hooking people â pun intended. We've had guests come back year after year, making it a tradition. Some have even planned entire vacations around these fishing trips. It's not just about catching fish; it's about creating memories, learning new skills, and experiencing the natural beauty of Southwest Florida from a unique perspective.
Alright, let's wrap this up. If you're itching to get out on the water and test your skills against some of Fort Myers' finest fish, this 6-hour trip is calling your name. We provide all the gear, the know-how, and the hot spots â all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a lucky hat). Whether you're looking to land your personal best, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a day out with friends and family, we've got you covered. Remember, the best fishing trips are the ones you actually take, so don't let this opportunity slip away. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so get in touch and let's get you on the calendar. Who knows? Your next big catch could be just a cast away. Book now, and let's make some fishing memories!
Grey snapper, or mangrove snapper, are a staple of inshore fishing here. Most run 10-14 inches, but you'll find some bigger ones offshore. They love hanging around structure like docks, reefs, and wrecks. Fall through spring is great for targeting them as water temps cool. Anglers enjoy their aggressive bite and good eating quality. Live shrimp or small baitfish are top baits, but they'll hit artificial lures too. One tip is to use a light fluorocarbon leader - these fish have keen eyesight and can be leader shy. When you find a school, anchor up and chum to keep them interested. Grey snapper put up a decent fight for their size and make excellent fish tacos or ceviche if you bring a few home for dinner.
Redfish are a Fort Myers favorite, known for their copper color and black spot near the tail. Most run 18-27 inches inshore, but bulls over 40 inches cruise the passes. They love shallow flats, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines. Fall and winter are prime as reds school up. Anglers target them for their hard fights and excellent table fare. Live bait like pinfish works well, but redfish will readily hit artificial lures too. One local tip is to look for push water or tailing fish on super shallow flats at high tide. Cast ahead of them and slowly work your lure back. When hooked, redfish use their broad tails to pull hard. With a sweet, mild flavor, they're great blackened or on the grill if you keep one for dinner.
Sea trout, or speckled trout, are a staple of inshore fishing here. Most run 15-20 inches but gator trout over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. They roam grass flats and deeper holes, especially around dawn and dusk. Fall through spring offers the best action as water temps cool. Anglers love their aggressive strikes and delicate white meat. Live shrimp under a popping cork is deadly, but soft plastics work great too. One local trick is to fish darker colored lures on cloudy days - it mimics the silhouette of bait against the surface. When you find a school, work the area thoroughly. Sea trout often hang in loose groups. With a light, flaky texture, they're excellent on the grill or blackened in a cast iron skillet.
Snook are a prized catch around Fort Myers, known for their strong fights and tasty fillets. They typically run 24-34 inches and hang out near mangroves, docks, and other structure in shallow water. Fall and spring are prime seasons as snook move between inshore and offshore areas. Anglers love targeting them for their explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Live bait like pilchards or pinfish work well, but artificial lures can be deadly too. One local trick is to cast right up against mangrove roots or dock pilings - that's where the big ones lurk. Just be ready for a battle when you hook up, as snook will use any structure nearby to try and break you off. With their firm white meat, they make excellent table fare if you decide to keep one for dinner.
Tarpon are the silver kings of Fort Myers fishing. These prehistoric beasts can top 100 pounds and put on an aerial show like no other fish. Spring and summer are prime time as they migrate along the coast. You'll find them rolling in passes and along beaches. Anglers prize them for their spectacular jumps and long, dogged fights. Live bait like crabs or threadfin herring work well, but many fly fishermen target them too. One local secret is to fish the outgoing tide at Blind Pass - tarpon stack up there to ambush bait. When you hook up, bow to the king when it jumps to avoid breaking off. Most are released, but the thrill of battling one of these giants is unforgettable. Just be ready for sore arms the next day!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 55
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250