Full Day Chokoloskee Fishing with Capt. Ward
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Eighthour guided fishing adventure targeting tarpon, snook, redfish, and troutProfessional captain provides all equipment and local expertise in Everglades watersMultiple boat options accommodate up to four anglers with flexible pricing
Ready to spend a full day chasing some of South Florida's most sought-after gamefish? Capt. Ward Michaels knows these Chokoloskee waters like the back of his hand, and he's got the boats and know-how to put you on fish. For $850, you and a buddy get 8 solid hours targeting redfish, snook, tarpon, and trout in the legendary backcountry of Everglades National Park. Need room for more? He can take up to 4 anglers total for just $50 per extra person. All your gear, rods, and bait are covered – you just need to show up ready to fish.
Capt. Ward runs three different boats depending on conditions and what the fish are doing. The 21' Hewes Redfisher is his workhorse for open water and longer runs, while the 17.8' Hells Bay gets you into those skinny spots where big fish love to hide. When it's really shallow or you need to get back in the maze, he'll fire up the 16' Lowe Roughneck. Each boat is set up for comfort during those long days, because 8 hours goes by fast when the fish are biting. You'll be working both the protected backcountry creeks and the more open waters around Chokoloskee Bay, depending on tides, weather, and where the fish have been showing up. Capt. Ward adjusts the game plan based on what's happening that day – some mornings you might start sight fishing the flats, then move to structure fishing when the sun gets high.
This isn't a one-trick-pony kind of trip. Depending on what you're after, Capt. Ward switches up techniques throughout the day. Early morning might find you throwing topwater plugs at rolling tarpon or working live bait around mangrove shorelines for snook. When the sun climbs and fish move to deeper water, you'll be bouncing jigs off oyster bars or drifting cut bait over grass flats for trout. The beauty of having 8 hours is you get to experience the full range – from the heart-pounding visual of sight casting to tailing reds to the steady action of working structure for keeper trout. All tackle is provided, but if you've got a favorite rod or lucky lure, bring it along. Capt. Ward stocks plenty of live bait when it's available, plus a full arsenal of artificials that have proven themselves in these waters.
Snook are the crown jewel of this fishery, and for good reason. These fish are smart, aggressive, and put up one heck of a fight. They love the mangrove shorelines and creek mouths around Chokoloskee, especially during moving water. Spring through fall gives you the best shot at keeper-sized fish, though catch and release action stays strong year-round. They're ambush predators that love to slam a well-placed lure, and when you hook one, get ready for some serious head shaking and gill rattling. Redfish are another favorite – these copper-colored bruisers cruise the shallow flats and oyster bars in schools. Fall and winter are prime time when they're fattening up, but you'll find them year-round if you know where to look. They're not as jumpy as snook but they'll peel drag and give you a serious workout on light tackle.
Tarpon fishing around Chokoloskee is legendary, and Capt. Ward knows the spots where these silver kings roll. Late spring through summer brings the big migratory fish, while resident tarpon in the 20-80 pound range provide action most of the year. Nothing prepares you for that first jump – it's pure magic when a 6-foot tarpon comes completely out of the water. Sea trout might not be the glamour species, but they're fantastic eating and great fun on light tackle. They school up over grass beds and around structure, especially during cooler months. A good trout bite can save the day when other fish are being finicky, and they're perfect for anglers looking to take home dinner.
Capt. Ward Michaels has been putting anglers on fish in these waters for years, and his reputation speaks for itself. At $850 for two anglers, you're getting a full day with a top-rated guide who knows how to find fish and put you on them. The fact that he can accommodate up to 4 people makes it perfect for buddy trips or family outings. With all gear included and multiple boat options to match conditions, you're set up for success from the moment you step aboard. Chokoloskee's prime fishing grounds don't fish themselves – you need someone who understands the tides, the structure, and the seasonal patterns. Book your trip with Michaels Hunting and Fishing and get ready for a day of world-class fishing in one of Florida's most productive backcountry fisheries.
Step aboard the 21' Hewes Redfisher and get ready for serious fishing action in Chokoloskee's legendary backcountry. This purpose-built flats boat runs smooth and quiet with its Yamaha 250, perfect for sneaking up on redfish and snook in shallow water. The Redfisher's rock-solid stability makes casting a breeze, whether you're sight-fishing the grass flats or working mangrove shorelines. With plenty of deck space for two anglers and all the gear you need, this boat handles everything from morning tarpon runs to afternoon trout spots. Captain Ward knows these waters inside and out, and this Hewes will get you to the fish efficiently and comfortably. Built tough for the Everglades' challenging conditions, it's the ideal platform for a productive day targeting South Florida's best inshore species.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are the perfect sight-fishing target and a local favorite for good reason. These copper-colored bruisers typically run 20-30 inches and are built like tanks. You'll spot them tailing in 1-3 feet of water over grass flats, oyster bars, and mangrove edges - sometimes so shallow their backs break the surface. They're year-round residents, but fall brings the best action when they school up for their spawning runs. What makes reds special is their power and that distinctive black spot near the tail. They fight hard, pulling drag and making long runs. Plus, slot-sized fish are excellent eating with mild, sweet meat. The sight-fishing opportunities are what hook most anglers - there's nothing like watching a red inhale your bait. Pro tip: when you see tailing fish, cast well ahead and let your bait settle. Reds feed nose-down, so patience pays off.
Salmo TruttaSea trout, or "specks" as we call them locally, are bread-and-butter fish that'll keep your rod bent all day. Most run 14-20 inches and put up a scrappy fight for their size. You'll find them over grass flats in 2-6 feet of water, especially around potholes and drop-offs. They're year-round residents, but fall and winter fishing is outstanding when they school up in deeper holes. What makes trout special is their willingness to bite and excellent eating quality - sweet, flaky white meat that's hard to beat. They're also great for beginners since they're forgiving and aggressive. Dawn and dusk are prime feeding times, but you can catch them all day. Here's what works: fish slowly with soft plastics or live shrimp under a popping cork. The key is making noise to get their attention, then letting your bait settle naturally into the strike zone.
Centropomus UndecimalisSnook are one of the most rewarding fish you'll encounter in these waters. These sleek, golden-sided fighters typically run 18-28 inches, with that distinctive black lateral line and protruding lower jaw. You'll find them hugging mangrove shorelines, around docks, and in creek mouths where fresh meets salt. They love structure and ambush prey from the shadows. Spring through fall gives you the best action, especially around the new and full moons when they're most active. What makes snook special is their explosive strike and stubborn fight - they'll jump, run, and try every trick to throw your hook. Plus, they're excellent table fare with firm, white meat. Here's a local tip: when working mangroves, cast tight to the roots and let your lure fall naturally. Snook rarely chase - they want an easy meal delivered right to their doorstep.
Megalops AtlanticusTarpon are the ultimate bucket-list fish and for good reason. These silver kings typically range 80-150 pounds in our waters, though giants over 200 show up regularly. You'll find them rolling in the deeper channels, around the backcountry flats, and near structure in 6-20 feet of water. Late spring through summer is prime time when they migrate through the Everglades. What draws anglers back is their raw power and aerial shows - when a tarpon goes airborne, everything else stops. They're not table fare, so it's all about the fight and the photos. These prehistoric fish can live 50+ years, making each encounter special. The key to success is patience and proper presentation. My advice: when you see them rolling, don't cast directly at the fish. Lead the school and strip your bait steadily - tarpon eat on the move, and timing is everything.
Chokoloskee, FL