Ft Myers Fishing Charter: Your Complete Fishing Guide

Southwest Florida's Fort Myers is situated on the Gulf of Mexico. The region is renowned for its pleasant weather, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife. Due to its unique habitat, which includes shallow flats, estuaries bordered with mangroves, and offshore reefs, it is a well-liked vacation spot for anglers. The variety of fish that can be caught by visitors includes tarpon, snook, redfish, grouper, snapper, and shark.

Anglers of all skill levels can enjoy a unique and thrilling experience on a fishing excursion in Fort Myers. Local guides offer in-depth local knowledge, ensuring a fruitful and pleasurable fishing experience. Charters frequently offer options for inshore, nearshore, or offshore fishing and normally include all necessary gear, bait, and licenses. Whether you're a novice or an experienced angler, Fort Myers provides an unforgettable experience. 

Fishing Seasons in Fort Myers

In Fort Myers, fishing is good year-round, but certain seasons may be better for catching specific types of fish. Here's a general overview of the fishing seasons in Fort Myers:

• Winter (December - February): Winter is a great time for targeting species such as sheepshead, black drum, and pompano. Snook and redfish can also be caught in the backwaters.
• Spring (March - May): Spring is a peak season for tarpon fishing in Fort Myers. Other species such as redfish, snook, and seatrout are also abundant during this time.
• Summer (June - August): Summer offers excellent opportunities for offshore fishing for species such as grouper, snapper, and kingfish. Inshore fishing for tarpon, snook, and redfish can also be productive.
• Fall (September - November): Fall is another peak season for tarpon fishing in Fort Myers, and redfish and snook are also active during this time. Offshore fishing for species such as kingfish and mahi-mahi can also be good in the fall.

A seasoned charter professional will be able to provide top tier fishing any time of year. Having fishing available year-round makes any Florida fishing trip approachable, especially when you have an expert leading the way. 

Fishing Spots in Fort Myers

Anglers of all ability levels can find a variety of fishing areas in Fort Myers. Some of Fort Myers' most well-liked fishing locations are listed below:

• Sanibel Causeway: The Sanibel Causeway offers a great spot for anglers to fish for snook, redfish, and tarpon. The area is easily accessible and provides ample parking.
• Matlacha Pass: Matlacha Pass is a prime spot for inshore fishing, with abundant opportunities to catch species such as redfish, snook, and trout. The area is well-known for its scenic beauty, including its colorful waterfront homes.
• Pine Island Sound: Pine Island Sound is a vast area of shallow flats and mangrove islands, providing excellent opportunities for sight fishing. Anglers can target species such as snook, redfish, and trout.
• Gulf of Mexico: The Gulf of Mexico offers a wide range of offshore fishing opportunities, with species such as grouper, snapper, and kingfish. Charters are available for those interested in deep sea fishing.
• Caloosahatchee River: The Caloosahatchee River is a popular spot for freshwater fishing, with opportunities to catch bass, crappie, and catfish. The river is easily accessible and offers plenty of shoreline fishing opportunities.

It's important to note that fishing regulations and restrictions can vary by location, species, and time of year, so it's always a good idea to check local fishing regulations and guidelines before heading out to fish in Fort Myers.

Types of Fish in Fort Myers

1. Tarpon

A sizable, silver-colored fish species with a maximum length of 8 feet and a weight of more than 200 pounds. They are a well-liked game fish that are renowned for their powerful fighting skills and acrobatic jumps.

2. Snook

Snook is another popular game fish in Fort Myers, known for their fighting ability and acrobatic jumps. They are typically found inshore, around mangroves, docks, and bridges. The best time to catch snook in Fort Myers is from March to November.

3. Redfish

Redfish, also known as red drum, can be found in Fort Myers waters year-round, but the best time to catch them is from September to February. These fish are typically found in shallow waters, such as grass flats and creeks, and are known for their hard fighting and tasty meat.

4. Sea Trout

Speckled trout can be found in Fort Myers waters year-round, but the best time to catch them is from April to September. These fish are typically found in shallow waters and are known for their delicious meat and hard fighting.

5. Grouper

A bottom-dwelling fish species found in both inshore and offshore waters, known for their large size and firm, white flesh. They are a popular game fish and are known for their strong fighting ability.

6. Snapper

Another bottom-dwelling fish species found in both inshore and offshore waters, known for their vibrant color and delicious taste. They are a popular game fish and are known for their strong fighting ability.

Fishing Equipment for Ft Myers

Bring a fishing rod and reel that are suitable for the type of fishing you intend to do. A 7-8 foot medium to medium-light rod with a spinning reel is suggested for inshore fishing. A sturdy, 6-7 foot pole with a standard reel is advised for offshore fishing.

For inshore fishing, use a braided line with a high test rating. For offshore fishing, use monofilament or fluorocarbon line. Bring a range of lures and baits that are suitable for the species you want to target. Jigs, soft plastic lures, live bait, and cut bait are some examples of this. Bring the right leader material, weights, swivels, and hooks for the type of fishing you intend to do.

To shield your skin and eyes from the sun's damaging rays, pack sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses.Wear breathable fabrics and closed-toed shoes along with comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the weather. Bring a cooler filled with ice to keep your catch cold.

Fishing Regulations in Fort Myers

Florida anglers need to familiarize themselves with the fishing regulations that are applicable in the region. These rules are put in place by state and federal agencies to ensure sustainable fish populations and protect marine resources. 

If you have booked a Florida Fishing Charter with a licensed Fishing Charter company you do not need a fishing license in Florida. So go book with Guidesly today. 

Before heading out for a day of fishing, it is essential to obtain a valid fishing license from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The permit covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing depending on where you plan to fish. Additionally, there may be specific permits or licenses required for certain types of fish such as tarpon or snook.

It is crucial to note that certain species of fish have size limits, bag limits, or restricted seasons when they can be caught. For example, redfish must measure between 18-27 inches while snook may only be harvested during specific months of the year.

Go With Confidence, Go With Guidesly 

Overall, Fort Myers is a dream fishing location, offering a wide range of fishing species all year long. Anglers of all ability levels love the region's mild climate, clear waters, and variety of habitats.

Fort Myers has much to offer fishermen of all interests and abilities. You're likely to discover lots of options for a fantastic day on the water, whether you're trying to target inshore species in the Intracoastal Waterway or head offshore in quest of pelagic species.