About Gasparilla Sound, FL

Gasparilla Sound, otherwise known as Charlotte Harbor to the locals in the state, is under the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves. With the harbor declared as the second-largest estuary in Florida, its deep waters are known to be one of the most diverse due to the mix in freshwater and saltwater that occurs as the waters of Peace and Myakka rivers meet the salt water that passes through Boca Grande Pass from the gulf of Mexico. The Sound is surrounded by communities such as Boca Grande, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and Bokeelia. It links San Carlos Bay to the south with the use of Pine Island Sound and Matlacha Pass. 

Gasparilla Sound’s abundance in marine life is preserved with the help of the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program Advisory that constantly makes an effort to ensure the future of its waters. Tons of things can be done in the sound - from visiting a state park nearby, getting out on the water to fish, to playing golf or maybe even visiting the historic downtown of Punta Gorda. 

All About Fishing in Gasparilla Sound, FL

Fishing in Gasparilla Sound is open to the public. Most anglers go for fishing holes such as mangrove fringes, artificial reefs, and seagrass shallows. Fish species such as goliath grouper and tarpon are common in Boca Grande Pass. It wouldn’t be surprising for anglers to spot some tarpon around since Boca Grande is the tarpon fishing capital of the world. A fishing technique that most anglers practice in the Gasparilla Sound would be fly fishing for redfish and snook. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission had indicated the abundance of spotted seatrout in the area as well. 

Recreational boating is also supported by the harbor. Renting boats for a half or full day to cruise around the area or to fish is allowed. Chartering a boat can also be done in this location with a choice of a minimum of 4 hours to about 8 hours of chartering possible. This experience would allow anglers to be brought by the captain to the best fishing spots. 

Fishing Seasonality

Anglers who wish to witness the teeming of tarpon in the sound should consider scheduling a fishing trip in the area from May to July since these are the months when this fish species is mostly active in these waters. As for anglers who decide on fly fishing, the seasonality of redfish in the state is in July. June typically begins the season of tarpon, permit, and cobia gig in the sound. Anglers looking to fish at night have an advantage since fish usually make use of the cool nights, early mornings, and late evening hours to feed and stock their prey. Night fishing would be best done in the months of June, July, and August during the predawn hours and after the thunderstorm to utilize the productive feeding hours. Whether night or day, it would still be practical for anglers to check on the weather forecast for their next fishing trip to experience a smooth sail.  

Fishing Seasonality

Anglers who wish to witness the teeming of tarpon in the sound should consider scheduling a fishing trip in the area from May to July since these are the months when this fish species is mostly active in these waters. As for anglers who decide on fly fishing, the seasonality of redfish in the state is in July. June typically begins the season of tarpon, permit, and cobia gig in the sound. Anglers looking to fish at night have an advantage since fish usually make use of the cool nights, early mornings, and late evening hours to feed and stock their prey. Night fishing would be best done in the months of June, July, and August during the predawn hours and after the thunderstorm to utilize the productive feeding hours. Whether night or day, it would still be practical for anglers to check on the weather forecast for their next fishing trip to experience a smooth sail.  

All About Fishing in Gasparilla Sound, FL

Fishing in Gasparilla Sound is open to the public. Most anglers go for fishing holes such as mangrove fringes, artificial reefs, and seagrass shallows. Fish species such as goliath grouper and tarpon are common in Boca Grande Pass. It wouldn’t be surprising for anglers to spot some tarpon around since Boca Grande is the tarpon fishing capital of the world. A fishing technique that most anglers practice in the Gasparilla Sound would be fly fishing for redfish and snook. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission had indicated the abundance of spotted seatrout in the area as well. 

Recreational boating is also supported by the harbor. Renting boats for a half or full day to cruise around the area or to fish is allowed. Chartering a boat can also be done in this location with a choice of a minimum of 4 hours to about 8 hours of chartering possible. This experience would allow anglers to be brought by the captain to the best fishing spots.