Live, cut and artificial baits will be used on light tackle to catch the various game fish of Estero Bay, Pine Island Sound and the Nearshore gulf waters that surround Fort Myers, Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Depending on the season there are numerous species to target.
Winter can provide some amazing opportunities for Gag Grouper within sight of land. Sheepshead seem to be everywhere. Trout, Redfish, Ladyfish and Jacks are found on the flats while Snook sometimes hide in the deeper holes in the creeks and rivers. Canals hold juvenile Tarpon that can range from 10-40+ pounds. This sure beats shoveling snow up north!
Spring begins the yearly migration of Tarpon, Cobia, and other game fish from the Florida Keys. When they arrive in Ft Myers they are looking for a good meal before continuing up the coast. Be in the right place at the right time and you will be providing that meal. Although not specifically targeted, Sharks of every size keep things interesting. Triple Tail can be found on offshore structure, Pompano cruise the flats and beaches and Permit show on the wrecks and reefs. Spanish Mackerel and other predators attack the pods of bait that can often be seen in every direction. This is a great time to fish in Southwest Florida.
As summer nears and the storm season approaches many tourists have returned to their homes up north. They are missing some of the best fishing that Ft. Myers can offer. The Snook are very active and 50 fish days are not uncommon. Calm winds allow early morning jaunts to the reefs for Permit, Snook, and assorted toothy critters. Summer tides are higher and that allows us fish areas that can only be accessed by canoe in the winter. The Redfish bite can be amazing. Start the day early and you’ll be home in time for lunch and maybe a quick 9 holes before the daily rains come.
Autumn, wow! The temperatures begin to cool, the rains subside and the Redfish and Snook are hungry. This may be the best time for shear numbers of Redfish with some of gigantic proportions. The Snook are fattening up for the winter and sometimes the Tarpon fishing can be better than the spring run with fewer anglers targeting them.
There just isn’t a bad time of year to come out and enjoy the fishing in Ft. Myers.
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