Fishing Tips for Fort Myers and Sanibel Waters

What’s Out There When

No matter what time of year you visit The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel, the fishing is phenomenal. Temperate waters welcome large gaming fish in the spring like our famous tarpon and grouper, and year-round catches of succulent snapper and redfish are common.

In the warm summer months, try fishing near piers and jetties in the early morning, before the water heats up. Later in the day, stick to channels and passes, especially during incoming tides.

Winter fishing moves inshore. This is high season for flats fishing, especially for snook and big trout. Spring and fall allow you to make good use of Lee County's hundreds of miles of waterways, where you'll find cobia, Spanish mackerel, amberjack and more.

Savvy Fisherman’s Guide to Guides

If you plan to hire a guide, here are some key points to keep in mind.

1. Fees start at $200 for a half-day (four-hour) trip. Six-hour and eight-hour trips are also available. Clients usually tip guides after a successful fishing experience, ranging from $20 to $50 per trip.

2. The guide will provide the boat, license, fishing gear, equipment and bait. Bring a hat, polarized sunglasses, food and drink, and sunblock.

3. Guides will clean and filet the catches that are kept and will recommend firms to mount the "big ones."

Pointers for Solo Fishermen

If you’re fishing without a guide, here are a few additional pointers.

1. Edges of sea grass beds hold many types of predatory fish, but stay off the shallow grass flats to prevent propeller damage to these critical marine nurseries. Remember to watch for slow zones in manatee habitat areas.

2. Fishing on slack or weak tides is rarely good. Consult tide charts, and fish during strong running tides.

3. Keep bait lively and moving to attract the big fish and to keep crabs from stealing it.

4. Many fish will seek refuge near docks, boats, navigational aids, bridge abutments, etc.

5. The phases of the moon are important. A bright, full moon allows fish to eat all night, making them less hungry in the morning. Fishing is often better during moonrise or moonset.

Party Boats

Party boats offer an excellent fishing experience to anglers of all ages. The fishing license and all tackle are provided. Boats range from 60-100 feet long and have restrooms. Average cost for a half-day trip is $25 per person, $40 for a full day.

Charter Boats

Charter boats include personalized instruction from an experienced guide. Anglers can charter a captain and a boat for a half- or full-day trip. No fishing license is required. Tackle is furnished, or you can bring your own gear. Prices range from $200 for a half day to $400 for a full day.

Shore Fishing

Beaches, piers, bridges and docks provide excellent fishing to people of all ages and experience levels. A saltwater license is required for non-residents older than 16.