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Premier Fort Myers Inshore Fishing Charters
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Fort Myers
- $600 - $750 price range
- Updated Date: September 1, 2025
Summary
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Backwater Bounty
Fort Myers fishing never disappoints.
Redfish runs never get old.
Memories made on the Gulf.
Fort Myers fishing, family tradition.
Fort Myers waters, endless action.
Fishing made easy in Fort Myers.
Fort Myers = fishing paradise.
Rod bent, heart happy.
Just another day on the water.
Hook, line, Fort Myers time.
Fort Myers fishing never disappoints.
Redfish runs never get old.
Memories made on the Gulf.
Fort Myers fishing, family tradition.
Fort Myers waters, endless action.
Fishing made easy in Fort Myers.
Fort Myers = fishing paradise.
Rod bent, heart happy.
Just another day on the water.
Hook, line, Fort Myers time.
Fort Myers fishing never disappoints.
Redfish runs never get old.
Memories made on the Gulf.
Fort Myers fishing, family tradition.
Full Day Fishing: Fort Myers' Inshore Bounty
Ready to spend a whole day chasing fish in Fort Myers? ThinLine Charters has you covered with this full-day trip that'll have you casting for some of Florida's most sought-after inshore species. From the backwaters to the flats, we'll put you on fish and show you why Fort Myers is a top-rated destination for anglers. Whether you're after the acrobatic tarpon or the tasty mangrove snapper, this trip's got something for everyone. Let's break down what you can expect when you step aboard.
What to Expect on the Water
We'll kick things off early, meeting at the dock just as the sun's coming up. That's when the fish are most active, and we want to make the most of it. This full-day trip gives us plenty of time to hit multiple spots, so we're not putting all our eggs in one basket. We'll start in the backwaters, where the redfish and trout hang out, then maybe move to some deeper holes for snapper as the day heats up. If the tarpon are running, we might spend some time sight-casting to these silver kings. The beauty of a full day is we can adapt to what's biting and what you want to target. Just remember, it can get hot out there, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. Don't worry about gear - we've got top-notch rods, reels, and bait all ready to go.
Fishing Techniques & Tactics
On this trip, we'll use a mix of techniques to keep things interesting and effective. For trout and redfish, we might do some light tackle fishing with soft plastics or live bait under a popping cork. It's a blast watching that cork disappear when a fish hits. When we're after snapper, we'll often use cut bait or small live baitfish and fish near structure. If we're lucky enough to spot some tarpon rolling, we'll break out the heavier gear and maybe toss out some crabs or big mullet. Throughout the day, I'll show you how to work different lures, read the water, and spot fish. By the end of the trip, you'll have picked up some new skills to add to your fishing toolbox. And hey, if you want to try your hand at cast netting for bait, just let me know - it's all part of the experience!
Top Catches This Season
Fort Myers has been on fire lately with some killer catches. We've been seeing some monster snook hanging around the mangroves - real bruisers that'll test your drag. The redfish have been schooling up nicely, and we've had days where it's been fish after fish. Tarpon season's been strong too, with some big silver kings in the 100+ pound range making appearances. But don't sleep on the cobia - we've had a few surprise showings that turned into the highlight of the trip. Every day's different out here, and that's what keeps it exciting. Who knows, you might just land that fish of a lifetime on your trip!
Species You'll Want to Hook
Grey Snapper (Mangrove Snapper): These tasty little devils are a staple in Fort Myers. They love to hang around structure, so we'll target them near docks, bridges, and mangrove roots. Don't let their size fool you - they're crafty and can put up a good fight on light tackle. Plus, they make for some excellent table fare if you're looking to take home dinner. Best time to target them is during the warmer months, and they're especially active during the incoming tide.
Tarpon: The silver king is the crown jewel of Fort Myers fishing. These prehistoric beasts can grow over 150 pounds and are known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked. We typically see them from late spring through summer, with peak season being May through July. Targeting tarpon is all about sight fishing - we'll cruise the flats looking for rolling fish, then make precise casts to try and entice a bite. Landing one of these giants is a true accomplishment and something you'll never forget.
Sea Trout (Spotted Seatrout): A Fort Myers favorite, sea trout are abundant in our waters year-round. They're known for their speckled pattern and their willingness to hit artificial lures, making them a blast on light tackle. We often find them over grass flats or near drop-offs. The bigger ones, which we call "gator trout," can push 5 pounds or more. They're most active in the cooler months and early mornings, so we'll often start our day targeting these guys.
Redfish: Also known as red drum, these copper-colored beauties are a staple of inshore fishing in Fort Myers. They've got a distinctive spot on their tail and can range from small "rats" to big "bull" reds over 40 inches. We'll often find them tailing in shallow water, giving us the chance for some exciting sight fishing. Redfish are around all year, but fall is prime time when they school up in big numbers. Nothing beats the pull of a big red on light tackle!
Cobia: These guys are the wildcards of our inshore trips. Cobia are migratory fish that show up in our waters typically in spring and fall. They're curious by nature and often follow large rays or sharks, so keep your eyes peeled! Cobia grow big - 30 to 50 pounds isn't uncommon - and they fight like crazy. If we spot one, get ready for some fast action and a serious battle. They're also excellent eating, so landing a cobia can be the highlight of your trip.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Folks who fish with ThinLine Charters tend to become repeat customers, and it's not just because of the fish (though that helps). It's the whole package - the way the sun comes up over the water, turning everything gold. It's the thrill of spotting a tailing redfish in skinny water. It's the laugh we share when someone hooks into an unexpected jack crevalle and gets their arms stretched. And yeah, it's also about the fish pics you'll be showing off to your buddies back home. We work hard to put you on fish, but we also want you to soak in the beauty of Fort Myers' waterways. By the end of the day, you'll have stories to tell, new skills under your belt, and probably a new favorite fishing spot. That's why people come back - it's not just a fishing trip, it's a day you'll look back on and grin.
Time to Book Your Spot
So there you have it - a full day of fishing Fort Myers' inshore waters with ThinLine Charters. From the backwater hideouts of snook and redfish to the open flats where tarpon roll, we've got all the bases covered. Remember, this trip is perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're looking to land your first redfish or you're after that trophy tarpon, we'll tailor the day to your goals. Just keep in mind, spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. So if you're ready to experience some of the best fishing Fort Myers has to offer, don't wait to book. Grab your spot now, and let's get out on the water. Who knows? Your next cast could be the one that lands that fish of a lifetime. See you at the dock!
Learn more about the species
Cobia
Cobia are the bruisers of Fort Myers waters, averaging 6 feet and 100 pounds. Often mistaken for sharks, these solitary fish are found near reefs, wrecks, and buoys in 30-70 feet of water. Spring is prime time as they migrate through, but you can catch them year-round. Cobia are prized for both their fight and their firm, delicious meat. They're curious fish, often following boats or even sharks. Sight fishing is popular - look for them just below the surface. They'll hit jigs, live eels, or crabs. A local secret: when you spot one, get a bait in front of it fast. They're not called "crab eaters" for nothing - a well-placed crab bait is hard for them to resist. Be ready for a long, strong fight when you hook up!
Grey Snapper
Grey Snapper, also called Mangrove Snapper, are a popular catch in Fort Myers. These fish typically run 10-14 inches and 1-2 pounds inshore, but can get up to 20 pounds in open water. Look for them around structure like docks, reefs, and mangroves in depths from 5-100 feet. They're most active at night, so dawn and dusk are prime fishing times. Grey Snapper put up a good fight and make excellent table fare with their white, flaky meat. To land one, use a small hook with live bait like shrimp or minnows. Let it sink to the bottom near structure and wait patiently - these opportunistic feeders will strike when the moment's right. A local tip: during full moons, Grey Snapper spawn in huge numbers, making for some exciting night fishing action.
Redfish
Redfish, or Red Drum, are a Fort Myers staple, known for their distinctive tail spot and copper color. They typically run 28-33 inches and 6-8 pounds, but trophy "bull reds" can hit 50 pounds. You'll find them in shallow waters, often so shallow their backs break the surface. Look for them around oyster bars, mangroves, and grass flats in 1-4 feet of water. Fall is prime time, but they're catchable year-round. Redfish are prized for their strong fights and excellent eating. They'll hit a variety of baits, but live shrimp or cut mullet are local favorites. For artificial lures, gold spoons or soft plastics work well. A Fort Myers tip: on low tides, look for "tailing" reds in ultra-shallow water, their tails visible as they root for crabs in the bottom.
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, or Spotted Seatrout, are a Fort Myers favorite. These fish typically range from 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, with some monsters hitting 10 pounds or more. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They love structures like oyster beds and deep holes in estuaries. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but you can catch them year-round. Sea Trout are prized for their delicate, mild flavor, making them great for the dinner table. They're fun to catch on light tackle, often striking aggressively at topwater lures. For best results, try using artificial shrimp or jigs in the early morning or late evening. A local tip: look for "slicks" on the water surface – these oily patches often indicate feeding trout nearby.
Tarpon
Tarpon are the kings of Fort Myers backwaters, growing up to 8 feet and 280 pounds. These silver giants are known for their acrobatic leaps and powerful runs, making them a bucket-list catch for many anglers. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and even up rivers. Spring through late summer is prime Tarpon season, with May to July being the peak. They're not great eating, so it's all about the thrill of the fight and a photo before release. When hooking one, be ready for an epic battle - they'll jump, dive, and test your stamina. A local trick: use a circle hook with live bait like pinfish or mullet, and let them run before setting the hook. It's all catch-and-release, but the memories last a lifetime.
About the ThinLine Charters
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 25
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300
