4 Fishing Hotspots You’ll Love in and Around Fort Myers Beach
Cast your line into Fort Myers Beach fun with the best fishing spots, charters, and tips to reel in a perfect day.
Fishing trips are great, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking to try something new. From casting in a quiet Colorado river to fishing in Florida’s dazzling Gulf waters, there are incredible places to get a few nibbles and soak up the beautiful scenery.
On Florida’s Gulf Coast, a day of fishing in Fort Myers Beach is pure joy. Anglers of all levels can explore calm back bays, cast from the shore, or head offshore for a bigger challenge.
Take a quick look at what’s coming up:
Sanibel Causeway: Shoreline fishing for pompano, snook, and redfish. Tip: Cast near the lighthouse.
Lovers Key State Park: Great for surfcasting and wading. Tip: Try Big Carlos Pass early or late.
Punta Rassa: Shore fishing plus deep-sea charter access. Tip: Wade at Punta Rassa Cove.
Estero Bay Backwaters: Calm mangrove waters with trout and snook. Tip: Kayak from Dog Beach Park.
At Sun Palace Vacations, we offer stunning vacation homes in Fort Myers Beach. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront escape or a cozy retreat, we have the perfect place for you. We consider ourselves Fort Myers Beach experts, and from the best shopping spots and top-notch restaurants to a comprehensive guide on fishing and hunting in the area, we’ve got you covered in our blog.
In this blog, I’ll guide you through the top four fishing spots in and around Fort Myers Beach, share boat charter options, and offer expert tips to make the most of your fishing adventure.
Let’s jump into the details!
Cast Your Line in the Best Fishing Spots in and Around Fort Myers Beach
Fishing in and around Fort Myers Beach is easy and accessible, with locations ranging from sandy shorelines to hidden back bays. These are our favorite spots for a perfect fishing day:
1. Sanibel Causeway
Excellent shoreline fishing, especially during high tide.
Sanibel Causeway is one of the top fishing spots near Fort Myers Beach. Just a 16-minute drive from town, the causeway provides excellent shoreline fishing, especially during high tide.
You can find pompano, snook, and redfish here. The Bait Box, nearby, offers tackle rental, live bait, and Florida fishing licenses.
Local tip: Cast near the Sanibel Lighthouse or head into the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge for secluded shoreline casting opportunities.
2. Lovers Key State Park
Plentiful opportunities for surfcasting and wade fishing.
With the Fort Myers Beach Pier destroyed by Hurricane Ian, Lovers Key State Park has become a favorite for shoreline anglers.
Lovers Key’s beaches and back bays offer plentiful opportunities for surfcasting and wade fishing. Early morning and late afternoon are prime times, and along the park’s southern shoreline, you can find trout, snook, and red drum.
Local tip: Bring a light tackle setup and fish near Big Carlos Pass, a productive channel for inshore species.
3. Punta Rassa
Great launching point for shore fishing and deep-sea charter access.
Punta Rassa is a great launching point for serious fishing trips. It offers both shore fishing and deep-sea charter access.
Here’s a great tip: Punta Rassa Cove is a hidden gem for wade fishermen, with calm waters ideal for family-friendly fishing.
4. Estero Bay Backwaters
A playground for surfcasting and wade fishing.
Lovers Key’s beaches and back bays are a playground for surfcasting and wade fishing. Hit the water early or just before sunset for the best action; the park’s southern shoreline is a hot spot for trout, snook, and red drum.
Local tip: Launch a kayak from Dog Beach Park for a peaceful day exploring mangrove islands and grass flats.
Best Boat Charters in Fort Myers Beach
Catch Me If U Can Fishing Charters
This charter offers both inshore and offshore trips near Sanibel and Fort Myers. The crew also offers shelling tours for a mixed day on the water.
Highlights
Friendly, skilled captains: Guests praise Captains Tatum, Nate, Josh, and Trevor for being fun, knowledgeable, and patient.
Great for all levels: Perfect for first-timers, kids, and seasoned anglers alike.
Consistent action: Captains find fish even in tricky weather or slow tides.
Scenic trips: Expect dolphin sightings, calm backwaters, and even lunch stops at Cabbage Key.
Captain Tony’s Fishing Adventures
Captain Tony’s is a top choice for group fishing excursions. Options include half-day, full-day, and night trips aboard the 65-foot SeaTrek.
Highlights
Family-run, multi-trip options: Offers half-day deep-sea fishing, night trips, and private charters, ideal for families and all skill levels.
Good fishing pace for first-timers: Trips typically stop at 3–4 spots and keep lines active.
Extras appreciated by guests: Services include baiting lines, filleting catches, and giving helpful fishing tips.
Scenic perks: Dolphin sightings and offshore Gulf views add to the experience.
Salty Sam’s Marina Charters
Salty Sam’s Marina is another go-to spot for a fishing adventure. Take your pick from private charters, lively party boats, or even eco-tours if you want to slow things down. Come tarpon season, many of the captains here are pros at landing the “silver king,” a true bucket-list catch for any angler.
Highlights
Charters tailored for everyone: Back-bay, nearshore, and offshore adventures are all options, with tackle, bait, and licenses handled for you.
Captain Mike is a legend: Fishing Fort Myers Beach since 1984, he’ll help you chase Snook, Redfish, Trout, Mangrove Snapper, and more.
Offshore thrills with Gulf Bound: Head 50 to 80 miles out for wreck fishing and big-game species. After your trip, watch as your catch gets professionally filleted or even cooked at Parrot Key.
Wildlife & scenic extras: Between casts, you might spot dolphins, manatees, osprey, and even explore peaceful backwater trails.
Smooth sailing, solid gear: Charters come with ready-to-go fishing gear, and the marina serves as a waterfront destination with restaurants, boat rentals, and even live entertainment.
Caloosahatchee Cowboy Charters
Caloosahatchee Cowboy Charters is where the locals send you when you want a laid-back day of fishing done right. Captain Josh and his crew know all the sweet spots around Fort Myers, and guests rave about the easygoing, family-friendly vibe. Expect plenty of action with them!
Highlights
Roomy, safe boats: Plenty of space to stretch out, even when the water gets choppy.
Awesome for families and newbies: Super welcoming, great environment for learning, and re-learning deep-sea fishing techniques.
Captains who know their stuff: Captain Josh and team hit the best inner-harbor zones near Sanibel, making sure lines are always in the water.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Fishing Trip
Fishing here is rewarding, but a little preparation goes a long way.
Get Your Fishing License: You can buy one online from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or locally at bait shops.
Pack Smart: Polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat will make your day more comfortable.
Know the Seasons: Tarpon peak season is May–July, while cooler months are great for sheepshead and redfish.
Hire a Guide: If you’re new, a local captain will teach you techniques and handle baiting and gear.
Respect Wildlife: Follow catch-and-release guidelines and be mindful of manatees and dolphins in the area.
Bonus: Fishing FAQs for Fort Myers Beach
Do I Need a Fishing License?
Yes, most anglers need a Florida fishing license. Short-term visitor licenses are available and affordable.
What Fish Can I Expect to Catch?
Common species include snook, redfish, speckled trout, tarpon, sheepshead, and snapper.
Can I Fish Without a Boat?
Absolutely. Shore fishing is excellent at Lovers Key, Sanibel Causeway, and Punta Rassa Cove.
When Is the Best Time to Fish?
Dawn and dusk are ideal. Tides greatly influence bite activity, so check tide charts before heading out.
Are There Family-Friendly Options?
Yes, many charters offer kid-friendly trips and light tackle experiences. Party boats are also a good choice for groups.
Wondering Where to Stay in Fort Myers Beach?
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