Get ready for the fishing trip of a lifetime in Fort Myers, Florida! This 10-hour private charter is your ticket to some serious angling action. We're talking about a full day on the water, folks - from sunup to sundown, you'll be casting lines and reeling in the good stuff. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. We'll hit up all the hotspots - the Gulf of Mexico, San Carlos Bay, and even cruise up the Caloosahatchee River. With room for up to 6 people, it's perfect for a group of buddies, a family outing, or even a corporate team-building day. Just don't forget to bring your A-game, 'cause these Fort Myers fish are ready to rumble!
Listen up, anglers - this ain't your average day of fishing. We're talking about a full 10 hours of non-stop action. We'll start by loading up on live bait (if that's your style), then hit the water running. Depending on the season and what's biting, we might start inshore, working the mangroves for snook and redfish. As the day heats up, we could push out into the Gulf, chasing after the big boys like tarpon or cobia. Your captain's got years of experience under his belt, so trust me, he knows where the fish are hiding. We'll use a mix of techniques - live bait, lures, maybe even break out the fly rods if that's your jam. Just remember, it's called fishing, not catching, but with 10 hours on the water, odds are good you'll be going home with some fish stories to tell.
Let me tell you, there's a reason why Fort Myers is a top-rated fishing destination. First off, the variety is insane. One minute you're sight-casting to tailing redfish in skinny water, the next you're battling a monster tarpon in the pass. And the best part? This 10-hour trip gives you time to do it all. No rushing, no "we gotta head back now" just when the bite turns on. You've got all day to find that perfect spot, figure out what the fish want, and really dial in your technique. Plus, with a private charter, it's all about you. Want to focus on one species? No problem. Prefer to mix it up? We can do that too. It's this kind of flexibility, combined with the sheer quality of the fishing, that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
Snook: These bad boys are the rock stars of inshore fishing. Known for their explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps, snook will test your skills and your gear. They love to hang around structure, so we'll be working docks, mangroves, and oyster bars. Spring and fall are prime time for snook, but they're around all year. Just remember, they're catch-and-release only in Florida, so bring your camera!
Tarpon: If you've never hooked into a tarpon, you're in for a treat. These silver kings can grow over 100 pounds and are famous for their gill-rattling jumps. We typically target them from late spring through summer. They're not the easiest fish to hook, but man, when you do, it's a fight you'll never forget. Patience and persistence are key here.
Sheepshead: Don't let their goofy looks fool you - these striped convicts are crafty as hell. They're masters at stealing bait, but when you hook one, you're in for some great eating. Winter is prime time for sheepshead, and we'll target them around structures like bridges and pilings. Light tackle and a delicate touch are the name of the game here.
Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these guys are a staple of inshore fishing. They're not the biggest fish in the sea, but they're abundant and great fun on light tackle. We'll look for them over grass flats, using both artificial lures and live bait. The best part? They're delicious, so if you're looking to bring home dinner, trout are a great target.
Redfish: Ah, the mighty red drum. These copper-colored beauties are a favorite among anglers for their hard fights and their willingness to eat just about anything. We'll sight-fish for them in shallow water, looking for their tails sticking up as they root around for crabs. Fall is typically the best time for big reds, but we catch them year-round in Fort Myers.
Alright, folks, let's cut to the chase. This 10-hour fishing trip in Fort Myers is the real deal. You're getting a full day on the water, access to some of the best fishing grounds in Southwest Florida, and a shot at hooking into some seriously impressive fish. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just want to tangle with some hard-fighting gamefish, this trip's got you covered. And remember, with a private charter, it's all about you. Your group, your goals, your perfect day on the water. So what are you waiting for? Spots on the Ya Gotta Want It Fishing Charters book up fast, especially during peak seasons. Don't be the one telling stories about the "trip that got away." Grab your crew, pick a date, and let's get you out on the water. Trust me, after 10 hours of non-stop fishing action, you'll be planning your next trip before you even hit the dock. Book now and get ready for a day of fishing you'll be talking about for years to come!
Redfish are one of our most popular inshore species. They typically range from 5-15 pounds here, with bull reds over 30 pounds possible. You'll find them tailing in shallow grass flats or cruising mangrove shorelines. Fall is prime time as reds school up. Anglers love sight-fishing for them in clear water. They put up a strong, dogged fight and are excellent eating. Live bait like pinfish works great, but reds will hit artificial lures too. My go-to is a gold spoon. When you spot a redfish, make a long cast past it and slowly retrieve. The flash imitates a fleeing baitfish and often triggers an instinctive strike.
Sea trout, or spotted seatrout, are a staple of inshore fishing here. Most run 1-3 pounds, with gator trout over 5 pounds possible. Look for them over grass flats, especially areas with potholes or sandy patches. Dawn and dusk are prime feeding times. Trout are fun on light tackle and make excellent table fare. They're known for their soft mouths, so a gentle hookset is key. Live shrimp under a popping cork is a classic setup. For artificial, I like soft plastics on a jighead. Work it with a slow, steady retrieve and be ready for that distinctive thump when a trout strikes.
Sheepshead are those funky-looking fish with human-like teeth. Most run 2-4 pounds, but bigger ones up to 10+ pounds aren't uncommon. You'll find them around barnacle-covered pilings, rock jetties, and oyster bars. Winter and early spring are prime sheepshead seasons as they move inshore to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their tasty white meat and the challenge of detecting their subtle bites. Use small hooks with pieces of shrimp or fiddler crabs. Here's a local trick: when you feel that telltale nibble, wait a second before setting the hook. Sheepshead are notorious bait stealers, so give them time to get the bait in their mouths.
Snook are one of our most popular gamefish here in Fort Myers. These sleek predators typically run 1-3 feet long and put up an acrobatic fight. You'll find them lurking around mangroves, docks, and other structure in the bay and river. Spring and fall are prime seasons as water temps change. Snook are prized for their hard strikes and powerful runs. They're also excellent eating, with firm white meat. When targeting snook, I like to use live bait like pilchards or pinfish near the mangrove edges. Cast right up against the shoreline and be ready - when a snook hits, it'll try to dive back into cover fast. Set the hook quick and hang on for an exciting battle!
Tarpon are the silver kings of inshore fishing. These prehistoric beasts can top 100 pounds and put on an aerial show like no other. We typically see them in the 40-80 pound range around Fort Myers. They start showing up in spring, with peak season May through July. Look for rolling fish in deeper channels and passes. Tarpon will test your skills and gear to the max. Landing one is a true bucket list accomplishment for any angler. Live bait like crabs or threadfin herring work well. My tip: when a tarpon jumps, drop your rod tip to give them slack. It helps keep them hooked up through those spectacular leaps.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 10
Manufacturer Name: Mercury 400
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 4
Horsepower per Engine: 400