Ready for a real deal fishing adventure? Our 8-hour trip out of Bokeelia is the perfect way to scratch that angling itch. We're talking a full day on the water, targeting some of the area's most sought-after species like Tarpon, Snook, and Redfish. 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 local hotspots, giving you plenty of chances to land that trophy catch you've been dreaming about.
Picture this: You're out on the boat as the sun's coming up, rod in hand, ready to tackle whatever the day brings. Our experienced captain knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you'll be in prime position to hook into some serious action. We provide all the gear, bait, and licenses, so you can focus on what matters - catching fish and having a blast. With 8 full hours, we've got time to mix it up between different spots and techniques. Maybe we'll start off sight fishing for tailing Redfish in the shallows, then switch gears and drift for some monster Snook as the tide changes. The extra time means more opportunities to land that personal best or just kick back and enjoy the ride.
In Bokeelia, we've got a mixed bag of fishing styles to keep things interesting. We might start off with some light tackle action, working the mangrove shorelines for Snook. When the tide's right, we'll pull out the fly rods and try our luck at some Tarpon rolling on the surface. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques - our captain's always happy to show you the ropes. As for spots, we've got a few aces up our sleeve. There's a killer grass flat not far from Pine Island that's been holding some nice Trout lately. And if the conditions are right, we might run over to Captiva Pass where the big Snook like to hang out. With 8 hours to play with, we've got time to explore and find where the fish are biting.
Florida Pompano: These silver speedsters are a blast to catch and even better on the dinner table. They love to cruise the sandbars and cuts, especially during the cooler months. When you hook one, get ready for some acrobatics - they're known for their jumping ability. Most folks are happy with a 2-3 pounder, but we occasionally see some pushing 5 pounds or more.
Snook: The "soap dish" is a Florida inshore legend. These ambush predators love to hang around structure, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting bait fish. Spring and fall are prime time for Snook, but we catch them year-round here. They're famous for their explosive strikes and powerful runs, so make sure you've got a good grip on that rod. The slot size is 28-33 inches, but we see plenty of oversized fish in the 40-inch range.
Sea Trout: Also known as Spotted Seatrout, these guys are a staple of inshore fishing. They're not the biggest fighters, but they make up for it in numbers. We often find them over grass flats, especially early in the morning or late evening. A 20-incher is considered a good catch, but "gator" trout pushing 30 inches aren't unheard of. They're great eating fish too, if you're looking to bring home dinner.
Redfish: Ah, the iconic Redfish. These copper-colored beauties are a favorite among anglers for their hard fights and willingness to eat just about anything. In the cooler months, we often find them tailing in shallow water, which makes for some exciting sight fishing opportunities. The slot size is 18-27 inches, but we occasionally hook into some real bulls over 40 inches. When a big Red decides to make a run, you'd better hold on tight!
Tripletail: These odd-looking fish are a real treat when we come across them. They love to hang around floating debris or channel markers, often looking like a piece of trash until they suddenly come to life. Tripletail are ambush predators, so presenting a bait right in front of their nose can lead to some explosive strikes. They're not the longest runners, but they put up a good fight on light tackle. As a bonus, they're absolutely delicious if you decide to keep one for the dinner table.
Look, I've been guiding these waters for years, and I still get excited every time we head out. There's just something special about Bokeelia and the surrounding area. Maybe it's the variety - one minute you're sight fishing for Reds in gin-clear water, the next you're battling a bruiser Snook in the mangroves. Or maybe it's the laid-back vibe - sure, we're here to catch fish, but we're also here to have a good time. Plus, with 8 hours on the water, we've got time to really dial things in. If one spot isn't producing, no worries - we'll run to the next honey hole. It's all about maximizing your chances and making sure you head home with some great stories (and hopefully some great photos too).
Alright, let's cut to the chase - if you're looking for a full day of top-notch inshore fishing, this is the trip for you. We've got the knowledge, we've got the spots, and we've got the time to make it happen. Whether you're aiming to fill the cooler or just want to bend a rod, we've got you covered. Remember, we're limited to 4 anglers max, so you'll get plenty of personal attention from the captain. All the gear's included, so you just need to show up ready to fish. Oh, and don't forget - deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're committed before you book. Trust me, once you experience a full day out here, you'll be itching to come back for more. So what are you waiting for? Let's get out there and put some fish in the boat!
The Florida Pompano is a prized catch around here, usually weighing 1-3 pounds but can get up to 8-9 pounds. You'll find them cruising the shallow waters along Gulf beaches, especially where there's plenty of shrimp and mollusks. Summer and fall are prime seasons, as they move deeper in winter. Anglers love targeting pompano for their tenacious fight and delicious, buttery meat. To land one, use small hooks - they've got tiny mouths. Live bait like sand fleas works great, or try bright-colored jigs in clear water. Yellow and orange tend to catch their eye. When you hook one, be ready for a battle - these compact fish punch well above their weight class and will give you a run for your money.
Redfish are a fan favorite around here. They average 28-33 inches fully grown but can reach 45 inches and 50 pounds. You'll find them in shallow flats, oyster bars, and mangroves - sometimes so shallow their backs are out of water. They're here year-round but really active in fall. Anglers love reds for their powerful fights and great eating. To catch one, look for their distinctive tail wakes in skinny water. Use topwater lures for explosive strikes, or try a gold spoon. My go-to trick is fishing cut mullet on the bottom near oyster bars on a falling tide. When you hook up, be ready - redfish pull like freight trains and won't give up easy.
Sea trout, also called speckled trout, are a staple in our waters. Most run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, though trophy fish can hit 30 inches. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They form big schools in deeper water during winter. Anglers enjoy targeting them for their aggressive strikes and delicate, flaky meat. Spring and fall are peak seasons. To catch them, try soft plastics, topwater plugs, or live shrimp. Here's a local trick: troll slowly along grass edges at dawn or dusk, using a jig tipped with shrimp. Sea trout can't resist it. Just remember not to overcook them - their soft flesh gets mushy fast.
Snook are one of our most popular gamefish, with good reason. They typically run 1-3 feet long but can reach over 4 feet and 40 pounds. You'll find them around mangroves, docks, and other structure in estuaries and coastal waters. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they move to spawn. Anglers love snook for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights - they'll leap clear out of the water. They're also excellent eating when in season. To target them, use lures that mimic their favorite prey like soft plastic swimbaits or live bait like pilchards. My local tip: fish the mangrove shorelines on an incoming tide, working your bait right up against the roots. Snook love to ambush prey from those shadowy spots.
Tripletail are an odd but rewarding catch. They typically run 18 inches and 2-13 pounds, but can reach 3 feet and 40 pounds. You'll find them near the surface around floating debris or markers. They're here year-round but most active in summer. Anglers love tripletail for their acrobatic fights and excellent table fare. To catch one, sight-cast carefully - they spook easy. Use live shrimp or small crabs, or try flies that mimic them. Here's a local tip: cruise the markers in the bay, looking for tripletail basking near the surface. Cast well past them and slowly retrieve your bait. When they see it, hold on tight - these guys hit hard and jump like crazy.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Evenrude
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300