YOUR GUIDE TO FLORIDA SURF FISHING
By • September 12, 2018
If you’re looking for an exciting activity, there’s nothing that says “Florida” quite like surf fishing. A tradition for Florida families for generations, surf fishing is particularly thrilling during the annual fall mullet run down the Atlantic coast. Don’t count out the gulf coast, though; the fishing is fast and furious in the Gulf of Mexico all year long. Fort Myers is beautifully situated for fishing enthusiasts of all types, and it’s easy to find a great spot for surf fishing.
- What’s the best time to go surf fishing? Plan to go early or stay late. You’ll catch the most fish before dawn, when they are looking for food, and after dusk, when it’s cooler and they’re ready for another meal.
- Where are some likely spots for fishing from shore in Fort Myers?
In the Fort Myers/Sanibel Island area, great fishing spots are everywhere you look! There are piers, bridges, and beaches abundantly available, and there are always people fishing in their favorite spots. While you’re trying to find your favorite spot, you might want to check out some of the most popular fishing areas in the area, which include:
- Sanibel Causeway, along any of the causeway islands
- Punta Rassa, just before the Sanibel causeway, which is also popular for camping and kite-boarding
- Pier on Fort Myers Beach
- South End Bridge, at the south end of Estero Boulevard
- Lovers Key State Park
- Anywhere along the beach where you can find a spot away from crowds of swimmers
- What kinds of fish can be found in the area? All year, you can find snook, redfish, spotted seatrout, sheepshead, jack crevalle, mangrove snapper, and other species in the saltwater. The great thing about Fort Myers is that there’s plenty of opportunity for freshwater fishing as well, because the Caloosahatchee River, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the many natural and manmade lakes, ponds, and canals in the area are teeming with multiple species of fish. From a seawall or shore, you’re likely to catch bass, crappie, blue gill, catfish, shellcrackers, and Oscars.
- Should I go it alone or hire a guide? If you’re new to the area, or new to surf fishing, a guide can be a big help. If you’re someone who likes the solitary nature of fishing and prefers to go it alone, patronizing the local bait shops can be an invaluable source of information. You can also learn a lot about what’s going on by reading the local fishing reports for Fort Myers Beach and Estero Bay.
- Do I need a license? In a word, yes. They’re free for Florida residents, but visitors to the state will have to pay a small fee.
The fishing is amazing in Fort Myers, but if you don’t catch anything for dinner, don’t worry- we’ve got you covered. Come by Three Fishermen on North Cleveland Avenue in North Fort Myers, to try some of our fresh local seafood, cooked to order, with a special local catch of the day every day. Here, you’ll find waterfront dining in a relaxed atmosphere, where lunch and dinner are always a fun adventure. If you’ve got any questions, call us at (239) 599-8568 or visit our website for more information and to peruse the menu.
You probably already know that beer is refreshing, especially on a hot day or served alongside a good meal. What you might not realize, though, is that it’s also good for you! It makes sense if you think about the fact that beer is a natural product that’s been a traditional beverage around the world for centuries. While it’s not a good idea to overindulge, moderate beer consumption provides health benefits that might surprise you.
The bait you choose is dependent on several different factors. Where are you fishing? Are you fishing from the beach or deep sea fishing in the Gulf? Do you prefer freshwater or saltwater? Will you be fishing in a lake, a canal, or the ocean? How are you fishing? Do you prefer live bait or lures? Do you need a bait that works in the shallows, or that can hold up to depth? What do you want to catch? The variety of fish in southwest Florida is astounding, which makes it a great place for a wide range of fishing enthusiasts to explore. Here, you’ll find bass and snook, Marlin and seatrout, redfish and bluegills, and more. Choosing the right bait often depends on which type of fish you’re seeking. Many anglers swear by lures and other artificial bait when freshwater fishing in southwest Florida. One timeless option is the plastic worm, which is good for catching bass, and is immensely popular in Florida. Whatever lure you decide to use, you must take into consideration that you’re probably going to be fishing in shallow water, and there’s probably going to be a large amount of vegetation in your way. Flipping jigs are great for getting around all of those plants. If you’re fishing in saltwater, the general consensus is that live bait is the way to go. Six common options for live bait are: Shrimp: This can actually be used alive or dead, and is one of the most popular bait choices in Florida. You can use it on the bottom, or in conjunction with a jig, and you’re likely to be successful either way. Crabs: Used to catch many kinds of fish, including black drum and redfish, crabs are easy to keep alive during a fishing trip. Ballyhoo : If you’re fishing for sailfish, tuna or wahoo, ballyhoo is the perfect cut bait option. Squid: Readily available and good for inshore and offshore fishing trips, squid is the bait of choice for most professional anglers. You can use fresh or frozen squid to attract fish like striped bass, bluefish, and redfish. Sand fleas: If you’ve never heard of sand fleas, you’re not alone. These little crustaceans are ocean dwellers that make the perfect bait for surf fishing. Clams: Clams are harder to keep fresh, but easier to keep on a hook. This, combined with their effectiveness at catching dozens of species of fish, makes them an extremely popular choice. Sometimes, even those armed with the very best bait come up empty after a day of fishing. If you didn’t manage to catch your own dinner, it’s no problem! Just swing by Three Fishermen on North Cleveland Avenue in North Fort Myers, to try some of our fresh local seafood, cooked to order, with a special local catch of the day every day. Here, you’ll find waterfront dining in a relaxed atmosphere, where lunch and dinner are always a fun adventure. If you’ve got any questions, call us at (239) 599-8568 or visit our website for more information and to peruse the menu.
If you want to connect with the natural world, there’s no better place to be. A hike on a raised nature trail is a great way to experience the wetlands comfortably and without disturbing any of the creatures that live there. At Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, you’re likely to come upon gopher tortoises, raccoons, pelicans and alligators as you wander alone, with your family, or on a guided tour. When you want to hit the beach, we’ve got some of the best. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, pick Cayo Costa beach on Captiva, Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island, Clam Pass Park in Naples, or Lover’s Key in Fort Myers. Seeking shells? It’s Sanibel, no question. If you prefer to be in the middle of the action, try popular beaches like Fort Myers Beach, Marco Island, or Bonita Beach. If bringing along your favorite canine is a priority, the best southwest Florida beaches for dogs include Bonita Beach dog park, Gulfside Beach at Sanibel, and Fort DeSoto in St Petersburg. Island hopping is always a fun adventure. Sanibel, Captiva, Useppa, Gasparilla- southwest Florida has so many beautiful islands to explore it’s really an embarrassment of riches. Some of them are only accessible by boat, but that only adds to their mystique. Ready to get active? We’ve got you covered. Paddleboarding and kayaking are popular down here, and it’s easy to rent a bike for use on the beach or off. If golfing is more your speed, we’ve got an abundance of golf courses, so you’re sure to find one to your liking. For people with kids, there’s always plenty to do in southwest Florida . In Naples, take advantage of free themed admission and themed activities for children each Friday at Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Geared toward kids 12 and under, accompanied by an adult, this summer education program gives them a chance to learn about mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. Another great place for free, fun, educational activities is Barnes and Noble, which offers kids free story time on Tuesdays and Saturdays, featuring activities, crafts, songs and stories from new books and old favorites. Through October, Golf Safari Mini Golf in Bonita Springs is offering $5 golf on Wednesdays, and all summer, Pure Florida Cruises in Tin City is letting kids enjoy free 90 minute cruises on Saturdays when accompanied by a parent paying full fare. These cruises teach children about Southwest Florida ecology as the captain helps passengers spot wildlife that includes dolphins, eagles, manatees, native birds and more. Once you’ve spent your day exploring all that southwest Florida has to offer, it will be time to think about where to have dinner. Come by Three Fishermen on North Cleveland Avenue in North Fort Myers, where you can treat yourself to our fresh local seafood, cooked to order, with a special local catch of the day every day. Here, you’ll find waterfront dining in a relaxed atmosphere, where lunch and dinner are always a fun adventure. If you’ve got any questions, call us at (239) 599-8568 or visit our website for more information and to peruse the menu.
