Inshore Fishing In Naples, Fl

Inshore fishing in Naples, Florida, offers exciting opportunities to target a variety of species in the bays, mangroves, flats, and nearshore waters. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your inshore fishing experience in this beautiful coastal city.

Target Species to Catch in Naples

Snook

Snook are the most popular target in Naples. Known for their powerful fight and acrobatic leaps, they can be caught year-round. Snook thrive in various habitats, including mangrove-lined shorelines, grassy flats, and around structures like docks and bridges.

Redfish

Redfish are another prized species in Naples. They are hard-fighting fish and can be found in shallow waters, mangroves, and near oyster beds. Redfish are prevalent throughout the year, with peak activity in the cooler months.

Speckled Trout

Speckled trout are highly sought after for their taste and challenging fight. They are commonly caught in the spring, summer, and fall. These fish are typically found in grassy flats, channels, and deeper holes.

Mangrove Snapper

Mangrove snapper are abundant in Naples’ inshore waters. They are often found around mangroves, bridges, and docks. These fish are known for their delicious flavor and can be caught using live bait or small lures.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are known for their strong teeth and the challenge they present to anglers. They are often found around structures such as pilings, jetties, and docks. Sheepshead primarily feed on crustaceans, making them a fun and rewarding catch.

Inshore Fishing Spots in Naples

Gordon River

The Gordon River is a popular fishing spot known for its diverse ecosystem. It offers access to mangroves, flats, and deeper channels, providing opportunities to target snook, redfish, trout, and more.

Rookery Bay

Rookery Bay's estuarine waters are rich in fish species. The bay’s mangrove-lined shores and seagrass beds are prime habitats for redfish, snook, and trout. Kayak and wade fishing are particularly effective here.

Ten Thousand Islands

The Ten Thousand Islands area offers a maze of mangroves and channels, perfect for inshore fishing. Anglers can target snook, redfish, and mangrove snapper in these productive waters. It’s an excellent spot for both kayak and boat fishing.

Clam Pass Park

Clam Pass Park is another excellent spot for inshore fishing. The park’s tidal creeks and mangroves provide habitat for snook, redfish, and sheepshead. The shallow waters are ideal for wade fishing and light tackle.

Naples Bay

Naples Bay is well-known for its productive fishing grounds. The bay’s docks, piers, and mangroves are hotspots for snook, mangrove snapper, and sheepshead. Night fishing around lighted docks can be particularly rewarding.

License Information

Anglers aged 16 and older are required to have a valid Florida fishing license to fish inshore waters in Naples. Licenses and permits, such as a snook permit, can be obtained online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website or from authorized retailers.

Bag Size and Limit

For snook, the size limit is typically between 28 and 33 inches on the Gulf Coast, with a bag limit of one per person per day during the open seasons (spring and fall). Redfish must be between 18 and 27 inches, with a bag limit of one per person per day. Always check the latest regulations as they can change.

Book Your Next Naples Inshore Fishing Trip

Naples offers outstanding inshore fishing with a variety of fish to target and diverse locations and methods. If you’re looking to get out on the water in Naples, check out our Naples fishing charters to book a trip with one of our local and professional guides. They can provide valuable insights and enhance your chances of landing a memorable catch.