Damn Good Nearshore Fishing Charters In Fort Myers

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Fort Myers nearshore fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

Choose a Date
4.91/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Nearshore Fishing Charters In Fort Myers, Fl

Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Fort Myers

Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

100% (44)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Bokeelia

Shared Charter

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Naples

4 Hour Backwater/Nearcoastal

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Cape Coral

Inshore Fishing Charter Cape Coral

99% (117)
26 ft 1 - 12 People From $525
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Boca Grande

Tarpon Max Day (8hr)

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 10 People From $1,150
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Cape Coral

Big Fish In Fort Myers

100% (3)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,300

Top Types of Nearshore Trips in Fort Myers

Top Species for Nearshore Fishing in Fort Myers

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Target Species in Fort Myers

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

More Nearshore Fishing Charters In Fort Myers, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, River, Flats in Cape Coral

Inshore Bay/flats

100% (9)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Saint James City

Fort Myers Fishing Rodeo

NEW
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Cape Coral

6 Hour Inshore

100% (4)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Cape Coral

Offshore Excursion - 26'

100% (9)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Boca Grande

Gift Card Family + Friends (1hr)

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $100
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Naples

4 Hour Naples Inshore/Nearshore

88% (8)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
See All Nearshore Trips in Fort Myers

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fort Myers nearshore fishing charter

What are the best nearshore fishing charters in Fort Myers?

The best nearshore fishing charters in Fort Myers are:

Why should I book a nearshore fishing charter in Fort Myers with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 37 nearshore trip in Fort Myers: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip guided by James.

Our guides in Fort Myers are rated a 4.91 out of 5 based on 4474 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly nearshore guides / fishing lessons in Fort Myers? Check out our beginner and family friendly nearshore guides in Fort Myers.

What types of nearshore fishing charters are common in Fort Myers?

The most commonly sought after species for nearshore fishing are: 1. snook, 2. redfish, 3. tarpon, 4. speckled trout, and 5. goliath grouper.

The most common fishing techniques in Fort Myers are artificial lure fishing, live bait fishing, and light tackle fishing but bottom fishing and fly fishing are popular as well.

How much do Fort Myers nearshore fishing charters cost?

Prices for nearshore fishing in Fort Myers can range anywhere from about $600 to $2,500, but the average price for a half day trip for nearshore fishing in Fort Myers is $926. The average price for a full day trip for nearshore fishing in Fort Myers is $1,736.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for nearshore fishing in Fort Myers?

The most popular season for nearshore fishing in Fort Myers is spring, and most anglers book their trips 32 days in advance.

Do I need a Fort Myers fishing license and what are the bag limits in Fort Myers?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Fort Myers, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Fort Myers. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Fort Myers.

What is nearshore fishing in Fort Myers all about?

Nearshore fishing in Fort Myers, Florida, offers anglers a rich diversity of opportunities along the Gulf Coast of Southwest Florida. Fort Myers is renowned for its productive nearshore waters, which provide excellent fishing year-round due to its subtropical climate and abundance of marine life. Whether fishing from a boat, kayak, or the shore, anglers can enjoy a variety of fishing experiences targeting a wide range of species.

One of the highlights of nearshore fishing in Fort Myers is the chance to target pelagic species such as king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and cobia. These fast-swimming predators are commonly found near offshore reefs, wrecks, and channels, where they feed on schools of baitfish. Anglers use techniques like trolling with live bait such as mullet or artificial lures like spoons and plugs to entice strikes from these prized game fish. The thrill of hooking into a powerful king mackerel or the acrobatic jumps of a cobia make nearshore fishing in Fort Myers an exciting and rewarding experience.

Bottom fishing is another popular technique among anglers in Fort Myers' nearshore waters, particularly for targeting reef-dwelling species such as snapper, grouper, and hogfish. These fish are abundant around artificial reefs, wrecks, and rocky structures, where they seek shelter and prey. Anglers use live bait such as shrimp, squid, or cut bait, as well as artificial jigs and bucktails, to entice strikes from these bottom dwellers. Successful bottom fishing requires knowledge of local reefs, tidal currents, and the ability to adjust bait presentation to attract bites from these coveted reef species.

In addition to pelagic and reef fish, Fort Myers nearshore fishing offers opportunities to target a variety of inshore species, such as redfish, snook, and trout. These fish can be found in shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and tidal creeks, where they feed on small baitfish and crustaceans. Anglers use techniques such as casting with artificial lures or live bait fishing to target these popular inshore game fish. Whether fishing for pelagic predators, reef dwellers, or inshore species, anglers in Fort Myers can enjoy a wide range of fishing experiences in one of Florida's premier fishing destinations.

What are the most popular months to go nearshore fishing in Fort Myers?

Nearshore fishing seasons in Fort Myers, Florida, vary throughout the year, influenced by the subtropical climate and the migratory patterns of various fish species along the Gulf Coast. Understanding these seasonal trends helps anglers plan their fishing trips effectively to target the most active and abundant species.

Spring is a prime nearshore fishing season in Fort Myers, characterized by warming water temperatures and increased fish activity. Pelagic species such as king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and cobia migrate closer to the coastline in search of warmer waters and abundant prey. Anglers often target these fast-swimming predators near offshore reefs, wrecks, and along the edges of shipping channels using techniques like trolling with live bait or artificial lures. In addition to pelagic fish, bottom fishing for reef dwellers like snapper and grouper remains productive during this season as they become more active around underwater structures.

Summer brings peak nearshore fishing conditions to Fort Myers, with warmer waters attracting a wide range of species closer to shore. Pelagic species such as mahi-mahi, tuna, and wahoo are abundant and actively feeding near offshore structures and weed lines. Inshore fishing for species like snook, redfish, and trout also remains strong as they move into shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and tidal creeks to feed. Anglers use a variety of techniques, including casting with artificial lures or live bait fishing, to target these inshore game fish. Summer is an ideal time for anglers to enjoy productive fishing outings and the chance to reel in some of the Gulf Coast's most prized catches.

Fall marks a transitional period in Fort Myers' nearshore fishing calendar as water temperatures begin to cool and fish behavior changes. Pelagic species like king mackerel and cobia continue to be active, providing anglers with continued opportunities for thrilling fishing adventures. Inshore fishing remains strong for species such as snook, redfish, and trout as they prepare for winter and feed voraciously near structures and estuaries. By adapting to seasonal changes and understanding local fishing regulations, anglers can make the most of their nearshore fishing experiences in Fort Myers throughout the year.

What techniques are popular for nearshore fishing in Fort Myers?

Nearshore fishing in Fort Myers, Florida, offers anglers a variety of types and techniques to target a diverse range of fish species that inhabit the Gulf Coast waters. One popular method is trolling, where anglers tow baited lines or lures behind a moving boat to cover large areas of water and locate schools of pelagic species such as king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and cobia. Trolling allows anglers to mimic the movement of prey and provoke strikes from fast-swimming predators. This method is effective near offshore reefs, wrecks, and along the edges of shipping channels where these species congregate.

Bottom fishing is another prevalent technique in Fort Myers' nearshore waters, particularly for targeting reef-dwelling species such as snapper, grouper, and hogfish. Anglers anchor near artificial reefs, wrecks, and rocky structures where these fish gather to feed. Bottom fishing involves using live bait such as shrimp, squid, or cut bait, as well as artificial jigs and bucktails, to entice strikes from these bottom dwellers. Success in bottom fishing often depends on understanding the structure of the seabed and adjusting bait presentation to attract bites from these coveted reef species.

Casting and jigging are also popular techniques among anglers in Fort Myers, especially when targeting inshore species such as redfish, snook, and trout. Casting involves using spinning or baitcasting rods to accurately place lures or live baits near mangrove shorelines, oyster beds, and tidal creeks where these fish are known to congregate. Jigging requires anglers to vertically lift and drop weighted lures to mimic the movement of injured baitfish, enticing strikes from fish that are cruising near the bottom or mid-water column. These techniques require finesse and understanding of fish behavior but can yield rewarding catches and memorable fishing experiences in Fort Myers' coastal waters.

What species are popular for nearshore fishing in Fort Myers?

When nearshore fishing in Fort Myers, Florida, anglers have a wide array of species to target throughout the year, making it a popular destination for both novice and seasoned fishermen. One of the most sought-after species is the snook, known for its powerful strikes and acrobatic fights. Snook can be found along mangrove shorelines, bridges, and in tidal creeks where they ambush their prey. They are particularly active during warmer months but can be targeted year-round with live bait like pilchards or artificial lures such as jigs and soft plastics.

Redfish, or red drum, are another prized catch in Fort Myers' nearshore waters. These fish are often found in shallow flats, around oyster bars, and near grassy areas where they feed on crabs, shrimp, and small fish. Redfish are known for their bronze-colored scales and powerful runs when hooked, making them a thrilling target for anglers. Live bait, such as mullet or cut bait, as well as artificial lures like spoons and topwater plugs, are effective in enticing strikes from these prized game fish.

In addition to snook and redfish, Fort Myers nearshore fishing offers opportunities to target other popular species such as trout, flounder, and sheepshead. Speckled trout are commonly found on grass flats and around sandy bottoms, where they feed on small baitfish and shrimp. Flounder are often found near sandy bottoms and structures where they lie in wait for passing prey. Sheepshead, known for their strong teeth and challenging bites, are commonly found around pilings, docks, and reefs, where they feed on crustaceans and small mollusks. Anglers use a variety of techniques, including live bait fishing and artificial lures, to target these species effectively in Fort Myers' productive nearshore waters.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time with Captain Sean! He is incredibly knowledgeable and experienced! I would highly recommend him for your next charter. When we come back we’ll definitely be calling him again!!

    Rebecca S. | March 29, 2025

    Trip: 4 Hour Naples Inshore/Nearshore

  • ★★★★★
    We recently have an awesome trip with Roland. He was extreamly patient with our Grand kids that were along. I would highly recommend this excursion to anyone. Jane

    Jane N. | March 27, 2025

    Trip: Inshore Fishing Charter Cape Coral

  • ★★★★★
    Jesse was a great captain, and took my girls and I to some awesome beaches and caught some fish. thanks captain!

    Jeffrey A. | March 26, 2025

    Trip: Fort Myers Hook Up!

  • ★★★★★
    Top notch trip. Very clear and precise communication and the fishing was great. Very knowledgeable guide. My son and I will for sure return.

    Joe C. | March 24, 2025

    Trip: 4 - 8 Hour Trips with Capt. Logan

  • ★★★★★
    Great time with Billy today (3/24/25). He went out of his way to make the kids smile! Much appreciated sir

    Brent T. | March 24, 2025

    Trip: Inshore Bay/flats

  • ★★★★★
    James was great and put us on the fish right away. Knowledgeable and friendly, our family had a great time.

    Brandon C. | March 21, 2025

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great day on the water!! James was very kind and very helpful. We enjoyed it so much we were glad we booked 2 fishing days with him! Thank you so much! Your a part of our families memories here in Fort Meyer The Roers

    Beth R. | March 12, 2025

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing 2 days of fishing with Captain James! He is pleasant, knowledgeable and extremely helpful. He worked hard for us both days! I would highly recommend fishing with him! Thanks James. All the best to you our new friend! The Roers family

    Beth R. | March 12, 2025

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Al was great got us on Fish!!!

    Brian V. | March 12, 2025

    Trip: 4 Hour Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Roland was fantastic! He put us into several different areas, targeting several species and delivered our goal of taking home fresh catch for dinner. We caught snook, snapper, convict fish and sea trout. An altogether great experience for the four of us. We highly recommend and will be back next season for another outing!!

    Scott M. | March 10, 2025

    Trip: Inshore Fishing Charter Cape Coral

  • ★★★★★
    Griffin was excellent. He was very knowledgeable above where and when to fish for each species. We caught everything except a redfish, if we had caught one it would have been a “grand slam”. I highly recommend him as a guide.

    Alan S. | February 27, 2025

    Trip: SWFL Inshore/Back Bay Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    James was GREAT! We had a wonderful time! He is very knowledgeable about the water and fishing and taught us a ton. He was very patient with my two boys and really catered to them! Would recommend!!!

    Amber M. | February 16, 2025

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Billy was great! He put us on fish multiple times. He helped my 12 year old son catch almost 20 fish.

    Isaac H. | February 16, 2025

    Trip: Inshore Bay/flats

  • ★★★★★
    James is one incredible individual above the captain title, with that said he moved us around on top of fish all day. Incredibly easy going and ask us exactly what we wanted and man did he deliver. Equipment was fantastic, boat is very nice and has tons of live bait. We couldn’t be happier with this charter and will absolutely take this trip again. I highly recommend as this was above and beyond an incredible experience!!!

    Lance M. | February 13, 2025

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip!

    Amy S. | February 1, 2025

    Trip: Inshore Bay/flats

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time. Experiences we will never forget. We will for sure be booking with Roland again.

    Cody T. | January 26, 2025

    Trip: Inshore Fishing Charter Cape Coral

  • ★★★★★
    An awesome day on the water!! Travis is an excellent captain and knows the area and water well. We went to several key spots that he had marked and it was obvious he knew where the fish were. The fish weren’t as active that day, however, Travis knew where to go to make sure we still got on fish to make it a memorable day. Thanks again Travis!! Highly recommend!

    Kevin K. | December 31, 2024

    Trip: Bokeelia Half Day Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Wonderful day on the water! Jesse took our family of 6 out for a full day. We did a little bit of everything, inshore & off shore fishing, dolphin watching, even a great lunch recommendation stop. Now back to our VRBO to cook some of the days catch! Jesse gets our 10/10 rating, we had a GREAT day!

    Meggin F. | December 31, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers Hook Up!

  • ★★★★★
    We had a half day charter where we split it up between offshore and onshore for redfish and Travis did not disappoint! We caught a decent number of snapper and a few other things out offshore but then ensure we caught some redfish for the first time! Some keepers some not, but it was definitely a great experience overall! We will definitely be calling Travis again! Would love to even try some tarpon one day! Thank you for a great day!

    Susan W. | December 27, 2024

    Trip: Bokeelia Half Day Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent day on the water! Travis was an awesome guide! He took great care of us and we had a fabulous time. Mangrove, lane snappers, sheep heads, groupers and grunts were among the catch today!

    April C. | December 26, 2024

    Trip: Bokeelia Half Day Inshore

Other Types of Fishing in Fort Myers

How are fishing conditions in Fort Myers?

View Fort Myers Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Nearshore Trips in Fort Myers