Damn Good Sanibel Island Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Sanibel Island fishing trips. Deep Sea, Inshore, Flats, Nearshore, and Jetty trips available.

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Sanibel Island

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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 Fishing Charter in Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

100% (15)
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $475
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, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Cape Coral

Inshore Fishing Charter

96% (28)
21 ft 1 - 6 People From $475
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Captiva

SWFL Inshore Trip

NEW
1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Cape Coral

Inshore Bay/flats

NEW
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
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 Fishing Charter in Cape Coral

4 Hour Inshore

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Fort Myers

Fort Myers / Sanibel Inshore Action

100% (1)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $425

Top Types of Trips in Sanibel Island

Top Species for Fishing in Sanibel Island

“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.”

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More Fishing Charters In Sanibel Island

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Fort Myers

Fort Myers / Sanibel Inshore Action

100% (1)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $425
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 Fishing Charter in Cape Coral

4 Hour Inshore

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Cape Coral

Inshore Bay/flats

NEW
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Captiva

SWFL Inshore Trip

NEW
1 - 4 People From $600
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, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Cape Coral

Inshore Fishing Charter

96% (28)
21 ft 1 - 6 People From $475
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 Fishing Charter in Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

100% (15)
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $475
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Sanibel Island

What are the best fishing charters in Sanibel Island?

Why should I book a fishing charter in Sanibel Island with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 7 trips in Sanibel Island, and the most popular trips in the area are Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip guided by James, Inshore Bay/flats guided by Billy, and Boca Grande Tarpon Trip guided by Randall.

Our guides in Sanibel Island are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3757 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 charters / fishing lessons in Sanibel Island? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Sanibel Island.

What types of fishing charters are common in Sanibel Island?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Sanibel Island as well as inshore fishing, flats fishing, and nearshore fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Sanibel Island are: 1. redfish, 2. speckled trout, 3. snook, 4. tarpon, and 5. black drum.

The most common fishing techniques in Sanibel Island are live bait fishing, light tackle fishing, and artificial lure fishing but bottom fishing and heavy tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much do Sanibel Island fishing charters cost?

Prices in Sanibel Island can range anywhere from about $500 to $975, but the average price for a half day trip in Sanibel Island is $577. The average price for a full day trip in Sanibel Island is $828.

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 fishing in Sanibel Island?

The most popular season for fishing in Sanibel Island is spring, and most anglers book their trips 13 days in advance.

Do I need a Sanibel Island fishing license and what are the bag limits in Sanibel Island?

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

What is fishing in Sanibel Island all about?

Fishing in Sanibel Island, located off the southwest coast of Florida, offers anglers a unique and diverse experience in the heart of the Gulf of Mexico. The island's pristine waters are teeming with a wide variety of fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels. One of the island's main draws is its exceptional saltwater fishing opportunities. From the surf to the bay and offshore, anglers can target a range of species including tarpon, snook, redfish, and trout. Sanibel Island's extensive network of mangrove-lined channels, flats, and oyster bars provide ample habitat for these prized game fish, offering anglers the chance to test their skills in different environments.

Kayak fishing is a favored method among anglers visiting Sanibel Island, allowing them to explore the island's diverse waterways and access shallow areas where larger boats cannot venture. Kayaks offer a stealthy approach, making it easier to sneak up on wary fish like redfish and snook. Anglers can paddle along the mangrove shorelines, casting lures or live bait into the clear, shallow waters in search of their next catch. With a wide range of kayak rental options available on the island, kayak fishing provides an exciting and eco-friendly way to experience Sanibel's abundant marine life.

In addition to saltwater fishing, Sanibel Island also offers opportunities for freshwater fishing in its inland water bodies and canals. Largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie are common species found in these freshwater habitats, providing anglers with a change of pace from the saltwater action. Fishing from shore or from a small boat allows anglers to explore the island's tranquil freshwater environments, surrounded by lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. Whether you prefer saltwater or freshwater fishing, Sanibel Island offers a wealth of angling opportunities against the backdrop of its stunning natural beauty.

What are the most popular months to fish in Sanibel Island?

Fishing in Sanibel Island, located off the southwestern coast of Florida, offers anglers a year-round opportunity to reel in a diverse array of fish species. Spring marks the beginning of the prime fishing season on Sanibel Island, as warming temperatures bring an abundance of baitfish and predatory species into the waters. Anglers can expect to target species such as snook, tarpon, redfish, and seatrout as they migrate back into the shallow flats and estuaries after the cooler winter months. With the island's extensive mangrove-lined coastlines and intricate network of channels and flats, springtime fishing on Sanibel Island promises thrilling catches and unforgettable angling experiences.

Summer on Sanibel Island offers anglers excellent opportunities to target a wide range of species, both inshore and offshore. As the waters warm up, tarpon become a primary target for anglers seeking the ultimate sportfishing challenge. These powerful silver kings are known for their acrobatic leaps and blistering runs, making them a favorite among anglers looking for an adrenaline rush. In addition to tarpon, anglers can also target species such as snook, redfish, and seatrout in the island's shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and tidal creeks. Whether fishing from a boat, kayak, or the shoreline, summer fishing on Sanibel Island offers anglers plenty of opportunities for excitement and adventure.

Fall brings cooler temperatures and changing fishing patterns to Sanibel Island, signaling the transition to a new season of angling opportunities. As baitfish schools begin to migrate southward along the island's coastlines, predatory species like snook and redfish follow suit, providing anglers with ample opportunities for exciting catches. Additionally, fall marks the beginning of the annual mullet run, when vast schools of mullet migrate along the beaches and inshore waters, attracting hungry predators such as tarpon, sharks, and jacks. With the island's renowned flats, mangrove-lined shorelines, and productive nearshore reefs, fall fishing on Sanibel Island offers anglers a chance to enjoy the bounty of the sea in a picturesque island setting.

What types of fishing are popular in Sanibel Island?

Fishing enthusiasts visiting Sanibel Island have a wealth of options when it comes to angling techniques, each offering its own unique experience and opportunities to reel in a variety of prized catches. One popular method is surf fishing, where anglers cast their lines from the sandy shores into the Gulf of Mexico. Surf fishing on Sanibel Island can yield a diverse range of species, including pompano, snook, whiting, and even the occasional tarpon. Anglers often use bait rigs, lures, or live bait such as shrimp or sand fleas to entice fish in the surf zone. With the rhythmic sounds of the waves in the background and the possibility of landing a trophy fish, surf fishing offers a peaceful and exciting angling experience.

Kayak fishing is another favored technique among anglers exploring the waters around Sanibel Island. Kayaks provide anglers with access to shallow flats, mangrove-lined channels, and secluded backwaters where larger boats cannot reach. This stealthy approach allows anglers to sneak up on wary fish like redfish, snook, and trout without spooking them. Anglers can use a variety of artificial lures or live bait to target their desired species, enjoying the tranquility of paddling through the island's scenic waterways while keeping an eye out for feeding fish. Kayak fishing on Sanibel Island offers a thrilling and immersive way to connect with nature while pursuing your passion for angling.

For those seeking a more traditional fishing experience, Sanibel Island also offers opportunities for pier and bridge fishing. Several fishing piers and bridges dot the island's coastline, providing anglers with convenient access to deeper water and a chance to catch species like snook, tarpon, and sheepshead. Anglers can use a variety of bait and tackle setups, including live bait, cut bait, or artificial lures, to target these fish from the comfort of a stable fishing platform. Pier and bridge fishing on Sanibel Island offer a relaxed and sociable atmosphere, with the possibility of landing a variety of fish species while enjoying the scenic views of the Gulf waters.

What species are popular in Sanibel Island?

Sanibel Island, nestled off the coast of southwestern Florida, offers anglers an abundance of fishing opportunities with a diverse range of species to target. One of the most sought-after species in the waters surrounding Sanibel Island is the snook. These prized gamefish are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, making them a thrilling catch for anglers of all skill levels. Snook can be found year-round in the island's estuaries, mangrove shorelines, and tidal creeks, with prime fishing spots including Blind Pass, Tarpon Bay, and Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

Another popular species to target in Sanibel Island's waters is the tarpon. Known as the "silver king," tarpon are highly prized for their acrobatic leaps and incredible fighting ability. These majestic fish can be found in the island's shallow flats, passes, and along the beaches, particularly during the summer months when they migrate along the coast. Anglers often target tarpon using live bait such as mullet or crabs, as well as artificial lures like swimbaits and topwater plugs, for an exhilarating fishing experience.

Sanibel Island is also home to a variety of other species that offer exciting angling opportunities, including redfish, seatrout, and mangrove snapper. Redfish, also known as red drum, are prized for their brute strength and hard-fighting nature, often found in the island's backcountry flats and mangrove-lined channels. Seatrout, on the other hand, are abundant in the island's shallow grass flats and sandy bottoms, providing anglers with plenty of action on light tackle. Additionally, mangrove snapper can be found around the island's mangrove roots and oyster bars, offering a tasty and rewarding catch for those exploring Sanibel Island's diverse fishing grounds.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    James is as good as it gets.

    Tom D. | June 17, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    My wife and I had a great day on the water with James. He was personable and informative (marine science degree I believe).He obviously knows his way around the Ft Myers waters. Put us on snook, redfish, trout, and even some grouper and mackerel. He even got my wife to fish and we got to watch her fight a big red. Love his preference to catch and release.Highly recommend. Tons of fun. Thanks James

    Glenn K. | June 3, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great guide and person. Fishing was great will be back again someday.

    Nathan G. | May 6, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Dan was awesome and we had a great time!!! Highly recommend using Dan, well worth the money we paid and more!!

    Kyle L. | May 2, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers / Sanibel Inshore Action

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. James’ excellent customer care and service was only exceeded by his fishing and boating knowledge. We felt safe and well cared for on a two day trip where both days exceeded our expectations! We experienced great numbers of fish caught, which was exactly what we asked him to provide us! Kudos to a genuinely nice young man who damn sure knows how to help you catch fish and have fun! Good boat and equipment as well. 5 stars easy!

    Patrick M. | April 16, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    James was excellent. Very knowledgeable and personable. Put us on fish all morning. I would highly recommended him.

    Mike S. | April 7, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain James was amazing. He was very helpful and patient with my kids. Robbie

    Robert G. | April 6, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    James was a great captain! He and his first mate were great with our kids and super helpful with always keeping bait on and casts in the best spots. He was very knowledgeable about the area, the different types of fish and how to spot the right areas. We would highly recommend taking a day trip with James.

    Erica L. | March 29, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain James is an outstanding guide. He is knowledgable and professional. He is passionate about fishing and conservation. He had us catching fish and showed us an abundance of wildlife. A highly competent Captain (and crew). Thanks Joe. 10/10 we will be booking again!

    Karen L. | March 27, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    If I could give six stars I would. I probably couldn’t have asked for a better first time experience saltwater fishing. James is clearly passionate about the waters and his knowledge was shown with every question we had answered. James was beyond patient, professional, and cares about his clients’ time. James knew where the action was and put us on some fish. I had an excellent time catching multiple species. Overall, my buddy and I felt welcomed and enjoyed hanging out with James and his mate Joe. Solid dudes. Would recommend booking and I will book again when I’m back in the area. Future charters have some big shoes to fill!

    Sky I. | March 17, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain James really worked hard for us today. What a friendly guy. Thanks James .

    Robin D. | February 15, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Choosing James to captain our one available day for fishing in Florida was the best choice we made. Very clean boat, and James is very knowledgeable both on fishing and the local scene. We very much enjoyed hanging out with James and catching more fish than we could carry back. Excellent tunes too! Will definitely be hiring James again and recommending to my friends.

    Joe I. | January 23, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    The trip was everything advertised. Even though James is young, his Fishing knowledge and skills are beyond his years. We had a special request for a target species and he made it happen. A real pleasure.

    David H. | January 9, 2024

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    James did a great job, confirming the trip and getting back to me right away with any question. Amazing experience! Went above and beyond to get us on the fish. Highly recommend! Very pleasant and motivated young man! Great Captain…

    Richard H. | October 21, 2023

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Very good captain! Super friendly and knowledgeable.

    Greg D. | October 10, 2023

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Our trip today was great all the way. We met captain James, on time, at the marina and we were off. We got lucky and the weather was great, water was calm and the fish were biting. Although they were small, we caught a bunch and had a great time. Captain James was very nice, helpful and knew his job well. He got us to the right spots, next time, they will be bigger . we will go again to be sure.

    Stephen Z. | September 14, 2023

    Trip: Fort Myers/Sanibel Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Inland fishing was fun and we got quite a few fish

    Kerri S. | July 14, 2023

    Trip: Inshore Fishing Charter

Top Fishing Techniques in Sanibel Island

Top Types of Fishing in Sanibel Island

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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:

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