Damn Good River Fishing Charters In The Ten Thousand Islands

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Recently Booked River Fishing Charters In The Ten Thousand Islands

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River Fishing in Everglades City

Everglades Inshore/Back Water

NEW
22 ft 1 - 3 People From $600
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Everglades 10,000 Islands

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $600

Top Species for River Fishing in the Ten Thousand Islands

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Other Captain Experiences Trips in the Ten Thousand Islands

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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Inshore, Jetty Fishing in Naples

Hook 'em For Dinner

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24 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
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Beginners Welcome - Fishing 101

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24 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
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I'll Be Your Capt'n

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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
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Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Homestead

Fish Trips Everglades National Park

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Red Hot! 🔥 Let's Go Fishing!

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19 ft 1 - 12 People From $400
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4-8 Hours Trip

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17 ft 1 - 2 People From $500
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Inshore, Flats Fishing in Everglades City

Everglades Action

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23 ft 1 - 4 People From $750
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Ten Thousand Islands Like A Local

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22 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
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Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Marco Island

Ten Thousand Islands Inshore

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24 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 Marco Island

3 - 4 Hour Inshore Fishing

95% (20)
25 ft 1 - 12 People From $475
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Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Ochopee

Half Day - Ten Thousand Islands

100% (2)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
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 Marco Island

Morning 2, 4, Or 8 Hour Inshore

100% (3)
18 ft 1 - 8 People From $400

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Everything to Know About Booking a Ten Thousand Islands river fishing charter

What are the best river fishing charters in the Ten Thousand Islands?

The best river fishing charters in the Ten Thousand Islands are:

What is river fishing in Ten Thousand Islands all about?

River fishing in the Ten Thousand Islands, located in southwestern Florida, provides anglers with a unique and rewarding experience amidst a labyrinth of mangroves, tidal creeks, and estuarine waters. This vast network of islands and waterways is part of the larger Everglades ecosystem and offers an array of fishing opportunities in its diverse habitats. The shallow waters and intricate channels of the Ten Thousand Islands are ideal for both novice and experienced anglers seeking to explore this picturesque and ecologically rich region.

One of the main draws of fishing in the Ten Thousand Islands is the opportunity to target species like snook, redfish, and spotted seatrout. These fish are commonly found in the mangrove-lined creeks, oyster bars, and seagrass beds that characterize the area. Anglers often use light tackle and a mix of live bait such as shrimp and pinfish, or artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs, to attract these species. The combination of shallow water and abundant cover provides exciting and challenging fishing conditions as anglers navigate through the maze of islands and channels.

Additionally, the Ten Thousand Islands are known for their seasonal migrations of tarpon, which add to the excitement for anglers during certain times of the year. Tarpon, with their impressive size and acrobatic leaps, can be found in deeper channels and around creek mouths, where they are targeted using live bait such as crabs or mullet, as well as large artificial lures. The area’s remote and scenic setting, combined with the opportunity to catch a variety of species, makes river fishing in the Ten Thousand Islands a memorable and fulfilling experience for those who venture into this unique and pristine environment.

What are the most popular months to go river fishing in Ten Thousand Islands?

Fishing in the Ten Thousand Islands region of Florida, known for its complex network of mangroves, estuaries, and tidal creeks, offers a variety of seasonal opportunities that cater to different species and angling techniques. In the spring, the warming waters signal the start of an active fishing season. Species such as snook, redfish (red drum), and speckled trout become more active and are found in the shallows and around mangrove edges. Anglers often use live bait such as shrimp or pilchards, or artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs to attract these fish. The spring season also marks the beginning of the tarpon migration, with these powerful fish making their way into the area and providing exciting opportunities for anglers.

Summer in the Ten Thousand Islands brings warmer temperatures and a surge in fishing activity. The mangroves and estuarine waters become bustling with activity, as species like snook, redfish, and trout continue to thrive. The summer months are particularly good for targeting tarpon, which are often found in the deeper channels and around the passes. Anglers use larger live baits like mullet or artificial lures to entice tarpon. Additionally, summer is a prime time for catching species such as Spanish mackerel and cobia, which can be found near the edges of the islands and in the open waters of the Gulf.

Fall in the Ten Thousand Islands offers excellent fishing conditions as the temperatures begin to cool down. This season is ideal for targeting redfish and speckled trout, which become more active and are found in larger numbers. The cooler weather also brings more stability to the fishing conditions, making it easier to predict where fish will be feeding. Flounder fishing picks up during the fall as these fish move into the estuarine areas in preparation for winter. Anglers often use live bait or jigging techniques near sandy bottoms and channels to catch flounder. Overall, fall provides a rewarding fishing experience with a mix of species and more comfortable fishing conditions.

What techniques are popular for river fishing in Ten Thousand Islands?

The Ten Thousand Islands region, located in the southwestern part of Florida, is known for its diverse and productive fishing opportunities. One popular type of fishing in this area is targeting snook, a prized species known for its fighting ability and excellent flavor. Anglers often use live bait, such as pilchards or shrimp, along with artificial lures like jerk baits and soft plastics. Fishing around mangroves, oyster bars, and the mouths of tidal creeks can be particularly fruitful, as these areas provide important feeding and shelter zones for snook.

Another favored technique in the Ten Thousand Islands is catching redfish, also known as red drum. Anglers commonly use both live bait and artificial lures, such as spoons, soft plastics, and crankbaits. Casting near grass beds, mud flats, and mangrove shorelines, where redfish often hunt for food, can lead to successful catches. The region’s shallow waters and numerous channels create ideal conditions for sight fishing, where anglers can spot redfish cruising and cast directly to them.

For those seeking a more serene experience, fly fishing in the Ten Thousand Islands offers a unique and rewarding challenge. Anglers can use a variety of flies, such as clouser minnows and crab patterns, to target species like tarpon and bonefish. The clear, shallow waters of the region’s flats and mangrove-lined channels are perfect for spotting and casting to these elusive fish. Fly fishing in this picturesque environment allows for a close connection with nature and the thrill of targeting some of the area’s most sought-after species.

What species are popular for river fishing in Ten Thousand Islands?

Fishing in the Ten Thousand Islands region of Florida provides a diverse range of species for anglers to target. One of the standout species in this area is the Snook, known for its strong fight and elusive nature. Snook are often found around mangrove edges, oyster bars, and deep channels within the islands. Anglers use live bait such as pilchards or pinfish, and artificial lures like jerk baits and topwater plugs to attract these fish. The best times to fish for Snook are typically during the warmer months when they are more active and feeding aggressively.

Another popular species in the Ten Thousand Islands is the Redfish, or Red Drum. These fish are prized for their powerful runs and distinctive copper-bronze color with black spots. Redfish are commonly found in the shallow flats and around mangrove roots. They respond well to live baits such as shrimp and crabs, as well as artificial lures like soft plastics and spoons. The Redfish bite is often strong in the warmer months, especially during the summer and early fall.

The Ten Thousand Islands also offer opportunities to catch the Spotted Seatrout, a favorite among local anglers. These fish are known for their aggressive strikes and delicious taste. Spotted Seatrout are typically found in the grassy flats and deeper channels of the region. Anglers commonly use live bait such as small shrimp or minnows, and various artificial lures including jigs and soft plastics. Fishing for Spotted Seatrout can be particularly productive during the cooler months, when they move into the shallower waters of the bay and estuaries.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Mike was a great Captain for us. We had a tougher day due to some wind and colder temps but Mike kept us moving to new spots and got us on a variety of fish in the back country. He was extremely professional, very knowledgeable about local history, flora and fauna which made for great conversation between catches. I would book him again in a heartbeat. Great time in the Everglades for my 14 yr old and I. Thanks, Mike!

    Jeremy K. | March 22, 2025

    Trip: Everglades 10,000 Islands

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