The Ultimate Itinerary For Anglers In Naples, Marco Island And The Everglades

Welcome to Florida's Paradise Coast, a prime destination for serious anglers. Thanks to our year-round warm weather, location along the Gulf, and easy access to waterways, you can find opportunities for all types of fishing here—no matter when you choose to visit.

Naples provides an ideal starting point for deep-sea excursions, while Marco Island is perfect for exploring the famous Ten Thousand Islands. Then, Everglades City offers a unique challenge for experienced anglers in its backcountry waters, where you can capture both freshwater and saltwater species. As you can see, we’ve got it all when it comes to fishing.

With this in mind, we’ll review the ultimate itinerary designed for dedicated anglers visiting our shores. We'll explore some of the best fishing spots, accommodations close to all the action, and where to eat along the way. Whether you're after grouper in the Gulf, snook in the mangroves, or bass in the backcountry, this guide will ensure a memorable and successful fishing expedition on Florida's Paradise Coast.

DAY 1: ARRIVE AND SETTLE IN

Fly into the Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and make the short drive into the Naples area. If you're traveling with family, let your partner and children relax and play in the comfort of our luxurious beachfront resorts while you hit the waters. Consider the Naples Grande Beach Resort or the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort for their ideal combination of resort amenities close to prime fishing locations.

Alternatively, for a trip with fellow anglers where the frills aren’t necessary, the Parkway Motel & Marina has direct access to the Gulf and a full-service marina and tackle shop on Chokoloskee Island. For the best of both worlds—upscale amenities and access to the water—consider Naples Bay Resort & Marina. It’s the only luxury waterfront resort in Southwest Florida to have a fully operational marina, with direct Gulf of America access and on-site boat rentals.

Once you’ve checked into the hotel of your choice, get into the fishing spirit with dinner at one of our beautiful waterfront restaurants. For example, check out The Dock At Crayton Cove, where you can dine dockside at a restaurant that has been a local favorite since 1976. Don’t miss their famous Key Lime Grouper, a dish that continues to delight customers year after year.

DAY 2: OFFSHORE FISHING IN NAPLES

Start your day at 7:00 AM on a custom sport fishing vessel with Dalis Fishing Charters. This private charter, leaving from the Naples City Dock, can accommodate up to six passengers. Advanced anglers can bring their own equipment and take advantage of the experienced captain's expertise to cover more ground and target specific catches.

Go after species like grouper, snapper, cobia, and kingfish in the deep Gulf waters. The 4.5-hour trip ensures plenty of fishing time, with all necessary licenses, bait, and tackle provided. Enjoy the comfort of a shaded cabin and onboard restroom, returning by 11:30 a.m. (if you choose the half-day option) with your catch expertly cleaned and filleted.

Now that your fish is fully prepared, why not take advantage of a nearby restaurant that will cook your catch for you? Make the four-minute drive to Riverwalk at Tin City, where they’ll cook your fish and provide you with a side of fries and beans or rice for a reasonable price.

Spend the rest of the day exploring local bait shops and preparing for the next fishing day ahead. We recommend ending your first full day on Florida’s Paradise Coast with dinner at the USS Nemo Restaurant.

DAY 3: CHARTER OR KAYAK FISHING IN THE TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS

On the third day of your fishing trip in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades, choose how you want to explore the famous Ten Thousand Islands: via a charter or kayak. If you decide on the former, note that many chartered fishing excursions launch from Port of the Islands Resort and Marina. For example, Captain Jim Fortman will take you through the backwaters of the Ten Thousand Islands, where you can catch redfish, snook, black drum, trout, shark, and tarpon. Choose between 4, 5, 7, or 9-hour guided fishing charters.

For those who prefer the latter, elevate your fishing trip with Everglades Area Tours and Chokoloskee Charters' Guided Kayak Fishing trips. These trips, especially the popular mother ship excursions aboard the Yak Attack, offer unparalleled access to remote fishing spots in the Everglades, Ten Thousand Islands, and Big Cypress Preserve. Instead of spending a large portion of your time paddling, you’ll be transported directly to fishing spots deeper into the parks.

For dinner back on shore, you can choose to cook your own catch again—this time on Marco Island at the landmark Snook Inn. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience after a day on the water, consider dining in downtown Naples. Don’t miss the chance to experience local institutions like The French Brasserie Rustique, Truluck's, D'Amico's The Continental, Osteria Tulia, or BHA! BHA! Persian Bistro. Spend your final evening on Florida’s Paradise Coast basking in the glow of your adventures, swapping fishing tales and celebrating the fantastic catches you've made.

With this itinerary, you're well-equipped to explore the best fishing spots in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades—all while enjoying top-tier amenities and local culinary specialties. For exceptional catches and memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime, Only Paradise will do.