A Beginner’s Guide To Fishing On Florida’s Paradise Coast

Welcome to Florida's Paradise Coast, where fishing dreams come true for everyone from first-time fishers to experienced anglers. This region, encompassing Naples, Marco Island, and the northernmost section of the Everglades, is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of offshore fishing, the tranquility of backcountry adventures, or the charm of freshwater fishing, you'll find it all here.

One of the main attractions of fishing in Paradise is the diversity of species you can catch in a single trip. From the elusive snook and the mighty tarpon to the plentiful redfish and speckled trout, the waters here offer a rich bounty. In this guide, we'll review the top fishing spots, the best times to wet a line, and the most effective methods to make the most of your fishing trip in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades.

TOP FISHING SPOTS IN NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND AND THE EVERGLADES

Let’s begin with a few of the most popular fishing spots on Florida’s Paradise Coast. Please be aware that the iconic Naples Pier is currently under construction following Hurricane Ian, so fishing activities from the pier are temporarily paused. Stay tuned for updates so you can cast a line as soon as the pier is beautifully restored!

THE TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS

Discover the ultimate angler’s paradise fishing the Ten Thousand Islands on Florida’s Paradise Coast! Whether you prefer powerboating, kayaking, fly, or light tackle fishing, this 35,000-acre haven offers an unparalleled fishing adventure. Just a short trip from Naples, these lush mangroves and serene waters are teeming with prized catches like bass, tarpon, redfish, trout, snook, grouper, and snapper, making it a top destination for fishing enthusiasts. Two popular spots to access the Ten Thousand Islands are in Goodland and at the Port of the Islands Resort.

ROOKERY BAY

Located at the southern tip of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands, Rookery Bay is a prime fishing spot in Southwestern Florida. Anglers can catch redfish, snook, tarpon, and grey snapper in this beautiful natural preserve. Thanks to its diverse wildlife and protected status, you can also take advantage of other opportunities here, like birdwatching, kayaking, or checking out the Environmental Learning Center.

CHOKOLOSKEE BAY

Chokoloskee Bay, approximately 10 miles long and 2 miles wide, sits between the Ten Thousand Islands and Big Cypress Wildlife Preserve, accessible via Everglades City. Anglers flock here for its range of fish species, including redfish, gag grouper, snook, and tarpon. Practice jigging, spinning, fly fishing, and bait casting on an island that was first inhabited by Native Americans over 2,000 years ago.

THE BEST TIME OF YEAR FOR FISHING ON FLORIDA’S PARADISE COAST

The best time to go fishing in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades is technically year-round! However, the answer for each angler will change depending on the fish species you're aiming to catch and the weather during your visit. In the summertime, you can go after species like tarpon, permit, redfish, sharks, and sea trout.

Meanwhile, fishing conditions remain favorable during the cooler months, and you can target a fresh array of species. For example, snapper, crappie, and flounder can be found in higher numbers during this time. Take advantage of the cooler weather and enjoy a more comfortable fishing experience. Whether you prefer backcountry, offshore, or freshwater fishing, this is the perfect time to explore all your options.

Snook fishing is an exhilarating challenge you won't want to miss on your trip! Known for their elusive nature, snook are a prized catch, with a bag limit of just one fish per person per day. And remember, you can't buy or sell these beauties—if you crave the taste of snook, you'll have to reel one in yourself! Prime snook fishing season is from March to April and in October, while the season is closed from December to February and May to September.

Overall, the variety of fishing seasons on Florida's Paradise Coast ensures that anglers can enjoy targeting a wide range of species throughout the year, making it a premier fishing destination.

BEST WAYS TO GO FISHING IN NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND AND THE EVERGLADES

CHARTER FISHING

Charter fishing on Florida’s Paradise Coast is a more expensive option; however, it offers various advantages. Companies like Dalis Fishing Charters and A & B Charters in Naples provide a range of trips, from half-day near-coastal excursions to full-day deep-sea adventures.

Both beginners and advanced anglers can benefit from the expertise of experienced captains, especially if they're hoping to catch a specific species. Best of all, you don't need a fishing license when you're with a professional guide on their boat, making charter fishing a convenient option to cover more ground and catch a more extensive variety of fish.

KAYAK FISHING

For an exceptional kayak fishing adventure on Florida's Paradise Coast, book a Yak Attack trip with Everglades Area Tours. You'll be transported into the heart of the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands with your kayak and gear, reaching prime spots for snook, redfish, and tarpon fishing.

Of course, one thing to consider when kayak fishing is that you’ll need to be able to maneuver your kayak, hold it into position, and cast and reel in fish all from your watercraft. As a result, it can be a little tricky for first-timers! Additionally, remember that even with a guide, you’ll need your own fishing license to go kayak fishing.

SHORE FISHING

Shore fishing on Florida's Paradise Coast is the most affordable way to enjoy the region's rich fishing opportunities. Anglers can cast their lines from white sand beaches and piers, catching species like snook, redfish, tarpon, and flounder. This budget-friendly option allows for excellent fishing without the need for a boat or expensive gear. On Marco Island, for example, try shore fishing at South Beach Access and Tigertail Beach.

From Naples to Marco Island and Everglades City, the fishing opportunities here are both abundant and rewarding. For a legendary fishing trip, Only Paradise will do.