Unforgettable Fishing Experiences: Why Anglers Keep Returning to Florida’s Paradise Coast

Florida’s Paradise Coast has long been a premier destination for anglers seeking adventure and variety on the water. Known for its diverse ecosystems, abundant marine life, year-round warm weather, and easy access to waterways, this region offers fishing experiences that appeal to everyone—from seasoned pros to families casting their first line.

Whether you’re fly fishing for tarpon or freshwater fishing for largemouth bass, Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades invites anglers to immerse themselves in both the thrill of the catch and the rich history of the area. In this article, we’ve gathered stories from local fishermen as they share their unforgettable experiences on the water, highlighting why Florida’s Paradise Coast continues to be a must-visit destination for anglers worldwide.

A FISHING LEGACY

 The fishing legacy of Florida’s Paradise Coast is deeply intertwined with the history of Everglades City and Chokoloskee Island. Jon Brett, a lifelong angler, captures this sentiment perfectly: “My dad brought me down here for my tenth birthday, and it was one of the most magical experiences I ever had as a kid.” This tradition of fishing has been passed down through generations, with families returning to these waters year after year.

The Everglades Rod & Gun Club, dating back to the 1870s, has been a key part of this legacy, serving as a gathering place for outdoor enthusiasts, U.S. presidents, and celebrities like Ernest Hemingway and John Wayne. As Brett states, “I can only imagine the conversations over time that were had here…”. The club’s founder, George Washington Storter Jr., initially recognized the potential of the Everglades for fishermen and expanded it into a destination for sportsmen.

Barron Gift Collier, the founder of Collier County, later acquired the property, turning it into a private retreat for his wealthy and influential friends. Today, the Rod & Gun Club remains a symbol of Old Florida, preserving the charm and history that have captivated anglers for over a century. As Captain Connor McNichols says, "Everglades City and Chokoloskee is the only thing that’s remained unchanged my entire life."

ALL TYPES OF FISHING AND SPECIES

 Florida’s Paradise Coast is home to an exciting array of environments where both freshwater and saltwater species thrive. As Jon Brett summarizes, “From a fishing perspective, the Everglades has got something for everyone. Every level of fishing, every type of fishing.”

Fly fishing, in particular, is extremely popular, with the Everglades being hailed as one of the best fly-fishing destinations. “The Everglades is unique because it’s been protected, and there’s so much area to explore…that’s what’s been bringing people here for 150 years”, Brett concludes. Anglers can enjoy peaceful backcountry adventures or offshore thrills, depending on their preference.

One of the most unique aspects of fishing in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades is the impressive variety of fish species you can target. Common catches include snook, redfish, tarpon, and speckled trout, but the area is also home to sharks, cobia, and Goliath grouper. As Captain Connor McNichols reminds us, you can find “ladyfish and jacks and snooks and tarpon and permit and everything in between!”

THE THRILL OF THE CATCH

 The thrill of fishing in the Everglades is a heart-pounding experience, particularly when you're up against some of the most powerful fish in Florida's waters. Anglers often target tarpon, known as "Silver Kings," which can weigh between 80 to 150 pounds in this region. Jon Brett describes the excitement of this feeling: "There’s nothing like watching a 100-lb dinosaur rolling around." Tarpon are famous for their strength and acrobatics, frequently leaping out of the water when hooked, creating a truly epic battle.

Fishing on Florida’s Paradise Coast isn’t just about the catch but also the stories and the adrenaline rush that come with each trip. Whether you land your trophy fish or witness one break free, every outing is packed with the unexpected; as Brett explains: "If we didn’t get our hands on any, that’s totally fine…that’s what dinosaurs do, they break gear." No matter how many fish you catch on your day spent on the water, Captain Connor McNichols emphasizes this: “You don’t leave this place at any age without something to remember."

CENTURIES OF STORIES

Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades offers a fishing experience that captivates anglers year after year—and has continued to do so for decades. As Jon Brett says, “This isn’t anything new, right? The Everglades has been a destination for anglers and sportsmen for the past hundred years.” The pristine waters, diverse ecosystems, and awe-inspiring wildlife create an environment where every fishing trip becomes a story worth telling. Trip Saunders adds, “It does kind of set the whole mindset when you get here…I’m here to make some stories. Something will happen that you’ll remember for a really long time.”

Whether it’s battling the mighty tarpon or casting lines along peaceful backwaters, fishing in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades leaves a lasting impression. After all, for a fishing adventure that’s truly unforgettable, Only Paradise will do.