Goodland fishing charters work the Ten Thousand Islands’ tidal passes, backcountry creeks, and nearshore Gulf waters for snook, redfish, tarpon, and seasonal grouper and snapper.
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Goodland sits at the southern tip of Marco Island, right where the Gulf of Mexico meets the tangled maze of the Ten Thousand Islands. This location gives captains quick access to both sheltered backcountry fishing and open Gulf runs. Most charters here are small-boat operations running out of Goodland Boat Park or private docks, with half-day, full-day, and tide-specific trips common. Short runs put you into mangrove-lined creeks, oyster bars, and deep tidal cuts that hold snook, redfish, and sea trout year-round. Longer runs westward reach nearshore wrecks and reefs for grouper, snapper, mackerel, and cobia when the weather is right.
The fishery is tidal, with water movement dictating the bite. Spring and summer bring tarpon to the passes and beaches, while fall sees redfish pushing up onto the flats. Winter fishing focuses on deep holes and sun-warmed bays for snook and trout when cold fronts roll through. Live bait is the go-to for most captains — pilchards, shrimp, and pinfish — but plenty of guides also work artificials and flies for sight-fishing opportunities in clear water.
Goodland’s backcountry is a maze of narrow creeks and hidden bays, so local knowledge is key. The Gulf side offers hard-bottom reefs and wrecks, often within 10–15 miles, for quick nearshore trips. Some captains run mixed trips, starting with a morning of snook in the mangroves before heading out to chase snapper and mackerel in the Gulf. The nearby waters around Coon Key, Panther Key, and Indian Key are productive year-round and see less pressure than Marco’s busier beaches. Whether you’re looking to pole quietly for tailing redfish or drift over a wreck with heavy tackle, Goodland offers it all within a short boat ride.
Water temps rise and bait floods into the area. Snook push into the passes and along mangrove edges, while redfish feed aggressively on the flats. Tarpon start to show along Gulf beaches, especially on calm mornings. Nearshore reefs hold snapper, mackerel, and early cobia. Captains often mix light-tackle casting inshore with a short reef run if conditions allow.
The tarpon migration peaks, with fish rolling in the passes and staging off beaches at first light. Snook fishing is hot around passes, docks, and beaches, especially on incoming tides. Afternoon storms are common, so most trips run early mornings. Offshore and nearshore waters see good action for grouper, snapper, and permit when the Gulf is calm.
Redfish school up in the shallows and along oyster bars, feeding hard before winter. Snook are still active, though they start to shift deeper with cooler nights. Mackerel and cobia push inshore following bait. Nearshore structure is loaded with mangrove snapper, making for steady light-tackle action. The water is often clear, giving fly anglers great sight-fishing opportunities.
Cold fronts push fish into deeper holes, rivers, and protected bays. Trout bite well over grass flats, and sheepshead stack up around structure. Snook can still be caught on warm, sunny afternoons in the backcountry. Offshore trips target snapper, porgies, and occasional grouper when the seas settle. Live shrimp becomes the primary bait for most inshore work.
Most charters leave from Goodland Boat Park, though some captains use private docks. The park offers parking, ramps, and quick access to both the backcountry and the Gulf.
Half-day and full-day trips are most common. Half-days work well for inshore fishing, while full days allow for a mix of inshore and nearshore action.
No. Most Goodland fishing charters provide all rods, reels, bait, and tackle. If you prefer your own gear, let your captain know in advance.
When fishing with a licensed Goodland charter captain, your license is included. If fishing on your own, you’ll need to purchase a Florida saltwater license.
Spring and summer are prime for snook and tarpon, while fall offers excellent redfish action. Winter still produces trout, sheepshead, and snapper in sheltered areas
Live bait fishing is most common, but many captains use soft plastics, jigs, and flies depending on conditions and target species.
Yes. Many captains offer family-friendly charters with shorter runs and steady-action species like trout, snapper, and mackerel.
Nearshore waters produce snapper, grouper, mackerel, cobia, and permit, especially when the Gulf is calm and clear.
A few guides offer night trips for snook around bridges, docks, and lighted seawalls. These are best in warmer months.