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Naples Fishing Charters

Naples fishing charters give anglers easy access to inshore bays, Gulf wrecks, and deep offshore ledges for snook, tarpon, grouper, and pelagic species year-round.

Top Rated Charters in Naples

TrustedFish connects anglers with proven local captains in Naples, Fllorida —no commissions, no pay-to-play listings, no BS. Every charter on our platform is invite-only, vetted for skill, local knowledge, and reputation. If they’re listed, they’ve earned it.

Naples, FL Fishing Guide

Naples fishing charters are built around two solid options: productive backwater trips in the Ten Thousand Islands system to the south, and offshore Gulf runs out of Gordon Pass. Most captains here offer half-day and 3/4-day trips, with full-day options common for deep wrecks or targeted species like permit and amberjack. Inshore and nearshore routes often overlap, depending on tide, weather, and what’s chewing.

The inshore scene starts in places like Rookery Bay, Keewaydin Island, and Henderson Creek. These waters are lined with oyster bars, mangrove edges, and shallow flats that fish best on moving water. Snook stack up in the mangrove pockets and tidal creeks—especially spring through early fall. Redfish and trout are regulars on the open flats, and juvenile tarpon cruise the back bays and lagoons when the water warms. Most inshore Naples fishing is done with live shrimp, whitebait, or cut ladyfish. Soft plastics and topwaters get plenty of attention early mornings, especially when water clarity is good.

A big advantage in Naples is the short run to nearshore structure. You’ve got dozens of artificial reefs, natural ledges, and wrecks within 3 to 10 miles. These hold sheepshead, snapper, Spanish mackerel, and cobia. In spring, schools of permit show up on the wrecks—crabs or shrimp freelined with light leader will do the trick if you can get close without spooking them. Winter brings piles of sheepshead and mangrove snapper to these same spots, especially when water temps drop.

Deep sea fishing here means heading 20–40 miles out to fish bottom for red grouper, scamp, and porgies—or to chase pelagics like blackfin tuna and mahi when they’re running. Most offshore captains use cut squid or sardines on heavy tackle, and vertical jigging is catching on for grouper and amberjack. Some deep-drop trips hit 200+ feet, especially in summer when it’s calm enough to get out there safely.

The Gulf off Naples doesn’t have the steep drops of the Atlantic side, but it makes up for it with consistent structure and a long season. Knowing where the fish stage based on water temps and current flow is what separates the pros from the guesswork.

Fishing Seasons in Naples

Spring

Snook start staging along mangroves and passes, redfish push up shallow, and offshore action kicks in with steady bites from permit, cobia, and grouper. It’s a strong time for both live bait and artificials inshore, while the Gulf wrecks light up for full-day offshore runs.

Summer

Early mornings are best in the heat. Juvenile tarpon are active in the backcountry, snook move onto the beaches, and nearshore fishing stays solid for snapper, Spanish mackerel, and sharks. Offshore, it’s grouper season, with amberjack and some mahi showing up farther out.

Fall

Inshore waters cool down and the bite picks up again—great time for trout, snook, and redfish. Nearshore and offshore wrecks attract kingfish and cobia as they migrate. Fall also sees cleaner water and lighter winds, making it ideal for fly anglers and light tackle setups

Winter

Sheepshead pile onto nearshore structure, along with snapper and the occasional flounder. Inshore, redfish and trout remain active, especially on warm afternoons. Offshore charters target bottom fish like grouper and tilefish when weather allows long runs.

Gamefish in Naples

Naples Fishing FAQs

Naples offers both inshore and offshore charters, with half-day inshore trips and full-day deep sea runs out into the Gulf.

Most charters launch from the Naples City Dock or marinas near Gordon Pass, giving quick access to both the backwaters and Gulf.

Yes, but the species vary. Snook and tarpon dominate warmer months, while winter brings solid action for sheepshead, snapper, and trout.

Deep sea trips typically run 20 to 40 miles out, targeting grouper, amberjack, and pelagics depending on the season.

Yes, most licensed captains include the fishing license for all passengers on the charter.

Spring and fall are ideal, with active redfish, snook, and trout. Summer offers good early morning bites and tarpon.

Yes, as long as the fish meet state size and bag limits. Most captains will clean and bag your catch at the dock.

Bring sun protection, polarized sunglasses, snacks, drinks, and a camera. Tackle, bait, and licenses are usually provided

Absolutely. Many inshore charters cater to families and kids, offering calm water trips and steady action close to shore.