Southwest Florida November Saltwater Fishing Forecast

November is an exciting time for saltwater fishing enthusiasts in Southwest Florida. The waters from Ft. Myers to Naples, Punta Gorda, and Englewood are teeming with a variety of fish species. Whether you're targeting Snook, Redfish, or Grouper, November offers unique opportunities for memorable fishing adventures. Here's what you can expect this month.

INSHORE FISHING TARGETS

The inshore waters of Southwest Florida are thriving with activity this November. Snook and Redfish are particularly abundant. Anglers can find Snook around rock piles and reefs nearshore, where they are feeding aggressively on baitfish like threadfin herring. Redfish are schooling in the shallows, especially around mangroves and oyster bars. Using live baits such as shrimp or small crabs is effective for both species. If you're looking for a trophy Redfish, now is the time to target the backcountry areas before winter tides lower the water levels.

NEARSHORE AND OFFSHORE PURSUITS

For those venturing nearshore, November is excellent for catching King Mackerel and Spanish Mackerel. These species are often found around schools of baitfish, with the best action typically occurring around passes and inlets. Offshore, the Grouper bite is heating up, particularly for Gag Grouper, which are moving to shallower ledges. Anglers targeting Grouper can expect great results with cut baits or live shrimp. The offshore scene also presents opportunities to hook into larger pelagic species, including Wahoo and Blackfin Tuna, especially as cooler water temperatures drive these fish closer to shore.

FISHING TIPS FOR NOVEMBER SUCCESS

1. Timing the Tides: Fishing around the top half of the incoming and outgoing tides can increase your chances of success, especially when targeting Redfish and Snook.

2. Bait Selection: Live baits such as shrimp, small crabs, and pilchards are highly effective. For artificial lures, consider using soft plastics or topwater plugs around mangroves and oyster bars.

3. Location Strategies: For Redfish, focus on areas around mangrove roots and deeper pockets near mangroves during lower tides. For Snook, look around nearshore rock piles and reefs, using fresh bait for the best results.

4. Weather Considerations: Cooler weather following the first cold front will invigorate the bite, making both inshore and offshore fishing more productive.

PLAN YOUR FISHING TRIP

Don't miss out on the chance to experience the best fishing Southwest Florida has to offer this November. Visit our Southwest regional page for details on accommodations, side excursions, adventures, and charters. Explore specific pursuits pages for Snook, Redfish, Grouper, and other species to get expert tips and plan your next fishing trip. Tight lines!