SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FISHING FORECASTS
Southwest Florida offers some of the best saltwater fishing opportunities, perfect for anglers seeking unforgettable adventures. From the famed tarpon runs at Boca Grande, known as the "Tarpon Capital of the World," to the serene backwaters of Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, there’s something for everyone. Explore the mangrove-laden waters of Naples and Marco Island or target species like snook and redfish in the tranquil Sarasota Bay. With its diverse marine habitats, Southwest Florida promises incredible inshore and offshore experiences for both seasoned and novice anglers.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FISHING FORECASTS
Please keep in mind the migratory patterns of fish along with near shore and offshore currents. Search nearby locations for a full picture on forecasts for the area you're looking to fish.
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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FISHING MONTH-BY-MONTH FORECASTS
JANUARY SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST
As winter casts its mild touch over Southwest Florida, the cooler water temperatures bring redfish and spotted sea trout into the shallows. Anglers can find redfish tailing on shallow grass flats or nestled in potholes and around docks during low tides. Sunny afternoons during high tides present ideal conditions for targeting trout, blues, Spanish mackerel, and pompano on deeper grass flats. The tranquil backwaters of Naples and Marco Island provide serene settings for these pursuits.
FEBRUARY SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST
February's frequent fronts and cooler waters can pose challenges, but for the strategic angler, opportunities abound. Combining favorable tides with optimal weather conditions increases the chances of success. Shallow waters continue to harbor trout and redfish, while deeper grass flats become hunting grounds for blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano, and flounder. Exploring the mangrove-lined estuaries around Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte can yield rewarding catches.
MARCH SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST
With the arrival of spring, baitfish become more plentiful, invigorating the predatory species. Reds, trout, and snook become more active in the warming shallows. The coastal gulf teems with Spanish and king mackerel, cobia, tripletail, and false albacore (little tunny). Nighttime snook fishing in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) offers an exhilarating experience under the stars.
APRIL SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST
pril heralds the start of the majestic tarpon migration, one of nature's most spectacular events for anglers. Boca Grande Pass becomes a focal point, attracting thousands of tarpon as they gather to spawn. This period offers unparalleled opportunities to battle the "Silver King." Additionally, snook, redfish, and trout thrive on warm, shallow flats, while Spanish mackerel, blues, and pompano populate passes and deep grass flats.
MAY SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST
The coastal gulf comes alive in May, with tarpon, Spanish mackerel, tripletail, cobia, and false albacore patrolling the beaches. Snook transition to the passes and surf, providing thrilling inshore action. Redfish and trout remain abundant on the flats, making this a versatile month for anglers seeking diverse catches.
JUNE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST
June is a prime month for saltwater fishing in Southwest Florida, with an abundance of exciting opportunities for anglers targeting various species. Here’s an authoritative forecast highlighting the top species and locations:
Top Species to Target
Tarpon: June is renowned for the peak of tarpon migration along the beaches of Southwest Florida. These "silver kings" can be found in large schools, particularly early in the morning along the coastlines of counties such as Lee, Charlotte, and Collier. The best spots include areas around the Caloosahatchee River, Sanibel Causeway, and off the beaches of Captiva and Cayo Costa.
Cobia: Look for cobia near navigational markers, buoys, and sometimes swimming alongside tarpon. Cobia can also be found cruising the bars in shallow water along the beaches. Popular methods include using live baits or artificial lures.
Tripletail: These fish are often found around crab trap buoys and other floating debris. Target them with live shrimp or artificial lures near structures in the coastal gulf waters.
False Albacore (Little Tunny): Known for their speed and strength, these fish can be seen feeding on the surface, often indicated by diving birds and breaking fish. Look for them along the coast and use medium spinning tackle or 8 to 9-weight fly tackle for best results.
Popular Locations
Punta Gorda & Port Charlotte: These areas offer excellent access to both inshore and nearshore fishing. Tarpon are particularly plentiful here, especially near Boca Grande Pass.
Boca Grande: Famous for its tarpon fishing, it is one of the best spots in the world to hook into a big one. Naples & Marco Island: These locations provide great opportunities for a variety of species including tarpon, cobia, and tripletail.
Sarasota & Bradenton: Coastal areas here are hot spots for tarpon and false albacore, with additional opportunities to catch snook and redfish inshore.
Fort Myers: Offers a mix of inshore and offshore fishing, with excellent chances to catch tarpon, cobia, and tripletail.
June’s fishing in Southwest Florida is truly diverse and rewarding. Anglers should take advantage of the favorable weather and the peak migration patterns of these top species to make the most of their fishing adventures.
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JULY SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST
July in Southwest Florida offers fantastic opportunities for saltwater fishing, with an array of species available both inshore and offshore. This month's forecast highlights the prime locations, target species, and best practices for a successful fishing experience.
Target Species Listing:
Snook: Found along beaches, near passes, and in back bays.
Redfish: Active in shallow waters and around local passes.
Spotted Seatrout: Abundant in grass flats from Boca Grande down.
Tarpon: Seen rolling and free-jumping nearshore.
Permit: Nearshore and around wrecks.
Cobia: Often found near wrecks and structure.
Mangrove Snapper: Available offshore.
Mutton Snapper: Found offshore.
Spanish Mackerel: Seen nearshore.
Best Locations:
Boca Grande: Excellent for trout and tarpon.
Fort Myers Beach: Snook and redfish hotspots.
Sanibel and Captiva Islands: Ideal for snook, especially during their spawn.
Local Passes and Inlets: Redfish and snook.
Nearshore Reefs and Wrecks: Target permit, cobia, and various snapper species.
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AUGUST SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST
In August, tarpon will move into estuaries and there may also be juvenile tarpon in creeks, canals, and turning basins. Reds are expected to school on shallow flats, and big trout will be in the same waters at dawn. Trout can also be found on deep grass flats with blues, pompano, Spanish mackerel and more.
SEPTEMBER SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST: REDFISH MADNESS
Hotspots: Pine Island Sound, Sanibel, Cape Coral
Key Species: Redfish, Snook, Seatrout
As the weather begins to cool, redfish start to school in big numbers around Pine Island Sound and Sanibel. This is the month for sight casting to large groups of fish tailing on the flats. Snook action remains consistent in Cape Coral’s canals, where you can work lures and live bait for big fish lurking in the shadows.
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OCTOBER SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST: COOLING WATERS, HOT FISHING
Hotspots: Ten Thousand Islands, Gasparilla Pass, Cape Romano
Key Species: Snook, Redfish, Tarpon
October cools the waters and invigorates the fishing. Snook begin their fall transition and can be found gorging themselves in the Ten Thousand Islands. Redfish are still schooling around Gasparilla Pass, and tarpon continue to surprise with late-season catches near Cape Romano.
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NOVEMBER SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST: A REDFISH AND SNOOK PARADISE
November in Southwest Florida means cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and a renewed abundance of marine life as the Gulf of Mexico and coastal waters come alive. Anglers looking for an adventure should look no further—the Southwest Florida region provides some of the best opportunities to hook a variety of game fish, all while enjoying the spectacular weather and breathtaking coastal views. From Boca Grande to Naples, the thrill of the catch awaits you, whether you’re chasing Snook along the mangroves, bottom-fishing for Grouper, or looking to net a few Redfish under the clear, calm waters. Below are some of the prime locations and species to target for your November saltwater fishing trip in Southwest Florida.
NAPLES: SNAPPER, GROUPER & MORE
The waters off Naples provide a wide range of angling opportunities this November. Offshore reefs and wrecks are teeming with Snapper and Grouper—both Red and Gag Grouper are hot targets for bottom fishers. Closer to shore, look for Mangrove Snapper around the channels and structures. The beautiful coastlines and access to nearby fishing grounds make Naples a prime spot for chartering a boat and enjoying a day at sea.
MARCO ISLAND: REDFISH AND SEA TROUT
Marco Island offers excellent opportunities for those seeking inshore fishing excitement. The shallow waters are perfect for targeting Redfish, which are especially active in the estuaries and around oyster bars. Spotted Sea Trout also flourish in these flats, providing plenty of opportunities for action. November’s cooler conditions make for an optimal time to get out on the water and experience the unique coastal charm of Marco Island.
BOCA GRANDE: TARPON AND SNOOK
Boca Grande is renowned for its legendary Tarpon runs, and while Tarpon season has wound down from the summer, there are still chances for an exciting hookup in the deeper passes. For November, Snook remains a primary target—these ambush predators can be found lurking around mangroves and bridge pilings, ready to strike. Anglers venturing into Gasparilla Sound and around the islands will be rewarded with some of the best Snook fishing of the year, with opportunities to find them both day and night.
ESTERO BAY: MANGROVE SNAPPER AND JACK CREVALLE
Estero Bay is a haven for Mangrove Snapper throughout the cooler months. Working the mangrove-lined shorelines and submerged structures will give anglers a good chance at finding these feisty fighters. Jack Crevalle are also highly active this time of year, putting up a strong fight and providing plenty of excitement for those looking to battle these aggressive fish. The rich ecosystems in Estero Bay make it a must-visit location for inshore fishing enthusiasts.
PINE ISLAND SOUND: SHEEPSHEAD AND BLACK DRUM
Pine Island Sound offers a more tranquil fishing experience while still providing opportunities for great catches. Sheepshead are abundant, and they love hanging around pilings and rock structures—their presence peaks in the late fall, making November a fantastic time to target them. Black Drum are also a popular target here, typically cruising along the grass flats and oyster beds. Pine Island Sound’s calm waters and scenic surroundings create the perfect environment for a relaxing yet productive fishing day.
GET READY FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA FISHING TRIP
November is a fantastic time to explore the saltwater fishing opportunities in Southwest Florida. Whether you prefer the thrill of inshore fishing or the challenge of offshore waters, there are plenty of charter services available to make your trip truly unforgettable. Great Florida Fishing partners with local guides who know these waters like the back of their hands, ensuring you have the best chance at a successful and exciting fishing experience.
Explore more content on Great Florida Fishing for insider tips on where to fish, when to fish, and the best local charters to get you on the fish. Book your fishing excursion today and discover why Florida truly is an angler's paradise!
DECEMBER SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SALTWATER FORECAST: CALM WATERS, BIG REWARDS
Hotspots: Pine Island Sound, Gasparilla Sound, Ten Thousand Islands Key
Species: Redfish, Sheepshead, Black Drum
December brings calm waters and excellent fishing for redfish and sheepshead around Pine Island Sound and Gasparilla Sound. Black drum also make an appearance, providing a great opportunity for those targeting inshore species with live shrimp and crabs. The cooler water means fewer crowds and plenty of hungry fish in the backwaters of the Ten Thousand Islands.
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