Bonita Springs is located on the southern end of the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve. With miles of shoreline and mangrove forests, the bay is a prolific inshore fishery. Add easy access to several nearshore and offshore reefs, and you’ll begin to see why Bonita Springs fishing charters offer so much variety!
Estero Bay provides a year-round home for many exciting inshore species. The lush mangrove forests serve as a hatchery for Snook and hold a population of resident juvenile Tarpon. In addition to these, you’ll also hook into other inshore favorites such as Redfish, Sheepshead, Mangrove Snapper, Spotted Seatrout, Jack Crevalle, and more.
Inshore fishing, however, is just one part of what Bonita Springs has to offer. Stillwater enthusiasts will be pleased to know that you can fish for Peacock and Largemouth Bass if you explore the freshwater canals. These trips are a great option for windy days.
Those looking for more of a challenge may want to hit some of the nearshore reefs and wrecks. Along the reefs, you can find delicious Tripletail, Grouper, and Snapper, as well as tough-fighting Sharks, Barracuda, and Cobia.
Half day trips will allow anglers to get a great taste of the inshore waters. You’ll usually fish the Estero Bay or the brackish Imperial River, making these trips perfect for families or beginners. If you’re interested in fishing the deeper waters, setting aside a few extra hours will give you time to hit the M.A.Y. and GH reefs.
Rules & Regulations
If you’re fishing aboard a saltwater fishing charter, you won’t need a fishing license, but anglers above the age of 16 will need one when targeting freshwater species. Many species are heavily regulated, so make sure to get informed on the current regulations before setting out.