Great Day on the Reef
December 05, 2023 Fort Myers Beach 4 photos
Snapper (Lane)
Snapper (Lane)
Triggerfish (Gray)
Triggerfish (Gray)
Snapper (Mangrove)
Snapper (Mangrove)
Amberjack
Amberjack
Scup (Porgy)
Scup (Porgy)

Trip Summary

**Title: "Reeling in the Good Times: A Day of Reef Fishing off Sanibel Island"** Are you ready for an exciting fishing adventure just a stone's throw away from Sanibel Island in sunny Florida? Well, look no further! We recently embarked on a memorable 3/4 day of reef fishing, and I'm here to give you all the juicy details. **The Journey Begins** The day started with the promise of adventure as we set sail on a quick 30-minute boat ride from Sanibel Island. Our destination? The bountiful reefs teeming with marine life that awaited us just below the surface. **A Slow Start** Our fishing expedition began with a bit of anticipation, but the first few spots left us with very few bites. It's all part of the thrill of fishing – sometimes you hit, and sometimes you miss. But patience is key, and we kept our spirits high, knowing that the best was yet to come. **The Honey Hole** And come it did! As if the fishing gods had heard our prayers, we stumbled upon a true "honey hole." At this magical spot, the action heated up, and we found ourselves landing over 20 keepers. The variety of fish we caught was impressive, including Snapper, Porkys, and even an impressive amberjack. The feeling of reeling in a prize catch is truly exhilarating. **Cooler Mornings, Hotter Fishing** One interesting observation from our trip was the impact of the cooler morning temperatures. With the mercury dipping down to the freezing 60s in the morning, the fish seemed to be more active and willing to bite. It's a reminder that understanding the elements and their influence on fishing can make all the difference. **The Ones That Got Away** Our day wasn't without its fair share of challenges. Along the way, we encountered a few black grouper, but unfortunately, they were all out of season and on the smaller side. While it's always a bit disappointing to release a catch, it's a necessary step in preserving the ecosystem and ensuring the sustainability of our favorite pastime. **An Amazing Day on the Water** Despite the initial slow start and the black grouper disappointments, everyone on board agreed that it was an incredible day on the water. There's something about being out in nature, feeling the breeze on your face, and the excitement of reeling in a fish that makes it all worthwhile. **Join Us for Your Fishing Adventure** If this fishing expedition has piqued your interest, we'd love to have you on board with us at Charters in Paradise. We still have some openings, so don't hesitate to book your adventure with us on fishingbooker.com. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, there's no better way to experience the thrill of reef fishing off the beautiful shores of Sanibel Island. So, grab your fishing gear, put on your sunscreen, and get ready for a day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and, of course, some incredible catches. We can't wait to share the magic of reef fishing with you. See you on board!
Mike Chandler
Fort-myers-beach, Florida, United States
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Charters & Fishing Trips (now Federally Licensed) 4-Hour Trip Perfect for families and beginners, these trips offer a fun introduction to Gulf Coast fishing. Venture either backwaters (no waves) or nearshore reefs just offshore for an exciting catch. ...

Other reports from this charter

January fishing report Fort Myers Beach
January fishing report Fort Myers Beach
January 7, 2025
**Fort Myers Beach January Fishing Report** January brings cooler waters and some of the best fishing opportunities of the year to Fort Myers Beach, Florida. This month, anglers are thrilled to see the **sheepshead** making their return in big numbers. These hard-fighting, stripe-patterned fish are congregating around docks, pilings, and jetties, especially in areas rich with barnacles and oysters. Live shrimp or fiddler crabs are the go-to baits to hook these delicious fish, known for their challenging bite and excellent flavor. The backwaters are alive with action, as **ladyfish**, affectionately known as "mini tarpon" by locals, are providing non-stop fun. These feisty fish are abundant and put on a spectacular aerial show, much like their larger namesakes. They’re a perfect target for light tackle anglers looking for fast-paced action. Small jigs, soft plastics, or live shrimp under a popping cork will keep your rod bent all day. Meanwhile, **snook** remain a popular target despite the cooler water temperatures. They’re hanging out in deeper holes, warm canals, and near mangroves, where they wait to ambush prey. Focus on fishing during sunny afternoons when the water warms slightly, and use live bait like shrimp or pilchards, or slow-rolled soft plastics and jerkbaits to entice a bite. With plenty of sheepshead, "mini tarpon," and snook biting, January is shaping up to be a fantastic month for fishing in Fort Myers Beach. Whether you’re looking for a great fight or something for the dinner table, the waters are full of opportunity. Tight lines!
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Christmas break trips off fort Myers bea
Christmas break trips off fort Myers bea
December 29, 2024
Fishing Report: Fort Myers Beach – December 2024 As December rolls in, the fishing off Fort Myers Beach has been excellent, offering anglers a mix of inshore and nearshore action. Cooler water temperatures and calm conditions have created the perfect environment for a variety of species. Inshore Fishing • Redfish: The redfish bite remains strong, especially around mangroves and oyster bars. Live shrimp and cut bait have been the top choices, with artificial paddle tails working well for those casting. • Sheepshead: Sheepshead are in abundance around docks, piers, and other structures. These “convict fish” are biting on live shrimp and fiddler crabs. Their numbers will only increase as we head further into winter. • Snapper: Mangrove snapper are holding steady in inshore waters near bridges and rock piles. Small pilchards and shrimp are producing solid results. Nearshore and Offshore Fishing • Goliath Grouper: These giants are providing plenty of excitement near wrecks and reefs. They’re putting up strong fights for anglers using heavy tackle and live bait. • Grunts and Snapper: Grunts and lane snapper are plentiful around nearshore structures. A great option for those looking to fill the cooler with tasty catches. • Spanish Mackerel: Keep an eye out for Spanish mackerel blitzing schools of baitfish closer to shore. They’re hitting spoons and fast-moving plugs. Fishing Strategies Most successful trips this month are hitting 2-4 spots before locking into the “honey hole.” Using electronics to mark fish and structure is key to maximizing time on the water. As always, morning and late afternoon tides are proving most productive. Tips for December • Bring a variety of bait, including live shrimp, crabs, and cut bait, to target the different species. • Dress warmly, as mornings can be chilly, but the afternoons are pleasant. • Be prepared for mixed bags, as this is the perfect time of year to catch a little bit of everything! Overall, the fishing has been stellar this December, with plenty of action for both inshore and offshore anglers. Whether you’re targeting redfish and sheepshead or heading out for snapper and grouper, it’s a great time to hit the water and enjoy the bounty of the Gulf Coast. Tight lines! Charters n Paradise
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