Very well equipped recently purchased boat. John was very well prepared and cheerful. We got, probably, over 20 snooks or various sizes, four red snappers, one jack, flounder, and some other fish.

Unfortunately, to our surprise, it’s only catch and release for the Estero Bay now except for red snappers, inedible jacks, etc. It sounds like it may continue for a few more years because of a massive die-out three years ago caused by red tide. So returning home with four 10-11” snappers was sort of embarrassing. I’m not a catch and release type of guy and always found it a bit ridiculous to harm fish you’re not going to consume. But it’s just me. Of course, it wasn’t John’s fault: he’s done his best to assure we had a productive fishing trip.  I only wish the bring home restrictions are prominently posted when Estero Bay fishing trips are booked.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time for a meaningful fishing in the Gulf.

So if you’re a catch and release type of fisherman, I’d highly recommend this kind of trip. If not, then either ask to spend more time in the Gulf or wait till the fishing restrictions are over.

Overall, I find John to be a good, well prepared and soft mannered guide. We enjoyed spending four hours with him on the boat. So Day 5 Charters earn a 5-star rating.