Ready for a real Naples fishing experience? Our 8-hour charter takes you to the sweet spot – just far enough offshore to hit the big ones, but close enough to keep land in sight. We're talking prime wreck fishing, where the action's hot and the fish are hungry. Grab your gear and let's get after it!
We kick things off by snagging some live bait from our traps – nothing beats fresh bait for attracting the big boys. Then we're off to a killer wreck spot about 3 miles out. This ain't no boring wait-and-see fishing. We're talking non-stop action with a mix of species that'll keep you on your toes. From battling big Black Drum to finessing a Permit, you'll get to try out different techniques and really hone your skills. With 8 solid hours on the water, you've got plenty of time to work the wreck and maybe even break a personal best. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone.
Alright, let's talk shop. Wreck fishing is where it's at for variety and action. These sunken structures are like underwater condos for fish – they're teeming with life. We'll be using a mix of techniques depending on what's biting. Might be dropping jigs for Cobia one minute, then switching to live bait for Snook the next. We've got all the gear you need, from heavy-duty rods for the bruisers to lighter setups for more finesse fishing. Don't worry if you're new to this – we'll show you the ropes. And for you old salts, well, you know the drill. Just be ready for some arm-burning action when those big ones hit!
Black Drum: These bad boys are the heavyweights of our wreck. They love hanging around structure and can grow to over 100 pounds. You'll feel that telltale thump when they hit your bait. Best time to target them is fall through spring. Anglers love 'em for their strong fights and tasty fillets.
Cobia: Talk about a fighter! Cobia are like the bulldogs of the sea. They're curious fish that often swim right up to the boat. We usually spot them cruising near the surface. Spring and summer are prime Cobia seasons. Expect some epic battles – these guys don't give up easy.
Permit: If you're after a challenge, Permit are your fish. They're wary and tough to fool, but man, is it worth it. These flat-bodied powerhouses put up an incredible fight. We see them year-round, but spring and summer are best. Landing a Permit is a real feather in any angler's cap.
Snook: The rockstars of inshore fishing, Snook love structure and often hang around our wrecks. They're ambush predators with a mouth like a vacuum – when they hit, they hit hard. Spring and summer are prime Snook time. These guys are catch-and-release only, but the thrill of the fight is worth it.
Tarpon: The silver king! Tarpon are the ultimate game fish – massive, acrobatic, and strong as hell. We start seeing them in late spring, and they stick around through summer. Watching a 100+ pound Tarpon go airborne is something you'll never forget. It's all about the experience with these catch-and-release beauties.
Our wreck spot is the real deal. It's close enough for comfort but far enough to get into some serious fish. You're not just sitting around waiting for a bite – we keep moving, trying different spots around the wreck, switching up techniques. It's hands-on fishing that keeps you engaged all day. Plus, with the variety of species, you never know what's gonna hit next. That mystery is what keeps folks coming back for more. And let's be real – nothing beats the feeling of bringing in a cooler full of fresh fish for dinner.
Look, if you're after a legit Naples fishing experience, this is it. We're not about fancy frills – we're about putting you on fish, plain and simple. Eight hours of non-stop action, a variety of species, and some of the best wreck fishing you'll find in these parts. Whether you're looking to stock the freezer or just want to feel the rush of battling big fish, we've got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't sleep on this. Grab your buddies, book your trip, and get ready for a day on the water you won't forget. Just remember – those fish aren't gonna catch themselves!
Black drum are hefty fighters, usually 5-30 pounds but can top 90. Look for them around oyster beds, mudflats, and channel edges in 3-15 feet of water. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn. Anglers love their strong pull and tasty meat, especially smaller ones under 15 pounds. Fresh crab or shrimp on the bottom is hard to beat. Here's a tip - when you find one, there's likely more nearby. Black drum make a distinct croaking sound, so listen close and you might hear them before you see them.
Cobia are bruisers, often mistaken for sharks as they cruise near the surface. Most run 20-40 pounds, but 100-pounders aren't unheard of. They love structure, so we target them around wrecks, buoys, and even big rays. Spring and fall migrations are prime time. Cobia put up a stubborn fight and make excellent table fare. Live bait works great, but they'll also chase down lures. Here's a local secret: when you spot one, get a bait in front of it fast. Cobia are curious and will often investigate anything new in their area. Just be ready for a battle once they're hooked!
Permit are one of the trickiest fish to catch, which is why anglers love the challenge. They average 15-25 pounds but can reach 60. Look for them tailing on shallow flats or hanging around wrecks offshore. Spring and summer are best as they move in to spawn. Permit have incredible eyesight, so stealth is key. Fresh crab is the go-to bait. Here's an insider tip: when you spot one, don't cast directly at it. Lead the fish by a few feet and let it find your bait naturally. Landing a big permit is a real feather in any angler's cap.
Snook are a prized catch around Naples, typically running 24-36 inches and 5-15 pounds. You'll find them hanging around mangroves, docks, and inlets where they ambush prey. Spring and fall are prime seasons as water temps change. Snook put up an acrobatic fight and taste great, but watch those size limits. For the best shot, work live bait or soft plastics along structure edges during low light. A local trick is to cast just past likely holding spots and slowly retrieve - snook can't resist an easy meal swimming by. Just be ready when they explode on your bait!
Tarpon are the silver kings of Naples fishing. Adults average 4-5 feet and 80-100 pounds of pure muscle and acrobatics. You'll find them rolling in coastal waters, passes, and even up rivers spring through fall. Tarpon aren't prized for eating, but their spectacular aerial leaps make them a bucket-list catch. Live bait like mullet or crabs work well. Pro tip: when a tarpon jumps, drop your rod tip to give them slack. It helps keep them hooked. Be patient - it might take an hour to land a big one, but the memory lasts a lifetime.
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