NEAR-SHORE FISHING
(YEAR-ROUND)

Southwest Florida has more to offer than just stellar inshore action. Near-shore offerings are just as numerous and attractive.

The spring migration of large breeding Cobia is one of the most anticipated times of the year throughout the Gulf and Atlantic Coast. As these large fish make their annual migration, they are met by ready anglers from the Keys to the Mid-Atlantic. Cobia can often be found cruising near the surface, following large rays and turtles, and often hanging around the shallow wrecks and artificial reefs that dot the warm shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico. These are large fish (often topping 50-80lbs) and are one of the finest eating fish available to anglers anywhere. A large tower from which to spot these cruising fish allows a greater vantage point and therefore, a huge advantage.

Along with the Cobia, the near-shore waters of Southwest Florida receive migrations of large King Mackerel, Permit, various species of sharks, and at times, huge bull Redfish. These waters are also home to some of the best grouper and snapper fishing to be found. The shallow wrecks and reefs make a great place to have fun tangling with larger blue water species, and bring home a great meal at the end of the day. Night fishing can offer some of the most spectacular snapper and Yellowtail action to be found anywhere.

Other species encountered on these trips include huge Barracuda, Amberjack, Gag Grouper, Red Grouper, Mangrove Snapper, Mutton, and Yellowtail Snapper, Bonito, the occasional Blackfin Tuna, and just about any other predatory species found in the Gulf. You really never know what you will run into in open water. Near-shore trips are much more weather dependant that inshore trips due to the nature of our vessel. However this is where the versatility of a bay boat comes in handy--we can spend a morning chasing Cobia, Kings, and grouper, then wrap up the day with some great Snook, Redfish, and Tarpon fishing.

TACKLE AND TECHNIQUES:
(Light Tackle; Live and Artificial Bait)

Generally lighter tackle from 10-15lb spinning gear is used for reef species, but expect to tangle with many larger fish that require tackle up to 80-100lb class (both spinning and conventional) when appropriate. A good mixture of various live, dead, and artificial baits are always on board.