What are the best places to fish near Fort Myers, Florida

Lina PortmanMay 25, 2024

0 3 minutes read

As the weather continues to warm up, it's the perfect time to get out on the water.

Florida is home to a ton of saltwater fish. Living in Southwest Florida gives you a great opportunity to try your luck with fishing.

So where to start ? We have what you need. Here's our guide with everything you need to know about saltwater fishing in Lee County this summer.

More:Fishing in Collier County, Florida This Summer: Complete Guide to What You Need to Know

How to get a fishing license?

To fish in Florida, you will need a license. Here are some ways to go about getting one.

Apply online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com
Visit your local tax collector's office.
Call 888-FISH-FLORIDA (888) 347-4356
Download the Fish|Hunt FL app on your Apple or Android device.

What types of fish can I find in the Gulf?

With easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, it's a great idea to get out on our local Lee waters. But what type of fish will you find in which seasons? Here's what the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says:

COASTAL/COASTAL:

Gulf plaice: from fall to spring
Mangrove Snapper: Summer
Red drum: All year round
Spanish mackerel: from winter to early summer
Tarpon: spring to mid-summer

AT SEA :

Groupers: winter and late summer to early fall
King mackerel: from fall to winter
Snappers: summer

Where can I fish in Lee?

The FWC lists seven locations as popular places to fish in Lee County. Two are currently closed, but we've included some updates on them. Here are the locations and what to know about them.

Boca Grande Pass: 880 Belcher Road, Boca Grande
- Ideal for tarpon fishing
- Connects the Port of Charlotte to the Gulf of Mexico
- Hours: 8:00 a.m. to sunset
Fising Pier at Cape Coral Yacht Club Park: CURRENTLY CLOSED
- The Cape Coral City Council is working on plans to rebuild the pier after Hurricane Ian destroyed it in 2022.
- The estimated cost of repairing the pier is between $4.3 million and $6.5 million.
Horton Park and boat ramp: 2628 SE 26 Place, Cape Coral
- Boat trailer parking fee $15 per day, but Cape Coral residents can get an annual parking sticker for $75.
Lovers Key State Park: 8700 Estero Boulevard
- Boat trailer parking is limited
- Fee of $8 for vehicles with two or more occupants, $4 for vehicles with one person
- Hours: 8:00 a.m. to sunset
Matlacha Community Park: 4577 Pine Island Road, Matlacha
- The fishing pier is open, but the community center is closed until further notice
- The park has a boat ramp, kayak launch, and fishing pier
- Hours: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Matlacha Pass Bridge
- Stay alert and watch for the draw signal
Sanibel Lighthouse Pier: CURRENTLY CLOSED
- The Sanibel Lighthouse Pier reopened briefly after Hurricane Ian destroyed it in 2022. It is closed again while the city repairs the lighthouse.

What are some ways to fish safely and ethically?

The FWC has put together a list of some of the best things to practice to ensure safe and respectful fishing. Here are their best tips!

Be an ethical fisherman: Know when to hold and when to release your catch. Make sure you can identify the fish you are targeting and always follow state regulations.
Be ready for the ramp: Make sure your boat and equipment are ready to go before you set out.
Wear a life jacket.
Watch the alarm clock: Stay 200 feet or more from shore and other boaters. Be sure to not follow any wake areas and yield to wading fishermen.
Safe boating: Make sure you know who had priority and when.
Be courteous on land: Do not cast a line when there are many swimmers and do not lead anglers fishing from shore.
Don't throw trash: Recycle your fishing line and dispose of your waste in the appropriate places on land.
Practice safe mooring: Watch how the other boats dock and do the same. Keep a safe distance from other boaters and fishermen.
Keep quiet: Sound is amplified above water, which may disturb other boaters or those who live near the water.
Keep your distance: Noises or wakes from your boat can cost another fisherman their catch.

How can I participate in a fishing charter locally?

Lee County is home to several fishing rental companies that allow you to enjoy a guided fishing experience. Here are some options for booking a charter locally.

Lina Portman

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