Deep-Sea Fishing in Fort Myers, Florida

Fort Myers, Florida, is a popular vacation destination on the Gulf of Mexico. People flock to Fort Myers and its beaches not only for sand and sunshine but also for outdoor recreation opportunities, such as deep-sea fishing. Deep-sea fishing---also called offshore fishing---is a popular hobby for people young and old and is available in the Fort Myers area.

  1. The Area

    • Grouper is often caught during Fort Myers area deep-sea fishing excursions.

      Situated on a Gulf of Mexico inlet, Fort Myers began as an outpost during the Seminole War in 1850 and is named for Colonel Abraham Myers. Nicknamed the City of Palms, the metro area includes sister city, Cape Coral, as well as a handful of islands to its west including Sanibel and Capitiva. The most common fish sought during Fort Myers area deep-sea fishing excursions are grouper, amberjack, snapper, tarpon and goliath grouper.

    Regulations

    • The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission requires all anglers over age 16 to purchase a saltwater fishing license unless fishing with a licensed guide or charter service. Saltwater licenses are available for sale online and at authorized vendors, such as hunting/fishing stores. Additional license fees may also apply to certain species of fish and nonresidents.

    Guides and Charters

    • Guide services and chartered fishing boats often take several families or groups out at a time.

      Anglers who do not own their own boat may wish to consider hiring a guide service or charting a vessel for deep-sea fishing. Guide services may be useful for first-time anglers as they typically offer on-deck training with fishing equipment. For more experienced fishermen, many local marinas offer charter boats by the day or half day. The Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce can provide information on trusted fishing charters on their website.

    Before You Go

    • According to "The Weather Channel," weather plays a large part in the outcome of fishing excursions, so its a good idea to check the forecast before heading out for a deep-sea fishing trip. The National Weather Service provides up-to-date weather information for the Fort Myers area (see Resources). "Florida Sportsman" magazine also offers online fishing reports for Fort Myers-area anglers hoping to hook the big one.

    Warning

    • Life jackets are essential safety items during fishing trips.

      Play it safe and abide by all rules and regulations while deep-sea fishing. Do not consume alcoholic beverages when operating a watercraft and check to make sure each person has a safety flotation device. Respect the environment and do not litter while fishing.