When summer hits the Gulf Coast, the flats heat up, the bait floods inshore, and the fish get aggressive. For fishermen along Florida’s southwest coast, especially around Ft. Myers, Sanibel, Pine Island, and Captiva, summer means opportunity. Captain Patrick King, a U.S. Coast Guard certified guide and native to the Ft. Myers area, has built a lifetime of experience around these waters. From redfish tailing in the shallows to tarpon cruising off the beaches, King’s approach to summer fishing is shaped by decades of local and international experience. This article breaks down what species to target during the summer months, how conditions shift, and what techniques consistently produce results.

Fishing the inshore waters around Sanibel, Captiva, and Fort Myers during the summer comes with changes that affect fish behavior, feeding patterns, and the best times to be on the water. Rising temperatures push fish into specific movement cycles, making it necessary to plan around early mornings, late evenings, and strong tidal shifts. The fish are still here, but adjusting to the conditions separates productive trips from slow ones.

Spring in Southwest Florida signals the arrival of some of the best fishing opportunities of the year. As water temperatures rise and baitfish become more abundant, inshore and nearshore waters come alive with activity. This is the time when some of the region’s most sought-after species, including tarpon, permit, cobia, and kingfish, are at their peak. For anglers looking to maximize their chances of success, booking a fishing charter ensures access to the best fishing spots and techniques tailored to the season’s conditions.

With mild winter weather, fewer crowds, and a diverse array of fish species, there’s no better way to start the year than on the water.

Winter fishing in Ft. Myers, Florida, offers a unique and rewarding experience for fishermen of all skill levels. With cooler water temperatures and changing fish behavior, inshore fishing during this time of year brings both challenges and opportunities. Ft. Myers' shallow waters, estuaries, and mangrove-lined shorelines are teeming with life, making this season ideal for targeting popular inshore species. Whether you're new to fishing or an experienced angler, winter fishing in Ft. Myers provides something for everyone.

Fishing for redfish inshore off the coast of Ft. Myers is a solid experience any time of year, but it takes a bit of knowledge to make the most of it.