Tight Lines in Southwest Florida

Photo Credit: Denver Brown

The blue green waters off the Florida gulf coast are home to some of the most sought after table fare in the oceans.  Those seeking the thrill of bent fishing rods, screaming reels and varieties of fish need only select a vessel and skilled Captain to satisfy their cravings. The Southwest coast offers offshore action for both novice and diehard anglers within an hour’s run from the dock.   

Captain Jack’s Charters is located at the Englewood Bait House in Englewood, Florida, a small waterside town on the intercoastal waterway located approximately an hour’s drive north of Ft. Myers. Offshore anglers can charter one of three boats depending on their party size and budget to target a variety of reef species. The Mimae-Too has an old salt of a Cap’n named Bunny Davids whom has spent his entire life harvesting the bounty of these local waters.

Photo Credit: Denver Brown

The Mimai-Too is a 34′ custom charter boat or a “Six-Pack” in waterman terms. Cap’n  Bunny at the helm, a mate and license for up to six anglers, this vessel is built to handle the multitude of water conditions in this area.  Trips start at $600 for four hours on up to $1,100 for 10 hours and include all licenses, bait, tackle and beverages. To secure your spot on one of Cap’n Bunny’s fishing charters, click here.

Most offshore trips venture out between five-30 miles into the Gulf of Mexico and may make several stops at various locations to put anglers on the fish. Time of year, season of targeted fish and weather conditions are all important players for adventurers to consider before chartering any vessel.

December and January tend to be cooler months in Southwest Florida with the grouper and snapper action offshore taking the bait. Boats head out of the many passes leading from the back bay waters into the Gulf of Mexico and search for the right bottom conditions holding keeper fish.  Anglers should consult the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commision’s Web site for research as to species length and limits to help manage their own expectations from a trip.

A few additional items for anglers to remember are sunscreen, insect repellant, sunglasses and a sack lunch or snacks for the ride out and back. Depending on time of year and weather conditions biting flies can be a nuisance even several miles offshore. Seasickness medication may also be a good idea for those who tend to get bouts of motion sickness. Port-a-potty type facilities are a standard on most of the smaller boats with more updated facilities for the larger vessels. 

Photo Credit: Denver Brown

The reef fishes of Florida’s gulf coast are colorful, hard fighting and are arguably some of the best eating around. These fish have sharp teeth and gill plates that require caution while handling. For the safety of the fish, venting tools are required. These allow the air built up during ascent of a fish to be purged for a quick return to its reef habitat. A little conservation goes a long way and will provide enjoyment for tomorrow’s anglers in this wonderment of Southwest Florida.