The Ultimate Guide to the Best Fishing in Naples, Florida

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Naples, Florida, is a coastal paradise that beckons anglers from around the world with its pristine waters, diverse marine life, and excellent fishing opportunities. Offshore and Inshore, fishing in Naples is a family-friendly activity that will enhance your stay. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner looking for a memorable fishing experience, Naples has something to offer for everyone. In this blog, I'll tell you about the multitude of fishing experiences this beautiful city has to offer.

Offshore Fishing


Naples' proximity to the Gulf of Mexico offers fantastic opportunities for offshore fishing. Anglers can target a wide variety of species, including:
" Grouper: These bottom-dwelling fish are known for their tasty fillets and challenging fights. As you explore Naples restaurants, you'll frequently spot grouper as a signature dish.

  • Snapper: Mangrove, red, and yellowtail snapper are abundant and make for a delicious meal.
  • Amberjack: These powerful fish provide a thrilling fight for anglers.
  • Mahi-Mahi: Also known as dorado or dolphin fish, mahi-mahi are colorful and a favorite among offshore anglers.
  • Kingfish: These fast swimmers are a common catch and offer an exciting challenge.

Charters and guides are readily available in Naples to help you explore offshore fishing to the fullest. Check out some of the top charter companies in Naples.

Inshore Fishing


The backwaters, estuaries, and canals surrounding Naples provide excellent inshore fishing opportunities. Common catches include:

  • Snook: Known for their explosive strikes and acrobatic leaps, snook are a popular target in Naples' inshore waters.
  • Redfish: These bruisers provide a strong fight and can be found in shallow water year-round.
  • Tarpon: Naples is famous for its tarpon fishing, especially during the annual tarpon run from May to July.
  • Trout: Speckled sea trout are plentiful in the area and are a favorite among anglers for their delicious flesh.
  • Sheepshead: Easily accessible from piers and docks, sheepshead are a fun and tasty inshore catch that you don't need to leave the dock to find.

Backcountry and Mangrove Fishing


For those seeking a more adventurous fishing experience, the backcountry and mangrove areas around Naples provide a unique environment for anglers to explore. Here, you can target species like:

  • Black Drum: These fish are known for their hard fights and are often found in mangrove-lined areas.
  • Jack Crevalle: Strong and aggressive, jack crevalle are a thrilling catch in the backcountry.
  • Permit: This challenging and elusive species can be found in the shallows around mangroves.
  • Cobia: These fish are often encountered while fishing in the backcountry and provide a fun and rewarding catch.


Fly Fishing


Naples offers excellent opportunities for fly anglers, whether you prefer inshore fishing for snook and tarpon or backcountry adventures for a variety of species. Fly fishing in the shallow waters of Naples allows for sight fishing, which adds an extra layer of excitement to the experience.

Check out this list of fly-fishing guides.

Conservation and Regulations


It's essential to be aware of local fishing regulations and size limits to ensure the sustainability of the fish populations and the preservation of the environment. Naples is committed to environmental conservation, and responsible angling practices are encouraged.

Learn more about fishing regulations in Naples Florida.


Naples, Florida, is a mecca for fishing enthusiasts, offering a wide array of angling experiences, from offshore adventures to inshore battles and backcountry explorations. With its diverse marine life, beautiful landscapes, and expert fishing guides, Naples provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable fishing escapades. Plan your next fishing trip when you are staying with us in Naples, and immerse yourself in the world of angling in this coastal paradise. Whether you're after a delicious dinner or a trophy catch, Naples has it all.

Photo credit: naplesoffshorefishingcharters.com