11 Best Fishing Charters in Fort Myers, FL (Full Guide)

Fort Myers, Florida is one of the best places you could possibly fish in within the state. So what are some of the best fishing charters in Fort Myers?

The Indigenous Charters, Gulf Coast Charter Service, and Saltwater Excursions are just a few of the many great fishing charters you will find in Fort Myers. Trips typically last from four hours to full-day, with prices ranging from $300 to over $1,000.

Depending on the type of charter you select and how long it will last makes a difference in price. As you will see, some charters are potentially better than others.

15 Featured Fishing Charters in Fort Myers

With a surplus of fishing charters in Fort Myers, you cannot go wrong if you were to blindly pick one. However, each one will likely cater to families or will take you to specific locations to find certain species of fish. (Note: this is a recommendation list but certainly not an exhaustive list of the best charters operating out of Fort Myers. Additionally, the prices and information below are accurate as of the time I’m writing this. It can change over time.)

1. Indigenous Charters

Captain Tyler Carner offers private fishing charters in the waters of southwest Florida. His custom 24’ Southern Cross bay boat is equipped with the latest electronics and high-quality fishing equipment, including Shimano reels and Star Stellar Lite rods.

Captain Tyler is committed to providing a successful and enjoyable day of fishing for his clients and uses live bait to increase the chances of catching big game fish such as Snook, Redfish, and Tarpon. He also offers pickup service from waterfront facilities and cleans and fillets any catch.

Costs: 4-hour trip (half day AM or PM): $600; 6-hour trip (3/4 day): $800; 6-hour trip (half-day Tarpon fishing): $900 (seasonal, available Apr 7 – Jun 30); 8-hour trip (full day): $1,000; 8-hour trip (3/4 day Tarpon fishing): $1,100 (seasonal, available Apr 7 – Jul 1); 10-hour trip (full-day Tarpon fishing): $1,200 (seasonal, available Apr 7 – Jun 30)

This charter is recommended for:

• Anglers looking for a private fishing experience with a skilled and experienced captain
• Those interested in targeting big game fish such as Snook, Redfish, and Tarpon
• Groups of friends or families looking for a fun outdoor activity

State Licensed: Not specified

Targeted Species: Snook, Redfish, Tarpon, Grouper, Snapper

Private Trips offered? Yes

To book a charter with Indigenous Charters & read all the anglers’ reviews, click on the link. Indigenous Charters (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker

2. Saltwater Excursions

Saltwater Excursions is a fishing charter company based in Fort Myers, Florida, offering 4 to 8-hour trips with Captain Dillon Bryant. The target species on these trips include Snook, Redfish, Snapper, Tarpon, Sheepshead, and Speckled Trout, depending on the season and conditions. Light tackle, heavy tackle, and spinning techniques may be used.

The trips take place on a 24’ Key West 230 Bay Reef boat that can accommodate up to 4 anglers and has a toilet on board. All necessary fishing equipment and licenses are included in the price, and the crew will clean and fillet any catch. Drinks are provided, and clients can bring their own if desired.

Costs: 4-hour trip (half day AM or PM): $500; 6-hour trip (3/4 day): $700; 8-hour trip (full day): $900

This charter is recommended for:

• Anglers looking for a private fishing experience with an experienced and skilled captain
• Those interested in targeting Snook, Redfish, Snapper, Tarpon, Sheepshead, and Speckled Trout
• Groups of friends or families looking for a fun outdoor activity

Targeted Species: Snook, Redfish, Snapper, Tarpon, Sheepshead, Speckled Trout

Private Trips offered? Yes

To book a charter with Saltwater Excursions & read all the anglers’ reviews, click on the link. Saltwater Excursions (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker

3. Gulf Coast Charter Service

Gulf Coast Charter Service, based in Fort Myers, Florida, offers fishing trips led by Captain Fabian Guerrero. The trips take place on a 22’ Pathfinder bay boat and target various species such as Mangrove Snapper, Tripletail, Spotted Seatrout, Blacktip Shark, and Spanish Mackerel.

Light tackle is used for spinning and drift fishing, and clients have the option to keep or release their catch. The boat is equipped with GPS, fishfinder, and radio systems, and all necessary fishing gear and licenses are provided. Clients are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for the trip.

Costs: 4-hour trip (half day AM or PM): $550; 6-hour trip (3/4 day): $750; 6-hour trip (Tarpon): $850; 8-hour trip (full day): $950; 8-hour trip (Tarpon): $1,050

This charter is recommended for:

• Anglers looking for a private fishing experience with a skilled and friendly captain
• Those interested in targeting a variety of species such as Mangrove Snapper, Tripletail, Spotted Seatrout, Blacktip Shark, and Spanish Mackerel
• Groups of friends or families looking for a fun outdoor activity

Targeted Species: Mangrove Snapper, Tripletail, Spotted Seatrout, Blacktip Shark, Spanish Mackerel

Private Trips offered? Yes

To book a charter with Gulf Coast Charter Service & read all the anglers’ reviews, click on the link. Gulf Coast Charter Service (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker

4. Rippin N Reelin Charters

Rippin N Reelin Charters, based in Fort Myers, Florida, offers fishing trips led by Captain Kyle Ahlquist. The trips take place on a 20’ Lake and Bay flats boat and target various species such as Spotted Seatrout, Mangrove Snapper, Snook, and Redfish.

Light tackle is used for spinning and clients are free to keep all the fish they catch. The boat is equipped with GPS and fishfinder technology and has a livewell for live bait. Captain Kyle will provide all necessary fishing gear, live bait, licenses, and drinks for the trip, and clients are encouraged to bring their own food.

Costs: 4-hour trip (half day AM or PM): $500; 6-hour trip (3/4 day): $750; 8-hour trip (full day): $1,000

This charter is recommended for:

• Anglers looking for a private fishing experience with a friendly and knowledgeable captain
• Those interested in targeting a variety of species such as Spotted Seatrout, Mangrove Snapper, Snook, and Redfish
• Groups of friends or families, including children, looking for a fun outdoor activity

State Licensed: Yes

Targeted Species: Spotted Seatrout, Mangrove Snapper, Snook, Redfish

Private Trips offered? Yes

To book a charter with Rippin N Reelin Charters & read all the anglers’ reviews, click on the link. Rippin N Reelin Charters (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker

5. Thrill Of It All Charters

Join Captain Scott Williams for a fun and exciting fishing experience in the waters of Fort Myers with Thrill Of It All. You’ll embark on inshore and nearshore waters, chasing a variety of species and enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.

The 23′ Hanson bay boat, powered by a 175 HP Suzuki engine and equipped with modern GPS and fishfinder technology, can accommodate up to 6 anglers and reach a maximum cruising speed of 40 knots. With a wireless trolling motor, livewell, and ice-box, you’ll have everything you need for a successful and comfortable trip.

Costs: 4-hour trip: $450; 6-hour trip: $650; 8-hour trip: $900; 10-hour trip: $1,100

This charter is recommended for:

• Fishermen interested in inshore and nearshore fishing
• Families looking for a fun and child-friendly day on the water
• Anglers who want to keep their catch and have it cleaned and filleted

State Licensed: Yes

Targeted Species: Jack Crevalle, Shark, Tarpon, Snook, Spotted Seatrout, Redfish

Private Trips offered? Yes

To book a charter with Thrill of It All Charters & read all the anglers’ reviews, click on the link. Thrill Of It All (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker

6. SWFL Premier Charters

Join Captain Nick on a fishing adventure in Southwest Florida. With over 30 years of experience, he’ll take you on a fun and memorable trip on the 23′ Sabalo, which can accommodate up to 4 anglers. Fish for a variety of species using live bait and target trophies such as snook, redfish, trout, and more. All trips are family-friendly and suitable for anglers of all skill levels.

The captain provides tackle and fishing licenses, as well as multiple pick-up locations in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Sanibel, and Captiva Islands. Bring your own snacks and drinks or enjoy the provided water. SWFL Premier Charters aims to make every guest feel at ease and provide a fun and educational experience on the water.

Costs: Half Day (4 hours): $475; 3/4 Day (6 hours): $675; Full Day (8 hours): $875

This charter is recommended for:

• Anglers of all skill levels, including families with children
• Those looking for a relaxing and enjoyable day on the water

Private trips offered? Yes

State Licensed: Yes

Targeted Species: Grouper (Goliath), Jack Crevalle, Redfish, Shark (Blacktip), Snook, Trout, Sheepshead

To book a charter with SWFL Premier Charters & read all the anglers’ reviews, click on the link. SWFL Premier Charters (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker

7. Make A Wake – Sanibel Island

If you’re looking for a fun and memorable fishing trip in Southwest Florida, Captain Cody of Make A Wake Charters is the guide for you. With over a decade of experience, he can accommodate anglers of all skill levels on his 23’ Panga boat.

Target a variety of species including Snook, Redfish, Snapper, Tarpon, and Grouper, depending on the season and conditions. All necessary equipment and licenses are provided, and any catch is yours to keep. Kids are welcome on board, with life vests provided for those under 4 years old.

Costs: 4-hour trip (half day AM or PM): $450, 6-hour trip (3/4 day): $650, 8-hour trip (full day): $800

This charter is recommended for:

• Anglers of all skill levels looking for a private fishing experience with an experienced captain
• Groups of friends or families looking to try out different fishing techniques and target a variety of species
• Those interested in a child-friendly fishing trip in Southwest Florida

Targeted Species: Snook, Redfish, Snapper, Tarpon, Grouper

Private Trips offered? Yes

To book a charter with Make A Waker Charters & read all the anglers’ reviews, click on the link. Make A Wake – Sanibel Island (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker

8. Reel Sanibel Fishing Charters

Reel Sanibel Fishing Charters is a fishing charter company based in Fort Myers, Florida, offering 4 to 8-hour trips with Captain Ethan Hanson. The target species on these trips include Snook, Redfish, Snapper, Tarpon, Jack Crevalle, and Cobia, depending on the season and conditions. Light tackle, heavy tackle, bottom fishing, fly fishing, and spinning techniques may be used.

The trips take place on a 23’ C-Hawk boat that can accommodate up to 6 anglers. All necessary fishing equipment and licenses are included in the price, and the crew will clean and fillet any catch. Drinks are provided, and clients can bring their own if desired.

Costs: 4-hour trip: $550-$750; 6-hour trip: $700-$897; 8-hour trip: $850-$1,199

This charter is recommended for:

• Anglers looking for a variety of fishing techniques and target species
• Groups of friends or families looking for a fun outdoor activity
• Those interested in catching Snook, Redfish, Snapper, Tarpon, Jack Crevalle, and Cobia

State Licensed: Not specified

Targeted Species: Snook, Redfish, Snapper, Tarpon, Jack Crevalle, Cobia

Private Trips offered? Yes

To book a charter with Reel Sanibel Fishing Charters & read all the anglers’ reviews, click on the link. Reel Sanibel Fishing Charters (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker

9. Never 2 Nauti Fishing Charters

Never 2 Nauti Fishing Charters is a fishing charter company based in Fort Myers, Florida, offering half and full-day trips with Captain Gerald Hernandez. The target species on these trips include Groupers, Snapper, Redfish, Snook, Spotted Seatrout, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder, and many more. Spinning techniques are used on all trips, which are suitable for all skill levels and feature both right and left-hand designs.

The trips take place on a newly built 2020 Pathfinder TRS 2200 boat, powered by a 200 HP Yamaha engine, that can accommodate up to 4 guests. Live bait is provided based on availability, and all necessary fishing equipment and licenses are included in the price. The captain will clean and fillet any catch and clients can bring their own food.

Costs: Half-Day Trip (AM or PM): $500; 3/4 Day Trip: $700; Full-Day Trip: $900

This charter is recommended for:

• Anglers looking for a private fishing experience with an experienced and skilled captain
• Those interested in targeting Groupers, Snapper, Redfish, Snook, Spotted Seatrout, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder, and many more
• Groups of friends or families looking for a fun outdoor activity

State Licensed: Yes

Targeted Species: Groupers, Snapper, Redfish, Snook, Spotted Seatrout, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder

Private Trips offered? Yes

To book a charter with Never 2 Nauti Fishing Charters & read all the anglers’ reviews, click on the link. Never 2 Nauti Fishing – Punta Rassa (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker

10. Tarpon Magic Charters

Welcome to Tarpon Magic Charters, where Captain Rob Reed offers a variety of fishing, sightseeing, and shelling trips off the beautiful coast of Sanibel, Captiva, and surrounding barrier islands. With 22 years of experience and a love for the water, Captain Rob is dedicated to providing an unforgettable experience for all levels of anglers and nature enthusiasts.

Choose from a 3-hour fun fishing and sightseeing trip, a 4-hour half-day trip, a 6-hour 3/4 day trip, or a customized combo trip. All necessary equipment, licenses, bait, and drinks are included in the price, and catch cleaning and packaging are available after the trip.

Costs: 3-hour fun fishing/sightseeing trip: $350, 4-hour half-day trip (AM or PM): $450; 6-hour 3/4 day trip: $600

Customized combo trip: $625

This charter is recommended for:

• Anglers and families looking for a private fishing, sightseeing, or shelling experience on the beautiful waters off Sanibel and Captiva
• Those interested in targeting a variety of fish, including Tarpon, Trout, Snook, Redfish, Goliath Groupers, and Red Groupers
• Groups of friends or families looking for a fun and educational outdoor activity

State Licensed: Not specified

Targeted Species: Tarpon, Trout, Snook, Redfish, Goliath Groupers, Red Groupers

Private Trips offered? Yes

To book a charter with Tarpon Magic Charters & read all the anglers’ reviews, click on the link. Tarpon Magic Charters (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker

11. Maxed Out Charters 

Maxed Out Charters is a fishing charter company based in Fort Myers, Florida, offering 4, 6, or 8-hour trips with Captain Billy Williams. The target species on these trips include Snook, Redfish, Seatrout, Snapper, and Sheepshead, depending on the season and conditions.

Light tackle, bottom fishing, spinning, and popping techniques may be used. The trips take place on a 23’ Skeeter bay boat that can accommodate up to 6 anglers. All necessary fishing equipment, live bait, lures, licenses, and drinks are included in the price, and the crew will clean and fillet any catch.

Costs: 4-hour trip (AM or PM): $500; 6-hour trip: $700; 8-hour trip: $900

This charter is recommended for:

• Anglers looking for a private fishing experience with an experienced captain
• Those interested in targeting Snook, Redfish, Seatrout, Snapper, and Sheepshead
• Groups of friends or families looking for a fun outdoor activity

State Licensed: Not specified

Targeted Species: Snook, Redfish, Seatrout, Snapper, Sheepshead

Private Trips offered? Yes

To book a charter with Maxed Out Charters & read all the anglers’ reviews, click on the link. Maxed Out Charters – Fort Myers (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker

For a complete breakdown of the best times to fish in Fort Myers, check out this article. To learn if Fort Myers has good fishing, check out this article.