Are you torn between an inshore adventure or a deep sea excursion? Maybe you are looking to mix up your fishing trip with some wildlife spotting or shelling? Then, Marco Island fishing is the perfect destination for you. Located in Southwest Florida, this place offers numerous fishing opportunities to make your trip memorable.
The island got its name from Spanish explorers in the mid-1500s, who named it La Isla de San Marcos after St. Mark, the Gospel writer. It's not surprising that they chose a biblical name. The island's stunning sandy beaches, blue skies, and seemingly-endless waters create a paradise-like atmosphere that you will fall in love with.
If you're an angler, this place is a true paradise for you. Marco Island is surrounded by the prolific Ten Thousand Islands, offering plenty of shallow water bays and passes. You could spend a lifetime exploring the backwaters and still discover new places. Plus, the Gulf of Mexico is the perfect destination if you're looking to hook some big fish.
Before embarking on your trip, here are some tips and tricks to help make your fishing experience a success.
What can you catch in Marco Island?
Redfish
If you're an angler looking for a thrilling fishing adventure, look no further than the Redfish of Marco Island. With its stunning inshore waters, this destination is a hot spot for avid anglers and casual fishing enthusiasts alike.
Why Redfish?
Redfish, also known as Red Drum, are known for their hard-fighting nature and are a popular choice among anglers worldwide. However, Marco Island's inshore waters are teeming with these species, making them a local favorite. The abundance of Redfish in the area makes it a prime destination for anglers looking for a rewarding fishing experience.
Fishing Spots
There are numerous places around Marco Island where you can cast your line for Redfish. Whether you prefer the calm waters of Ten Thousand Islands, the nearby Rookery Bay, or the shallow waters along the coast, you're sure to find Redfish lurking in the depths.
Fishing Techniques
The beauty of Redfish fishing is that it offers a variety of fishing techniques that cater to anglers of all skill levels. From casting skills for beginners and families with little ones to light tackle and fly fishing for more experienced anglers, there is something for everyone. However, the key to catching big Reds is fresh live bait, and Mullet and Shrimp are their favorites.
Experience the Flexibility
Thanks to the calm inshore waters around Marco Island, Redfish fishing is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or skill level. You can enjoy the thrill of sighting and hooking these fish and even spot their golden-red scales before they bite. The flexibility of Redfish adventure makes it an ideal choice for families and groups of friends looking for a fun and exciting activity.
Tarpon
If you're planning a visit to Florida, make sure to add Tarpon fishing in Marco Island to your itinerary. The Sunshine State is home to the "Silver King," a fierce and formidable game fish that's sure to put your angling skills to the test.
When to Go Tarpon Fishing in Marco Island
The best time to target Tarpon in Marco Island is between March and June. During this period, these massive fish pass through the island's waters on their way to spawn. You can find Tarpon in the Ten Thousand Islands, as well as the shallow waters surrounding Marco Island.
Tackle Up for Tarpon
Tarpon are known for their size and strength, with some reaching up to a whopping 300 pounds. The Florida state record for Tarpon stands at an impressive 243 pounds. Local anglers recommend bringing heavier braided tackle to ensure your line won't snap once you've hooked a Tarpon.
Luring Tarpon to Your Line
Like Redfish, you can lure Tarpon to the end of your line with fresh live bait. Mullets are a tried-and-true favorite for this fish, too. However, keep in mind that Tarpon can be challenging to catch, so having some angling experience under your belt will help when reeling them in.
Fighting the Silver King
Locals often compare fighting a Tarpon to roping a bucking bronco, so be prepared for a battle! Once hooked, Tarpon will put up a massive fight, testing your strength and endurance. But once you've won the fight and have a Tarpon at the end of your line, make sure to snap an epic shot of your catch. However, it's crucial to remember that Tarpon are a strictly catch-and-release species in the Marco Island area. So, release your catch safely back into the waters, allowing future generations of anglers to experience the thrill of the Tarpon battle.
Sharks
If you’re seeking a thrilling fishing adventure, you must visit Marco Island. Contrary to its calm backwaters, this area is home to several ferocious shark species. Despite the intimidating reputation of sharks, they are perfect for anglers of all ages and skill levels
Lemon Sharks
One of the most commonly found sharks in the Marco Island waters is the Lemon Shark. These species are tough yet timid, and the best way to target them is through chumming, or using live bait such as Mackerel when you spot one. Since they prefer to lurk around mangroves, you’ll have to explore the Gulf to encounter them.
Other Common Sharks
Bull, Hammerhead, and Blacktip are other shark species you can find in waters up to 3' deep. You can use the same techniques, including chumming or luring them in with Mackerel.
Fishing for Sharks with Guides
Fishing guides in Marco Island offer Shark-specific trips, which is an excellent opportunity to introduce your family and new anglers to fishing while catching these brag-worthy beasts.
Snapper and Grouper Fishing
When exploring the Gulf, you'll most likely come across Snapper and Grouper. You can easily target them around Marco Island’s Gulf-side artificial wrecks and reefs.
Red Snapper is the most well-known species when it comes to Florida and Snapper. However, there are different regulations for fishing Red Snapper in state and federal waters. Several other Snapper and Grouper species such as Mangrove, Lane, Vermilion, Mutton, Yellowtail, Gag, Red, Black, and Goliath are available for targeting.
These species also offer an impressive battle and diving to the bottom of the seafloor while darting in and out of reefs and wrecks.
Top Redfish Fishing Charters in Marco Island
- Joe Snook Guide Service - rated 4.9/5 (36 reviews) - Marco Island - trips from $600
- JP's Backwater Adventures - rated 5/5 (36 reviews) - Naples - trips from $500
- Uncharted Adventures - rated 5/5 (41 reviews) - Goodland - trips from $525
- Inshore Odyssey Inshore Fishing - rated 4.9/5 (33 reviews) - Goodland - trips from $500
How can I fish around Marco Island?
If you’re looking for a fishing adventure in Florida, Marco Island should be on your list. This idyllic island is surrounded by the clear blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Ten Thousand Islands. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to fish around Marco Island, from charter boats to kayaks, and on foot.
Charter Boat Fishing
The most popular way to fish around Marco Island is by booking a charter boat with an experienced local captain. Charter boats are an excellent way to explore the winding mangrove waters and the Gulf. You can cast your line from a flats boat in shallow waters such as the Ten Thousand Islands or the passes around Marco Island. These boats are built to cruise flat inshore waters and are usually decked out with a poling platform to lessen your chances of spooking your target catch.
If you're heading out on a Gulf adventure, you'll likely be speeding off on a vessel built for sportfishing, which is usually equipped with top-quality fishing gear, such as outriggers and downriggers. You’ll spend more time traveling to the hotspots, but it’s worth it when you’re plumbing the depths of the wrecks and reefs.
Fishing on Foot
Fishing on foot around Marco Island usually means casting your line in the shallow waters of the Gulf. The target species can include anything from Snook to Snapper varieties, Sharks, and beyond. You can set up your rods and reels on the beach, under bridges, or around jetties. This area is pretty small and easily walkable, and most on-foot hotspots are located close to each other.
Kayak Fishing
Kayak fishing around the Ten Thousand Islands is an unforgettable experience that offers the chance to hook a “grab bag” of inshore favorites, such as Snook, Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Tarpon, Shark species, and more. However, navigating a kayak around skinny, shallow waters can be tricky, so make sure you’re confident about your ability to control the vessel and your fishing gear.
Best Fishing Spots Around Marco Island
Calusa Island Marina is located on the eastern side of Marco Island and is the "Gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands." Charters depart from here and will have you casting your line in no time. Caxambas Park and Marina on the southwest side of Marco Island is home to a whole host of charter vessels, docked and waiting to take you out to explore the Gulf of Mexico. South Beach is the least-populated beach on Marco Island, and its rock jetties are the perfect place to cast a line if you're fishing on foot. Finally, Jolley Bridge provides access to the many bays and passes around Marco Island, and you can still fish from the sand underneath it and launch your kayak from it.
Legal Requirements
Certain species you’ll encounter when fishing around Marco Island are subject to strict regulations, so make sure you know what’s allowed. If you're fishing with a guide, they'll inform you about the legal requirements. If you're fishing alone, check out the FWC beforehand. You’ll also need a valid Florida fishing license, which can be easily purchased from the FWC website.
In conclusion, fishing around Marco Island is a dream come true for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you’re fishing from a charter boat, on foot, or from a kayak, there are plenty of hotspots to explore. Just make sure you know the legal requirements and have a valid fishing license before casting your line.
