Sanibel Island Fishing Charters: Top 7 Tours for Big Catches

Sanibel Island fishing charters offer guests an action-packed way to see two barrier islands located off Florida’s west coast, Sanibel and Captiva. This area not only features miles of beaches but also draws more than 200 different kinds of fish, including the coveted tarpon. In fact, tarpon migration helps make spring and summer prime times for fishing in the Sanibel Island area.

Guests booking these fishing charters don’t have to worry about licenses or equipment, but should bring sunscreen, hats, food and drinks, and a camera. Get ready for adventure and check out the top Sanibel Island fishing charters.

Top 7 Sanibel Island Fishing Charters and Captains

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Sanibel Island Fishing Charters: Captain Greg

Captain Greg takes guests out for inshore or offshore fishing excursions, but he’s most known for his famous tarpon fishing excursions. The tarpon is a giant trophy fish that migrates to this region to feed during spring and summer. Captain Greg is an expert in tracking, catching and boating these beauties, helping avid fisherman get their big catch. Full and half-day charters are available year-round for up to three anglers.

Sanibel Fishing: Captain Dave

Specializing in inshore fishing trips, Captain Dave Andrews ranks as another favorite fishing guide. Available for full and half-day trips, Captain Andrews provides all the equipment and tackle needed for a fun-filled fishing adventure. In addition to standard items, guests should pack a rain poncho for occasional Gulf Coast showers. Possible catches include snapper, redfish and more.

Endless Summer Charters: Captain Bill

Departing from Royal Shell Port Sanibel Marina, Endless Summer Charters offers private fishing charters of Sanibel and Fort Myers. Whether looking for a backwater trip, action-packed fishing or offshore reef fishing, these experienced guides offer that and more. Catches range from tarpon and grouper to snook and spotted sea trout. In May through August, guests can book a night shark trip, which offers a break from the heat, sunset views and possible dolphin sightings.

Captain Noah’s Charters: Captains Noah

Captain Noah Stewart is an experienced angler in the area who helps bring in everything from giant grouper to tarpons. The charter is also known to find manatees out at sea for wildlife lovers. Tour times range from four to eight hours – with times in between – and all equipment is provided. Guests may catch true giants, such as tiger sharks, hammerheads, Goliath grouper and king mackerel.

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Tarpon Bay Explorers

Join Tarpon Bay Explorers and their expert captains who offer short and long Sanibel Island fishing charters. Guests must however book at least two hours. The charters heads into Tarpon Bay for back-bay saltwater fishing. More than 200 fish call the bay home, and guests may catch sea trout, mangrove snapper and sheephead, to name a few. After the excursion, take a scenic tour via kayak or canoe.

Hey Mon Sanibel: Captain Peter

These fishing charters explore the waters of Sanibel and Captiva Islands and other barrier islands in southwest Florida. Captain Peter customizes each charter based on time of year, what’s biting and guest interest. Tours are suited for couples and groups as large as six, and offer opportunities to hook tarpon, pompano and gag grouper. Those who want to keep their catches will have them cleaned and iced by the captain himself.

Mangrove Masters: Captain Jack

Take a tour with Mangrove Masters, and let Captain Jack Boutchyard teach the ins and outs of inshore fishing. These guided tours explore grass flats, oyster bars and Mangrove Islands. Common species include redfish, tarpon, triple tail and more. Guests can book four, six and eight-hour trips, and Captain Jack takes pictures and emails them for free.

Ready to get in the water? Start planning and browse Sanibel Island vacation rentals.

After a fishing trip, fill up on local favorites at these Sanibel family restaurants.