Offshore Fishing Species in Naples, Marco Island & Fort Myers

Are you ready to catch some of the best offshore fish in Southwest Florida? Our offshore fishing charters around Naples, Marco Island, and Fort Myers offer anglers the opportunity to target a variety of species, including red grouper, red snapper, and other exciting catches. Below is a list of the top offshore fish species you'll encounter while fishing in the Gulf of Mexico.

Red Grouper (Epinephelus morio)

Best Time to Catch: Year-round, with peak seasons in spring and fall
Top Locations: Offshore reefs, wrecks, and deepwater structures

Why You’ll Love Catching Red Grouper:
The red grouper is a favorite for offshore anglers in Southwest Florida. Known for its strong fight and delicious meat, this species is commonly found around natural and artificial reefs at depths between 50 and 150 feet. Red grouper are a staple catch for anglers targeting bottom-dwelling fish.

Fishing Tips for Red Grouper:

Use live bait like squid or menhaden for the best results.
Bottom fishing with heavy tackle is key to successfully landing this powerful species.
MORE ABOUT RED GROUPER CLICK HERE!

Red Snapper (Lutjanus campechanus)

Best Time to Catch: Summer through fall
Top Locations: Deepwater reefs, wrecks, and offshore ledges

Why You’ll Love Catching Red Snapper:
Red snapper are one of the most popular offshore fish species and are prized for their fiery fight and excellent taste. These fish are found at depths of 100 feet or more and can grow to large sizes. Red snapper are a favorite for both novice and experienced anglers due to their challenging fight and rewarding taste.

Fishing Tips for Red Snapper:

Jigging and bottom fishing with fresh cut bait or live baits like menhaden and grunts work best.
Check seasonal regulations before heading out, as red snapper fishing seasons may vary.
MORE ABOUT RED SNAPPER CLICK HERE!

Amberjack (Seriola dumerili)

Best Time to Catch: Year-round, with peak seasons in spring and fall
Top Locations: Offshore wrecks, reefs, and oil rigs

Why You’ll Love Catching Amberjack:
Amberjack are one of the hardest fighting fish found in Southwest Florida's offshore waters. Known for their size and strength, they are often found around deep wrecks and reefs. Their powerful fight makes them a favorite among experienced anglers looking for a challenge.

Fishing Tips for Amberjack:

Live baiting with blue runners or large baitfish is the most effective method.
Use heavy tackle to handle these strong fighters, as amberjack can reach up to 100 pounds.

Kingfish (Scomberomorus cavalla)

Best Time to Catch: Fall and winter
Top Locations: Offshore reefs, ledges, and deeper waters

Why You’ll Love Catching Kingfish:
Kingfish (also known as king mackerel) are renowned for their speed and agility, making them one of the most exciting fish to catch. They are commonly found in deeper offshore waters and are known to put up a challenging fight, making them a thrilling catch for anglers who enjoy fast-paced fishing.

Fishing Tips for Kingfish:

Trolling with live bait such as pilchards or blue runners is a highly effective strategy for kingfish.
Kingfish prefer waters that are warmer, so plan your trip in late fall or winter for the best chances.

Gag Grouper (Mycteroperca microlepis)

Best Time to Catch: Year-round, with peak seasons in spring and fall
Top Locations: Deep-water reefs and wrecks

Why You’ll Love Catching Gag Grouper:
Gag grouper are another prized offshore catch in Southwest Florida. These fish can grow large and are known for their strength, offering a challenging fight for anglers. Gag grouper are found in deep waters and are often targeted by anglers looking to land a trophy fish.

Fishing Tips for Gag Grouper:

Use live bait like grunts or pinfish to attract gag grouper.
Fish at depths of 100-200 feet for the best chances of landing this trophy species.

Mangrove

Snapper (Lutjanus griseus)

Best Time to Catch: Year-round, with summer being peak season
Top Locations: Shallow reefs, wrecks, and mangrove islands

Why You’ll Love Catching Mangrove Snapper:
The mangrove snapper is a popular catch for both beginners and seasoned anglers. These fish are smaller than red snapper but abundant and easy to find in Southwest Florida's offshore waters. With their delicious taste and moderate fight, they’re a great choice for anglers looking for a satisfying catch.

Fishing Tips for Mangrove Snapper:

Live shrimp or small baitfish work best for attracting mangrove snapper.
Focus on shallow reefs and inshore wrecks to find this species.

Mahi-Mahi (Coryphaena hippurus)

Best Time to Catch: Spring through fall
Top Locations: Offshore waters, around floating structures and weed lines

Why You’ll Love Catching Mahi-Mahi:
Known for their vibrant colors and impressive fight, mahi-mahi (also called dorado or dolphin fish) are one of the most exciting catches in offshore fishing. These fast swimmers are often found near floating debris and weed lines and are known for their aggressive strikes. Mahi-mahi are also a popular fish for sport fishing due to their size and strength.

Fishing Tips for Mahi-Mahi:

Trolling with ballyhoo or live bait is the most effective method.
Mahi-mahi prefer warm waters, making them more common during the summer months.

Sharks (Various Species)

Best Time to Catch: Year-round
Top Locations: Deeper offshore waters, wrecks, and reefs

Why You’ll Love Catching Sharks:
Offshore waters in Southwest Florida are home to several species of sharks, including bull sharks, blacktip sharks, and lemon sharks. These apex predators offer an adrenaline-filled challenge for anglers who want a true sport-fishing experience. Reeling in a shark is a thrilling feat and a great addition to your offshore fishing adventure.

Fishing Tips for Sharks:

Use cut bait like mullet or menhaden to attract sharks.
Sharks are often found near deeper waters and wrecks, so aim for these areas for
the best chances of a catch.

Goliath Grouper

Why You’ll Love Catching Goliath Grouper:
The Goliath grouper is one of the most impressive and powerful species you’ll encounter during offshore fishing trips in Naples, Marco Island, and Fort Myers. Known for their massive size, Goliath groupers can grow up to 800 pounds and reach lengths of over 8 feet. These giants are found in deep waters around wrecks, reefs, and submerged structures, where they use their strength to stay hidden.

While their size and power make them challenging to reel in, Goliath groupers are a true trophy fish and an unforgettable catch for any angler looking to test their limits. Whether you’re targeting this species for sport fishing or simply to experience the thrill of bringing in a monster fish, the Goliath grouper promises a remarkable offshore adventure.

Why Goliath Grouper Are So Special:

Size: Known for their sheer size, they are one of the largest fish in the Gulf of Mexico.
Unique Appearance: Their stocky build, wide head, and large mouth make them easily recognizable.
Challenging Fight: Their powerful, slow pulls make landing a Goliath grouper a thrilling experience. The fight can last for an extended period, requiring patience and skill.

Fishing Tips for Goliath Grouper:

Live Bait: Goliath grouper are often caught using large live bait like mullet, pinfish, or blue runners.
Heavy Tackle: Given their size, you’ll need to use heavy-duty rods and reels to withstand the power of these fish.
Wrecks and Reefs: These fish prefer deep-water environments, often found hiding around offshore wrecks, artificial reefs, and submerged structures. Targeting these spots increases your chances of success.
Patience is Key: Due to their massive size and power, bringing in a Goliath grouper can be a test of endurance. Be prepared for a fight and take your time to avoid breaking your line.

Regulations and Conservation:
Goliath groupers are a protected species in certain areas, so it's important to be aware of local fishing regulations. In Southwest Florida, catch and release is typically encouraged to ensure the population remains healthy. Make sure to check current rules and season dates to avoid fines and protect this incredible species.

Why Choose Us for Goliath Grouper Fishing?
Our offshore fishing charters are designed to give you the best chance of landing a Goliath grouper. With years of local experience, we know the best locations and methods for targeting these giants. We use high-quality, heavy-duty equipment to ensure that you can handle even the biggest catches. If you’re looking for the ultimate challenge on the water, a Goliath grouper is waiting to make your day unforgettable.

Book Your Goliath Grouper Fishing Trip Today!
Ready to test your skills and catch one of the most formidable fish in the Gulf? Contact us today to book your offshore fishing charter and embark on the adventure of a lifetime targeting the legendary Goliath grouper!

Wahoo (Acanthocybium solandri)

Best Time to Catch: Winter through early spring
Top Locations: Offshore reefs and deeper waters

Why You’ll Love Catching Wahoo:
Wahoo are one of the fastest fish in the Gulf and offer one of the most exciting experiences in offshore fishing. Known for their speed and strength, wahoo are often found around deep reefs and offshore structures. Their firm, white meat makes them a popular choice for anglers who are also looking for a tasty catch.

Fishing Tips for Wahoo:

Trolling at high speeds with large baits like blue runners is the most effective technique.
They are typically found in deeper waters, so make sure to target areas that are 100-300 feet deep.

Plan Your Offshore Fishing Trip Today!

Ready to catch the big one? Whether you’re targeting red snapper, amberjack, or a trophy gag grouper, our offshore fishing charters around Naples, Marco Island, and Fort Myers are ready to take you on the fishing adventure of a lifetime. Our experienced captains are experts in locating these offshore species, and we provide top-notch gear for a successful day on the water.

Book your fishing charter today and start planning your unforgettable offshore adventure!