Matlacha's Premier Flats Fishing | Fish Tank

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

Fort Myers
$500 - $1,000 price range

Summary

Ready for a full day of fishing in Matlacha? Captain Dalton Rybka knows these waters like the back of his hand. You'll spend 8 hours on the flats, targeting redfish, snook, sea trout, and even tarpon. It's perfect whether you're solo, with family, or a small group of friends. The captain provides all the gear and know-how, so you just need to bring your enthusiasm. As you cast your line, keep an eye out for dolphins and manatees – they're frequent visitors in these parts. The trip kicks off at 9 AM, and you've got options for where to start. Remember, a deposit secures your spot. Southwest Florida's fishing is top-notch, and this trip puts you right in the middle of the action. Get ready to reel in some memories!

Matlacha's Premier Flats Fishing | Fish Tank

Flats Fishing Finds

Young angler proudly holds a giant Matlacha Snook!

Snook caught while fishing in Fort Myers

Big fish, big smiles, better stories ahead

Bait, cast, catch – repeat all day

Spotted weakfish caught while fishing in Fort Myers

Snagged a beauty under the Florida sun

Reel in the Big Ones: Full Day Matlacha Flats Fishing

Ready to chase some serious fish in Southwest Florida's hidden gem? Captain Dalton Rybka's got you covered with an 8-hour flats fishing adventure that'll have you telling stories for years. We're talking prime Matlacha waters, where the redfish run thick and the snook are always looking for a fight. Whether you're a seasoned angler or bringing the family out for some quality time, this trip's got something for everyone. So grab your hat and let's hit the flats!

What's the Deal?

Picture this: You're gliding across crystal-clear shallows, mangroves lining the horizon. Captain Dalton's at the helm, pointing out a school of reds tailing in the distance. That's the kind of day you're in for with Fish Tank Charters. We'll spend a full 8 hours chasing the big four – redfish, snook, sea trout, and if we're lucky, maybe even tangle with a tarpon. The boat's stocked with top-notch gear, and the Captain's got more local knowledge than a weathered chart. Best part? Everything's included – bait, licenses, the works. Just bring your game face and maybe a sandwich.

Flats Fishing 101

If you've never fished the flats before, you're in for a treat. We're talking skinny water, where stealth is the name of the game. We'll be sight-fishing most of the day, which means spotting fish before they spot us. Captain Dalton's got a few tricks up his sleeve – from how to read the water to the perfect cast for spooky reds. We'll be using light tackle, so every hook-up feels like you're battling a monster. And trust me, when a big snook hits your line in two feet of water, it's a rush like no other. Don't worry if you're new to this – the Captain's got patience for days and will have you casting like a pro in no time.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Matlacha isn't just another fishing spot – it's a slice of old Florida that keeps calling you back. The waters here are teeming with life, from the fish we're after to the dolphins and manatees that might pop by to say hello. Every trip's different, but one thing's for sure – you're gonna see some action. Maybe it's a tailing red in gin-clear water, or a snook busting bait under the mangroves. And let's not forget the views – sunrises over Pine Island Sound that'll make you forget all about that early wake-up call.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the stars of the show. Known for their distinctive spot near the tail, reds in Matlacha can range from slot-sized puppies to over 40-inch bulls. They love to cruise the flats, often revealing themselves with their tails sticking out of the water as they root for crabs. Fall and winter are prime time for big schools, but we catch 'em year-round. There's nothing quite like watching a red track down your lure in clear water – it's heart-pounding stuff.

Snook: The bad boys of the backcountry, snook are ambush predators with an attitude problem. They love to hang out around structure – mangrove roots, oyster bars, you name it. These line-sides are known for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps. We target them year-round, but the bite really heats up in the warmer months. Hooking a big snook is like picking a fight with a bouncer – be ready for some fireworks.

Sea Trout: Don't let the name fool you – these aren't your average trout. Speckled sea trout are voracious feeders and a blast on light tackle. They school up over grass flats and around deeper potholes. Winter's usually the best time for gator trout (the big ones), but we catch them all year. They're great eating too, if you're looking to take home dinner.

Tarpon: The silver king. If you're lucky enough to hook into one of these prehistoric beasts, hold on tight. Tarpon in Matlacha can range from 20 to over 100 pounds, and they're famous for their gill-rattling jumps and long, powerful runs. We usually see them from late spring through summer. Landing a tarpon is a bucket-list item for many anglers, and for good reason – it's an experience you'll never forget.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, I could go on all day about the fishing here, but nothing beats experiencing it firsthand. Captain Dalton's got the local know-how, the right gear, and a boat that'll get us into those honey holes where the big ones live. Whether you're looking to cross some species off your list, teach the kids how to cast, or just enjoy a day on the water, this trip's got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait. Give Fish Tank Charters a call and let's get you out on the flats. The fish are waiting, and trust me – you don't want to miss this.

Learn more about the species

Redfish

Redfish are a favorite target in Matlacha's shallow flats and mangrove shorelines. Most "reds" we catch run 18-30 inches, but trophy bulls over 40 inches are possible. They're easily identified by their copper color and distinctive tail spot. Redfish love to tail in water so shallow their backs are exposed. Look for them around oyster bars, mangroves, and grass flats, especially on rising tides. Fall is prime time as they school up to spawn. Redfish put up a stubborn, powerful fight and are excellent eating. Try sight-casting with gold spoons or soft plastics. A local trick is to chum with cut mullet near mangroves, then cast a live bait into the frenzy. Hold on tight when that rod doubles over!

Sea Trout

Sea trout, also called speckled trout, are a staple in our waters year-round. Most run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, though some real gators over 10 pounds are possible. Look for them over grass flats in 3-6 feet of water, especially near drop-offs or channels. They're suckers for live shrimp under a popping cork, but soft plastics work great too. Sea trout aren't known for long runs, but they put up a nice fight on light tackle. The "specks" are popular for their aggressive strikes and excellent table fare. Winter is actually prime time as they school up in deeper holes. Try drifting and jigging soft plastics when it's cold. A subtle twitch-and-pause retrieve often triggers more bites than a steady retrieve.

Snook

Snook are a prized catch here in Matlacha. These sleek, powerful fish typically run 1-3 feet long and put up an amazing fight. You'll find them lurking around mangroves, docks, and other structure in our shallow coastal waters. They love to ambush prey, so casting near cover is key. Spring and fall are prime seasons as snook move between inshore and offshore areas. Anglers go crazy for the explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps snook are known for. Their meat is also delicious, though heavily regulated. For best results, try live bait like pinfish or mullet on a circle hook. Let it drift naturally with the current past likely hiding spots. Be ready for that telltale thump when a big snook inhales your bait!

Tarpon

Tarpon are the ultimate bucket list fish for many anglers. These massive, prehistoric-looking creatures can reach 8 feet long and over 280 pounds. We typically see them in the 80-100 pound range around here. They migrate through our waters spring through fall, with peak action in summer. Look for rolling tarpon in deeper channels and passes. They're famous for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked - leaping several feet out of the water repeatedly. It's an adrenaline rush like no other. Tarpon aren't known for their taste, so we practice catch and release. Use heavy tackle and be prepared for a long, grueling fight. A local secret is to "bow to the king" when they jump, lowering your rod tip to prevent breaking them off.

About the Action Craft

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 50

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 150

Ready for an action-packed day on the water? Hop aboard Captain Dalton Rybka's custom flats boat for 8 hours of non-stop fishing fun. This spacious vessel comfortably fits up to 3 anglers, with plenty of deck space to cast and reel in your catch. Equipped with top-notch fishing gear and state-of-the-art electronics, you'll have everything needed to track down those prized Redfish, Snook, and more. The shallow draft allows access to hidden backwaters and mangrove-lined shores where the big ones lurk. With a stable platform and ample shade, you can fish in comfort while taking in the stunning Matlacha scenery. Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins and curious manatees as you cruise to the next hot spot. Whether you're a seasoned pro or first-timer, this boat provides the perfect setup for a memorable day of Florida flats fishing.