Matlacha's Premier Flats Fishing | Fish Tank

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

Fort Myers
$550 - $1,200 price range
Updated Date: October 29, 2025

Summary

Get ready for a full day of fishing action in Matlacha, FL with Captain Dalton Rybka. This 8-hour trip takes you to the best spots for Redfish, Snook, Sea Trout, and Tarpon. Whether you're a solo angler or bringing the family, you'll have a blast casting lines in Southwest Florida's beautiful waters. Captain Dalton provides all the gear and knows exactly where to find the fish. Keep an eye out for dolphins and manatees while you're reeling in your catch. The trip leaves at 9:00 AM, and you can choose from several convenient departure points. Everything you need is included - bait, licenses, the works. It's perfect for all skill levels, so don't worry if you're new to fishing. The flats around Matlacha are teeming with fish, and Captain Dalton will make sure you're in the right spot at the right time. Just remember to put down a deposit when you book to secure your spot on the boat.

Matlacha's Premier Flats Fishing | Fish Tank

Reels and Feels

Snook slam in Fort Myers! The fight was real.

Snook caught while fishing in Fort Myers

That Fort Myers Snook grin! A beautiful catch.

Three Black Drum fish caught during a fishing trip in Fort Myers

Targeting Snook & Redfish today. Fort Myers is hot!

Two spots are better than one! Snook action in FL.

Full-Day Tarpon Adventure in Matlacha

Ready to tangle with some silver kings? Captain Dalton Rybka's got you covered on this epic 8-hour fishing trip out of Matlacha. We're talking prime inshore action for tarpon, redfish, snook, and more. Whether you're a seasoned angler or bringing the family out for some fun, this is the kind of day on the water you'll be talking about for years. Let's break down what makes this trip a can't-miss experience in Southwest Florida.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're gliding through the pristine flats of Matlacha, the sun's just peeking over the mangroves, and there's a tarpon roll off the bow. That's the kind of morning you're in for with Fish Tank Charters. Captain Dalton knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's all about putting you on the fish. We'll hit the sweet spots for redfish tailing in the shallows, snook busting bait under the mangroves, and tarpon cruising the channels. And hey, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and manatees – they love these waters as much as we do. With a max of 4 guests, you'll get plenty of personalized attention and shots at landing the big one.

Gear Up for Inshore Action

Leave your tackle box at home, folks. We've got you covered with top-notch gear that's perfect for battling the local bruisers. We're talking light to medium spinning setups that'll give you the sensitivity to feel those subtle bites and the backbone to turn a trophy fish. Live bait's the name of the game here – we'll have plenty of pilchards, pinfish, or whatever's working best that day. And don't sweat the license – it's all included. Just bring your hat, sunscreen, and maybe a camera to capture that monster tarpon mid-air.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Tarpon: The silver king is the star of the show here. These prehistoric beasts can top 100 pounds and put on an aerial display that'll have your heart racing. They start showing up in good numbers come spring, and the action can last well into summer. There's nothing quite like watching a tarpon inhale your bait and feeling that first blistering run.

Redfish: These copper-colored beauties are a year-round target in Matlacha. We'll sight-fish for them in the shallows, looking for their telltale tails waving above the surface. They pull like freight trains and make for some fantastic table fare if you're into keeping a few for dinner.

Snook: The wily snook is a master ambush predator. We'll target them around mangrove shorelines, docks, and oyster bars. They're known for their explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps. The big ones can push 40 inches and give you a real run for your money on light tackle.

Sea Trout: Don't let the name fool you – these aren't your average trout. Speckled sea trout are aggressive feeders and often hunt in schools. We'll drift the grass flats, tossing soft plastics or live bait to entice these spotted predators. They're a blast on light tackle and make for some great eating if you're looking to bring home a fresh dinner.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish – although that's a big part of it. Matlacha is old Florida at its finest. You've got colorful art galleries, funky fish shacks, and some of the friendliest folks you'll ever meet. The waters here are teeming with life, from ospreys diving for their lunch to manatees lazily cruising by. And let's not forget the sunsets – they're the kind that make you want to quit your day job and become a full-time fishing bum. Cap off your day with some fresh grouper at a local joint, and you'll see why people can't get enough of this slice of paradise.

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen, the fish are out there waiting, and Captain Dalton's ready to put you on 'em. Whether you're looking to cross that bucket-list tarpon off your list, introduce the kids to the joys of fishing, or just spend a day soaking up the Florida sun, this trip's got you covered. With everything included – from licenses to top-shelf gear – all you need to do is show up ready for action. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak tarpon season, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give Fish Tank Charters a call, and let's make some memories on the water. Trust me, once you feel that first tarpon on the line, you'll be hooked for life.

Learn more about the animals

Redfish

Redfish are one of our most popular targets - and for good reason. They typically run 18-27 inches in the bays, but bulls over 40 inches cruise the beaches. You'll find them tailing in super shallow water, often less than 2 feet deep. Look for them around oyster bars, mangroves, and grass flats. Fall is prime time when big schools push into the bays. Redfish are known for their powerful runs and dogged fights. They've got a sweet spot on their lateral line - hook them there and hang on! For bait, cut mullet or live shrimp are redfish candy. Artificially, gold spoons or weedless soft plastics work great. Here's a local secret: on hot summer days, look for reds hanging in the shade of docks. Skip a small jig under there and hold on!

Sea Trout

Sea trout, or speckled trout, are a staple of our inshore fishery. Most run 14-20 inches and 1-3 pounds, but gator trout over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. You'll find them over grass flats in 2-6 feet of water, especially around potholes or sandy patches. They're active year-round but really fire up in spring and fall. Trout are fun light-tackle targets that'll crush topwaters and soft plastics. They make great table fare too - mild, flaky meat that's excellent fried or blackened. For artificials, I like small jerkbaits or paddle tail soft plastics on a 1/4 oz jighead. Work them with a twitch-twitch-pause retrieve. Pro tip: when you catch one trout, there are usually more nearby. Fan cast the area thoroughly before moving on.

Snook

Snook are one of the most prized inshore game fish around here. They typically run 24-34 inches but can get up to 48 inches and 50 pounds. You'll find them hanging around mangroves, docks, and other structure in shallow water. They love to ambush prey, so look for them lurking in the shadows. Spring and fall are peak seasons when water temps are right. Anglers love snook for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. They'll leap clear out of the water and make blistering runs. For bait, live pilchards or pinfish are hard to beat. If you're using artificials, try walk-the-dog topwaters or soft plastic jerkbaits. My top tip is to work your lure right up against the mangroves - that's where the big ones hide. Just be ready for an explosive strike!

Tarpon

Tarpon are the silver kings of our waters. These prehistoric beasts can top 8 feet and 280 pounds, though 100-pounders are more common. You'll find them rolling and gulping air in deeper channels and along beaches. Spring and early summer are prime time as they migrate through. Anglers come from all over to battle tarpon - it's a bucket list fish. The aerial acrobatics are insane. When hooked, they'll leap 10 feet in the air, shaking that big bucket mouth. It's a test of endurance that can last hours. Live bait like crabs or threadfin herring work well. For artificial, try big swim baits or DOA Baitbusters. My secret weapon is a purple and black bunny strip fly. Key tip: when a tarpon jumps, bow to the king - lower your rod to give slack or they'll throw the hook.

About the Sea Chaser

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 40

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 200

Captain Dalton's 22-foot bay boat is a reliable workhorse for Matlacha's diverse fishing grounds. With its shallow draft and stable hull, this vessel can navigate the area's flats and mangrove-lined shores with ease. The spacious deck offers plenty of room for four anglers to cast comfortably, while the elevated casting platform provides a perfect vantage point for spotting fish. A live well keeps bait fresh, and there's ample storage for your catch and gear. The boat's smooth ride ensures a comfortable journey to the best fishing spots, whether you're chasing redfish in the shallows or battling tarpon in deeper waters. With shade from the T-top and cushioned seating, you'll stay cool and relaxed during your full-day adventure on Southwest Florida's sun-drenched waters.