Top-Rated Fort Myers Fishing Charters | Fish Tank

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Fort Myers
$500 - $1,000 price range

Summary

Ready for a full day of fishing in Fort Myers? Captain Dalton Rybka of Fish Tank Charters has you covered with this 8-hour inshore trip. You'll be targeting popular species like snook, redfish, trout, and mackerel in the rich waters around Fort Myers. The captain provides all the gear, bait, and licenses you need, so you can focus on reeling in the big ones. While you're out there, keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and seabirds - the local wildlife adds to the experience. This trip is great for all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned anglers. Bring your family, friends, or come solo - there's room for up to 4 guests. It's a laid-back day on the water with plenty of fishing action. Just remember, the deposit is non-refundable, so plan accordingly. Get ready for a day of casting lines, enjoying the scenery, and hopefully landing some impressive catches in Fort Myers.

Top-Rated Fort Myers Fishing Charters | Fish Tank

Reels and Rods

Snook and smiles! #SnookFishing

Snook on the line!

Snook and redfish combo!

Two snook fish caught while fishing in Fort Myers

Double snook catch! #FishingFun

Fishing Charters Fort Myers | 8HRS Inshore Trip

Ready to hit the water for some serious inshore action? Fish Tank Charters has you covered with an 8-hour fishing extravaganza in Fort Myers. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, Captain Dalton Rybka knows all the sweet spots to put you on the fish. We're talking Snook, Redfish, Trout, Mackerel, and more - the kind of lineup that'll keep your rod bent and your heart racing all day long.

Trip Overview

Picture this: You're cruising the pristine waters of Fort Myers, the sun's warming your face, and there's that unmistakable salt spray in the air. That's the start of your day with Fish Tank Charters. Captain Dalton's got everything dialed in - from top-notch gear to fresh bait and even your fishing license. No need to sweat the small stuff. This trip's perfect for bringing the whole crew, whether it's family, buddies, or even flying solo. With room for up to 4 guests, you've got space to spread out and get comfortable for a full day of fishing.

While you're out there chasing the big ones, keep your eyes peeled. These waters are teeming with wildlife. Spot a pod of playful dolphins, catch a glimpse of a gentle manatee, or watch seabirds dive-bombing for their lunch. It's not just about what's on the end of your line - it's the whole package deal of being out on the water in one of Florida's top fishing destinations.

What to Expect on the Water

Alright, let's talk tactics. Inshore fishing in Fort Myers is all about working those mangrove shorelines, grass flats, and oyster bars. Captain Dalton's got a few tricks up his sleeve, from sight casting to Snook lurking in the shadows to drifting live bait for those big Redfish. You might be throwing soft plastics, working topwater plugs, or freelining live bait - it all depends on what's biting and where.

Don't worry if you're new to this. The captain's there to show you the ropes, from how to work a lure to the best way to set the hook when a fish strikes. And if you're an old hand at this, well, you know there's always something new to learn on the water. The gear's all top-shelf stuff, so you can focus on the fun part - fighting fish and making memories.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Let's break down some of the heavy hitters you might tangle with on this trip:

Spanish Mackerel: These speedsters are like the sports cars of the sea. They'll hit your lure hard and make your reel sing. Best targeted in the cooler months, Spanish Mackerel are a blast to catch and make for some tasty eating too. Look for them around bait schools, and be ready for some high-speed action.

Snook: The prized catch of many an inshore angler, Snook are cunning predators that love to hang around structure. They're known for their explosive strikes and acrobatic fights. Spring and fall are prime Snook seasons in Fort Myers. Landing a big one is a real feather in your cap - these fish are as challenging as they are delicious.

Tarpon: Known as the "Silver King," hooking into a Tarpon is like picking a fight with a freight train. These massive fish can top 100 pounds and are famous for their gill-rattling jumps. Late spring through summer is Tarpon time in Fort Myers. Even if you don't land one, just hooking up is an experience you won't forget.

Redfish: With their copper color and distinctive spot near the tail, Redfish are a staple of inshore fishing. They're bulldogs in the water, pulling hard and often found tailing in shallow water. Fall is a great time for Redfish, but you can catch them year-round. There's nothing quite like sight-casting to a tailing Red in skinny water.

Ladyfish: Often called "poor man's tarpon," Ladyfish might not be the biggest, but they more than make up for it in fight. These acrobatic fish love to jump and run, providing non-stop action that's perfect for anglers of all skill levels. They're around all year and are a great way to stay busy between shots at bigger game.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish - though that's a big part of it. Folks come back to Fish Tank Charters because Captain Dalton knows how to show people a good time. He's got that perfect mix of local knowledge, fishing skills, and the ability to put you on fish consistently. Plus, there's something special about fishing these waters. One day you might be sight-casting to tailing Redfish, the next you're battling a monster Snook under the mangroves. Every trip's different, and that's what keeps it exciting.

Time to Book Your Spot

So there you have it - a full day of primo inshore fishing in one of Florida's top spots. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, soak in some sunshine, or just get away from it all for a while, this 8-hour trip with Fish Tank Charters is the ticket. Captain Dalton's ready to put you on the fish and show you the best Fort Myers has to offer. Just remember, those deposits are non-refundable, so when you're ready to commit, you're all in for an awesome day on the water. Don't let this chance slip away - the fish are biting, and your spot on the boat is waiting. Let's make it happen!

Learn more about the species

Ladyfish

Ladyfish might not be glamorous, but they're a ton of fun on light tackle. These skinny, silver fish usually run 12-24 inches and put on an acrobatic show when hooked. You'll find 'em in bays, inlets, and along beaches year-round. They're often mixed in with other species, so you never know what you'll catch. Ladyfish aren't great eating, but they make excellent cut bait for bigger predators. To catch 'em, try small jigs or spoons retrieved quickly. My favorite technique is skipping a small white bucktail jig across the surface - ladyfish can't resist. When you hook one, get ready for some high-flying action. They're known for tail-walking across the water and throwing hooks. Ladyfish are perfect for getting kids or newbies into fishing - there's never a dull moment when they're around.

Redfish

Redfish are a Fort Myers staple - hard-fighting and great on the table. These copper-colored brutes hang out in shallow flats, often tailing in just inches of water. Most run 18-27 inches, but big bulls over 40 inches cruise deeper channels. Fall is prime time when reds school up to spawn. Sight fishing for tailing reds in clear water is a blast. They'll crush topwater lures, jigs, and live bait. For a real thrill, try fly fishing with crab patterns. My go-to trick is using a weedless gold spoon - reds can't resist that flash. When you hook up, be ready for strong runs. Reds use their broad tails to power away, so adjust your drag accordingly. Fresh redfish on the grill is hard to beat, so keep a couple for dinner if regulations allow.

Snook

Snook are the prize catch around Fort Myers. These sleek predators hang out in mangroves, under docks, and along shorelines. Most run 24-28 inches but can get much bigger. They're ambush feeders, so work your lures and bait near structure. Spring and fall are prime seasons when snook move between inshore and nearshore waters. Anglers love 'em for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps. Plus, they're delicious on the grill. To land a big one, try live bait like pinfish or finger mullet on an outgoing tide. My secret weapon is a dark-colored soft plastic worked slowly along mangrove edges at first light. Snook can be leader-shy, so go light and be stealthy. When you hook up, let 'em run to tire out before working them back to the boat.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are fast-moving fish that'll test your skills. These silver bullets usually run 1-2 feet long and put up an exciting fight. You'll find them in coastal waters, often near reefs or structures. They're most active in warmer months when they chase baitfish near the surface. Anglers love targeting Spanish Mackerel for their acrobatic jumps and tasty meat. To catch 'em, try trolling with small, shiny lures or casting jigs into feeding schools. My pro tip: look for birds diving - that's often a sign Spanish Mackerel are feeding below. These fish can be finicky, so use light leaders and move your lure erratically to trigger strikes. Once you hook one, hang on tight - they're known for blistering runs and aerial displays that'll get your heart racing.

Tarpon

Tarpon are the kings of inshore fishing here. These prehistoric beasts can top 100 pounds and put on an aerial show like no other. You'll find 'em rolling in deep channels and along beaches, especially during their spring migration. Tarpon fishing is all about the thrill of the fight - they're not great eating, so we release 'em. May through July is prime time when big schools move through. Light tackle anglers love the challenge of landing these giants on spinning gear. For the best shot, try live crabs or mullet on a strong circle hook. My top tip: when a tarpon jumps, drop your rod tip to give slack. That'll help keep the hook set when they crash back down. Be ready for long runs and multiple jumps. Landing a big tarpon is a true bucket list experience.

About the Sea Chaser

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 40

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 200

Grab your fishing gear and join Captain Dalton Rybka for an awesome day out on the waters of Fort Myers! This 8-hour inshore trip is perfect for anglers of all skill levels. You'll have the chance to reel in some impressive catches like snook, redfish, trout, and mackerel. Don't worry about bringing equipment - the captain's got you covered with all the gear, bait, and licenses you'll need. As you cast your line, keep an eye out for the local wildlife. You might spot playful dolphins, gentle manatees, or colorful seabirds along the way. It's a great opportunity to enjoy nature while trying your luck at landing the big one. Whether you're planning a family outing, a day with friends, or a solo fishing adventure, this charter can accommodate up to 4 guests. So round up your crew and get ready for a laid-back day of fishing, laughs, and making some great memories on the water. Just remember, the deposit is non-refundable, so mark your calendars and get ready to fish!