Fort Myers, Florida

What's biting

• Redfish (Red Drum)

  Where: Shallow flats, mangrove edges, and tidal creeks in Estero Bay and Pine Island Sound; look for tailing fish in 0.3–1.2 m (1–4 ft) of water.

  Early fall pushes reds into cooler, deeper channels during the heat of day, then back to flats at dawn and dusk. Use live mullet, pinfish, or soft plastics (3–4 inch) worked slowly along structure. September wind and rain stir up the flats—fish the edges.

  Caution: Redfish are catch-and-release only in many areas; confirm current regulations with FWC before keeping any.

• Spotted Seatrout

  Where: Deeper channels, grass beds, and drop-offs in Caloosahatchee River estuary and San Carlos Bay; 1.2–2.4 m (4–8 ft) typical.

  Trout bite improves as water cools slightly; they hunt baitfish in low-light periods. Cast small shrimp, live minnows, or 2–3 inch soft plastics near seagrass edges. Incoming tide and early morning are prime.

• Tarpon

  Where: Caloosahatchee River mouth, Matlacha Pass, and deeper channels; often in 2–4 m (6–13 ft) of water or rolling in shallows.

  Late summer/early fall tarpon are still active but beginning to stage for migration. Use live mullet (15–20 cm / 6–8 in) or large plugs; sight-cast to rolling fish or work deep holes at slack tide. Expect strong runs and aerial acrobatics.

• Snook

  Where: Mangrove shorelines, bridge pilings, and tidal creaks throughout the estuary; most active in deeper water during day, shallows at night.

  September heat keeps snook in shade; fish early morning and late afternoon with live baitfish or topwater plugs. Incoming tide concentrates them; work structure methodically. Check FWC for current slot limits and season status.

• Spanish Mackerel

  Where: Nearshore Gulf waters and deeper bay channels; 3–6 m (10–20 ft) of water.

  Mackerel school in fall; use small silver spoons, live mullet, or shrimp under a popping cork. Windy days (like Sept 9 and 12) push baitfish and mackerel into accessible shallower zones. Fish moving water and structure.