Late summer brings a distinct shift across the inshore waters of Sanibel, Captiva, and Fort Myers. Water levels stay high throughout most of the day, grasslines remain submerged longer, and tidal flow intensifies with the incoming influence of storm season. This is a stretch of time where resident fish feed more aggressively in condensed windows, and visitors to the fishery, both human and finned, converge around current, bait, and cover.

Florida’s southwest coast is a hotbed of marine activity in the summer months. The nearshore zone, from the surf line out to roughly nine miles offshore, is alive with fish, feeding frenzies, spawning activity, and fast-moving predator-prey interactions.

When summer arrives on Florida’s Gulf Coast, the waters around Fort Myers, Sanibel, and Captiva come alive with fishing and coastal exploration opportunities. Warm temperatures, calm seas, and a wide range of migratory and resident fish make this season one of the most productive and enjoyable times to be on the water. Some guests plan to chase redfish on the flats. Others prefer to hook into big tarpon along the passes or unwind on a private sightseeing tour. Each option provides a different summer experience on the water. This variety of options creates a distinct summer experience for each guest. Captain Pat’s summer charters offer a tailored experience for every kind of coastal adventurer.

When summer hits the Gulf Coast, the flats heat up, the bait floods inshore, and the fish get aggressive. For fishermen along Florida’s southwest coast, especially around Ft. Myers, Sanibel, Pine Island, and Captiva, summer means opportunity. Captain Patrick King, a U.S. Coast Guard certified guide and native to the Ft. Myers area, has built a lifetime of experience around these waters. From redfish tailing in the shallows to tarpon cruising off the beaches, King’s approach to summer fishing is shaped by decades of local and international experience. This article breaks down what species to target during the summer months, how conditions shift, and what techniques consistently produce results.

Fishing the inshore waters around Sanibel, Captiva, and Fort Myers during the summer comes with changes that affect fish behavior, feeding patterns, and the best times to be on the water. Rising temperatures push fish into specific movement cycles, making it necessary to plan around early mornings, late evenings, and strong tidal shifts. The fish are still here, but adjusting to the conditions separates productive trips from slow ones.

Spring in Southwest Florida signals the arrival of some of the best fishing opportunities of the year. As water temperatures rise and baitfish become more abundant, inshore and nearshore waters come alive with activity. This is the time when some of the region’s most sought-after species, including tarpon, permit, cobia, and kingfish, are at their peak. For anglers looking to maximize their chances of success, booking a fishing charter ensures access to the best fishing spots and techniques tailored to the season’s conditions.