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.
This guide breaks down each charter option available during the summer months, helping you choose the best trip based on target species, water conditions, and your preferred time on the water.
Inshore Summer Fishing Trips
Inshore fishing is at its peak during summer, with water temperatures pushing fish into aggressive feeding patterns during the cooler parts of the day. Fort Myers, Sanibel, and Captiva provide a perfect inshore setting, with winding mangrove shorelines, shallow grass flats, oyster beds, and small creeks all coming into play.
What You Can Catch
Summer is prime time for species like:
Snook: Active around mangroves and dock structures, especially early morning and late afternoon.
Redfish: Found tailing on the flats and staging near oyster bars.
Spotted Seatrout: Holding in slightly deeper grass flats, especially early in the day.
Mangrove Snapper: Moving inshore around docks and channel edges.
These species are not only abundant but often very responsive to live bait during the warm months. The rising sun heats up the flats quickly, which means most action is concentrated in the first few hours after sunrise and during evening cooldowns.
Trip Lengths and Details
You can choose between 3, 4, 6, or 8-hour trips. Shorter trips are perfect for getting out early and back before the midday heat, while longer excursions give more time to scout for schools and cover multiple zones.
All inshore trips include:
Fishing licenses
Top-quality rods and reels
Live and artificial bait
Tackle
Cooler with ice and bottled water
This is an ideal summer activity for beginners and experienced fishermen alike, and the calmer waters of the backcountry offer a smooth ride even when the Gulf breeze picks up.
Nearshore Reef and Wreck Fishing in Summer
When the Gulf is calm, which is often the case in summer mornings, nearshore fishing around reefs and wrecks becomes highly productive. The waters just a few miles offshore hold a range of hard-fighting and great-tasting species.
What You Can Catch
Some of the most common summer nearshore targets include:
Lane and Mangrove Snapper: Holding tight to reef edges and ledges, ideal for bottom fishing.
Grouper: Especially red and gag grouper, which are often caught over rocky bottom and wrecks.
Permit: Frequently seen cruising near structure, particularly when water clarity is high.
Spanish Mackerel and Jacks: Following bait schools and striking fast-moving lures or live bait.
Summer is also the time when baitfish are abundant near the surface. This creates a perfect scenario for sight-fishing and chumming around wrecks, giving anglers the chance to catch aggressive surface feeders in clear water.
Trip Options
Nearshore trips are available in 6- or 8-hour durations. With these longer trips, there’s plenty of time to run to deeper spots and adjust tactics based on the bite. The boat is fully outfitted for serious bottom fishing or live bait drifting, with all tackle and ice provided.
Because these trips reach more open water, mornings are typically the best time to avoid afternoon wind chop or pop-up storms. Starting early also means a better shot at finding fish before the heat drives them deeper.
Summer Tarpon and Shark Trips
For many, summer means one thing: tarpon. These giant fish migrate along Florida’s west coast and are found in big numbers near passes, bridges, and along beach edges in June, July, and into August. Shark fishing also heats up during this time, as warm water brings in a wide range of large predators.
Tarpon Season Highlights
Tarpon are most active around:
Sanibel Causeway
Captiva Pass
Fort Myers Beach
Bait-rich shorelines and flats
They’re typically targeted using live bait like threadfin herring or crabs, although artificial lures and fly gear also have their place. Hooking into one is a memorable experience. Their jumps, stamina, and sheer size make them the ultimate warm-weather trophy.
Sharks You Might Encounter
Bull Sharks: Strong and aggressive, often found near river mouths.
Hammerheads: Known for long runs and sudden changes in direction.
Sandbar Sharks: Common and hard-fighting, especially in nearshore waters.
Most shark fishing is done using large cut bait or live bait around drop-offs and passes. The water clarity and calm conditions of summer make it easier to spot and approach these fish.
Trip Durations
Tarpon and shark trips run 6, 8, or 10 hours. These extended sessions allow time to drift, anchor, and follow fish movement based on tide shifts and bait movement. The longer window also increases the odds of getting multiple hook-ups during the trip.
All gear is included, and boats are equipped for big-game battles with heavy rods, strong reels, and durable leaders. Bottled water is kept cold and ready throughout the trip to keep guests comfortable in the heat.
Eco-Tours and Sightseeing Cruises
Not every summer adventure requires a rod and reel. Captain Pat also offers sightseeing tours throughout Fort Myers, Sanibel, and Captiva. These are especially popular with families or groups who want a relaxed pace and a chance to take in the natural beauty of the region.
Summer Highlights
Shelling: Summer tides often uncover large deposits of shells on barrier islands and sandbars.
Dolphin Watching: Calmer water and warmer temperatures make dolphin sightings more common.
Sunset Cruises: Long summer days lead into breathtaking Gulf sunsets.
Bird Watching: Rookeries and estuaries are filled with activity in summer, from herons to osprey.
These tours can be booked for 3, 4, or 5 hours. Ice and bottled water are provided, and guests are welcome to bring along snacks, drinks, and personal items. Sunscreen and a good pair of polarized sunglasses are strongly recommended.
Eco-trips are also a great way to enjoy the water during the hotter hours of the day, as the boat provides shade and constant airflow, keeping things cooler than on land.
Private Captain Services in Summer
If you have your own vessel and want to enjoy the benefits of a guided trip without operating the boat yourself, Captain Pat’s private captain services are available throughout the summer. He’ll take the helm, help you plan your route, and ensure your time on the water is smooth and safe.
Fishing, sightseeing, anchoring off a sandbar, or cruising between islands can all be more enjoyable with a knowledgeable captain aboard can make the trip easier and more enjoyable. Having a knowledgeable captain aboard means less stress and more fun. This option is especially useful for those unfamiliar with the area’s channels, tides, and regulations.
Choosing the Right Summer Trip
With multiple charter types and trip lengths available, picking the best summer experience comes down to your goals and group preferences.
Want action in calm waters before the heat sets in?
Choose an early-morning inshore trip for snook and redfish.Looking to chase a trophy fish?
Book a full-day tarpon or shark trip to go all-in on summer’s biggest battles.Prefer variety and bottom structure?
A nearshore trip offers steady action with a chance for both reef dwellers and open-water predators.Bringing kids or non-fishermen?
An eco-tour lets everyone enjoy the scenery, wildlife, and Gulf breeze without the intensity of fishing.Boat owners who prefer expert guidance can hire Captain Pat for a private trip aboard their own vessel.
Summer Timing and Conditions
Fishing and sightseeing in the summer can be incredibly productive when planned around the right windows. Here are a few seasonal insights:
Start early: Most fishing action is concentrated before midday.
Watch the tides: Moving water (especially outgoing) tends to trigger bites.
Stay hydrated: Even with the breeze, Gulf summers are humid and hot.
Plan around weather: Afternoon storms are common, but usually brief.
Let’s Get You on the Water This Summer
Summer along Florida’s Gulf Coast isn’t just a season. It’s an opportunity to fish, explore, and reconnect with the water in ways that few places can offer. From sunrise inshore hunts for redfish and snook to late-afternoon passes filled with rolling tarpon, the waters around Fort Myers, Sanibel, and Captiva are open and full of promise. Some guests come for the shelling, dolphin watching, and smooth sightseeing routes. Others chase sharks, permit, or big summer trout. However you prefer to spend your time on the water, we’re ready to help make it your ideal day.
Every trip is designed around your goals. We provide the gear, prep the boat, and manage the details so you can stay focused on fishing, relaxing, or just enjoying the ride. From first-time visitors to returning clients, we take pride in offering a summer charter experience that’s reliable, personal, and rewarding.
If you're ready to see what summer on the water really looks like, KingFisher Charters would be proud to welcome you aboard. Let us help you make the most of your time on the water. Reach out today and book your summer trip with KingFisher Charters for an experience built around great fishing, comfort, and lasting memories.