September into the fall is one of the best times of year to fish in the Naples & Marco Island area. A mixed bag of species can be had in the backcountry, passes, adjacent bays, the beaches and near shore.
September is peak time for redfish with the reds frequenting the passes, adjacent bays and near shore wrecks. Live bait is always the best but jigs, plugs and flies can all be productive. Sometimes they school up and it can be gang busters and many times fish in the 20” – 30” range.
Snook are still active in their usual haunts in the passes, along the beaches and bays. Although the summer spawn is over there are some bigger fishing lurking about.
Bonita (False Albacore) will start to show in the gulf chasing the bait fish that are so prevalent off the beaches this time of year.
Snapper, jacks, sharks are around and a few tarpon should start to show by the end of the month.
Good tides the first week of September around the new moon. Tides will be weaker the following week but not bad and then strong again around the full moon September 17.
Fishing the backcountry in Southwest Florida can be a fantastic experience! This area is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, seagrass beds, and tidal flats, all of which provide excellent fishing opportunities.
Call me to book a trip or talk about their fishing and options.
Capt. Mark
239-450-9230
Here are some tips and insights for fishing the backcountry in Southwest Florida:
Species to Target
- Redfish (Red Drum): These are a staple in the backcountry, often found in shallow waters around mangroves and oyster bars. They’re known for their fighting spirit and are a favorite among anglers.
- Snook: Found around mangroves, docks, and inlets, snook are known for their aggressive strikes and strong runs. They are particularly active around the warmer months.
- Trout: Spotted seatrout can be found in grass flats and shallow waters. They’re fun to catch and can be quite plentiful.
- Tarpon: Known as the “silver king,” tarpon are exciting to catch and can be found in the backcountry, especially during their migration periods.
- Flounder: These are often found in sandy or muddy bottom areas and can be targeted with jigs or live bait.
Techniques and Tips
- Live Bait: Using live bait like shrimp, pinfish, or mullet can be very effective. In the backcountry, live shrimp is often a go-to choice.
- Artificial Lures: Soft plastics, topwater plugs, and spoons can all be effective, especially for redfish and snook. Color and presentation can vary based on water clarity and conditions.
- Tides and Time: Fishing around the tide changes can be particularly productive. Many species feed more actively during the incoming or outgoing tides.
- Weather Considerations: Pay attention to weather patterns, as storms or strong winds can affect fishing conditions. Early mornings or late afternoons are often ideal times to fish.
- Local Knowledge: Talking to local guides or visiting tackle shops can provide valuable insights into current conditions and what’s biting.
Conservation
- Catch and Release: Practice catch and release to help preserve the fish populations. Handle fish carefully and minimize their time out of the water.
- Respect the Environment: Be mindful of the delicate ecosystems in the backcountry. Avoid damaging mangroves or seagrass beds.
Exploring the backcountry of Southwest Florida offers a unique fishing adventure with its beautiful scenery and rich marine life. Enjoy your time on the water!