Looking for a productive day on Bonita Springs' renowned backwater fishery? Fred Gowdy Charters offers expertly guided fishing trips targeting the area's most sought-after species. Our Wednesday July trip showcased why summer fishing here delivers consistent action, with a focus on stalking snook in their favorite warm-weather haunts. Captain Fred combines local knowledge with versatile fishing approaches—from inshore tactics to surf fishing—ensuring you'll experience the best seasonal bite these waters have to offer. Our 4-hour morning backwater trips provide the perfect balance of productive fishing and comfortable conditions before the afternoon heat and storms roll in. Whether you're an experienced angler or bringing the family, Fred Gowdy Charters delivers a professional, enjoyable fishing experience in one of Florida's premier inshore fishing destinations.
Captain Fred Gowdy of Fred Gowdy Charters offers Wednesday July trips designed to put you on Bonita Springs' hot summer action. Our popular 4 Hour Backwater Trip (AM) gives you prime morning fishing hours when fish are most active and before afternoon storms typically develop. All necessary fishing gear, licenses, and ice are provided—just bring your personal items, sunscreen, and camera to capture your catch. Our vessels comfortably accommodate families and fishing groups looking for a professional yet relaxed charter experience. Reserve your spot today to secure the best dates during this productive summer season.
Our summer backwater trips showcase the diverse fishing opportunities in Bonita Springs waters. We strategically target productive areas using multiple techniques—from inshore backwater fishing to surf casting—maximizing your chances for success. This approach paid dividends for Jacob and crew, who enjoyed steady action targeting snook in various locations throughout their trip.
The partly cloudy conditions we encountered created ideal fishing scenarios, with enough cloud cover to keep temperatures manageable while still maintaining good visibility for spotting fish. Our morning departure time ensures you're on the water during prime feeding periods, when fish are most active and willing to strike. The 4-hour format provides ample fishing time without overwhelming newer anglers or becoming too long for families with younger participants.
Bonita Springs backwaters offer outstanding summer fishing opportunities, particularly for anglers targeting snook. The complex network of mangrove islands, oyster bars, and grass flats creates perfect habitat for various gamefish species. During summer months, we typically experience warm mornings with partly cloudy skies and the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms—making our morning trips the optimal choice for comfortable, productive fishing.
Water temperatures in July hover in the mid-80s, which concentrates snook around structures with good water flow and oxygen levels. Our local knowledge helps us identify these prime fishing zones based on tidal movements and weather patterns. Light tackle spinning gear with 10-15lb test provides the perfect balance of casting distance and fighting power for the species we target. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to fishing, our versatile approach ensures everyone aboard can participate and enjoy success on the water.
For your trip with Fred Gowdy Charters, we recommend bringing sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), comfortable clothing, and a camera to capture your catch. Our vessels are equipped with all necessary safety gear, fishing equipment, and coolers with ice to keep any keeper fish fresh. We typically depart early morning from our Bonita Springs location to maximize fishing time during optimal conditions.
Most backwater trips accommodate up to 4 anglers comfortably, making this perfect for small groups and families. We practice catch-and-release for many species, particularly snook, which are carefully handled to ensure their survival after the photo opportunity. For the most enjoyable experience, we suggest booking at least a few weeks in advance during peak summer season to secure your preferred date.