Expert Backcountry Fishing in Bonita Springs

Reel in the Big Ones in Bonita Springs

Hey there, fellow anglers! If you're itching to wet a line in some of Florida's most productive backwaters, you've come to the right place. Fred Gowdy Charters is your ticket to a killer day of fishing in Bonita Springs. We're talking six full hours of non-stop action, targeting some of the most sought-after gamefish in the Sunshine State. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, our expert guides will put you on the fish and show you the ropes of backwater fishing, Florida-style.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: you're gliding through mangrove-lined channels, the sun's barely up, and there's a topwater plug dancing across the surface. Suddenly, the water explodes as a hefty snook smashes your lure. That's just the start of your day with Fred Gowdy Charters. Our 6-hour trips are designed to give you the full Bonita Springs experience. We'll hit prime spots for snook, redfish, and the mighty silver king - tarpon. But that's not all; trout, sheepshead, and other inshore species are often on the menu too. With room for two anglers, it's the perfect setup for you and a buddy to test your skills against some of Florida's hardest-fighting fish.

Backwater Tactics 101

Fishing the backwaters of Bonita Springs is an art form, and our guides have it down to a science. We'll use a mix of live bait and artificial lures, depending on what's working best. You might find yourself tossing soft plastics under docks for snook, sight-casting to tailing redfish in skinny water, or working a popper along mangrove edges for explosive strikes. If the tarpon are rolling, we'll switch gears and break out the heavy tackle. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques - our guides are patient teachers and will have you casting like a pro in no time. We provide all the gear, so just bring your sun protection and a good attitude.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

"First of all I would recommend a six hour trip.Fred has many spots for a variety of fish. Weather, tides and of course red tide can affect any fishing but Fred found us a great day of fishing!" - Ronald

Species You'll Want to Hook

Snook: These are the rock stars of Florida's inshore waters. Snook are ambush predators with a serious attitude problem. They love to hang around structure, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting baitfish. The 'snook pop' - that distinctive gill-plate rattle they make when they hit a topwater lure - is enough to get any angler's heart racing. They're at their most active in the warmer months, but can be caught year-round in Bonita Springs. Landing a big snook is a true test of an angler's skill, as they're known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps.

Tarpon: Known as the 'Silver King', tarpon are the ultimate game fish. These prehistoric beasts can grow well over 100 pounds and put on an aerial show that'll leave you breathless. Tarpon fishing in Bonita Springs peaks from late spring through summer, but we can find resident fish year-round in the backwaters. Hooking a tarpon is one thing, but landing one is a whole different ball game. They have bony mouths that make hook-sets challenging, and their endurance will test even the fittest angler. But that's what makes them so addictive to chase.

Redfish: Also known as red drum, these copper-colored bruisers are a staple of Florida inshore fishing. Redfish are often found tailing in shallow water, their spotted tails waving above the surface as they root for crabs and shrimp. This makes for some exciting sight-fishing opportunities. They're not as flashy as snook or tarpon, but what they lack in acrobatics, they make up for in pure, bulldog strength. Redfish are available year-round in Bonita Springs, with the fall being prime time for big schools of overslot fish.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, folks, let's cut to the chase. If you're looking for a top-notch fishing experience in one of Florida's most beautiful spots, Fred Gowdy Charters has got you covered. We're talking world-class fishing for some of the most exciting inshore species out there. Our trips are designed to put you on fish, teach you new skills, and send you home with stories you'll be telling for years. Whether you're dreaming of that first snook, itching to tangle with a tarpon, or just want to bend a rod and have a great time, we've got the trip for you. The backwaters of Bonita Springs are calling, and the fish are waiting. Don't let another season slip by - book your trip with Fred Gowdy Charters today and get ready for some of the best fishing Florida has to offer. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it. See you on the water!