%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F398%2Fimages%2Fimageedit_11_9860484356.png&w=1200&q=100)
Premier Bonita Springs Inshore Fishing Charter
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Bonita Springs, FL
- $350 - $645 price range
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2F42baf590-5276-42f9-9331-5436872be2f7%2Fratecard%2Fnearshore.png&w=1200&q=75)
Reeling Them In
null
null
null
null
Reeling in a huge Snook under partly cloudy skies in Bonita Springs!
Partly cloudy skies set the stage for an exciting day of deep sea action!
null
null
null
null
null
null
null
null
Reeling in a huge Snook under partly cloudy skies in Bonita Springs!
Partly cloudy skies set the stage for an exciting day of deep sea action!
null
null
null
null
null
null
null
null
Reel in the Action: Bonita Springs Fishing
Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to experience some of the best inshore fishing Bonita Springs has to offer? Fred Gowdy Charters has got you covered with our 4-hour fishing adventure that'll have you hooked from start to finish. We're talking about a morning on the water that'll make you forget all about that alarm clock you had to set. With a max of four people per boat, you'll get the personal attention you need to land some serious catches. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, we'll make sure you have a blast reeling in some of Florida's most sought-after fish.
What to Expect on the Water
Picture this: You're cruising through the crystal-clear waters of Bonita Springs, the sun's just peeking over the horizon, and you've got a whole morning of fishing ahead of you. Our 4-hour trip is the perfect length to get your fish on without burning out. We'll hit up some of the hottest spots where blacktip sharks, cobia, crevalle jack, king mackerel, and peacock bass like to hang out. And don't worry about feeling crowded – with just four spots available, you'll have plenty of elbow room to cast and reel to your heart's content. Whether you're out with your buddies, treating the family, or even impressing some clients on a corporate outing, we've got the know-how to make your trip a success.
Fishing Techniques & Gear
Alright, let's talk shop. On our Bonita Springs charters, we're all about matching the technique to the target. For those king mackerel, we might do some trolling with live bait or spoons – it's like a buffet line for these speedy predators. When we're after cobia, sight fishing is the name of the game. We'll be scanning the water for these curious fish, sometimes found trailing larger marine life. For the hard-fighting jacks, we'll often use topwater lures or jigs – the surface explosions when they strike are something else! And if we're targeting those beautiful peacock bass, we'll break out the light tackle and maybe even try some fly fishing if you're up for it. Don't sweat the gear – we've got you covered with quality rods, reels, and tackle. Just bring your game face and maybe a snack or two.
Top Catches This Season
Let me tell you, the fishing has been on fire lately. We've had guests pulling in some monster cobia – talking about fish over 40 pounds that'll test your arms and your drag. The blacktip sharks have been putting on a show too, with some high-flying acrobatics that'll have you cheering. And don't even get me started on the king mackerel – these "smokers" have been blistering our reels with runs that'll make your heart race. It's not just about size though; the variety is what keeps our regulars coming back. One minute you're battling a bruiser jack, the next you're finessing a peacock bass. Every trip's different, and that's what makes it exciting.
Species You'll Want to Hook
King Mackerel: These speedsters are the drag-screamers of the Gulf. Known for their blistering runs and toothy grins, kings can grow over 50 pounds. They're typically more abundant in the warmer months, and when they hit, hold on tight! Anglers love the challenge of landing these fish – it's a true test of skill and equipment.
Blacktip Shark: Don't let their size fool you; blacktips pack a punch. Usually ranging from 3 to 6 feet, these sharks are known for their acrobatic leaps when hooked. They're around most of the year but really pick up in the spring and fall. Landing one of these gives you some serious bragging rights.
Peacock Bass: Originally from the Amazon, these colorful fighters have made themselves at home in Florida's waters. They might be smaller than some of our other targets, usually 1 to 4 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in aggression. Peacocks are a year-round target and are especially fun on light tackle or fly gear.
Crevalle Jack: If you're looking for a workout, jacks are your fish. These bruisers will test your stamina with powerful runs and dogged fights. They can show up any time of year, often in schools, and range from 5 to 25 pounds. When a school of jacks blows up on your bait, it's pure fishing mayhem.
Cobia: Curious and strong, cobia are a prized catch in these waters. They can grow over 100 pounds, though 20 to 50-pounders are more common. Cobia tend to be more prevalent in the warmer months and are often spotted near the surface. Their hard fights and excellent table fare make them a favorite among our guests.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Look, I could go on all day about why fishing with Fred Gowdy Charters is the real deal, but let me break it down for you. First off, we know these waters like the back of our hands. We're not just dropping lines and hoping for the best – we're putting you on the fish. Second, our trips are all about you. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to battle some big game or a family wanting to make some memories, we tailor the experience to fit. And let's not forget the variety. One trip you might be reeling in a hard-fighting jack, the next you could be sight-casting to cobia. It's this mix of action, expertise, and personalized service that keeps our customers coming back season after season.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, let's cut to the chase – if you're itching to get out on the water and experience some of the best fishing Bonita Springs has to offer, it's time to lock in your date. Our 4-hour trips are perfect for fitting in a solid morning of fishing without eating up your whole day. Remember, we're limited to four people per boat, so you're guaranteed a quality experience without feeling like sardines in a can. Whether you're a local looking for a quick fishing fix or a visitor wanting to add some real Florida flavor to your trip, we've got you covered. Don't let another season slip by without getting in on this action. Grab your spot now, and let's make some fishing memories that'll have you grinning long after you're back on dry land. Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not booking sooner. See you on the water!
Learn more about the species
Blacktip Shark
Blacktip sharks are one of our most exciting inshore catches. Typically 4-5 feet long and 30-50 pounds, these acrobatic predators are known for spectacular leaps when hooked. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, especially around sandbars and drop-offs. Spring and summer are peak seasons as they follow bait schools inshore. Blacktips give a hard-charging fight and often jump clear of the water. To target them, use sturdy tackle and wire leaders. Fresh cut bait like mullet or mackerel works well. Chum the water to bring them in close. A local tip: when you see their distinctive black-tipped fins cutting the surface, cast just ahead of them for the best shot. Handle with care and release quickly - they're important to our ecosystem. The thrill of battling these high-flying sharks is unforgettable.
Cobia
Cobia are one of our most prized catches - powerful, curious, and great on the table. They typically run 20-40 pounds but can top 100. Look for them around buoys, wrecks, and other structures, often in 30-70 feet of water. Spring and early summer are prime as they migrate along the coast. Cobia are known for their strong, dogged fights and occasional jumps. Anglers love their hard-hitting strikes and excellent flavor. To target them, try sight-fishing with bucktail jigs or live eels. A local tip: when you spot one, cast well ahead - they're often curious and will swim right up to investigate. Use stout tackle, as cobia can dive for structure when hooked. Their firm, white flesh is delicious grilled or blackened. Just remember, they have size and bag limits to protect the population.
Crevalle Jack
Crevalle jacks are bulldogs of the flats - thick-bodied and incredibly strong for their size. Most run 3-15 pounds, but they can top 30. Look for them in shallow bays, along beaches, and around structures like bridges. They're here year-round but really fire up in summer. Jacks are famous for their blistering runs and never-say-die attitude. They'll test your tackle and stamina like few other fish. To catch one, try fast-moving lures like spoons or topwater plugs. Live bait like pilchards works great too. A local tip: watch for diving birds - jacks often push bait to the surface, creating feeding frenzies. When you see that, cast into the mayhem and hold on tight! While not the best eating, pound-for-pound these are some of the hardest fighting fish in our waters.
King Mackerel
King mackerel are fast, powerful fish that'll give you a real workout. These torpedo-shaped predators average 20-30 pounds but can top 90. Look for them in depths of 40-150 feet, often near reefs or structures. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Kings are prized for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics when hooked. Their firm, flavorful meat makes great steaks too. To land one, try trolling with large spoons or live bait like blue runners. A local trick is to use wire leaders - kings have razor-sharp teeth that'll slice through mono in a heartbeat. Keep an eye out for birds working bait schools, that's a good sign kings are feeding nearby. These speedsters put up an awesome fight, so hang on tight when you hook up!
Peacock Bass
Peacock bass are a blast to catch in our local canals and lakes. These colorful fighters usually run 2-4 pounds but can reach 10+. Look for them around structure like bridges, fallen trees, and canal ends. They're most active in warmer months, especially March to June and September to December. Peacocks are known for explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps. Anglers love their aggressive nature and beautiful markings. To hook one, try topwater lures or live shiners. A local trick is to use noisy, flashy lures - peacocks are very visual predators. Cast near structure and retrieve quickly to trigger strikes. These fish fight hard for their size, so use sturdy tackle. While not great eating, the catch-and-release action is non-stop fun. Just remember, they can't tolerate cold water, so we only find them in South Florida.
