Big fish, tough fighting fish and great edible fish.... Marco Island has it all and is quite possibly one of THE best places to find varied fishing all year round. Being the northern-most of the 10,000 Islands, surrounded by natural preserves and bordering the Gulf of Mexico, Marco is ideally situated to offer many different kinds of world class fishing. You’ll find below a description of the different opportunities available here and what you can expect from each if you go out on a fishing charter. I would recommend that you narrow down what you are looking for and what suits your party best. The list below will help you decide which of our highly experienced Charter Captains will be just right for you.
Family Fishing
If you want to take the family out for some fun and you haven’t been fishing in Southwest Florida before, or you just aren’t a die-hard, then nearshore or backwater could be your best bet. Depending on the time of year you will have a shot at snapper, sheepshead, snook, redfish, grouper, tarpon, trout, blackdrum, pompano and tripletail. When the water warms in the summer there are also numerous species of shark to add to the mix, including blacktip, hammerhead, bonnethead and bull. You won’t have to travel far and you will get plenty of fishing on a half day trip. Some of the guides that specialize in nearshore and backwater fishing will also mix a trip with shelling and birdwatching to please the non-fishermen (or women!) in your party. Talk to the captain about your party’s particular needs and ask what he suggests targeting the day of your charter... you will be delighted with the time you spend.
Backwater for the More Experienced Angler
If you take your fishing seriously, then you should take a day out with any of our amazing backwater guides in the 10.000 islands and Everglades National Park - you’re sure to be happy that you did. You can use a fly or spinning rod depending on your level of expertise and the captain will probably target snook, redfish, snapper or the most fantastic of all local gamefish, the tarpon. Tarpon in the backwaters or along the beaches can range in size from 3 to 6 feet and although they don’t hit the bait hard, you’ll know you’re in for the fight of your life when they start that run and make their first leap clear of the water!!
Of course you could also end up with a shark, grouper, jack or ladyfish - but it will be a fun day casting up against the mangroves hardly seeing another person and bringing that monster snook, tarpon or shark to the boat. You will not believe how big the fish are in these skinny waters.
Offshore for the Big Boys (Fish and Guys!)
A day (or half day if you have to limit your excitement!) of offshore fishing on a number of the wrecks, artificial reefs or fish havens will keep everybody quiet on the trip back to the marina! Some species you’re likely to find, depending on the time of year, are Goliath grouper, barracuda, tripletail, sheepshead, snapper, cobia, amberjack, mackerel, shark and grouper and they always make for fishing fun. There are many charter captains, with larger boats, specializing in offshore fishing and they will definitely bend your rod! Again the list below will help you decide which captain is best for you.
Going it Alone
Marco’s certainly a great place to fish whether you’re a novice, a die-hard or just fancy a novel workout. If you choose to go with a charter captain, you will only need to take food, drink and sunscreen for your trip. However, if you want to try from land then either the beaches (not near designated swimming areas of course) or the areas around the two bridges linking Marco to the mainland, are always worth a try. The waterway behind your rental home is likely to have mangrove snapper, sheepshead, jack, snook, redfish and catfish around the dock or swimming by. If your waterway is closer to the Gulf you may be fortunate to find some of the smaller tarpon cruising up and down. It’s always a surprise (and great fun) to see a three foot tarpon explode from the water in one of our waterways.
Remember to check that the fish you’ve caught are legal sized and in season before you keep them and that you may be required to have a valid fishing license - you can pick up information on this at a local marina. Also don’t forget that most
of the local restaurants will be happy to cook your fresh catch for you and prepare it to your liking, as long as you
have cleaned it first!
ON THE WATER ECO ADVENTURES
As a visitor there are many ways to explore the balmy waters around Marco Island and to see the wonderful aquatic wildlife and birds which surround us. You can either go it alone and rent a boat, kayak or jetski
(see below for details) or take one of the many water tours which are available in the area.
KAYAK, & PADDLEBOARD RENTALS
CAPRI FISH HOUSE - Kayak and paddle board rentals from Capri Fish House in Isles of Capri. www.caprifishhouse.com/about 239.389.5555
PADDLE MARCO - Single and double kayaks and paddleboards for rent by the hour, day or week at affordable prices. Paddle Marco will provide laminated maps and directions to nearby uninhabited barrier islands and sand bars for amazing shelling. Free delivery and pickup to any boat launch or home on Marco Island, Goodland or Isles of Capri. Paddle Marco even pay the launch fees at the parks. Rentals include life jackets, maps, dry bags and cellphone containers. www.paddlemarco.com. 239 777.5423
JET SKI RENTALS
MARCO ISLAND WATERSPORTS - Waverunner rentals from the beach outside the hotels. Also offering guided waverunner tours. Leaving from the beach huts at the Marco Island Marriott Resort (642-2359) or the Hilton Beach Resort Map 1 (7B & 8B) (642-3377) Call 239.389.4FUN www.marcoislandwatersports.com
GUIDED TOURS ON THE WATER
When it comes to tours there’s a really wide choice.... private small motor or sail boat tours, large party motor boat tours, airboat tours, guided paddle board tours, guided kayak tours and, last but not least, guided waverunner tours into the 10,000 Islands. To help you decide which option is right for you see our suggestions below:
CRAIGCAT TOURS
MARCO ISLAND ECO TOURS - operates two and a half hour guided CraigCat tours leaving from Goodland Boat Park and passing through some of the 10,000 Islands. Reaching speeds of up to 30 mph in the open water, you will slow down to watch any of the wildlife you encounter along the way and when going through the mangroves. Tour guide and owner Captain Tony, will take you within arm's reach of dolphins as you explore the bays and creeks of the 10,000 Islands where you're likely to encounter osprey, manatees and lots of shorebirds. Although their schedule is based on tides, they usually stop off at Whitehorse Key or Gullivan Key, both deserted barrier islands, for a short time. Although only recently starting up CraigCat tours, Tony has over 25 years of experience in these waters and will provide you with an experience you'll probably want to repeat again and again! Minimum driver age is 19 years and minimum passenger age is 10 years. www.marcoislandecotours.com 239.394.1455
GO CATS ON THE WATER
Journey through the beautiful waterways of the 10,000 islands aboard your very own two-person catamaran. Board at one of the two locations in either Marco Island or Downtown Naples. You will weave through enchanting mangrove tunnels and delve into the wonders of our unique ecosystem on an unforgettable expedition. Go Cats exclusive catamarans provide a first-class experience with their all-fiberglass construction, ensuring the utmost safety as you marvel at stunning marine life and graceful shorebirds AT EYE LEVEL!! Visit GoCatsontheWater.com or call 239.478.4099 to book your adventure today!
KAYAK & PADDLE BOARD TOURS
PADDLE MARCO - Guided kayak eco-tours launched from Capri Paddlecraft Park through amazing mangrove tunnels and mudflats, while looking for incredible wildlife including dolphins, manatees and sea stars. Single and double kayaks and paddleboards for rent by the hour, day or week at affordable prices. Free delivery and pickup to any boat launch or home on Marco Island, Goodland or Isles of Capri. Paddle Marco even pay the launch fees at the parks. Rentals include life jackets, maps, dry bags and cellphone containers. www.paddlemarco.com. 239 777.5423
ROOKERY BAY - Experience the nature of Rookery Bay Research Reserve up-close and personal on one of their naturalist-guided kayak tours. All tours provide a chance to see a diversity of native wildlife and offer a comfortable platform for photography. Visit Rookerybay.org/calendar for dates, times and themes. 239.530.5940
MOTOR BOAT ECO TOURS
BANYAN CHARTERS - Half day and full day private boat tours for 6 including shelling and sightseeing, dolphin and sunset tours. Per person 2 hour sunset tours available also. Owner Captain Austin has been boating on Marco and surrounding waters for over 30 years and wants you to have a day of rest and relaxation at sea. Banyan Charters boat is a 2015 Starcraft SCX250 and can comfortably seat 13 passengers, although tours are limited to just 6. So rest assured that you will have plenty of room to stretch out and relax while on the water. They provide two coolers, with water and ice and they also have a fresh water wash down. Complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas are provided on all tours. Leaving from Caxambas Park. www.banyancharters.com 239.595.3269
CALUSA SPIRIT by Marco Island Watersports - everyone will love this unforgettable 2½ hour dolphin watch/shelling trip aboard this spacious and well shaded 49 passenger, 45’ catamaran with full restroom. Departs directly from the beach in fine weather or from Calusa Marina in Goodland when the Gulf is rough but the backwaters are calm. Enjoy views of playful dolphins in their natural habitat while learning about the local ecosystem of mangrove estuaries on your way to Cape Romano, where you will have about an hour to shell, explore, swim and admire the remains of the dome home just offshore. www.marcoislandwatersports.com
(239) 642-2359
COOL BEANS PONTOON - Enjoy a private 2 ½ hour luxury pontoon tour for up to six guests on Lil’ Beans, the newest addition to Cool Beans’ fleet of boats. Perfect for island hopping, up close eco/nature, and shelling. Departing from Isles of Capri Marina. Visit their website to learn more. www.coolbeanscruises.com 239.777.0020
DOLPHIN EXPLORER - 3 hour eco, photo expedition where you can participate in dolphin study with naturalist on a brand new 49 passenger power cat. This tour caters really well for children and is a great learning experience for kids and adults too. See Bob McConville of Dolphin Explorer’s Dolphin Update article. Visit their booking cart at Rose Marco River Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Drive. Map1 (3C) 642-6899 www.dolphin-study.com
GREENWATER BOAT TOURS - take a boat tour through the bays and backwaters of the 10,000 islands showcasing nature’s beauty and marine life. Stop by Cape Romano to see the historic dome home. Feel like you are on your own private island, relax and enjoy a picnic lunch. Walk the beaches to collect sea shells, sand dollars or take a swim in the Gulf. Call Captain Mike Green to schedule your personalized eco boat trip leaving from Caxambas Park. www.GreenWaterBoatTours.com 239-290-8900
HEMINGWAY WATER SHUTTLE - Based at Rose Marina, Hemingway Water Shuttle operates a daily shuttle to Keewaydin Island on a 22 passenger pontoon boat. The trip takes around 30 minutes and you can add a beach chair rental for $10. They also offer sunset tours and party and custom tours. www.hemingwaywatershuttle.com. 239.315.1136
MANATEE SIGHTSEEING ADVENTURE - Personal 1½ hour eco-tour into a remote manatee hideout with quality manatee visuals. Also offering a 3 hour sunset cruise and three hour beach-shelling trip. Only 2-6 passengers on 13 passenger rated boats so there’s no crowding and there’s plenty of room for your manatee encounter. After a dynamite manatee visual, check out alligators, endangered birds and more manatees. See why nature lovers take this tour two or three times per year. Six 100% covered boats available. Call your new friends, Captains Barry and Carol www.see-manatees.com 239-642-8818
MARCO ISLAND BOAT TOURS - A division of Everglades Area Tours, offers two hour dolphin and shelling tours as well as half day family fun dolphin/shelling/beach/fishing trips. All guides are formally trained Florida Master Naturalists, environmental educators and full-time outdoor leaders.
MARCO ISLAND WATERSPORTS - the Calusa Spirit, a spacious and well shaded 49 passenger, 45’ catamaran with full rest room, offers amazing shelling on deserted beaches, sunset cruises and private adventures. Leaving from the beach at the Marco Island Marriott Resort, the Hilton Beach Resort or Calusa Marina in Goodland when the Gulf is rough but the backwaters are calm. Map 1 (7B & 8B) Call 239.389.4FUN www.marcoislandwatersports.com
ROOKERY BAY - Experience the nature of Rookery Bay Research Reserve up-close and personal on one of their naturalist-guided boat tours. The relaxed pace and emphasis on learning is designed to help visitors develop a true sense of place and a deeper connection to this unique coastal wilderness. Several different trips are available, each with a different theme and location. All tours provide a chance to see a diversity of native wildlife and offer a comfortable platform for photography. Visit Rookerybay.org/calendar for dates, times and themes. 239.530.594
TREASURE SEEKERS - Specializing in shelling tours for the
serious shelling enthusiast and casual collector, Captains Tammy and Jeff Everts offer semi-private and private tours to the 10,000 Islands in three brand new luxuriously appointed boats. Four hour, small group tours for up to six people, and custom full day shelling tours for maximum privacy, are scheduled based on daily tides for optimal shelling. Leaving from Goodland Boat Park. www.TreasureSeekersShellTours.com 239.571.2331
FUN BOAT TRIPS
BLACK PEARL PIRATE SHIP CRUISES -T his popular boat, offers interactive kid’s pirate-themed tours and 1½ hour sunset cruises with DJ, dancing on deck and a full bar. Also offering private charters. www.piratesofmarco.com. Leaving from Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr. 239.404.5422.
FLOATING TURTLE CRUISES
Offers a unique and leisurely way to explore the waterways of Marco Island and the Isles of Capri, an area renowned for its stunning beaches, abundant marine life, and endless sunshine. The manmade boats, affectionately called “turtles,” are designed with an authentic tiki roof, a wraparound bar, and ample space for relaxation or celebration. Each turtle is equipped with coolers, storage, and Bluetooth JL Audio sound systems to enhance your experience. Cruising at a tranquil pace of 5 mph, the turtles can hold up to 15,000 lbs, ensuring a stable ride as you soak in the breathtaking surroundings. Whether you’re searching for wildlife, lounging on the beach, or enjoying a festive atmosphere with music, the turtles are ready for any adventure. Offer 3-hour cruises at sunrise, sunset, or during the day, with various add-ons to elevate your experience. FloatingTurtleCruises.com 239.522.2983
MARCO PEDAL BOAT
Marco’s original pedal boat is a custom designed 31-foot catamaran, propelled through the water by a large rear paddle powered by the pedaling of passenger riders or an engine. It has recently been remodeled and now offers comfortable cushioned bar stools and a full restroom. Bring your own drinks and snacks so you can sip and cycle. Pedaling passengers’ seats are arranged around a central bar with built in LED cup holders. There’s also additional seating at the front for those who don’t want to pedal or want to take a break. It can accommodate up to 19 guests and leaves from the Collier Blvd Boating Park at 3620 Collier Blvd. There are three 11⁄2 hour daytime tours and a 2-hour sunset cruise, each of which has a master captain and a first mate, who takes professional quality photos throughout the cruise which are given to the passengers as great mementos of their trip. www.MarcoPedalBoat.com 239.920.1230
MARCO REEL & SHORE CHARTERS
Offering expanded island hopping tours that are crafted for a one-of-a-kind cruise. Book a seaside dining excursion for either lunch or dinner and cruise from Marco to Naples aboard their 30ft vessel. The captain will guide you to a premier waterfront restaurant in Naples where you will dine and have time to explore boardwalks before heading back to Marco! MarcoReelAndShoreCharters.com 239.420.7058
PARADISE CYCLE BOAT
enjoy a fun and interactive experience for family and friends of all ages on this red, white and blue patriot-designed pontoon-catamaran. There is seating for 18 at cycle stations that directly propel the paddle wheel, but cycling is optional as there is also a motor on board. Cycle station seating has Memory Foam seats with backs and there is also comfortable lounge seating and tables at the bow as well as a private, stand up height, bathroom with hand washing area. Bring your own beverages and snacks - coolers, ice and cups are provided. Enjoy surround sound Bluetooth music, and be the DJ if you wish. Play island trivia and learn about the local eco-life, history and celebrities, with the chance to win local prizes. Choose between our Morning Cruise, our Afternoon Cruise, or our very popular Sunset Cruise where you can watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico then enjoy thousands of LED lights, tambourines and upbeat music on our journey back to the dock. The crew will take complimentary photos and email them to you for lasting memories. A percentage of the ticket sales are donated to the local Marco Island YMCA Safety Around Water Program. Public and private cruises leave daily from Rose Marina. Book online at www.paradisecycleboat.com or call 239.300.8176.
SAILBOAT TOURS
COOL BEANS CRUISES go the extra mile to make it happen with their U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captain. Whether your interests are nature, relaxation, shelling or sightseeing, their goal is to bring your vision to life. Aboard their beautiful catamaran, accommodating up to 20 guests, they create the perfect sailing experience. Choose from their day sails or a champagne sunset cruise. Beer, wine, soda and water are included on the excursions. The sunset cruise also includes a champagne toast. The price is $75/person + tax (credit price) or $70/person (cash price). Departing daily from Isles of Capri Marina. Visit their website to learn more. www.CoolBeansCruises.com. 239.777.0020
JET SKI TOURS
AVI’S WATER SPORTS - Avi Langer, one of Marco Island’s most experienced, enthusiastic and well loved jet ski tour guides, invites you to come and enjoy a safe, fun, family orientated tour of the 10,000 islands with him. Avi, also known as the dolphin whisperer, knows the local dolphins and backwaters intimately and offers 2½ hour tours, with jet skis accommodating up to two adults and one child per machine. Avi, a keen photographer, will give you a flash drive of the photos he takes during your tour. Two scheduled tours leave from Caxambas Park daily and he now also offers the only local jet ski sunset tour. www.aviwatersports.com 239.777.9873
MARCO ISLAND WATERSPORTS - Waverunner rentals and guided waverunner tours through the 10,000 Islands mangrove forest and the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico. See dolphins, manatee and many wading birds at close quarters.Leaves from the beach in fine weather or from Calusa Marina in Goodland when the Gulf is rough but the backwaters are calm. Call 239.389.4FUN. www.marcoislandwatersports.com
OTHER ON THE WATER OPTIONS
CRUISES
ADVENTURE 81 - Offers private cruises aboard their 40’ luxury yacht and special events are their speciality. You can plan your trip or you can have Captain Josh take care of everything for you. Sunset cruises, shelling and dolphin excursions and custom charters available. www.adventure81marco.com 920.707.3585
KEY WEST EXPRESS - Save hours of driving by taking this relaxing three hour cruise on a jet powered vessel to Key West, either for the day or stay over and return another day. www.keywestexpress.net. Departs from Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr. Marco Island. Map 1 (3C) in season and from Fort Myers Beach in summer. 888-579-7805 www.keywestexpress.net
MARCO ISLAND PRINCESS - 90ft luxury cruise vessel, the Marco Princess, offering narrated sightseeing, luncheon, sunset, dinner and party cruises. Daily departures from Rose Marco River Marina.
PARASAILING
MARCO ISLAND WATERSPORTS - the ultimate eco thrill! enjoy a birds eye view of the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico, possibly seeing dolphin, manatee, fish and birds from on high. Leaving from the beach at the Marco Island Marriott Resort or the Hilton Beach Resort. Call 239.389.4FUN. www.marcoislandwatersports.com
GUIDED TOURS NOT ON THE WATER
Experience a breathtaking aerial sightseeing tour of Marco’s beautiful beach and surrounding area (they can even go down to the Everglades!) or take an Everglades safari where expert guides will show you to all the best places to see alligators, rare birds like bald eagles, white pelicans and Roseate spoonbills and take you on guided nature walks so you can see this unique environment up close and personal, they also include airboat tours.
ON WHEELS
SCOOTERTOWN - Scenic guided bicycle tours of Marco Island, Naples and the natural environment of the Everglades. www.islandbikeshops.com. 239.394.8400
GOLF
SW Florida is famous for its wonderful golf courses, which are open year round, and there are literally hundreds of great ones in our area. Our closest full course is right here on the island at the beautiful full service
Here are a few suggestions of golf courses in Naples which are open to the public:
JW MARRIOTT’S GOLF CLUB AT MARCO, 793-6060 www.marcoislandmarriott.com
LELY FLAMINGO ISLAND & MUSTANG GOLF CLUBS,793-2223
FOREST GLEN 354-1898 www.forestglengcc.com
EAGLE LAKES GOLF CLUB, 732-0034 www.eaglelakesgolfclub.net
Local driving ranges include:
CORAL ISLE GOLF CENTER, 732-6900
ADVENTURE GOLF
CORAL CAY ADVENTURE GOLF - Two 18 hole courses, also offers inflatable rentals. Open 7 days 10am-11pm. www.coralcaygolf.com. 2205 E. Tamiami Trail, Naples - 30 minutes from Marco. Map2 (14K) 239.793.4999
MARCO GOLF AND GARDEN - 18 hole miniature course in a tropical garden setting. Fun for kids and challenging for adults. Open 7 days, 10am-10pm. www.marcogolfandgarden.com. 971 Winterberry Dr.
Map 1 (8C). 239.970.0561 www.marcogolfandgarden.com
BICYCLE, SCOOTER & STREET LEGAL GOLF CART RENTALS
Marco Island is a wonderful place to cycle, with several of our main roads having designated bike paths alongside them and many miles of flat, uncrowded roads.
SCOOTERTOWN - Scooters, bikes, in-line skates, beach stroller and wheelchair rentals by the hour, day or week. Kids’ bikes, baby seats, mobility scooters, eletric bikes and 4 wheeled surreys complete the line-up. Now also offering four and six seater golf cart rentals. 1095 Bald Eagle Dr. Map1 (3C) 239.394.8400 www.islandbikeshops.com
The Marco Review is your best guide for the hundreds of activities available on Marco Island
CHARTER CAPTAINS WE RECOMMEND:
FINS-N-GRINS
Backwater & nearshore charter fishing, sightseeing, shelling and eco-tours leaving from Calusa Island Marina, Goodland. Call Capt Michael at 239-784-2442 www.charterfishingmarcoisland.com
SUNSHINE TOURS
Backcountry, nearshore and offshore fishing with private and shared charters. With five charter boats and eight captains, Sunshine Tours has the waterfront covered. Their latest addition is a 36ft Yellowfin with triple 300 hp engines capable of cruising at 50 mph. Celebrating over 35 years on Marco. 239-642-5415
GLADES DAYZ OUTFITTERS & GUIDE SERVICE
Offering all types of fishing including fly, artificial spin and live bait spin fishing with 2nd and 3rd generation SW Florida native captains. All experience levels for 1⁄2, 3⁄4 and full day fishing.
www.FishingMarco-Island.com 239.595.3474
MARCO REEL & SHORE CHARTERS
offering offshore, backwater, shark and goliath fishing, and a new night-bow fishing adventure. Both seasoned and novice anglers can have a tremendous fishing expedition with the experienced captains to guide you through all of the best practices for fishing the waters of the 10,000 islands. Equipped with top-of-the-line gear and a commitment to eco-friendly practices, this trip prioritizes the preservation of the delicate environment. MarcoReelAndShoreCharters.com 239.420.7058
NAPLES EVERGLADES FISHING CHARTERS
Offering 1.5, 2.5 and 5-hour trips, up to 6 people, all licensing, bait, and equipment included. Their captains have been fishing the Ten Thousand Islands and offshore of Naples, Fl for over 30 years. They have experience in catching all kinds of fish including shark and goliath grouper! What sets them apart is their tailored service to how hands-on you want to be. They will teach you everything you want to know or can simply get the fish on the hook and let you have all the glory reeling it in! Great with kids, great with local spots and secrets, you’ll be sure to have a fun adventure with their captains! www.NaplesEvergladesFishingCharters.com 239.642.8818
SAND DOLLAR BOAT TOURS
Fish the 10,000 Islands, backbay, and nearshore on a 25’center console Ranger. 1⁄2 and 3⁄4 day trips. www.SandDollarBoatTours.com. 239.963.4182
FISHING
