Offshore fishing in Naples, Florida is arguably one of the best places to target some of Florida’s most coveted offshore species within the state. While there are a number of species that call these waters home both year-round and seasonally, we will look at the most sought after in terms of availability, fight/fun, and table fare. When looking at the fishery in this way, we can see 3 top species to target that are the most popular for both residents and visitors alike.
1. Snapper
It would be hard to find a person who would argue against the flavor of Florida’s snapper at the table. To add to this, Naples has some huge species of snapper that add a bit of fight to the equation. Naples is also home to several species of snapper. And lastly, there is the opportunity to catch snapper all year long.
2. Grouper
Naples is home to what seems like an endless list of grouper species. Everything from huge Goliath Grouper to Black, Red, and Gag Grouper. Much like snapper, and even more so, grouper is available to target here all year long. The subspecies targeted may change, but even in the dead of Florida “winter” – there is a grouper waiting for you in this offshore fishery.
3. Mackerel
The mackerel species here does have a peak season, but that “season” is 7-9 months of the year. From kingfish to spanish mackerel, Naples is home to one of the best fisheries to target these species. “Smoker Kings” to “Kings on the Smoker” whatever your flavor, Naples is the place to target this hard fighting species.
Honorable Mentions
It really doesn’t do the area justice to try and evaluate the fishery and select just three. So I do want to take just a moment and mention some other local favorites. In no particular order:
- Amberjack
- Tuna Species
- Sharks
- Barracuda
- Tripletail
- Cobia
- Permit
“Naples, Florida is the perfect launching spot for heading offshore in search of big fish. This area is a gateway to the deep where some of the state’s finest offshore gamefish reside.”