Naples, FL - Fishing Report

The last week’s fishing in Naples has been spectacular. If it wasn’t for temps in the 50's right now you would think its May. The bait is holding strong from the Naples Pier north to Wiggins Pass under the birds in 13-16 ft of water. Fishing on the near shore wrecks has resulted in loads of bonita and big bluefish, with some keeper grouper to 25 in. also in the mix. Light leaders and long shank hooks have been the ticket with waters extremely clear to 35 ft. I have had great fishing with snook to 33in, lots of trout to 24in, and some nice reds to 27in mixed in the backbays on the low incoming. Chumming with live pilchards have really got the fish turned on in the bays close to Naples. The deeper channels from Naples to Marco have had lots of trout, ladyfish, and bluefish. If you prefer throwing jigs try fishing all these channels in the morning before the boat traffic gets out of hand. I like a 1/4 oz. DOA jighead and a DOA jerkbait or paddletail in the greenie color. Fish them close to the bottom with a slow presentation and the trout should inhale them. Until next time... Capt. Chris