The legendary 10,000 Islands region is absolutely firing on all cylinders right now! As water temperatures continue their steady climb, we're witnessing one of the most productive early spring patterns in recent memory across Marco Island, Goodland, and Port of the Islands. For shark enthusiasts and adventure seekers, the conditions couldn't be more perfect for heart-pounding action.

The shark fishing that the 10,000 Islands is famous for has exploded into full gear. Lemon sharks and blacktips are dominating our nearshore spots and making impressive showings throughout the backwater systems. These high-energy predators have been providing our clients with unforgettable battles and photo opportunities. The lemons, many in the 6-8 foot range, have been particularly aggressive, making blistering runs and spectacular aerial displays when hooked.

Adding to the excitement, we've encountered impressive bull sharks in numerous locations, with several specimens exceeding 7 feet during recent charters. These powerful bruisers test both tackle and angler alike, often requiring 30-45 minutes of focused effort to bring boatside. One client last week described the experience as "the most intense fishing fight of my life" after successfully landing and releasing a massive bull estimated at 300+ pounds.

Our bait strategy has been refined to match current feeding patterns, with fresh cut mullet and jack crevalle producing the most consistent results. We've found that larger, bloodier chunks have been outperforming other offerings, especially during periods of strong tidal movement. The sharks' keen sense of smell has been drawing them from considerable distances when these prime baits are deployed.

While sharks remain our specialty and primary target, the overall fishing throughout the 10,000 Islands ecosystem has been exceptional across multiple species. Speckled trout fishing remains red hot, with limits of quality fish being common on recent trips. These trout have been staging on deeper grass flats during mid-day hours and moving into shallower zones during morning and evening periods.

Mangrove snapper have been unusually active, with impressive numbers being encountered around oyster bars and mangrove shorelines throughout the region. These tasty panfish have been aggressive feeders, readily striking jigs tipped with fresh shrimp. Many of our clients have been amazed by the size of these snappers, with numerous fish pushing the 14-15 inch mark.

Redfish activity has also been picking up as water temperatures stabilize. Schools of mid-slot reds have been patrolling shorelines during higher tide phases, providing sight-casting opportunities for those preferring artificial presentations. When targeting these copper-colored beauties, we've had success with weedless gold spoons and soft plastic paddletails in natural patterns.

The varied access points to the 10,000 Islands each offer distinct advantages depending on target species and conditions. Marco Island provides quick access to both nearshore Gulf waters and interior bays and has been producing excellent shark encounters, particularly with blacktips and lemons. The passes and channels around Marco have been especially productive during outgoing tide phases when predators set up ambush points for baitfish being swept toward the Gulf.

Goodland, this classic fishing village, offers the perfect jumping-off point for accessing some of the most productive shark grounds in the region. The complex channel systems south of Goodland have been holding impressive numbers of bull sharks, while the shallower backcountry zones continue producing consistent action with blacktips and occasional spinner sharks that put on aerial displays when hooked.

For those seeking the true wilderness experience, launches from Port of the Islands access the heart of the Everglades ecosystem. This zone has been particularly productive for diverse shark species while also offering some of the region's best redfish and snook opportunities as a bonus to our shark-focused trips.

For those looking to experience the world-class shark fishing the 10,000 Islands region offers, several factors can help maximize your chances for success. While we're encountering sharks throughout the day, the most consistent action has been occurring during periods of strong tidal movement. Morning outgoing tides have been particularly productive lately.

Our full-day shark expeditions provide the optimal experience, allowing time to locate the most active feeding areas and target multiple species and locations. However, half-day trips have also been producing quality action for those with limited time.

While we're experiencing exceptional catch rates, shark fishing inherently involves patience during positioning and bait deployment. The reward for this patience has been spectacular once hookups occur. Fighting large sharks demands physical endurance. Staying hydrated and wearing appropriate sun protection enhances the experience during these extended battles.

As we move deeper into spring, all indicators suggest this outstanding fishing will only improve. Bait populations continue increasing throughout the ecosystem, water clarity remains excellent for the season, and predator activity strengthens weekly. Our booking calendar is filling rapidly as word spreads about the exceptional action, so securing dates soon is recommended for those planning to experience this premier shark fishing destination.

Whether you're a dedicated shark enthusiast or someone seeking their first encounter with these magnificent apex predators, the 10,000 Islands region is currently offering the perfect opportunity for memorable fishing adventures. We look forward to sharing this special ecosystem and its incredible fishing opportunities with you soon!

Capt. Brian

The warming trend in Southwest Florida's waters has triggered an explosive bite across Naples' diverse fisheries. From the backcountry to the nearshore wrecks, we're experiencing some of the most productive fishing of the winter season.
Massive schools of bait are flooding our waters, and the predators aren't far behind. The permit action has been particularly noteworthy, with fish eagerly taking crabs and jigs around the nearshore structures. Spanish mackerel are providing non-stop action, slashing through bait schools and creating exciting topwater opportunities for our anglers.
The shark fishing has been nothing short of spectacular. We're encountering multiple species including blacktips, bonnetheads, and impressive hammerheads. These apex predators are giving our clients unforgettable battles and photo opportunities. The variety of shark species present right now offers anglers the chance to check several bucket-list catches off their list in a single trip.
Inshore, the snook and trout bite remains consistent, with quality fish taking both live bait and artificial offerings. The warming pattern has these gamefish actively feeding throughout the day, though early morning sessions have been particularly productive.
Perhaps most exciting is the presence of Goliath grouper, both on the wrecks and in the backwater. These massive fish are testing both tackle and anglers, providing the kind of battles that create lasting memories. When hooked, these giants demonstrate why they're considered one of Florida's most impressive gamefish.
Looking ahead, we expect the fishing to only improve as we move deeper into February and March. These months traditionally offer some of our best fishing of the year, combining comfortable weather conditions with peak feeding activity across multiple species.
Don't miss out on this incredible bite. February and March dates are filling quickly as word spreads about the current action. Contact us today to secure your spot and experience some of the best fishing Naples has to offer.

As winter loosens its grip on Southwest Florida's waters, our legendary shark fishing is roaring back to life. Water temperatures climbing into the 70s have triggered an explosive bite across Naples and Marco Island waters, creating prime conditions for unforgettable shark encounters.

Current Shark Action: The warming trend has multiple shark species actively feeding in our waters. We're consistently finding aggressive bonnethead sharks throughout the area, providing non-stop action for our clients. More exciting still, we're seeing increased numbers of impressive lemon sharks, which can push well over 100 pounds, cruising our productive grounds. Blacknose and Atlantic sharpnose sharks are rounding out the action, offering excellent opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers.

Prime Shark Locations: The back bays and passes between Naples and Marco Island are producing steady action, with the warming waters concentrating bait and predators. The morning incoming tides have been particularly productive, especially around structure and deeper channels.

Inshore Bonus Action: While our shark trips have been the highlight, the warming pattern has also ignited our inshore bite. Spotted seatrout have been particularly aggressive, readily taking jigs tipped with live shrimp. This provides excellent action between shark encounters or as a great option for mixed-bag trips.

Forecast: With water temperatures stabilizing and more bait moving into the area, we expect the shark action to intensify through February and into March. This is traditionally when we see some of our largest sharks of the year, including potential trophy lemon and bull sharks.

Booking Tips: Morning trips have been most productive, though afternoon sessions are also producing quality action. Full-day trips give us the best opportunity to target multiple species and find the heaviest concentrations of feeding sharks.

Experience the thrill of battling these magnificent predators in the beautiful waters of Naples and Marco Island. Whether you're an experienced angler or it's your first time targeting sharks, our specialized techniques and intimate knowledge of local waters ensure an unforgettable adventure.

Capt. Brian Teufel
Shark Chaser Charters
Naples, Marco Island, and Goodland Fishing Charters