Naples Shark Fishing Report: Bull Sharks, Goliath Grouper & Non-Stop Action in Southwest Florida

Captain Brian's Southwest Florida Fishing Report
Naples | Marco Island | Port of the Islands | Goodland, Florida

The fishing action continues to heat up across Southwest Florida's pristine waters, and I'm excited to share what's been happening out there lately. Whether you're looking to tangle with apex predators or enjoy steady action on lighter tackle, the opportunities right now are simply outstanding.

The shark fishing has been absolutely phenomenal and remarkably consistent across all our fishing zones. We're encountering impressive numbers of bull sharks ranging from 4 to 7 feet, with these powerful predators showing up in both the backcountry channels and nearshore waters. The bulls have been particularly active during the last two hours of incoming tide and the first hour of the outgoing. Fresh cut bait has been outperforming live bait consistently, and focusing on moving water during tide changes has been key to success.

Lemon sharks have been another highlight, with beautiful specimens between 5 and 8 feet providing thrilling fights. These golden beauties are showing up consistently in the deeper cuts and around structure, especially during early morning and late afternoon sessions. The blacktip shark action has been nothing short of spectacular. These acrobatic fighters have been cooperative throughout the day, with sizes ranging from 3 to 6 feet. Their aerial displays never get old, and they've been keeping anglers of all experience levels thoroughly entertained.

The Goliath grouper bite has been absolutely explosive, particularly on incoming tides in the backwater areas around mangrove shorelines and deep holes. These prehistoric giants have been showing up in impressive numbers, with fish ranging from 150 to 400+ pounds providing unforgettable encounters. The bite has been strongest during the middle stages of the incoming tide when baitfish get pushed into the mangrove systems. We're finding the most success in 20-40 feet of water near structure.

Offshore Goliath action has been equally impressive and very steady around wrecks, ledges, and artificial reefs. The 60-120 foot depth range has been producing consistent encounters, with the afternoon bite often being the most productive. These encounters are truly bucket-list experiences that anglers remember for a lifetime.

While waiting for the heavyweight champions to show up, the light tackle fishing has been keeping everyone busy with constant action. The variety and numbers have been exceptional. Ladyfish continue to be the bread and butter, providing non-stop action and schooling in massive numbers, particularly around bait pods in 10-25 feet of water. They're perfect for keeping kids and novice anglers engaged while we target the larger species.

Jack crevalle have been showing up in aggressive schools, providing arm-burning fights. Look for diving birds and surface disturbances - that's where you'll find these silver bullets. Blue runners have been thick around structure and in the passes, making excellent live bait while also providing steady action. Snapper action has been solid with good numbers of mangrove snapper around docks, bridges, and nearshore structure. Lane snapper and mutton snapper have also been making appearances on the offshore trips.

Spotted seatrout fishing has been consistent in the grass flats and around mangrove shorelines, particularly during early morning and late evening periods. The variety of species available right now means every angler on board stays busy, from beginners experiencing their first shark encounter to seasoned veterans looking to tangle with a giant Goliath grouper.

Water temperatures have been ideal, bait has been abundant, and the fish are actively feeding. Tidal movement has been key to success, so we're timing our trips to maximize the most productive periods.
The variety of species available right now means every angler on board stays busy, from beginners experiencing their first shark encounter to seasoned veterans looking to tangle with a giant Goliath grouper.

Don't miss out on some of the best fishing Southwest Florida has to offer. Whether you're interested in the thrill of shark fishing, the power of Goliath grouper, or simply want to enjoy steady action on beautiful waters, now is the perfect time to get out there.

Contact Captain Brian to book your Naples, Marco Island, Port of the Islands, or Goodland fishing charter today. Let's make some memories on the water!

Tight lines and safe boating,
Captain Brian
Southwest Florida Fishing Charters