The fishing is fantastic at Sanibel or Captiva Islands, from deep-sea fishing to light tackle. Whether you hire one of the very proficient fishing guides or captains and go on a half or full day charter or rent your own boat from one of the marinas, or surf cast from the beach or fish from one of the bridges or docks. Three popular places to fish are: The Causeway, Blind Pass Bridge and the pier on the bayside of the Sanibel Lighthouse (Point Ybel light).

Some of the more popular fish are: Bass, Cobia, Drum, Flounder, Grouper, Mackerel, Mullet, Pompano, Redfish, Sea trout, Shark. Sheep head, Snapper, Snook, Tarpon.

A license is required for freshwater and saltwater fishing. You do not need a license if:

• You are under 16 years of age.
• Over age 65 and a Florida resident.
• A Florida resident fishing in salt water from a dock, hedge, jetty, pier or other structure connected to land.
• Fishing from a boat covered by a Vessel Saltwater Fishing License.

A license can be purchased at all marinas, The Bait Box and Bailey's General Store both on Periwinkle Way.

There are regulations on size and bag limits, also open and closed seasons. Free lists are published by the Florida Marine Fisheries Commission and are available at the same place you purchase your license.

Don't forget your sunscreen and polarized sunglasses and hat.

Boat Rentals

Ireland Yacht Sales at Sanibel Marina
634 N. Yachtsman Drive
(239) 472-2531

Seawave Boat Rental
3600 South Seas Plantation Road
(239) 472-1744

Sweet Water Boat Rental
15951 Captiva Drive
(239) 472-6336

The Boat House at Sanibel Marina
N. Yachtsman Drive
(239) 472-2531

Fishing Charters

Capt R.H. (Dusty) Harrington
Inshore, backbay fishing, sightseeing , and shelling.
(239) 283-7300

Sudden Action Guide Service
(239) 410-6869

Capt. Joe Burnsed
Offshore & Back Bay
(239) 472-8658

Captiva Salt Water Fishing Team
Offshore, birding, shelling
(239) 472-1779

Tagger 11 Charters - offshore
(239) 472-3841

Bait & Tackle

The Bait Box
1041 Periwinkle way
(239) 472-1618

Bailey's General Store
Baileys Shopping Center
(239) 472-1516