Marco Island is a picturesque area with plenty of natural beauty, bountiful seas and great weather. Your chances of encountering wildlife are great with all the marine life that calls the “10,000 Islands” their home. A diverse collection of fish fill the marshes, mangrove coves and waters off the coast for a rich and lively habitat to see and explore. Plenty of men and women come to this part of Florida just for that very reason. It’s hard to find a better place for the sport of fishing.
Marco Island Fishing News
If you hadn’t been planning a trip to Marco Island, you should now. A vote will shortly be underway to lift a 30 ban on one of the largest species of fish that roam the oceans off of Florida. If you plan ahead, you could participate in a limited fishing season for the Goliath of the seas – The Goliath grouper.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are considering a variety of measures and cost for the prominent gamefish known to reach 500 pounds. Goliath grouper are currently illegal to keep, and often steal a fish off the line leaving many fishermen to believe that a short season will be beneficial for everyone.
But many people are concerned about the overall breeding populations and overfishing, as was the case in the 1970’s and 80’s where an unregulated season drastically hurt the Goliath population.
Now the opposite argument is being made that they are overcrowded to the point where disgruntled fishermen believe that the Goliaths are taking over and eating other fish species at dangerous levels.
It is up to the Commission to decide the appropriate size slot and cost of the tag for the highly-anticipated Goliath season. Right now, the FWC staff proposed $300 for a fish between 47 – 67 inches, but that could change.
Other Species of Fish To Catch
Even if you have to wait on the Goliath grouper, there are many other sportfish to keep you busy on your Marco Island vacation. Tarpon, Pompano, Jack Crevalle, Ladyfish, Snook, Redfish, Sea Trout, King Mackeral, Little Tunny, shark, Cobi, Snapper, Permit, Barracuda, Tripletail, and Red and Black Grouper are found the shallow waters of the 10,000 Islands and the Gulf of Mexico. Plenty of charter boats with help you explore the sandbars, bays, tributary creeks, and channels where both fly fishing and rod and reel are encouraged. Or tour the offshore hotspots around the dozen wrecks located off Marco Island.
Charter Boats & Tours
You will never run out of experienced fishing captains to show you around the area. With diverse and protected lands surrounding Marco Island, it is a great way to spend the day cruising from the wide-open ocean to the mangrove forests. Keep in mind that a fishing charter isn’t just for adults. Kids young and old can find plenty of entertainment and might even spot a dolphin or manatee while out and about.
Eco tours are another great idea if you and your family want more opportunities to experience the wilderness areas around Marco Island.
Try these Fishing Charters:
- Six Chuter Charters
- Blue Runner Charters
- Captain Bubby Hail
- Sea Gone
- Sunshine Tours
- Old Marco Island Charter Fishing
- Carole Ann II Charters
Boat Rentals & Marinas
For more information on boating, check out boating regulations and boat access points on Marco Island.