Family Fishing Adventure in Chokoloskee

Family Fun Fishing in Chokoloskee's Backwaters

Get ready for a day of non-stop action in the pristine waters of Chokoloskee and Everglades National Park. Capt. Ward Michaels knows these backwaters like the back of his hand, and he's all about making sure your whole crew has a blast. Whether you're teaching the kids to cast or looking to land that trophy redfish, this full-day trip is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. With comfy, spacious boats and all the gear provided, you'll be set for a day of memory-making on the water.

What to Expect on the Water

From the moment you step aboard one of Capt. Ward's well-equipped boats, you're in for a treat. We'll cruise through the maze-like mangroves, hit up secret spots, and chase after some of Florida's most sought-after inshore species. The 21' Hewes Redfisher, 17.8' Hells Bay, or 16' Lowe Roughneck are all stable platforms, perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Expect to spend your day casting to likely spots, learning about the unique Everglades ecosystem, and hopefully feeling that telltale tug on your line. And don't worry – Capt. Ward's got all the rods, reels, and bait you'll need. Just bring your sense of adventure and maybe a snack or two.

Fishing Techniques & Hotspots

In these parts, it's all about knowing where the fish are hanging out and how to tempt them. We'll likely use a mix of live bait and artificial lures, depending on what's working best that day. Sight-fishing for redfish tailing in the shallows? You bet. Tossing plugs along mangrove edges for snook? Absolutely. Capt. Ward might even show you how to work a topwater lure for some explosive sea trout action. And if the tarpon are rolling, hold onto your hat – these silver kings can put on one heck of a show. Throughout the day, you'll pick up tips on reading the water, presenting your bait, and fighting fish like a pro. It's hands-on learning that's way more fun than any fishing show you've ever watched.

Top Catches This Season

Anglers have been having a field day with the redfish lately. They've been schooling up on the flats, and when you find them, it's non-stop action. Snook fishing has been red hot around the oyster bars and mangrove points, especially on the falling tide. The sea trout bite has been consistent, with some real gators mixed in with the schoolies. And let's not forget about the tarpon – they've been showing up in good numbers, giving lucky anglers the fight of their lives. Remember, it's not just about what you catch, but the stories you'll take home. Nothing beats watching a kid's face light up when they reel in their first fish, or seeing mom outfish dad (it happens more often than you'd think!).

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are a favorite around here. They love to cruise the shallows, often with their tails sticking out of the water as they root for crabs. Redfish put up a great fight and are delicious on the dinner table (if you're keeping a few for the grill). They're around all year, but fall is prime time when they school up in big numbers.

Snook: The ultimate backcountry game fish, snook are known for their explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps. These sneaky predators love to ambush their prey from the shadows of mangrove roots or dock pilings. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look. Landing a big snook is a badge of honor for any inshore angler.

Sea Trout: Don't let the name fool you – these aren't your average trout. Spotted seatrout are actually part of the drum family and can grow to impressive sizes. They're known for their willingness to hit topwater lures, making for some of the most exciting fishing you can imagine. Winter is prime time for big "gator" trout, but you can catch them all year long.

Tarpon: The silver king is the holy grail of inshore fishing. These prehistoric beasts can grow over 100 pounds and are famous for their gill-rattling jumps and long, dogged fights. While we can't guarantee hooking into one of these giants, late spring and early summer offer the best shot. Even seeing a tarpon roll on the surface is enough to get your heart racing.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish – though that's a big part of it. The Everglades and Ten Thousand Islands area is like nowhere else on Earth. As you're drifting along, you might spot dolphins playing in the wake, manatees lazily cruising by, or ospreys diving for their lunch. The scenery is jaw-dropping, with endless mangrove islands, hidden creeks, and wide-open bays. And let's not forget the sunsets – they're worth the trip alone. But what really keeps folks coming back is the sense of adventure. Every trip is different, and there's always something new to discover. Whether it's finding a new honey hole or watching your kid catch their first snook, these are the moments that stick with you.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're looking for a day on the water that the whole family will love, this is it. At $850 for up to 4 people, it's a great value for a full day of guided fishing in one of Florida's most beautiful spots. Capt. Ward Michaels knows how to make sure everyone has a good time, whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod. With all the gear provided and comfortable boats that can handle the skinny water and open bays alike, you're set up for success. So why wait? The fish are biting, the sun is shining, and adventure is calling. Book your trip now and get ready to make some memories in the heart of the Everglades. Trust me, your family will be talking about this one for years to come.