As we roll into November, the fishing around Naples and Marco Island really hits its stride. Cooler mornings, calm afternoons, and crystal-clear water make this one of the most enjoyable and productive times of year to be on the water in Southwest Florida. Whether you’re chasing action with light tackle in the backcountry or bending rods along the beaches, *Naples fishing charters this month offer incredible variety and it’s also the perfect time to book your holiday trips before the calendar fills up.
After the summer heat breaks, water temperatures settle into the mid-70s, sparking steady feeding from a wide range of species. Clean tides and gentle winds open up both inshore and nearshore opportunities. The backwaters of Rookery Bay, the Ten Thousand Islands, and the flats surrounding Marco Island all come alive with schools of bait and actively feeding gamefish. It’s an ideal setup for anglers of any skill level looking to enjoy a fun and relaxing day with family or friends.
Speckled Trout and Pompano: Fall Favorites
If you love steady action on light tackle, spotted sea trout and Florida pompano are two top targets this month. Trout are holding over grass flats and channel edges where moving water pushes shrimp and small baitfish through. Try a soft plastic shrimp or paddle-tail jig under a popping cork, cast, twitch, and pause. It’s a simple and effective method.
Pompano are showing along sandy drop-offs and the passes near Keewaydin Island and Hurricane Pass. The best tactic? Bounce a small pink or chartreuse jig tipped with a bit of shrimp or shrimp along the bottom. When pompano are around, you’ll know, the hits are quick and sharp, and their fight is surprisingly strong for their size.
Snapper and Mackerel Nearshore
Just offshore, November brings excellent opportunities for mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel. Calm conditions let us fish nearshore wrecks, reefs, and ledges just a few miles off the beaches of Naples and Marco Island. Live shrimp or pilchards fished on a light jig head or free-lined in the chum slick will draw plenty of bites.
For Spanish mackerel, look for birds diving over schools of bait and cast silver spoons or flashy jigs through the frenzy. These speedy fish are pure fun, blistering runs, aggressive strikes, and great table fare. If you’ve got kids or first-time anglers on board, mackerel fishing is about as exciting as it gets.
Fishing With Family and Friends
One of the best parts about fishing here in November is the atmosphere — mild weather, less humidity, and no summer crowds. It’s a chance to get outdoors, enjoy nature, and make real memories with the people who matter most. Whether it’s a half-day adventure exploring the mangroves or a full-day run through the islands, **Naples and Marco Island fishing charters** are the perfect way to reconnect and relax before the holiday rush.
Now’s the Time to Book Your Holiday Charter
November and December are busy months for fishing in Southwest Florida, and prime dates around Christmas and New Year’s always go fast. If you’re thinking about a family fishing trip or hosting guests over the holidays, now’s the best time to reserve your spot. You’ll lock in ideal tides, calm conditions, and a customized trip tailored to your group.
Plan your next Naples or Marco Island fishing adventure today. Whether you’re after trout, pompano, snapper, or mackerel, November offers the perfect mix of comfort, action, and unforgettable scenery.
Book your Naples fishing charter with Capt. Mark Ward and experience why so many anglers return year after year to make new memories on the waters of Southwest Florida.
Capt. Mark 239-450-9230
Source link