Fort Myers nearshore waters are packed with action — from snapper and grouper on the reefs to king mackerel, cobia, and sharks cruising the Gulf. Every trip with Sea n Red Charters offers the perfect mix of excitement, variety, and unforgettable catches year-round.
- 4, 6 & 8 hour trips
- All licenses & gear included
- Calm waters & short runs
Nearshore Fishing Charters in Fort Myers, FL
Experience the perfect balance between inshore calm and offshore adventure with Fort Myers nearshore fishing charters.
Experience the Best Nearshore Fishing in Fort Myers
If you’re looking for action-packed fishing just off the coast, Sea n Red Charters offers the best nearshore fishing adventures in Fort Myers. These trips take you 3–9 miles from shore, targeting reefs, wrecks, and ledges where grouper, snapper, kingfish, cobia, and even sharks roam. It’s the ideal blend of accessibility and excitement—without the long offshore ride.
Our licensed captain provides top-quality gear, local expertise, and a comfortable, family-friendly experience on every trip. Whether you’re an avid angler or a first-timer, we’ll put you on the fish and make it a day to remember.
Why Go Nearshore Fishing in Fort Myers?
- Perfect for families, small groups, and serious anglers.
- Target prized fish like snapper, grouper, cobia, and king mackerel.
- Fish calmer waters closer to shore for less travel time and more action.
- Led by an experienced Fort Myers captain who knows every productive reef and wreck.
Rated Among the Best Nearshore Fishing Charters in Fort Myers
Sea n Red Charters is proud to be 5 star rated across Google, Facebook, and TripAdvisor. Our guests love the personalized trips, clean boats, and unbeatable nearshore action off the Fort Myers coast.
Posted on Google![]()
Evan MerrittTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Erik provides a catered experience to ensure you enjoy your time on the water, he’s very knowledgeable, professional and personable. We had our family out, young and old- all had a great experience. When you go with him you’re helping him provide for his young family! Will be coming back.Posted on Google![]()
KL HuntTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My Grandson and myself chartered Captain EJ when my grandson was playing at the 17U World Series. It was a great decision. We had an awesome fishing adventure!! Captain Erik is great and ensures that we were treated to the best fishing possible. We caught Goliath Grouper and Tarpon as well as all the bait fish (which was almost as much fun)! Thanks Erik!! He treated us like family! Don’t charter with anyone else!Posted on Google![]()
Sarah Jane FormanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Fishing with Sea N Red Charters in Fort Myers was an unforgettable experience. Captain Erik Johnson is one of the kindest and most gracious captains I’ve ever met — patient, tolerant, and genuinely respectful of everyone on board. His calm presence and good-natured spirit made the entire trip feel welcoming and enjoyable. What truly stands out about Captain Erik is his deep appreciation for the natural world. He doesn’t just guide you across the water — he shares the beauty, rhythm, and life of the environment around you. You can feel how much he cares about the sea, the wildlife, and the places he works in. On top of that, he absolutely knows where the fish are. His knowledge of the area is exceptional, and he leads with integrity, skill, and confidence. We felt completely safe the entire time — he is a truly seaworthy captain who takes his responsibility seriously. If you’re looking for a charter experience that is meaningful, fun, and full of fish — and full of heart— Captain Erik with SeaNRed Charters is the one to book. Highly recommended.Posted on Google![]()
Margo PucciarelliTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had such an incredible experience fishing with Eric from Sea n Red Fishing Charters! Our family went out on two 4-hour trips, and both were amazing — we caught a ton of fish thanks to Eric’s expertise and guidance. He took us to several great spots, and we ended up catching a wide variety, including snook, ladyfish, sea trout, and redfish. Eric was patient, knowledgeable, and so accommodating, especially with our kids. He went above and beyond to make sure everyone had fun and left with a big smile (and plenty of fish!). We truly appreciate the extra time and care he took to make the trip special. Highly recommend Sea n Red Fishing Charters — we’ll definitely be booking again next time we visit Cape Coral & Ft Myers!Posted on Google![]()
Dess FTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Amazing captain, knows the water like the back of his hand.Posted on Google![]()
Matthew ReberTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Erik is a phenomenal fishing guide - nothing but good times & great fishing every time we have been out with him. Will continue to use Sea N Red in the future!Posted on Google![]()
Tyler MullinsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Awesome fishing experience. 2nd time fishing with Erik, very knowledgeable and personable guide.Posted on Google![]()
Jacksepticeye NinjaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
10/10 recommend this guy is so nice and he knows what he is doing I had the time of my life!Posted on Google![]()
Cody DieastTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
One of the best fishing trips I have been on if you haven’t been out with Eric book a trip very informative and professionalPosted on Google![]()
Donovan LorahTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I highly recommend Captain Eric!!! I fish with him twice now, first time chasing peacocks by land and the second time a dream of mine to fish Okeechobee Lake since I’ve been a teenager with short notice he made it happen. as you look at the pics, we were very successful.. Eric is very knowledgeable if there’s a species you’re looking to catch in Southwest Florida you got the best shot with Captain Eric To make it come true… I got a few more on my bucket list, so we’ll be fishing together again soon🎣🎣🎣🎣
What You Can Catch on a Nearshore Charter
Snook
Known for their acrobatic jumps and hard strikes, snook are one of Florida’s top inshore game fish.
Redfish
Known for their acrobatic jumps and hard strikes, snook are one of Florida’s top inshore game fish.
Sea Trout
Known for their acrobatic jumps and hard strikes, snook are one of Florida’s top inshore game fish.
Tarpon
Known for their acrobatic jumps and hard strikes, snook are one of Florida’s top inshore game fish.
Snapper
Known for their acrobatic jumps and hard strikes, snook are one of Florida’s top inshore game fish.
Spanish Mackerel
Known for their acrobatic jumps and hard strikes, snook are one of Florida’s top inshore game fish.
Pompano
Known for their acrobatic jumps and hard strikes, snook are one of Florida’s top inshore game fish.
Bluefish
Known for their acrobatic jumps and hard strikes, snook are one of Florida’s top inshore game fish.
Flounder
Known for their acrobatic jumps and hard strikes, snook are one of Florida’s top inshore game fish.
Sheepshead
Known for their acrobatic jumps and hard strikes, snook are one of Florida’s top inshore game fish.
Pricing
Nearshore Fishing Charter Trips & Rates
Sea n Red Charters offers flexible trip options to fit your schedule and fishing goals. Choose from half-day, three-quarter-day, or full-day nearshore charters — all designed for maximum fun and great catches.
Custom Charters Available — Mix & Match Your Perfect Trip!
4-Hour Fishing Charter (Half Day Fishing Charter)
$650
3 people 4 Hours (4th $100 more)
Hook an extra hour – $125
Species you can catch:
- Spanish Mackerel
- Kingfish
- Cobia
- Mangrove Snapper
- Lane Snapper
- Gag Grouper
- Red Grouper
- Tripletail
- Ladyfish
Ready to Experience the Best of Fort Myers? Let’s Go!
6-Hour Fishing Charter (¾ Day Fishing Charter)
$850
3 people 4 Hours (4th $100 more)
Hook an extra hour – $125
Species you can catch:
- Spanish Mackerel
- Kingfish
- Cobia
- Mangrove Snapper
- Lane Snapper
- Gag Grouper
- Red Grouper
- Tripletail
- Ladyfish
Plan Your Fort Myers Charter Adventure Today!
8-Hour Fishing Charter (Full Day Fishing Charter)
$1050
3 people 4 Hours (4th $100 more)
Hook an extra hour – $125
Species you can catch:
- Spanish Mackerel
- Kingfish
- Cobia
- Mangrove Snapper
- Lane Snapper
- Gag Grouper
- Red Grouper
- Tripletail
- Ladyfish
Plan the Ultimate Day on the Water — Reserve Now!
Years
Experience
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Meet Captain Erik Johnson
With decades of fishing experience across Florida’s waters, Captain Erik Johnson leads every trip personally. He’s known for his family-friendly approach, safety-first mindset, and passion for helping anglers of all ages land unforgettable catches. His 22-ft Skeeter Bay Boat (SX220) is fully equipped with a Power-Pole anchor and Spot-Lock trolling motor for smooth, productive days on the water.
Why Choose Sea n Red for Inshore Fishing?
- Experienced local guide with expert reef knowledge.
- USCG-certified and safety-focused.
- Flexible trip lengths and fair pricing.
- Great for families, kids, and all skill levels.
Nearshore Fishing Moments in Fort Myers
Browse our latest photos from Fort Myers nearshore charters — see real anglers, real catches, and real fun. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram to stay updated on recent catches!
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Our Blog
Fort Myers Nearshore Fishing Reports & Updates
Stay up to date with seasonal fishing trends, species availability, and captain’s tips for your next Fort Myers nearshore trip.
FAQs
Your Questions About Nearshore Fishing Answered
What is considered nearshore fishing?
Nearshore fishing takes place just off the coast — usually within 9 to 15 miles from shore — targeting reefs, wrecks, and ledges in the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a great balance between inshore calm and offshore adventure, offering access to snapper, grouper, cobia, and kingfish without long travel times.
How far offshore do nearshore charters go in Fort Myers?
Our nearshore trips typically stay within 9 to 15 miles of the coast. These waters are deep enough for exciting reef and wreck fishing but close enough for smooth rides and steady action. It’s the perfect choice for anglers who want big catches without the long offshore run.
What fish can I catch nearshore in Fort Myers?
Fort Myers nearshore waters are rich with species like red snapper, mangrove snapper, grouper, cobia, king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and shark. Depending on the season, you may also find tarpon and other migratory fish cruising the reefs and wrecks. Each trip offers variety and nonstop action.
How much does a nearshore charter cost?
At Sea n Red Charters, pricing starts at $650 for a 4-hour trip, $850 for 6 hours, and $1050 for 8 hours for up to 3 people. Add a 4th guest for $100, or extend your trip for $125 per hour. All gear, bait, and licenses are included.
How far is nearshore fishing from the beach?
Nearshore charters usually run 3–9 miles offshore, just past the visible beachline. You’ll fish productive spots like reefs, ledges, and artificial structures teeming with life. It’s close enough for comfort yet far enough for trophy-sized catches.
Can kids come on nearshore trips?
Absolutely! Our nearshore fishing charters in Fort Myers are great for families and kids. Captain Erik ensures a safe, comfortable trip with life jackets, calm conditions, and patient instruction. Many young anglers catch their first snapper or grouper right here on the Gulf.
What should I bring for a nearshore charter?
Bring sunscreen (no spray), sunglasses, snacks, and drinks. We’ll provide all gear, bait, tackle, licenses, and ice. Cameras are great for capturing your catch — and don’t forget a hat for the Florida sun. Everything else is handled for you.
What is the best time for nearshore fishing in Fort Myers?
Fishing is great year-round, but spring through early fall brings peak action for snapper, grouper, and kingfish. Cooler months deliver steady bites from sheepshead, mackerel, and cobia. Captain Erik adjusts every trip to match the season’s best fishing opportunities.
Fishing Spots
Nearshore Fishing Charters Near You
Sea n Red Charters proudly serves anglers across Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Sanibel, Captiva, Punta Rassa, Pine Island, and the Everglades. Each location offers a distinct nearshore experience with world-class fishing opportunities.