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Captain Billy Norris (239) 285 7710

Fishing Naples, Bonita Springs, and Fort Myers Beach FL



PALE HORSE FISHING CHARTERS

WHAT IS NEARSHORE FISHING?

Nearshore fishing is for those who would like to venture out into the Gulf without going way offshore.  Nearshore trips consist of fishing the wrecks and reefs in the waters right off the coast, extending out to 9-miles.  Our waters are full of shipwrecks, reefs, ledges and other structure that hold tons of fish!  Every trip is different, and we take you wherever the bite has been the best.

It's optimal for anyone who wants to experience our Gulf of Mexico and the myriad of fishes it offers without making the long offshore run.  The Gulf Coast of Florida is pretty calm, so the rough seas that are common in the Atlantic are not typical on our nearshore trips.  Nearshore fishing offers anglers the chance to catch some species not found inshore and typically result in higher catch rates with bigger fish.  The action is fast and furious for nearshore species in our waters, providing anglers with ample opportunities to catch a memory!  Whether you're looking for sport fishing or filling up the cooler for dinner, nearshore trips offer something for everyone!

This is our go-to trip for:

  • Families with kids (the non-stop action keeps kids fully occupied and engaged)
  • Serious anglers looking to target some of our larger trophy fish
  • Groups who enjoy being out on the open ocean


WHAT TO EXPECT TO CATCH ON A NEARSHORE TRIP
Every trip is a little different — that’s the fun of it. Depending on the season, the tide, and a little bit of luck, we might target:

  • Snook – Fast, aggressive, and always a thrill. Although also found in the backwaters, the bigger snook love the nearshore wrecks.
  • Cobia – Extremely strong and excellent fighters, cobia are one of the most attractive nearshore gamefish.  They also make excellent table fare.
  • Tarpon – The silver king, one of the most popular gamefish in the world.  If you're ready for the fight of your life, lets go target tarpon!
  • Jewfish – The beast of the reef, jewfish (aka Goliath grouper) will put any angler to the test.  Juveniles are typically 20-50 pounds, with the adults reaching 800 pounds!
  • Snappers/Porgies – We have multiple species of snapper, and all are delicious!  Mangrove, lane, cubera, hogfish, silver, and sheepshead are all common nearshore catches.
  • Mackerels – Spanish mackerel are a favorite among customers, especially when they get in massive schools of thousands.  They are hard fighting, aggressively take baits, and fill the cooler.  In the fall and winter, the king mackerel show up.  They are very similar to Spanish, except that they are WAY bigger, reaching upwards of 50 pounds!
  • Sharks - There is certainly no shortage of sharks in our local waters.  They are around all year, but spring-fall is typically prime time.  Common species caught include; blacktip, spinner, sandbar, bull, hammerhead, nurse, and tiger sharks.  If you're ready to catch jaws, we're ready to make the introduction!


We’ll always tailor the trip to what’s biting best that day, and what you’re excited to target. Whether you’re  looking to check a species off your list or fill the cooler for dinner, we’ve got you covered!

nearshore