© jim freeman 2012
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Fishing is big in Southwest Florida, but if you don’t know where to go, you’re “just a blind man with a stick,” says Eric Sandberg of floridagofishing.com. So, let us guide you.
Naples Pier and Fort Myers Beach Pier: Both attract many a fisherman (along with a few hungry pelicans) because of the variety of fish that thrives beneath the piers. Both piers have a snack shop that sells bait.
Lovers Key State Park: The 712-acre preserve covering three islands is good for fishing from the shore. Or, for a bigger challenge, drop a line off the bridge to catch tarpon.
Blind Pass: The currents in the thin strip of water between Sanibel and Captiva are a haven for snook, redfish and more. Fish from the small beach or the rock jetty.
Tigertail Beach: Head to the north end of Marco Island for this flat, wide beach. You can fish in the tidal pools or wade across the lagoon to drop your line in the Gulf on the pristine Sand Dollar Beach.
10,000 Islands: It’s worth the trip down to Everglades City. Take your boat or kayak and explore among the mangroves. The area offers up freshwater, saltwater and brackish ponds. Hundreds of species of fish can be found here.
Boca Grande Pass: The World’s Largest Tarpon Tournament is held at Boca Grande Pass each year for good reason. The popular area off the south end of the island is known among fisherman as one of the best tarpon fishing holes in the world.