Fishing Charters in Florida

Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch spotted seatrout.

Best Time to Catch Spotted Seatrout

Spotted Seatrout can be caught year-round in Marco Island. Right now in February, activity is low.

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Seasonal Activity Chart

Spotted Seatrout

Spotted Seatrout

Various

The maze of mangrove islands and shallow grass flats surrounding Marco Island provides exceptional habitat for Spotted Seatrout. These fish thrive in the warmer waters of Southwest Florida, making spring and fall particularly productive seasons. Look for seatrout around oyster bars, mangrove edges, and grassy areas with good tidal flow. The backwaters and estuaries offer protection from rough seas, making them ideal for kayak fishing or shallow-draft boats. A local tip: try using popping corks with a soft plastic shrimp imitation to attract attention in murky waters. Alternatively, a free-lined live shrimp is hard to beat. The seatrout in this area are known to be aggressive, but can also be finicky depending on water clarity and pressure. Access is plentiful from various public boat ramps and kayak launches around Goodland and Marco Island.

How to Catch Spotted Seatrout

Spotted Seatrout Fishing Regulations in Florida

Open Season

Year-round, subject to closures

Daily Bag Limit

5 per person per day

Size Limit

15-19 inch slot limit; only one over 19 inches allowed

License Required

Saltwater fishing license

Certain areas may have different size and bag limits. Check current regulations for specific location.

⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.

Related Species in Florida

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best bait to use for spotted seatrout around Marco Island?

Live shrimp is a very popular and effective bait for spotted seatrout in the Marco Island area. Artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs can also be productive, especially in the early morning or late evening.

What are the size limits for spotted seatrout in Florida?

Spotted seatrout in Florida have a slot size limit of 15-19 inches. You can only keep one seatrout over 19 inches per person.

How many spotted seatrout can I keep per day when fishing near Marco Island?

The bag limit for spotted seatrout in Florida is 5 per person per day. Make sure you are following all size and bag limits to avoid fines.

Do I need a license to fish for spotted seatrout in Marco Island, Florida?

Yes, you need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license to fish for spotted seatrout and other saltwater species in the Marco Island area. Licenses can be purchased online or at local tackle shops.

When is the best time of year to target spotted seatrout around Marco Island?

Spotted seatrout fishing can be good year-round in Marco Island, but the spring and fall months are often considered the best. These periods offer comfortable temperatures and active fish.

More Spotted Seatrout Fishing in Florida

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