What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Naples, Florida for the first time?

Definitely go with a guide. I am an avid fisherman in the upper Midwest but i learned a lot from the Captain about bait selection, rigging, techniques, and tides, that i wouldn't have know how to navigate on my own. It is an investment but pays off dividends with knowledge you receive.

We did not do a real fishing trip, but should have so its hard to grade the fishing in Naples, but on a real fishing trip I'm sure it is good, because we saw photos of good fishing in the brochure.....

Early March is still "winter" in Naples. Cold front came through and we had North and Northwest winds which caused dirty water on the inbound tide in the Bays. 3rd week of March on becomes more consistent as the "summer" season begins.

Choose a vessel and trip length appropriate for your angling skills and experience, endurance, affordability, and time available. Don't expect big game on a half day trip on a big boat, and conversely don't expect comfort on a small but fast open fisherman. Most importantly, talk to your captain....tell him or her what you expect, and they'll tell you what experience they can provide.

Find a reputable & experienced company to charter your trip. Don’t set your expectations too high, fish are unpredictable. Book a full day trip, this will get you further out in the ocean where the bigger fish are at.

We did not catch anything sensational, but the experience was well worth it! We would definitely book again, but this time call Captain Mark directly to inquire about tide and best time/day to fish!

Yes this is a great family vacation highlight! My kids have not stopped talking about how much fun they had! The clean and bagged the fish we caught and recommended a great restaurant close by that would cook our catch!!!

While the fish tend to gather near mangrove roots, you may want to practice your casting in open waters to get a better sense of how far your line will travel. It is relatively easy to overcast and snag your hook and line on the mangrove roots and have to put on a new hook when you break the line to get untangled. Also, bring someone that really enjoys fishing along with you.

Absolutely, it was my first trip. And the fish were fileted and cleaned so that they would be ready to cook for dinner that evening.

I was told that the fishing was better a little later in the season when the water is warmer, so I would recommend first time anglers book in April or May.

Go with next size up boat you are considering, makes a ride and room difference with a few people.

Call Captain Brandon at Reel Fishing Charters as he is knowledgeable and professional and provides a great experience.

Give the captain details of exactly what you are looking for and make sure they can deliver that experience.

Acknowledge your own skill level and be willing to accept the expertise of the boat crew ... they will do their best to make your experience memorable.

A little more discussion on where/how far out we are going and what fish we are targeting.

Good fishing charters and from the marina. Lots of options for catch and eat fish. Weather is changeable but the captain will keep to up to date.

Go full day so you can get out far enough to find bigger variety. On half day it’s important to get a good tide, high or low, b/c stagnant water theory don’t bite.

Just like fishing it didn’t work out this time but I would try it again the future and hope for better weather.

Yes very good capt. Jim, excellent first mate. One complait,is only 2 grouper per person. That's not very much and having to go out 20 miles .this is not the charters fault it is the state rules.

Pack lots of sunscreen, take a hat, and be prepared for a workout. Pick a fast boat if you want bigger fish, it takes time to get out there.

Use resources to investigate others reviews of their experiences. This was key for me to pick the Captain & Boat that we used.

Listen to Vince and you'll be successful. I fished my whole life but in ponds and rivers. Totally different IMO with inshore.

Bring sunblock, polarized sunglasses, layered clothing, snacks and water (if not provided). Relax and have fun!

Go in the morning. Be ready for all types of fish. Shark, Sheepshead, Groupers and fun.

Lots of fish all around and under us.. They just chose not to take the bait that day we went out.

Book a fishing experience with Cap'n Joe and Matt; you will truly enjoy your trip!!!

Find a boat with a knowledgeable captain, and one that has shade and n enclosed toilet.

Aim for a weekday if it's high season, tons of boat traffic on the weekends in the backwater

Let the captain guide you. Not the other way around or you may be disappointed.