If you boat in Southwest Florida, you’ve seen them: Idle Speed, No Wake, Slow Speed, Minimum Wake, and seasonal manatee protection zones. These wake zones aren’t random; they’re carefully established to protect people, property, wildlife, and waterways.
Understanding what they mean (and why they matter) helps keep everyone safer and makes your time on the water more enjoyable.
Every month of every year will present different challenges to all anglers. Understanding when and where to go will make all the difference for catching fish. I am presenting my views from years of experience, fishing SW Florida waters, in hopes that anglers will gain more advantage when utilizing some of my recommendations together with their own experiences. These recommendations will focus on which species are best to target during particular months (on a ‘quarterly’ basis).
Read more “CAPTAIN TERRY FISHER’S 2026 ANNUAL FISHING GUIDE FOR SW FLORIDA WATERS”
Perfect Weather for Full Days on the Water
December brings mild temperatures, lower humidity, and calm mornings—ideal for fishing, cruising, and sightseeing. You can comfortably stay out all day without battling the typical summer heat or afternoon thunderstorms.
The Fort Myers Boat Show might be over, but if you walked the riverfront and found yourself thinking “I need that in my life,” you’re not alone. Boat shows are packed with new models, innovative tech, and must-have accessories, and it’s easy to walk away inspired (or tempted).
Read more “Your Post-Boat-Show Checklist: What to Do Next If Something Caught Your Eye”
For more than half a century, the Fort Myers Boat Show has been a staple event for Southwest Florida’s boating community. Now celebrating its 53rd year, the show returns to downtown Fort Myers from Thursday, November 13, through Sunday, November 16. Read more “What to Expect at the 2025 Go Boating Florida Fort Myers Boat Show”
This month is a good month to target inshore species such as Redfish. The tides are higher than normal due to the ‘Super’ Moon phase which creates strong gravitational pull moving waters higher than those of most months except during the late springtime when ‘Hill’ Tides during Tarpon Season.
August usually is the closing month for my annual summertime fishing trips to the Florida Keys. 1st Mate Vicki, 2nd Mate Moby Dick (Chocolate Lab) spent a week there a couple of months ago to celebrate Vicki’s birthday fishing for Dorado and Yellowtail. Read more “CAPTAIN TERRY FINISHES THE SUMMER IN THE FLORIDA KEYS FOR DORADO, TUNA, WAHOO AND YELLOWTAIL”
Owning a boat opens the door to unforgettable days on the water, but just like a home or car, your vessel is also a major investment. Protecting it with the right insurance policy ensures that if something goes wrong, you won’t be left adrift financially. Read more “How to Insure Your Recreational Vessel: Best Practices for Peace of Mind”
How to Navigate a Busy Boating Weekend Like a Pro
Boating in Southwest Florida during a holiday weekend—or any sunny Saturday—means crowded boat ramps and longer-than-usual waits. But with a bit of planning and courtesy, you can spend less time on the trailer and more time on the water. Read more “Launch Tips: Avoid the Ramp Rush”
INSHORE; fishing should be good over the next couple of months, especially for Redfish and Snook. The ‘BULL’ Redfish should continue to move in during these hot months and remain throughout September. I know that a lot of anglers prefer Pilchards, but for Redfish I recommend large shrimps, quartered Blue Crabs, cut Pinfish and cut Ladyfish. Read more “SW FLORIDA FISHING GUIDE: WHAT TO EXPECT THE NEXT FEW MONTHS”