Naples Winter Fishing Report

November wrapped up on a high note, capped off by a busy holiday week and some incredible catches for our clients. As we transition toward winter and the water continues to cool, our offshore fishery in Naples, Florida shifts into an entirely different gear. This time of year, you truly never know what you might run into offshore—and that unpredictability is part of the fun.

Just this week, we ran across a school of massive Blackfin Tuna surprisingly close to land. Encounters like these are exactly the kind of bonus opportunities winter can bring. Along with the occasional surprises, all of our reliable staples have been showing nicely too. Cobia schools have been consistent from the nearshore wrecks out to the offshore structures, and they’ll remain one of our primary targets throughout the winter season.

With the cooler temperatures, big Amberjacks are also pushing in closer. These fish provide an absolute blast on rod and reel—we'll chum them up and throw artificials or flies right at them on the surface. Winter also brings some of the best bottom fishing charters in Naples, Florida of the entire year, and it’s prime time for serious meat runs. Grouper and Snapper will continue to be major players offshore through the coming months.

On the inshore side, we’re right on the edge of switching fully into our winter pattern, transitioning from live pilchards to shrimp and jigs once the backcountry water temps reach that key threshold. Live bait is still producing well with Snook, Redfish, and plenty of Jack Crevalles. As things cool a bit more, shrimp fishing will light up with Trout, Sheepshead, Pompano, Redfish, and the occasional winter Snook.

We’re also heading into the busiest two weeks of the entire year for fishing charters in Naples, and our books are filling up rapidly. Christmas through New Year’s is always packed, and daily slots are disappearing fast.

Come celebrate the holidays and close out the year with the On a Mission team.
Feel free to reach out with any questions—happy fishing, and we hope to see you soon!