Fort Myers and Sanibel fishing report for the week of October 22, 2026. Cooler mornings are drawing fish onto the flats of Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor, and the passes are producing.
What’s Hitting
Redfish are on the flats and mangrove edges of Pine Island Sound, snook are at the passes and dock lights, and trout are on the grass beds. A few tarpon are still showing in the passes, and Spanish mackerel and bluefish are crashing bait.
Looking ahead, cooler water over the coming weeks should push more reds and trout onto the flats, while snook head for the rivers and backwaters.
Where to Find Them
Fish the flats off Pine Island and Sanibel on a rising tide for redfish. Work the passes at Captiva and Redfish Pass on the outgoing tide for snook and mackerel. Drift the grass beds for trout.
Tides & Conditions
With the moon heading to full, tides are building. Moving water at the passes is best. Check a current tide chart and wind forecast.
Tackle & Tactics
Live pilchards and shrimp, a paddle-tail on a quarter-ounce jighead, and a gold spoon. Use 20 pound fluorocarbon for snook and drop to 15 on the flats.
Fish early and late when the light is low, and stay patient on the flats.
Local Intel This Week
Public access includes Matlacha Park on Pine Island, the Sanibel Causeway islands, and Cape Coral Yacht Club. Check current FWC regulations and seasons before keeping any fish, especially snook and redfish.
This Week’s Tip
Make long casts. Reds in clear shallow water spook at close range.
More Fort Myers/Sanibel Resources
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