Naples and Marco Island fishing report for the week of October 15, 2026. October brings the end of the summer pattern and the start of the cooler-weather bite in the Ten Thousand Islands, with active bait and fish feeding in the back bays.
What’s Hitting
Snook are in the back bays and creeks and along the mangroves, redfish are working the outside islands and oyster bars, and mangrove snapper are around docks and bridges. Trout are on the grass flats, tripletail are around the markers, and tarpon are still rolling in the passes.
Looking ahead, snook will gradually move deeper into the creeks and rivers as the fall progresses and the water cools, while redfish and trout fishing improves along the islands and flats.
Where to Find Them
Fish the mangrove shorelines of Marco’s back bays and the Gordon River for snook, and work the oyster bars and island points of the Ten Thousand Islands for redfish. Docks and bridges hold snapper, particularly on the falling tide.
Tides & Conditions
Tides are moderating as the moon builds toward first quarter. The falling tide along the mangroves is the best window for snook and reds. Check a current tide chart and wind forecast.
Tackle & Tactics
Live shrimp and pilchards are the go-to baits, and a white or gold paddle-tail jig covers redfish. For snapper, use small live shrimp on a light fluorocarbon leader. Spinning gear with 15 pound braid is plenty.
On the flats, use polarized glasses and a stealthy approach to spot redfish. In the mangroves, accuracy matters, so pitch baits close to the roots and be ready to turn a fish quickly. For snapper, a small hook and a light leader are the key to getting bites around the docks.
Local Intel This Week
Public access includes Caxambas Park on Marco Island, Bayview Park in Naples, and Port of the Islands. Fish are concentrating along the mangrove shorelines and the oyster bars. Check current FWC regulations and seasons before keeping any fish, as snook, redfish and snapper rules are specific.
This Week’s Tip
Fish the shade. On bright days, snook and snapper tuck under mangrove roots and docks, so pitch baits tight to cover.
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