Naples and Marco Island fishing report for the week of October 22, 2026. The cooler-weather pattern is taking hold in the Ten Thousand Islands, with active bait and fish feeding in the back bays.
What’s Hitting
Snook are in the back bays, creeks and along the mangroves, redfish are working outside islands and oyster bars, and mangrove snapper are around docks and bridges. Trout are on the grass flats, and sheepshead are beginning to show on structure.
Looking ahead, snook will move deeper into the creeks and rivers as the water cools, while redfish and sheepshead fishing improves.
Where to Find Them
Fish the mangrove shorelines of Marco’s back bays and the Gordon River for snook, and the oyster bars and island points of the Ten Thousand Islands for redfish. Docks and bridges hold snapper and sheepshead on the falling tide.
Tides & Conditions
Tides are strengthening toward the full moon. 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, plus a white or gold paddle-tail for redfish. For snapper and sheepshead, small live shrimp or fiddler crabs on a light fluorocarbon leader.
Accuracy matters in the mangroves. Pitch baits tight to roots and turn fish quickly.
Local Intel This Week
Public access includes Caxambas Park on Marco Island, Bayview Park in Naples, and Port of the Islands. 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 tuck under mangrove roots and docks.
More Naples/Marco Island Resources
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