Serving Naples, Marco Island,
Ten Thousand Islands & Everglades

Fishing Charters

Methods may vary when pursuing our gamefish. I use Loomis rods and Daiwa spinning reels with ten-pound test line for snook, redfish and trout. If you have never caught a snook or redfish, I can promise you that ten-pound test is on the fringe of light tackle.

Spring through fall your day will start out with us making a small run to where we may locate bait. I will make several throws over a school of scaled sardines and put them in my livewells. Now it is off to the fishing grounds.

For those of you that like to throw plugs and other artificials, I have a full array of lures for that purpose. You are always welcome to bring your favorite rod if you like. I am almost always on the water so I am happy to give you the lowdown on where and what is working the best. During the winter months we use jigs, shrimp or flyfish.

I have been an Orvis endorsed guide for eight years. I have the finest flyrods and reels that Orvis has to offer. We generally use eight weight rods with weight forward floating lines for snook, redfish and other backwater species. Six to nine weight rods are acceptable, but remember that we throw fairly large flies. Ten to twelve weight rods are used for tarpon. I have had clients land tarpon that exceed one hundred and fifty pounds so it is smart to have a rod that is up to the task.

You are welcome to use my rods, as they will be rigged and ready for your fishing adventure. I will supply you with the flies that you will need for a days fishing. Flyfishing is a very rewarding experience.

For those new to fly fishing, you will hear no yelling or screaming from me. My job is to help you improve your game. I have been an instructor for ten years and I can help you improve your cast in short order. Let's have fun while we learn.

My Flats Boats

I have two boats. Depending on the tide phase, I like to keep the boat in water that is as shallow as the draft will permit. Some folks like to mix up their day by flyfishing and spinfishing. It is a good way to insure success. In this case, I use my 22' Pathfinder (Night Flight) She's a state of the art flats skiff that drafts eight to ten inches of water.

My other boat (Pinocchio) is a smaller, one-of-a-kind skiff that poles in extremely shallow water - four to five inches. I use this boat for dedicated flyfishing charters. Pinocchio has been featured in a full-length feature article in Florida Sportsman (June 2000). Pinocchio was also chosen for the Orvis worldwide ad campaign. With either of my boats, you are bound to have a great day on the water.

Provisioning the Charter

I supply bait, license and all the tackle you will need. I also supply ice and bottled water. You should bring any other food or drinks you care to consume. There is a cooler on board for any provisions you bring.

Also, dress appropriately. It can get quite cool during the winter months. Bring a jacket and sweatpants. We have storage if you don't use them.

Location

I run most of my charters out of Goodland because it is virtually on the border of the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge. We also enjoy fantastic fishing on the southern end of Marco Island.

Charter Details

• I offer full, 3/4-day and half-day charters
• A full day is eight hours fishing for $750
• A 3/4-day charter is 6 hours of fishing for $650
• A half-day is four-and-one-half hours of fishing for $550
• Above prices include up-to 3 anglers, 4 anglers is an additional charge of $50

Booking a Charter

Please complete the form below to request more information about our fishing charters.

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Do not hesitate to call for any extra information that you may need. Or call to just talk fish. I am looking forward to hearing from you.

Deposit and Cancellation Policy

All trips require a $200.00 deposit for each day of fishing

If you do not have access to a credit card, you will be required to pay for the trip(s) deposits’ in advance by mailing us a check. Once you have booked your trip(s), those date(s) will be reserved for you for 7 working days. After the 7th working day, the date of your booking will be made available again unless we have received your check or you contact us prior to the 7th day.

In the event that you have to cancel your trip, we will refund your deposit as long as you cancel at least 14 days prior to your trip(s).

Refunds will be made in the same manner that the deposit was made. If it was made by credit card, your credit card will be credited. If it was made by check, we will mail you a check.

If you need to cancel your trip within the 14 days prior to the trip(s), your deposit becomes non-refundable. We will apply your deposit to your next trip; as long as that trip(s) is taken within one year of your original booking date(s).

If you cancel the trip(s) or fail to show up within 72 hours of the trip(s), you will be charged for the full amount or balance of the trips(s).

Wind and weather are always a concern. We do our best to work around these conditions. Cancellations due to the weather conditions will be left up to the sole decision of Captain Matt Hoover.

All deposits should be made out and mailed to Captain Matt Hoover, 290 22nd Ave. NW, Naples, FL 34120.