Cape Coral Fishing Report

Storm dodging and higher tides

Welcome to Summer

Redfish and Snook on the move

Tarpon Time!

April is heating up

Indy Boys Seeing Red

PI Sound Redfish Snook and Trout heating up

Wading Burnt Store Bar

Duck Hunt Scout trip - post cold

Redfish from Burnt Store

Redfish snook and ladies

Slow troll back country snook

Bait scouting trip

Prepare yourself for an exceptional fishing experience with Salty Pirate Fishing Charters, where Captain Keith invites you to explore the pristine waters of Pine Island Sound and the serene backcountry of Matlacha in Southwest Florida; this exciting adventure offers you the chance to experience some of the best inshore and flats fishing in the region, whether you are an experienced angler or a beginner looking to learn from the best. Step aboard our 18-foot Pro-Line flats boat, a meticulously maintained vessel designed for both comfort and performance, which accommodates up to four guests, providing a cozy and spacious environment for your fishing excursion. The Pro-Line is equipped with a powerful 150 HP Mercury engine, ensuring a smooth and speedy ride as we navigate the diverse and rich fishing grounds of Pine Island Sound and Matlacha; this state-of-the-art engine enables us to reach prime fishing spots quickly, maximizing your time on the water and increasing your chances of a successful catch. With the help of top-of-the-line fishing gear and the expert guidance of Captain Keith, you will have the opportunity to pursue a variety of sought-after species including Tarpon, Snook, Trout, Redfish, Snapper, and Grouper, using effective light tackle techniques that are perfect for the shallow waters and flats we explore. Throughout your fishing adventure, Captain Keith will not only share his extensive knowledge of the local waters and fishing techniques but also ensure that you have an enjoyable and educational experience on the water; he will provide all the necessary fishing equipment and licenses, so you can focus solely on casting your line and reeling in your next big catch. Whether you’re looking to release your catch for the thrill of the sport or would like to have it cleaned and filleted by Captain Keith at no extra cost, he is dedicated to making sure that every aspect of your trip meets your expectations and enhances your fishing experience. Salty Pirate Fishing Charters is committed to ensuring that every trip is not only productive but also fun and memorable; whether you’re chasing after the trophy fish of your dreams or simply enjoying a day out on the water with friends or family, Captain Keith is there to make your adventure as enjoyable as possible. From the moment you board the Pro-Line to the final moments of your trip, you will experience firsthand the passion and dedication that Captain Keith brings to every fishing charter.

EPSG:4269

The inshore waters around Cape Coral are bustling with activity. Anglers are reporting excellent catches of Redfish and Snook, particularly around the mangrove edges and grassy flats. Live bait, such as pilchards and shrimp, has been particularly effective. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to target these species, with the cooler water temperatures encouraging more aggressive feeding.

Stunning landscape of the Chesapeake region

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Snook remain all over the beaches just have gotten picky as we get deeper into summer.  Snapper have moved in to the mangroves and docks which are picking at white bait and bringing home nice inshore sizes for dinner.  

Trout have been the go to on slower days on grass flats.  This past Monday northern sound flats produced plenty of trout action with by product catches of grouper, snapper, and big ladyfish which always make for a fun fight!   

Both live bait and artificial have been producing good fish. 

Two people enjoying outdoor activities in Florida

The full moon and bigger currents have scattered bait and fish around the sound a bit but the usual suspects are still around and next week will just heat up again.  Snook remain on the beaches and back sides of the barrier islands.  Target them with live bait.  Redfish along interior islands in the sound are plentiful.  Tarpon are still thick in the passes and bridges but you can find bigger tarpon settling on inshore flats as well perfect for fly or sight casting!  Local bait shops like D&D in Matlacha or Gromms on the water north of Boca Pass have plenty of crabs available for your silver king adventure.  

The bait has been scattered.  Chumming will produce plenty of pinfish.  Reports of white bait south of Matlacha bridge and they can be found on the flats but have moved off the beaches now.  Look for them to come back inside with the full moon gone. 

Sky got her a beautiful snook off the beach this past week all on her own!  The smile says it all! 

Redfish and snook from sub to over slot are cruising all over the mangroves.  Both live whitebait, cut bait like mullet/ladyfish and crab, as well as artificial baits like gold spoons/paddletail jigs/topwater and subsurface twitch baits are producing great numbers of inshore fish from the flats boat.  Good water tides have allowed us to get deep into the creeks and site cast in 1-2' of water is the funnest way to chase these fish.  You cover lots of ground, see tons of fish and really get to test your fishing skills with casting and presentation to get hook ups!

Tarpon have arrived en-masse and the fishing couldn't be better!  As we tick into May, more and more big fish will be showing up.  Outgoing tides work best but Tarpon will be around beaches and passes thru summer at this point.  Sight casting snook on the beach and pass edges makes for a fun day and nothing beats dropping a crab or thread fin into a mass of tarpon and experiencing that fight.  We are having multiple hook ups each day now on our tarpon trips throughout the day.  Boca Grande pass, Matlacha, Sanibel Causeway and the barrier island beaches of Sanibel and Captiva all are holding good numbers of fish.  

A stunning FL landscape with cruises, fishing, hunting, and tours

An image of a scenic location in FL, possibly on a fishing trip or tour

A lone angler reeling in a big catch in the waters of FL

As our waters crept into the low 80's this past week, our fishing is just getting better.  Snook and redfish are out of their back country hides and cruising mangrove islands, trout are covering the flats and our tarpon migration is hitting full stride.  The winds these past few weeks have made tides difficult to judge and days on the skiff difficult.  On calm days, watch the tides.  At lower tides, fishing oyster bars and grassy ledges in 3-4' of water has been key.  As the water rises on the flats and we are able to get into the islands and mangroves, snook have been hitting artificial and live thread fins especially as water gets moving down the banks.  Beaches for tarpon and snook site casting is a great late spring task and outgoing currents in local passes flush crabs and bait out which fire up the tarpon and snook bites!  

Redfish

Sea Trout

Very choppy conditions at first light prevented live bait options so we shifted to all artificial and it paid off!  First cast started the day off right with a slot trout hitting it as it landed.  We escaped the wind and went with Plan C chasing trout on the grass flats in upper PI Sound before moving to Redfish spots a little further south.  Trout continued to follow us as we sought out the slam landing one slot redfish at 22" and a monster redfish at 32".  The 32"r gave us a run for our money darting around islands as we chased line under mangroves with the trolling motor.  All in all we boxed 3 trout and 1 redfish and released another 15+ trout!

Gold Spoons, topwater and NLBN jigs on pearl and pinfish colors.

Windy with a side of snook

Snook

Rough day on the water with the fronts moving in but the trout and snook were hungry...and the osprey (which hung with us stealing bait!).  Plenty of bait in Matlacha pass in 3-4' of water.  Glass minnows on the leeward side of the eastern islands were a target for the trout, willingly striking jig heads with pearl Z-mans.  The snook showed up for us at late morning smacking pilchards of any size.  Would love to share some pictures but my net man (me) was terrible today!

As our waters clear up and flush out from the red tide issues, the fish are getting active.  We have bait on most flats firing up the fish.  Redfish and snook are cruising the mangroves.  Fish them with chummed live bait or cut ladyfish, which are abundant along grass flat drop offs in both Matlacha and Pine Island Sound.  On the grass flats in 3-4' of water, trout ranging from 14 to over 23" are hammering suspending twitch bait lures like the Mirrodine 17MR as well as paddle tails on jig heads, top water on calm waters.  Finding the water depth trout are hanging out in is important.  If you make a pass in 2-3' with no strikes, shift to 3-4'.  While throwing the lures and drifting the flats, throw a shrimp or smaller white bait under a cork/bobber to drive behind you keeping an eye on it for a big trout, ladyfish or passing Spanish mackerel to strike it.  If you are having a slow day or have kids on the boat, turning your focus to the trout flats will spark a slow day!

NLBN pearl colored paddletails; mirrodine suspending jerk lures; popping corks with shrimp; cut ladyfish on 2/0 circle hooks; Daiwa DG rod/reel combos 

Spotted Weakfish, a 15-inch fish, caught in FL

A single 13-inch fish caught in Chesapeake

A photo of a spotted weakfish measuring 11 inches, caught in FL.

Angler fishing on a boat in the Chesapeake

Striped Bass are biting

<div>with the fly rod and baitcaster in hand (the only two rods I can throw fish with one arm) and still unable to drive the boat, I ventured out the North Cape Trail having just discovered it the other day. &nbsp;wading across in a south-west-north-east-south rectabgle in an incoming tide, i ovserved little activtiy on the ouster bars. &nbsp;on the north bound leg about 200 yards iff the shore, muklet began jumping near the shoreline. &nbsp;as i got to the south bound leg i was able to cast behind a nearby leaping mullet for an instant hook up. &nbsp;My first ever fish on a baitcaster pulled hard to the point I thought perhaps a snook. &nbsp;but finally showing was a beautiful lower slot redfish with two big tail spots either side and a whiter color due to temps. &nbsp;i will certsinly be adding this to the youth canp!</div>

<div>okuma blue baitcaster on 7' medium rod with zman trout eye jig head and trout magic paddletail</div>

<div>the boys and I took off early morning to scout duck hunting possibilities in Matlacha Pass. &nbsp;i have observed several species of ducks the last few weeks in the pass as well as early spring redheads in the 1000's last spring. &nbsp;</div><div> </div><div>We set up for wind on the northern tip of an island in order to see big water ducks that may be coming into the mangroves and grass flats to feed. &nbsp;numerous redheads and mergansers were observed but stuck to open water.</div><div> </div><div>This was also several days after our biggest cold front of the year and we observed numerous dead fish with little to no signs of fish activity in the pass. &nbsp;</div>

Person enjoying fishing, cruises, hunting, and tours in FL

Person enjoying outdoor activities in Chesapeake

<div>great day leaving from Burnt Store Ramp at 7am with some new Cale Residents getting to explore back waters and Matlacha Pass. &nbsp;</div><div> </div><div>plenty of small snook in the trees. &nbsp;Ladyfish in the deeper pass ledges for bait the. redfish aling NW mat pass on paddletails.</div><div> </div>

<div>starting the day trolling for ladyfish and mackerel landing muktiple ladyfish and saving some for bait. &nbsp;redfish ignored the ladies and smashed the white paddletails. &nbsp;finally moving into a skinny creek we landed our snook for the day! &nbsp;ended the day throwing at some shy tarpon</div>

Grey Snapper

<div>good day on the trolling motor working treelines and spilleays for snook</div>

Stunning view of the Florida coastline during a fishing, cruises, or hunting tour

Person enjoying Chesapeake cruises, fishing, and tours

Plenty of ladyfish schooling in deeper channels of Matlacha Pass.  Mangrove fishing remains difficult in Matlacha Pass with damage to shorelines.  

Fishing cruises, tours, and adventures in FL

Status: Lavenders ramp to Jug Creek Shoals and flats.  Fished 10:30 Am - 1:00 Pm and targeted the grass shoals. Fish are all over the place.  Bait, mullet, birds, and sharks are plentiful. Some grass flats survived some look very ravaged.  Not “flowy” but instead look smashed down with mud and not alive. Mangroves took a beating.  Overhangs and shade in some of my traditional snook spots do not look fishy right now. Debris is still plentiful.  New sandbar and higher elevation on old sandbars.  Marked Channels are good despite some downed/missing markers.  A lot of the debris that is “grounded” is visible at lower tides and covered during high.  Might be good to plan trips around lower tides to learn the new norms and where is safe to run outside marked channels. I only fished for about an hour and by the time I got home I had rashes on both feet despite not being “in the water”. Lots of sharks.  Usually, see them anyway but they were all over JCS.  Bigger bulls and bonnetheads were chasing almost every hookup. Trout were plentiful from 1-4’ depths on artificial. Rapala sub walks, topwater spooks, and popping-cork with DOA Shrimp all worked well. The largest was 23”!  Catch and release.


Three people enjoying a fishing cruises, fishing, hunting, tours adventure in Chesapeake

Two people exploring the Florida outdoors

A lone fisherman enjoying a day on the waters of Chesapeake

1 snook fish caught during cruises, fishing, hunting, or tours in Chesapeake

A large snook fish caught in FL by 3 people while fishing

Fishing at FL location, cruises, fishing, hunting, tours

Snook fish caught in FL on cruises, fishing, hunting, tours

A lone angler fishing in the Chesapeake area.

Crevalle Jack fish caught in FL on cruises, fishing, hunting, tours

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With Salty Pirate Fishing Charters, you can enjoy inshore and backcountry fishing in the world-famous Pine Island Sound as well as Matlacha's inland waters!

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Salty Pirate Fishing Charters The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from Cape Coral

Captain Keith Zumar is a proud native of Southwest Florida with deep roots in the local fishing community. Growing up near Matlacha and Pine Island Sound, he spent his early years learning the water’s rhythms and building the skills that would later define his charter career. As a teenager, he and his friends spent countless hours fishing from a 12-foot Jon boat, targeting snook and redfish while exploring the region’s creeks, canals, and bridges. These early experiences shaped his passion for the outdoors and gave him a strong foundation in saltwater fishing. After graduating from Cape Coral High School in 2001, Keith began a distinguished 20-year career in the U.S. Navy. His service included roles as a Rescue Swimmer, Riverine Patrol Officer, and Surface Warfare Officer. One of his most notable assignments was serving as Weapons and Combat Systems Officer aboard the USS VELLA GULF, where he completed four overseas deployments. Throughout his military career, Keith received multiple commendations, including three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, and was named Atlantic Fleet Department Head of the Year in 2017. In 2021, following his retirement from active duty, Keith returned home to Cape Coral to pursue his long-time goal of guiding others on the waters he knows so well. He earned his captain’s license and founded Salty Pirate Fishing Charters—a business rooted in leadership, experience, and a lifelong love of fishing. Today, Captain Keith leads guests through the backwaters, flats, and mangrove channels of Pine Island and surrounding areas, offering tailored trips for all skill levels. Whether helping a child land their first redfish or guiding a seasoned angler to tarpon in the sound, he takes pride in delivering a professional and enjoyable experience on every charter. Salty Pirate Fishing Charters operates from an 18-foot Pro-Line flats boat powered by a 150 HP Mercury engine. The vessel is ideal for shallow water fishing, with a smooth ride and open layout that accommodates up to four guests comfortably. Outfitted with quality tackle, a Livewell for bait, and a cooler for drinks, the boat is perfectly suited for inshore adventures across Pine Island Sound, Charlotte Harbor, and nearby fishing grounds. Captain Keith’s boat is maintained to the highest safety standards, ensuring a reliable and comfortable trip every time.

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Meet Captain Keith Zumar, An Inshore Fishing Enthusiast

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Common Questions: What types of fishing trips does Captain Keith Zumar offer with Salty Pirate Fishing Charters?Captain Keith Zumar offers a range of fishing adventures with Salty Pirate Fishing Charters, including inshore, nearshore, and backcountry trips. Whether you want to fish the mangroves and grass flats of Pine Island Sound for Snook and Redfish or head into the calm backwaters of Matlacha for Tarpon and Trout, Captain Keith designs each outing around your goals. Trips are ideal for anglers of all levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. What fish species can I expect to catch on a charter with Salty Pirate Fishing Charters?Expect to target a wide variety of species including Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Trout, Snapper, Grouper, and Flounder. Fishing Pine Island Sound and the Matlacha backcountry offers great opportunities for light tackle action and live bait fishing. The fish you’ll catch can vary depending on the season, tides, and water conditions. What should I bring with me on a fishing charter with Captain Keith Zumar?You’ll want to bring snacks, drinks, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. All fishing licenses, rods, reels, tackle, and bait are included in your charter. Feel free to bring a cooler for your catch and a camera to capture the moment. How long are the fishing trips offered by Salty Pirate Fishing Charters?Trip lengths vary depending on your schedule and preference. Half-day trips (4 hours) and full-day trips (8 hours) are available. Captain Keith will make sure your trip is timed right for the best bite in Pine Island waters. Are the fishing charters with Captain Keith Zumar suitable for beginners?Yes! Captain Keith enjoys working with beginners and provides all the instruction you need to feel confident and enjoy your day on the water. He’s patient, friendly, and happy to help you learn the ropes. Do I need to have prior fishing experience to book a charter with Salty Pirate Fishing Charters?No experience is necessary. Whether it’s your first time with a rod or you’ve fished all over the country, you’ll be in good hands. Captain Keith will walk you through every step and adjust the trip based on your comfort level. What kind of boat will we be using for our fishing charter with Captain Keith Zumar?You’ll fish aboard an 18-foot Pro-Line flats boat powered by a 150 HP Mercury engine. It’s a smooth, stable ride that’s perfect for navigating the shallow flats and narrow channels around Pine Island. The boat holds up to four guests and is fully equipped with quality tackle, a Livewell, and a cooler for your drinks. What is included in the cost of a fishing charter with Salty Pirate Fishing Charters?The charter includes all gear, bait, fishing licenses, and fish cleaning at the end of your trip. Just bring your personal items like food, drinks, and sun protection, and everything else is taken care of. Can I keep the fish I catch on a charter with Salty Pirate Fishing Charters?Yes, you’re welcome to keep your legal catch. Captain Keith will clean and fillet it for you. If you’d rather release your fish, that’s fine too—he fully supports responsible catch-and-release practices. Do you need a license to fish in Pine Island waters?Yes, a fishing license is required, but you don’t need to worry about that—Captain Keith provides coverage for all anglers on board. Just show up and fish stress-free.