The tarpon (aka the "Silver King") is found throughout Florida, from juveniles found back amongst the protected waters of the mangrove islands, and out to the open channels and near shore waters. The tarpon is best known for their hard strikes and high flying aerial acrobatics. Whether you're casting top water plugs,fly's or live bait fishing be ready for a drag screaming fight. Don't forget to bow to the KING !!!!!!!!!!!! When fishing the back country you will find tarpon in the 10 to 30 pound range up to 75 pounds. The larger tarpon weigh in at 100 to 150 pounds while monster tarpon can exceed 200 with the possibility of reaching 250 pounds.

Another of the most sought after game fish in Florida is the red drum or redfish and found throughout Florida and much of the gulf coast. Redfish as a rule are usually found "tailing" in the vast shallow grass flats that abound from Naples to the 10,000 Islands. This tailing action is a great time to lay the fly gently down in front of the redfish. They can also be found around the edges of oyster bars. In very shallow water, redfish will tip down to feed and expose their tail above the surface. Shrimp and crab, seaducers, minnows and other crustacean flies are the top producers for redfish. Best known for their drag screaming runs, hard fighting, redfish rank near the top of all targeted species in Southwest Florida. Most common from 1-12 pounds in southwest Florida. Large "bull" redfish are 30 pounds with the possibility of up to 50 pounds.

One of the most common and a mainstay for year round fishing in Naples, Estero Bay, Marco Island and the 10,000 Islands is the spotted sea trout or sea trout. Sea trout are found practically in all Florida waters, but are most commonly caught along grassy, shallow flats or inland waters. Trout move into slow-moving or still, shallow water in cold weather. Sea trout ar not as strong as a redfish or snook, but a strong striker. Use light gear and the better the fight. May jump and put on a good show, but no long runs. When caught with snook, redfish and tarpon, you have your "Inshore Slam" a real accomplishment when flyfishing.
Depending on the time of year, southwest Florida also offers several varieties of sharks, pompano, permit, numerous species of snapper and grouper and of course tripletail. Illustrations by Duane Raver, subject to copyright laws

The Naples, Marco Island area is an out-doorman's paradise. It stands as the gateway to Florida's 10,000 Islands, which is part of Everglades National Park. It's the second largest national preserve in the country. Among these mangrove islands are many different species of birds, wildlife, and isolated beaches to discover.

If you get tired of fishing or want to stretch your legs, these beaches hold vast shell deposits undisturbed by man. The 10,000 Islands offer solitude and the rare chance to walk the islands without crowded beaches and the pressure of civilization.

See dolphins and manatees up close in their natural environment. Birds such as the osprey, white and brown pelicans, great blue heron, roseate spoonbill, snowy egret, and the white ibis just to name a few. Once you have been here, you will never forget the subtle, endless beauty of this unique subtropical wilderness.