Some fishing destinations announce themselves with giant marinas, waterfront restaurants, and crowds. Chokoloskee Island on Florida’s Gulf Coast takes the opposite approach.
Tucked along the edge of Everglades National Park, this small island community feels like a different version of Florida. The roads are quiet. The mangroves stretch for miles. Most visitors arrive with a fishing rod in hand and a plan to spend the day on the water.
That’s exactly why anglers keep coming back.
Located near Everglades City, Chokoloskee Island provides direct access to the Ten Thousand Islands, one of the most unique fishing destinations in the country. The area is known for its incredible wildlife, miles of protected waterways, and some of the best fishing in Florida.
Whether you’re planning your first fishing trip or returning for another season, it’s easy to see why anglers keep making the trip to Chokoloskee, Florida.
A Different Side of Florida Gulf Coast Fishing
Florida’s Gulf Coast is full of popular boating and fishing destinations. Marco Island draws visitors looking for beaches and waterfront dining. Tampa Bay is known for its sport fishing and boating culture.
The island sits at the edge of the Everglades. Water surrounds nearly everything. Thousands of mangrove islands create a landscape that still feels wild.
Visitors quickly discover that the fishing experience is about more than what they can catch.
The boat ride itself becomes part of the adventure. Dolphins appear alongside boats. Wading birds line the shorelines. Manatees occasionally surface in the backwaters.
For many visitors, the scenery becomes just as memorable as the fishing.
The island also has a fascinating history. Long before modern roads connected the area, residents relied on boats and ferries to travel between Chokoloskee and Everglades City. Today, that sense of isolation remains part of the island’s appeal.
Fishing the Ten Thousand Islands
The fishing is what brings most people here.
The Ten Thousand Islands contain thousands of mangrove islands, shallow flats, oyster bars, creeks, and protected backwaters. Together, they create ideal conditions for a wide variety of fish species including:
- snook
- redfish
- black drum
- sea trout
- mangrove snapper
- tarpon
The type of fish you catch often depends on the season, tides, and water conditions.
The variety is one reason many anglers consider the area home to some of the best fishing in Florida.
According to Chris Scalzo, property manager at Chokoloskee RV Park, no two trips are exactly alike.
Every week there is a different fisherman here. And they are always impressed because it’s some of the best catches they’ve ever had.
Chokoloskee RV Park Manager Chris Scalzo
Some visitors hire a local fishing guide for their first trip. Others launch their own boat and spend the day exploring. There is no shortage of fishing spots throughout the region.
Experienced anglers often learn that timing can be just as important as location.
“Experienced anglers, mostly the guides and the old timers, know to target these areas in the spring and fall,” added Scalzo. “It makes a big difference.”
That raises an important question. When is the best time to fish around Chokoloskee?
When Is the Best Time to Fish at Chokoloskee?
Fishing conditions change throughout the year.
Tides change. Rainfall affects water levels. Seasonal weather patterns influence where fish are found and how active they are.
Many anglers have a favorite season. Chris does too.
“My personal favorite would be starting in September to about Thanksgiving because a lot of bait comes through, a lot of mullet.”
Fall is a favorite for many anglers because baitfish move through the area in large numbers.
Then comes spring, which is when Chris recommends fishing for the tarpon.
“After Christmas until around April, you got your sheep’s head, trout, mackerel, and blue fish. Later in the spring around March, April, and May, you get the tarpon run through here.”
More Than Rod and Reel Fishing
The fishing opportunities around Chokoloskee extend beyond a traditional rod and reel setup.
Some anglers spend their days casting artificial lures along mangrove shorelines. Others prefer fly fishing across the shallow flats.
“It’s a good place for fly fishing,” said Chris.
The variety keeps things interesting. Conditions change throughout the day as tides move through the backcountry waters.
Saltwater fishing is the primary attraction. Visitors can also find freshwater fishing opportunities throughout other parts of the Everglades region.
Planning Your Chokoloskee Island Fishing Trip
Before heading out, most visitors will need a Florida fishing license.
Requirements vary depending on residency status and how you plan to fish. Guests booking a charter should confirm whether licensing is included with their trip.
One of the perks of staying at Chokoloskee RV Park is having the water right outside your door. Guests can fish from the beautifully renovated Chokoloskee docks, launch a boat, or spend the day exploring the waterways of the Ten Thousand Islands.
Forgot something at home? No problem.
Chokoloskee RV Park has an on-site marina store stocked with live and frozen bait, tackle, rods, reels, and other essentials for your tackle box.
Those planning a future trip may also want to follow updates for the annual Chokoloskee Fishing Tournament. The event continues to attract anglers from across Florida and beyond.
Tap the photos above to expand the Chokoloskee RV Park photo gallery.
Exploring Things to Do Near Everglades City
Fishing may be the reason many visitors arrive, but it is rarely the only thing they remember.
Everglades City offers seafood restaurants, local history, and access to some of the most unique natural landscapes in the country.
Some visitors book an airboat tour. Others spend the afternoon exploring town or spotting wildlife along the water.
Many travelers extend their stay to experience more of the Everglades ecosystem.
Great fishing is only part of the story. Explore our guide to planning a summer vacation in Everglades City for more ways to experience the area.
Stay Where the Chokoloskee Adventure Begins
The best fishing days start early.
Staying at Chokoloskee RV Park puts visitors close to the water, local guides, and the endless waterways of the Ten Thousand Islands.
Whether you’re hoping to land a memorable catch, explore Everglades National Park, or simply experience a quieter side of Florida, Chokoloskee offers something that is becoming harder to find.
Room to slow down. Room to explore.