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Caught a trophy redfish inshore in Chokoloskee
Redfish Fishing in Chokoloskee
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Redfish are one of the most sought-after inshore gamefish along the Gulf Coast. These hardy fish thrive in the shallow waters of the Everglades backcountry. - Can live over 50 years and reach weights exceeding 40 pounds. - Feed primarily on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish in shallow water.
Fishing Charter by Captain Ariel DJ Alejo in December
Meet your Captain Ariel DJ Alejo
- Everglades Fishing Expeditions: Amazing Adventures
Summary
Captain Ariel DJ Alejo of ARF Charters guides anglers through the pristine waters around Chokoloskee, targeting trophy redfish in the heart of the Everglades. These shallow flats and mangrove creeks offer some of Florida's most consistent inshore fishing, with redfish feeding actively year-round. The protected waters provide excellent sight fishing opportunities, especially during moving tides when reds cruise the grass flats hunting for crabs and baitfish. Local knowledge of seasonal patterns and tide movements makes the difference between a good day and an unforgettable charter experience in this legendary fishing destination.
Fishing Charter with Captain Ariel DJ Alejo – Rates & Booking
Captain Ariel DJ Alejo of ARF Charters brings years of local experience to every trip, focusing on the productive waters around Chokoloskee and the greater Everglades system. These half-day and full-day charters include all necessary tackle, bait, and fishing licenses, with trips typically starting at first light to take advantage of prime feeding times. The shallow draft boats are perfectly suited for navigating the intricate backcountry waters, allowing access to remote flats where trophy redfish feed undisturbed. Rates vary by season and group size, with advance booking recommended during peak winter months when northern anglers escape to Florida's warm waters.
Highlights of Everglades Redfish Fishing
The Everglades backcountry around Chokoloskee offers some of the most diverse inshore fishing in Florida, with redfish being the primary target species. These copper-colored gamefish thrive in the maze of mangrove creeks, oyster bars, and grass flats that define this unique ecosystem. The area's year-round warm temperatures keep fish active, though the cooler months from November through March typically produce the largest specimens as mature reds move into shallow water to feed.
What sets this fishery apart is the sight fishing opportunities – watching redfish cruise the flats with their backs out of water creates an exciting visual element that appeals to both novice and experienced anglers. The protected nature of Everglades National Park ensures healthy fish populations and pristine habitat that continues to produce quality catches season after season.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish in the Chokoloskee area typically range from slot-size fish around 18-27 inches up to oversized bulls exceeding 30 inches and 15 pounds. These fish are perfectly adapted to the shallow, warm waters of the Everglades, using their downturned mouths to root through grass beds and oyster bars for crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. The distinctive black spot near their tail serves as a false eye to confuse predators, while their copper-bronze coloration provides excellent camouflage against the tannin-stained waters of the backcountry. During winter months, larger redfish often school up in deeper channels and creek mouths, while summer finds them scattered across the expansive grass flats where they feed aggressively during moving tides.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
ARF Charters provides all necessary equipment including rods, reels, tackle, and bait, though anglers are welcome to bring their own gear if preferred. The boats are equipped with shallow water anchors and push poles for stealthy approaches in skinny water, plus comfortable seating and storage for personal items. Most trips accommodate 2-4 anglers comfortably, with early morning departures recommended to avoid afternoon wind and take advantage of prime feeding periods. All Florida fishing licenses are included in the charter rate, and the captain provides instruction on techniques specific to Everglades fishing, from sight casting to working structure along mangrove shorelines.
