Capt. Paul Hobby Fishing Charters FAQs

• How many anglers can you carry?

  I can accommodate 1 to 3 anglers, but 1 to 2 anglers is ideal for a better fishing experience.

• Food and drinks?

  I’ll have a cooler, bottled water, and ice for you. You can also bring whatever else you want to drink and any food/snacks you may want. Bananas are welcome on the boat, but get an extra one for the captain. 

• What should I bring on my fishing charter?

  Here is a list of what is always good to have along on a Florida fishing trip: 

  • Sunblock (preferably not the spray type), hat, polarized sunglasses 
  • Beverages other than bottled water, which I provide 
  • Long sleeve fishing shirt 
  • A great attitude, even if you’re not a Packer fan 
  • Feel free to bring your own fishing tackle if you prefer. 

• What time of year is best for fly fishing around Fort Myers and Sanibel Island?

  Fort Myers and Sanibel offer excellent fly fishing year-round. The ideal season depends on the species you want to target:

  • Tarpon: April–July (peak migration) with resident fish year-round
  • Snook: March–November, especially strong in summer
  • Redfish: Great year-round with prime sight-fishing in fall
  • Sea Trout: Consistent during winter and spring

  I help you choose the best date based on tides, moon phase, and current conditions.

• Do I need a fishing license for your charter?

  No. All fishing licenses are included with your trip, so you do not need to purchase anything.

• What types of trips do you offer?

  I specialize in shallow-water backcountry fly fishing aboard a Maverick HPX poling skiff. Trips include:

  • Sight-fishing for snook, redfish, tarpon, and sea trout
  • Beach and mangrove fly-fishing
  • Beginner-friendly instructional trips
  • Seasonal tarpon migrations

  Spin fishing is also available upon request.

• What experience level do I need?

  All experience levels are welcome. I regularly guide beginners, intermediate anglers looking to improve, and experienced fly anglers targeting specific species.

• What gear is included?

  Everything is provided, including:

  Fly rods, reels, leaders, tippets, hand-tied flies, and high-quality spin gear.

  A cooler with ice and water is also included.

  You can bring your own gear if you prefer.

• What should I bring on the boat?

  Recommended items include polarized sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, light performance clothing, snacks, and a phone or camera for pictures. I supply everything needed for fishing.

• How do you choose the fishing spots each day?

  I plan each trip based on tides, wind, sunlight, water temperature, and seasonal fish movements. With more than 35 years of local experience, I select the best flats, mangrove edges, oyster bars, and creeks for the conditions that day.

• Can you help me improve my fly casting?

  Yes. Casting instruction is automatically included on every trip. We can work on shooting line, accuracy, casting into the wind, quick presentations, and proper strip strikes.

• What is your cancellation or weather policy?

  If unsafe weather prevents the trip, it can be rescheduled without penalty. If you need to cancel your booking, please provide as much notice as possible and I’ll work with you to find another date.

• Is there good fishing on Sanibel Island and in Fort Myers?

  The area is known for excellent shallow-water fly fishing, including:

  Snook along the beaches, tarpon migrations, redfish on the flats, and sea trout on grass beds.

  Some of the best backcountry fishing in Southwest Florida is right here.

• Is it legal to take seashells from Sanibel Island?

  You may collect empty shells, but taking live shells is illegal. Regulations can change, so it’s best to check the latest Sanibel Island guidelines before collecting.

• How many people can your boat hold?

  My Maverick HPX skiff is ideal for one or two anglers. This keeps the boat quiet and balanced for accurate sight fishing.

• How do I book a charter?

  You can call or text me directly, or book through my website. Tarpon season, weekends, and holidays fill quickly, so it’s best to reserve early.