Rental companies offering sailboats, jetskis and wave runners are abundant in the bay area and Fort Myers Beach. Walk along the city's marinas, and you'll also find fishing charter boats by the dozens, all ready to take avid anglers to prime offshore and back-country fishing spots. Island-hopping tours of Captiva and Sanibel are popular with avid anglers seeking to land cobia and red snapper. Despite the massive development along its banks, the Caloosahatchee River is still a storied tarpon fishery, with monster catches weighing over 100 pounds regularly finding their way onto Fort Myers' charter boats. Nearby, the spring-fed, tidal Estero River is a popular spot for fish that like brackish water, including snook, mullet, and redfish. Paddling further inland promises catches of freshwater bass and trout.

360 Yachting
12464 Kelly Sands Way, Fort Myers
(866) 561-2175
www.360yachting.com

With more than 20 years of experience, Captain Jay Phillips and his crew specialize in boating holidays, day sails and fishing trips in many Southwest Florida locations. Cast a line on the offshore fishing trip, or sail up the coast. Sailing package options include romantic sunset excursions, customized day sails, even stops at local favorite cuisine locations.

Captain Ron Kowalyk Charters
19049 Murcott Drive West, Fort Myers
(877) 267-9312
www.fishswfla.com

Local fishing guru and artist Cap'n Ron takes serious anglers on extreme back-bay trips and sight-fishing on the very shallow flats of the bay. Anglers can also enjoy near-shore and back-bay fishing charters, including redfish, snook, trout, tarpon and light tackle or fly. Tackle (fly-spin), bait and license are supplied.

Estero River and Canoe Outfitters
20991 South Tamiami Trail, Estero
(239) 992-4050
www.esteroriveroutfitters.com

The spring-fed, dial Estero River twists and meanders through subtropical hammocks, mangrove coves and islands. Canoe and kayak excursions on the waterway promise sightings of osprey, great blue herons, curlews, hawks, spoonbills, eagles, manatees, otters, and other critters in the wild.