Fly Fishing & Artificial Lure Adventures in Chokoloskee, Everglades City, Ten Thousand Islands & Big Cypress
Discover world-class fly fishing and artificial lure fishing in the heart of Southwest Florida’s wild backcountry — Chokoloskee, Everglades City, the Ten Thousand Islands, and Big Cypress National Preserve. This pristine maze of mangroves, oyster bars, and shallow flats is home to legendary game fish like snook, redfish, tarpon, sea trout, and black drum.
Whether you’re casting a handcrafted fly into quiet backwaters or working a topwater plug along the mangrove edges, the Everglades saltwater ecosystem offers unmatched action and solitude. Expert local guides can lead you through secret creeks and hidden bays where big fish hunt the tides.
Perfect for seasoned anglers and adventurous newcomers alike, a day on the water here blends technical fishing, scenic beauty, and abundant wildlife — from roseate spoonbills to dolphins and alligators.
Plan your Everglades fly fishing trip today and experience the raw beauty of Florida’s last true wilderness — just minutes from the Gulf of Mexico and the historic fishing villages of Chokoloskee and Everglades City.
IF YOURE LOOKING FOR A CHANGE OF PACE AND SCENERY THE EVERGLADES MIGHT JUST BE WHAT YOURE LOOKING FOR.
EVERGLADES CITY, TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS, CHOKOLUSKEE
Explore the Wild Heart of Florida: Parks & Preserves Around Everglades City
When you’re not casting a fly or working an artificial lure, the Everglades City area offers an incredible world of natural wonders to explore. Surrounded by some of the most iconic parks and preserves in Florida, this region is a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.
Everglades National Park
Just minutes from downtown Everglades City, this world-famous park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. Covering over 1.5 million acres, Everglades National Park protects a vast expanse of mangroves, sawgrass prairies, and coastal estuaries. Visitors can spot American alligators, manatees, bottlenose dolphins, and even the elusive Florida panther. Birdwatchers will find over 300 species here, including roseate spoonbills, ospreys, and wood storks. Explore by airboat, kayak, or hiking trails like the Gulf Coast Visitor Center boardwalk right in Everglades City.
Big Cypress National Preserve
Bordering the Everglades to the north, Big Cypress National Preserve protects over 700,000 acres of cypress swamps and pinelands. It’s a sanctuary for endangered species such as the Florida panther, red-cockaded woodpecker, and ghost orchid. Visitors can take scenic drives like the Loop Road, go birding, or paddle through the serene Turner River. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves Florida’s wild beauty and diverse ecosystems.
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park
Known as the “Amazon of North America,” Fakahatchee Strand is Florida’s largest state park and home to rare orchids, bromeliads, and the ghost orchid made famous by the book The Orchid Thief. The park’s Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk is an easy way to experience its beauty — keep an eye out for alligators, otters, and nesting eagles.
Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge
Stretching south from Everglades City and Chokoloskee, this maze of mangrove islands offers pristine habitats for sea turtles, wading birds, and sportfish like snook, redfish, and tarpon. Visitors can explore by kayak or boat, fish the flats, or simply enjoy the stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
More Things to Do Around Everglades City
Kayak & Eco Tours: Paddle through winding mangrove tunnels and calm estuaries teeming with life.
Birdwatching & Photography: From rookeries to tidal creeks, this region is a dream for wildlife photographers.
Local History & Culture: Visit the Museum of the Everglades for a glimpse into pioneer life, early fishing history, and the creation of the park.
Seafood Dining: After your adventure, enjoy fresh Gulf shrimp, stone crab, and locally caught fish at one of Everglades City’s waterfront restaurants.
Whether you’re here for the fishing, wildlife, or wilderness, the parks and preserves surrounding Everglades Cityoffer an unforgettable experience — one that captures the true spirit of wild Florida.
due to the size of the area these are full day trips with multiple days recommended, I give a pricing break on consecutive multi day bookings.
lots of lodging in town although during season (October-may) you will want to reserve well in advance.