For those who are still on the fence about making the move to Naples, the medical and health care system may be a priority.
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Fishing is a popular pastime throughout Southwest Florida, and there is no shortage of piers, coastal spots and sandy beaches where anglers can toss in a line.
With plenty of sunshine, warm temperatures and access to the beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, it’s not hard to find a great way to pass the time on a summer’s day in Southwest Florida.
For some residents in areas like Naples, Bonita Springs and Fort Myers, nothing can compare to a morning or afternoon spent fishing on one of the area’s piers.
Five piers in particular, however, are gaining popularity as the best piers for fishing this summer in Southwest Florida.
Number one on the list of the best fishing piers in Southwest Florida is Naples Pier. Arguably the best known and most appreciated in the area, the Naples Pier is more than just a place to cast for fish.
The pier was built in the 19th century, and it extends more than 1,000 feet into the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Originally used as a dock for passengers arriving in Naples or bringing shipments in to shore, the pier is now a favorite spot for locals and visitors.
Travelers from around the world mingle with teens, families and retirees who come to soak up the sun and try their luck with rod and reel.
The city has even purchased a mass fishing license for the pier, which encourages visitors to come and fish for free without needing to pay for an individual license.
Naples Pier may be a top pick, but that’s not the only option for a summertime adventure in Southwest Florida. Lynn Hall Memorial Park Pier, close to Fort Myers, is a 600-foot pier that boasts a bait and gift shop.
The shop is the place where visitors can get advice and ask questions about the best techniques, purchase bait or just admire the wall of photographs from recent catches ranging from sharks to redfish.
Gilchrist Park Pier, which extends into the Charlotte Harbor, offers fantastic fishing, a peaceful atmosphere and attractions like the Ponce de Leon statue.
On the same harbor is the busier Bayshore Fishing Pier, a spot where crabs can be caught in homemade traps and lights illuminate the water for night fishing.
Finally, the El Jobean Pier is another historic favorite for anglers. The bait shop was once the 1922 Post Office and General Store.
It’s possible to catch a fish and then have the chef at the adjoining restaurant clean it and cook it up on the spot for a meal. In Naples, there is simply too much beauty and activity to justify staying indoors for long.
