Snook are a mainstay of the Pine Island Sound fishery. It’s catch-and-release for the species here after season closes December 1. (Photo courtesy of Kevin Paulson)
Fishing Pine Island Sound, just off North Captiva Island, had yet to bring tarpon to any of the boats nearby. A big storm had rolled through, likely pushing the silver kings offshore for a couple of days. I took a bite of my sandwich and scanned the water as Capt. Josh Santangelo of Screaming Reels Charters readied the boat to try our luck in the mangroves in search of snook, part of the inshore Pine Island Sound Grand Slam that includes redfish and seatrout.
Out of the blue, the line started zinging, and we knew immediately this was a giant fish. I worked to the boat what we initially thought was a tarpon, but as the big fish twisted out of the water and shot into the air, it revealed itself as a large spinner shark. I fought the fish for some time before the leader parted, a testament to the species variety in the Pine Island Sound area.
We toasted our day with the Tarpon Lodge’s signature, Baby Bison Old-Fashioneds. Sun-weary anglers traded fishing stories in the bar before an exceptional meal in the graceful dining room. Tarpon Lodge has a rich history dating back to 1926 when it was established as a fishing lodge. Changing ownership and purpose through the years, Tarpon Lodge was purchased in 1999 by the Wells family, who restored its nostalgic charm and added a rich layer of hospitality.
Not only does Pineland, Florida, set the stage for incredible fishing, boat tours, and kayaking, but it is historically significant. The Calusa Heritage Trail and Randell Research Center, located directly across the street from Tarpon Lodge, is the site of the second-largest Calusa shell mound (more than 100 acres). The Calusa were the most powerful early inhabitants of South Florida, and their society was centered around fishing instead of agriculture. Legendary Fountain of Youth explorer Ponce de Leon reportedly met his demise from a poisoned arrow sent from angry Calusa Indians, possibly from this Pineland site or close by.
Pineland, located on the north end of Pine Island, is bordered by Bokeelia, Florida, and is accessible from Highway 78, west of Fort Myers. The nearest airport is Southwest Florida International (RSW).
As visitors travel the areas hard hit by Hurricanes Ian and Milton, damage is still visible, but ongoing rebuilding speaks to the tenacity of the hardy residents. Restaurants and shops are welcoming visitors again to their Florida paradise.
