Estero Bay
Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve stretches between Ft. Myers and Naples in Southwest Florida. This shallow bay lies bordered by the mainland on the east and a series of barrier islands on the west. Designated an aquatic preserve in 1966, it holds the distinction of being one of Florida’s oldest preserves.
Marked by a series of channel markers, the deeper waters of Estero Bay are suitable for boating, though much of the bay remains shallow. The eastern side is mostly undeveloped, aside from a row of condos overlooking the water. On the western side, you’ll find a combination of mangrove shoreline and waterfront homes.
Two major passes, New Pass and Big Carlos Pass, open to the Gulf on the west. Although Big Hickory Pass also connects to the southern end of the bay, its shallow depth discourages many boaters. At high tide, or with a shallow-draft boat and local knowledge, navigation through Big Hickory is possible.
Recent hurricanes have taken a toll on the bay and its surroundings. Debris litters both the water and nearby mangroves, while many channel markers were damaged or destroyed. Around half of these markers are now just posts, missing signs that would indicate red or green navigation.
Much of Estero Island and Lover’s Key remains under construction after enduring the brunt of these storms.
Fishing on Estero Bay
Estero Bay offers excellent fishing opportunities for some of Florida’s most popular game fish. In the summer, snook gather in the passes to breed. Trout spread out across the grass flats during the warmer months and retreat to deep holes in the winter. Tarpon frequent the passes and beaches in the spring and summer, while redfish patrol the mangrove edges and flats.
To navigate the bay and pursue these fish, a shallow-draft boat like the Atlas Boatworks 23F is essential. With many channel markers still missing, local knowledge or an adventurous spirit is crucial for discovering the safe routes and avoiding the shallows.
How to Access
Lover’s Key State Park has a boat ramp available for use. While launching is free, parking has become extremely limited due to the impact of recent hurricanes. Previously, a large overflow parking area existed, but as of October 2024, it’s being used to store excess beach sand that washed over the roads during the storms.
The dock, however, is brand new and in excellent condition.
Conclusion
Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve is one of my favorite places in the world. I have watched it change through the years, but it is still on the top of my list of places I like to spend time at. It is a boating and fishing paradise.