January 2026 Punta Gorda and Boca Grande Fishing Report

Charlotte Harbor Inshore Report | ReelFishing Charters

If you’re looking for the most current Punta Gorda fishing charters report or Boca Grande fishing report, inshore fishing around Charlotte Harbor, Gasparilla Sound, and Pine Island Sound has been excellent for January. Anglers fishing with Boca Grande fishing charters at ReelFishing Charters are seeing great numbers of redfish, steady trout action, strong pompano bites, and even some surprise tarpon still hanging around.

Redfish Fishing Report – Gasparilla & Pine Island Sound

Redfish action has been very good throughout Gasparilla Sound, Pine Island Sound, and along the east side of Charlotte Harbor. Schools of redfish are spread across shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and oyster edges.

Most of the fish have been “rat reds,” but there are plenty of quality fish mixed in:

• High numbers of smaller redfish

• Consistent fish in the 22” to 26” range

Best redfish baits:

• Live shrimp has been the most consistent producer

• Artificial lures like the Berkley Gulp Dragon Tail in New Penny color have been absolutely whacking redfish when worked slowly along the bottom

This pattern has been perfect for anglers looking for steady action with chances at slot-size fish.

Spotted Seatrout Fishing Report – Charlotte Harbor

Trout fishing remains steady across the deeper grass flats of Charlotte Harbor. There have been a lot of smaller trout in the mix lately, so expect to catch numbers of fish before finding keeper-size trout.

Top trout techniques:

• Live shrimp under a popping cork

• Berkley Gulp Dragon Tail in Big Money color worked over deeper grass

Moving water and healthy grass flats have been key to consistent trout bites.

Snook Fishing Report – Punta Gorda & Boca Grande

Snook fishing has been surprisingly good for January. There has been a good amount of whitebait around, which is unusual this time of year and has helped keep fish active.

Snook are holding in:

• Deeper pockets in Bulls Bay and Turtle Bay

• Residential canals in Punta Gorda

Fishing deeper, warmer water with shrimp or whitebait has been producing solid results.

Sheepshead Fishing Report – Gasparilla Island

Sheepshead fishing has been very good on cooler days, especially around the docks and structure on Gasparilla Island. The bite has slowed during warm, calm conditions, but anglers staying patient are still catching fish.

Best sheepshead setup:

• Live shrimp on a jighead

Tip: Let the sheepshead nibble until the rod loads up before setting the hook. They’re crafty bait stealers, and patience makes a big difference.

Pompano Fishing Report – Pine Island Sound

Pompano fishing has been excellent in Pine Island Sound over the past week. Several trips have produced double-digit pompano days, which is outstanding for this time of year.

Best pompano baits:

• Live shrimp on a jighead

• Silly Willy jigs in chartreuse, which have been working especially well

This bite has been fast-paced and a great option for anglers looking to fill the cooler.

Tarpon Sightings – Charlotte Harbor

For anglers planning a spring or summer trip, our Boca Grande tarpon fishing charters page covers peak seasons, Hill Tides, and trip options in detail.

Now for the crazy part—there are still tarpon around. While we haven’t specifically targeted them lately, there have been plenty of fish seen rolling and moving through the harbor. It’s unusual to see this many tarpon around in January, but they’re definitely there for the right anglers and conditions—especially for those interested in Boca Grande tarpon fishing.

Fish with ReelFishing Charters

At ReelFishing Charters, we offer guided inshore fishing charters out of Punta Gorda and Boca Grande, Florida, targeting redfish, snook, trout, pompano, sheepshead, and even the occasional winter tarpon throughout Charlotte Harbor.

✔ Local Charlotte Harbor expertise
✔ Family-friendly fishing trips
✔ Top-quality rods, reels, and tackle
✔ Half-day and full-day charters available

Book a Punta Gorda or Boca Grande Fishing Charter

Winter fishing in Charlotte Harbor can be outstanding with the right local knowledge. If you’re looking for the most accurate Charlotte Harbor fishing report or want to book a trip, contact ReelFishing Charters today and get on the water.

📍 Locations:
Punta Gorda, FL
Boca Grande, FL