Pine Island Sound Area for Staying Overnight on the Hook

[videorov]

Im thinking about buying a Gemini Cat to cruise the coast and inlets.
I have fished in this area and know its shallow but there are some
nice inlets deep enought for a Gemini to seek into.
It has some nice quiet areas to hang out. Wonder if they
bother you alot there on the hook?

[markpj23]

Lots of protected anchorages in the sound... Ding Darling, CayaCosta you name it. Best guide IMO is the Salty Southeast Cruisers Net.

We've never been bothered but others have - infrequently I believe.

[White Feather]

Never had a problem on the Caloosahatchee other than getting warned to slow down. That was my fault. Other than that, nothing. I see some ten boats anchored out within sight of here and have never seen anyone boarded or even approached. We have watercops riding by all the time. In the Keys I was only approached 1 time in 9 years and the police were nice and very polite. There is no time limit for sitting in almost any anchorage in Florid any more. Just don't anchor to close to a mooring field.

[videorov]

That sounds encouraging. Im glad to hear not much problems with that. Yes its a
nice area and lots of protection if needed. Its a nice place to catch some trout and many other types of fish too.

[White Feather]

You best check the local rules on that. We had a very cold winter and there was a serious fish kill down here. The state has implimented a ban and moritorium on several fish species. What was legal yesterday may get you a trip to meet with the county judge now. Be careful and know your species and legal limits. Just a CYA situation here.

[videorov]

I know all about the fishing stuff. It changes with the weather.

[SearenitySail]

videorov,

I am pretty sure you can charter a Gemini catamaran out of Fort Myers (swfyachts.com -- I think) if you want to try it out before actually making the move and buying a boat. I once considered chartering in the area, as my mother lives in Cape Coral.

I am sure the charter company would be able to recommend good anchorages in the area and fill you in on local regulations.

The Gemini should be plenty of boat if you eventually want to expand your cruising beyond Pine Island Sound.

Marshall