Welcome to The Bait Box

Your Sanibel & Captiva Fishing Headquarters

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Sanibel Island – The Shelling Capital of the World

Sanibel is world-famous for its pristine beaches and unique east-west orientation that brings thousands of shells to its shores. From Lighthouse Beach to Gulfside City Park, you’ll enjoy the island’s peaceful charm and abundant shelling opportunities.

At The Bait Box, you’ll find shell scoops, tide charts, buckets, sun protection, and beach gear to make your shelling experience even better. If you’re here to fish, we stock the freshest live bait (shrimp, pinfish, fiddler crabs) and a wide range of frozen bait (mullet, squid, sardines, ladyfish, threadfins, stingray, and more), all locally sourced and replenished daily.

We also offer rods, reels, cast nets, tackle, life vests, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and ice. Our vending machine is open 24/7 with select bait and essentials.

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Captiva Island – A Paradise for Fishing & Adventure

Just north of Sanibel, Captiva is known for its beautiful back bays, wildlife sightings, and jaw-dropping sunsets. Whether you’re paddling through mangroves, casting from shore, or heading out with one of our expert guides, Captiva is a must-fish destination.

Before your trip, gear up with sun-protective clothing, performance eyewear, and top-quality tackle. Our fishing charters range from family-friendly shelling trips to serious flats and tarpon excursions, fully equipped with rod, reel, bait, and ice. Book early by calling 239-472-1618 (reservations by phone only).

Local Fishing Hotspots

Some of the best fishing on the Gulf Coast is right here. Visit these hotspots with gear from The Bait Box:

  • Blind Pass – Excellent for redfish, snook, and snapper. Best with pinfish, shrimp, or ladyfish.

  • J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge – Calm waters with trout, snook, and snapper. Try freelined shrimp under a popping cork.

  • Sanibel Causeway Beaches – Great for beginner anglers and family outings.

  • Sanibel Lighthouse Beach & Pier – Hotspot for snook, trout, pompano, and shark.

  • Knapp’s Point, West Gulf Drive Beaches, and Pine Island Sound – Active with tarpon, trout, sheepshead, and mackerel.

Check our in-store fishing reports, tide charts, and weather updates to help plan your trip like a local.

Charter Services – Reserve by Phone Only: 239-472-1618

Our captains offer private, guided trips tailored to your needs. We recommend booking early!

Available Charters:

  • Shelling & Sightseeing (4 hrs): $450

  • Flats Back Bay Fishing (4–8 hrs): $450–$800

  • Inshore Fishing (6–10 hrs): $775–$1,250

  • Tarpon Fishing (6–8 hrs): $700–$1,000

Maximum of 4 anglers (6 for sightseeing trips). Everything is included: rod, reel, bait, tackle, and ice.

Visit The Bait Box Today

We offer full-service convenience for anglers, families, and shellers:

  • Live & Frozen Bait (daily replenished)

  • Fishing Gear (rods, reels, tackle, nets, lures)

  • Shelling Supplies (scoops, buckets, tide charts)

  • UV Clothing, Hats, Sunglasses, Sunscreen

  • Fishing Licenses & Rod Repairs

  • Tackle Rentals

  • 24/7 Vending Machine for Essentials

  • Ice, Snacks & Drinks

📍 1041 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
📞 (239) 472-1618
📧 fishpics@thebaitbox.com

Open Daily: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

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