by Lisa Ballard

Before you plan your fishing trip, there are a few things to keep in mind. Also, enjoy this gallery of Inn-to-Inn Fishing around Pine Island, Florida.

Know Before You Go:

• Wear sturdy water shoes, not flip flops, when paddling. The ocean bottom is sharp with shells and other detritus.

• Bring food and water. There is no place to come ashore for refreshments between inns.

• Preload your GPS with maps and bring a waterproof nautical chart. The route is only loosely marked and it’s easy to get disoriented among the mangroves.

• Put a tidal app on your phone so you can time your fishing with the tides.

• Cover up. The sun is strong, and you’ll be on the water at least 8 hours each day.

• Go early. The best fishing and the calmest part of the day is at sunrise, and it’s gorgeous!