Are dogs allowed off leash in the park?

No. Dogs must always be kept on a leash when visiting Everglades National Park and surrounding park lands. In most areas, dogs are not allowed on trails, boardwalks, or backcountry routes at all, even on a leash. Where pets are permitted (such as certain roadside or developed areas), they must be: On a leash no longer than 6 feet Under control at all times Kept out of wildlife areas and water These rules are in place to protect: Sensitive wildlife (including birds, reptiles, and mammals) Fragile ecosystems Your dog’s safety (alligators, snakes, and heat are real risks here) If you’re traveling with a dog, it’s best to check specific park rules before visiting or plan pet-friendly activities outside the national park boundaries.

Fishing

In the 10,000 Islands & Everglades National Park

Park Passes Required

If you’re planning to cast your line in our beautiful park, don’t forget your park pass! It’s a must-have for all anglers. You’ve got options – short-term or annual passes – so pick what suits you best!

And for our experienced anglers aged 62 or more, we’ve got something special – a lifetime pass! Just a one-time fee, and you’re good to go forever!

Fishing in a Nutshell

Regulations & Guides

Know the Rules

Now, before you head out for a day of fishing in the 10,000 Islands & Everglades National Park, it’s essential to be aware of the rules. Some of our target species have daily bag limits and size restrictions. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with the Saltwater Recreational Regulations Fishing Guides.

The most important thing is to know the rules, respect nature, and, of course, have a blast out there! Happy fishing!

National Park Pass Options

Get Your Park Pass

Tickets Online

Fishing License

Going Boating?

Knowing the waters and understanding the tides are essential components of a successful day out on the waves. Check out our boating page to learn more about the water of the Ten Thousand Islands.

Boating the Ten Thousand Islands

Rules & Seasons — Before You Cast

Saltwater Regulations

Freshwater Regulations

Everglades National Park Fishing Rules

Area Tide Data

Fishing Report

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Build Your Own Everglades Experience

Design your visit around what matters most to you — history, nature, dining, or relaxation. Mix, match, and map your perfect Everglades escape.

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Bait & Tackle

Fishing Report

Hilux Fire Update for Everglades Area Communities

Staff2026-04-13T08:22:01-04:00April 13, 2026|Tags: Big Cypress, Chokoloskee, Everglades City, Goodland, ochopee, Port of the Islands|

The Hilux Fire is burning in Big Cypress National Preserve north of I-75. Daily updates, closures, and road conditions for our area.

New Size and Bag Limits for Gulf Lane Snapper Take Effect April 1

Staff2026-04-03T08:33:56-04:00April 6, 2026|Tags: Big Cypress, Chokoloskee, Everglades City, Goodland, Port of the Islands, Ten Thousand Islands|

New FWC rules for Gulf lane snapper take effect April 1, raising the minimum size limit to 10 inches and setting a 20-fish bag limit.

New Marjory Stoneman Douglas Visitor Center

Staff2026-03-31T06:45:36-04:00April 5, 2026|Tags: Big Cypress, Everglades City, Ten Thousand Islands|

The new Marjory Stoneman Douglas Visitor Center is now open in Everglades City, with tours, rentals, and access to the Gulf Coast area.

Tamiami Trail Turns 98 with a Birthday Celebration in Everglades City

Staff2026-02-03T16:17:36-05:00April 2, 2026|

Come Celebrate the 98th anniversary of the Tamiami Trail with a free, family-friendly community event at the Museum of the Everglades featuring music, history, and laundry cart races.

Fishing Report Archive

No. Dogs must always be kept on a leash when visiting Everglades National Park and surrounding park lands.

In most areas, dogs are not allowed on trails, boardwalks, or backcountry routes at all, even on a leash. Where pets are permitted (such as certain roadside or developed areas), they must be:

On a leash no longer than 6 feet
Under control at all times
Kept out of wildlife areas and water

These rules are in place to protect:

Sensitive wildlife (including birds, reptiles, and mammals)
Fragile ecosystems
Your dog’s safety (alligators, snakes, and heat are real risks here)

If you’re traveling with a dog, it’s best to check specific park rules before visiting or plan pet-friendly activities outside the national park boundaries.

Yes. They’re close enough that many visitors do both in one day. It’s an easy way to experience two very different sides of the Ten Thousand Islands area.
Helpful pages: Goodland | Everglades City

No. Goodland is a working waterfront village, not a beach town. Visitors looking for sandy beaches usually head to Marco Island or other nearby areas.

Helpful page: Goodland

Can I fly my drone in Everglades National Park?

No, drones and other unmanned aircraft are not allowed in the park, or any other National Park Service site. This includes model airplanes, quadcopters, etc. (nps.gov)

Keywadin Island is only accessible by boat. People reach it from several nearby launches, including Marco Island, Everglades City, and Port of the Islands, depending on where they’re coming from and the conditions. While the island is undeveloped, there are trash cans placed in popular areas, and on busy days boat-based vendors often come by selling items like ice cream, drinks, and simple food. Visitors should still plan ahead by bringing water, sun protection, and anything they’ll need for the day, and always pack out personal trash and respect the natural setting.

Where can I park my car if I’m leaving in a boat for an extended trip?

Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

Can I reserve the Mcleod Park for an event?

To Reserve the City Park for an Event contact the City Clerk at (239) 695-4558 or email: Dsmallwood@cityofeverglades.org (CityofEverglades.org)

How long does it take to get out to the ocean from Port of the Islands

It usually takes around 45 minutes to cruise from the Port of the Islands to the ocean. The journey includes navigating through a long, no-wake zone canal, providing a delightful and unhurried ride. Bring a cover for sun protection during this slow and scenic route. About half an hour in, you’ll arrive at the expansive and naturally beautiful mangroves before reaching the open waters of the ocean.

The Everglades isn’t something you just drive through and check off a list. The best way to experience it is to slow down. Walk a boardwalk trail, spend time on the water, or explore with someone who knows the area. A mix of trails, scenic drives, and guided tours gives you a much better feel for this place than any single stop.
Helpful pages:

Things To Do | Parks | Boat Tours

In Port of the Islands, where can I park if I’m going out on the water?

You can park in the parking lot by Port of the Islands Marina. Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

Chokoloskee is a small island community just across the bridge from Everglades City. It sits right on the edge of the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands, surrounded by water, mangroves, and backcountry routes.

Helpful Pages: Chokoloskee

Goodland is a small waterfront fishing village located between Marco Island and Everglades City. It sits on the edge of the Ten Thousand Islands and is surrounded by water, mangroves, and working docks.
Helpful page: Goodland

Ochopee is a small rural community along Tamiami Trail (US-41), east of Everglades City, right in the heart of the Everglades. It’s not a town in the traditional sense — more a stretch of road where long-time families still live and work.

Helpful page: Ochopee

Where can I hunt in Everglades National Forrest?

Hunting is permitted exclusively in Big Cypress Preserve. Visit our hunting page for more details.

Fishing

In the 10,000 Islands & Everglades National Park

Park Passes Required

Know the Rules