Fort Lauderdale fishing
Best Fishing Charters in Fort Lauderdale
With calm inshore fishing, exciting reef fishing, and out-of-this-world offshore fishing, booking a day with a Fort Lauderdale fishing charter gives you so many options. South Florida is one of the best fishing destinations globally, and booking a trip with a Ft. Lauderdale fishing charter is a great jumping-off point to a day of fun and excitement. So many of the world’s most sought-after fish are found in the waters in and around and off the coast of Ft. Lauderdale, and your experienced Ft. Lauderdale charter guides and crew know the waters and when and where the fish are biting and can get you on the fish quick. All of the world’s most sought-after fish are here. And every day on the water is epic.
Ft. Lauderdale is a city on the Intercoastal Waterway, a connection of canals that host multi-million dollar mansions and some incredible inshore fishing action. Tarpon and Snook are two of the most prized inshore fish. They can be found in these waters, but with the many canals connecting to each other in the Intercostal waterway, to have your best chance at landing one, you really need to hire one of the experienced Fort Lauderdale fishing charters who can navigate the waterways and take you to secret spots that only locals know about.
Just a mile offshore is some fantastic reef and wreck fishing. Here you can drop your line into 100’ water and target Snapper, Grouper and Amberjacks. This area has lots of baitfish from the Gulf Stream, and at times during the year, you can also hook into Mahi Mahi, Tuna and even a Sailfish or two. Again your best bet to catch as many fish as possible to bring home a full cooler of tasty fish; a seasoned Ft. Lauderdale fishing charter is the best way to go.
The Gulf Stream and the deep water out in the outer part of the Stream is where the monsters live. Here you can have fights with Mahi Mahi, Wahoo and Tuna, and you can battle Marlin, both White and Blue and Sailfish. Go further on Swordfish Charter, and you will catch the big swords. Most Fort Lauderdale Charters have day and night options for this charter.
There are seasons for all of these fish. For your best chance for most billfish, booking a charter in the summer is best, but Sailfish are more prevalent from Winter to Spring. Your knowledgeable captain and crew on your Ft. Lauderdale Charter will know what fish are in season and where to go to catch them. There are usually 4 hour, 6 hour and 8 hour trips available with specialty Swordfish and sometimes Tuna charters as well.
Prices start at around $500 for 4-hour trips, which because of the nearness of the prime fishing grounds are really all that you need, but for trophy fishing, you will need to book a full day. Many Ft. Lauderdale fishing charters also offer shared trips perfect for singles or smaller parties. Some party boats can make a fishing trip more affordable for singles, families and smaller parties. Ft. Lauderdale is some of the best fishing in South Florida, and you are in for an action-packed day no matter which charter you pick!
Fort Lauderdale Fishing Seasons
Winter Fishing Season
During winter, Ft. Lauderdale’s fishing scene remains active and rewarding. Inshore anglers can target Snook, Tarpon, and Redfish as they seek shelter in the warmer backwaters and canals. These fish provide thrilling fights and memorable catches. Offshore adventures may lead to encounters with pelagics like Sailfish, Wahoo, and Kingfish as they migrate closer to the coast.
Spring Fishing Season
As spring arrives, Ft. Lauderdale becomes the place for anglers seeking exciting fishing opportunities. Inshore fishing enthusiasts can enjoy pursuing Snook, Tarpon, and Redfish as they become more active with the warming temperatures. The shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and bridges are prime spots during this season. Offshore ventures may result in encounters with Mahi Mahi, Tuna, and Marlin as they move closer to the coast in search of food.
Summer Fishing Season
Ft. Lauderdale’s summer fishing season is a paradise for anglers seeking relaxation and excitement. Inshore fishing enthusiasts can enjoy pursuing Snook, Tarpon, and Redfish as they become more active with the warming temperatures. Summer is also the prime time for Tarpon fishing, offering anglers a chance to hook into these acrobatic giants. Offshore expeditions provide opportunities to catch Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and Sailfish in the deeper waters. The nearshore areas are teeming with Spanish Mackerel, Snapper, and other game fish, providing additional thrills to your fishing adventure.
Fall Fishing Season
As the season changes, Fall in Ft. Lauderdale continues to offer excellent fishing opportunities. Inshore anglers can continue targeting Snook, Tarpon, and Redfish as they remain active in the cooler months. The shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and canals continue to provide excellent fishing grounds. Offshore enthusiasts can focus on Kingfish, Bonito, and Blackfin Tuna as they migrate closer to the coast.
Before embarking on your fishing adventure, it’s important to familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses. Responsible angling practices, such as catching and releasing, respecting size and bag limits, and handling fish properly, are essential for the conservation of the fishery in Ft. Lauderdale.
Whether you prefer fishing from a boat, kayak, or the shoreline, saltwater fishing in Ft. Lauderdale provides an unforgettable experience. The variety of fishing seasons, combined with the city’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery, make it a true angler’s paradise. So grab your fishing gear, soak up the Florida sunshine, and embark on a fishing journey in Ft. Lauderdale that will create lasting memories and deepen your love for the sport.
Fort Lauderdale Weather Seasons
Spring (March to May)
During the spring months from March to May, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, experiences pleasant weather conditions for saltwater fishing. The temperatures range from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), providing comfortable and enjoyable days on the water. The humidity remains moderate, making it an ideal time for anglers to explore the beautiful waterways. As spring progresses, the water temperatures rise, attracting a variety of fish species to the area. Inshore fishing becomes more rewarding with opportunities to catch snook, redfish, and spotted sea trout. Offshore anglers can target species like king mackerel, grouper, and snapper.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Fort Lauderdale is marked by warm to hot weather, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). The summer months from June to August bring higher humidity levels, so anglers should be prepared for the heat. Despite the warm weather, it is an excellent time for saltwater fishing, offering opportunities to catch a wide range of species. Inshore fishing remains productive with snook, redfish, and tarpon being the primary targets. Offshore fishing becomes more exciting with the chance to reel in species like mahi-mahi, tuna, and sailfish.
Fall (September to November)
Fall in Fort Lauderdale brings slightly cooler temperatures, ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). The humidity levels start to decrease, creating comfortable conditions for fishing. The months from September to November are considered one of the best times for angling, as many migratory species pass through the area. Offshore fishing offers the chance to catch king mackerel, cobia, and grouper, while inshore fishing remains productive with snook, redfish, and spotted sea trout being the primary targets.
Winter (December to February)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to go charter fishing in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
Inshore:
- 4 hr – $690 for 4 anglers
- 6 hr – $850 for 4 anglers
- 8 hr – $1150 for 4 anglers
- 4 hr – $790 for 4 anglers
- 6 hr – $950 for 4 anglers
- 8 hr – $1150 for 4 anglers
- 4hr – $850 for 6 anglers
- 6 hr – $1190 for 6 anglers
- 8 hr – $1600 for 6 anglers
- 4 hr – $60/ adult 45/child for drifting
- 4 hr – $200/adult Sportfishing up to 6
- 8 hr – $350/adult Drifting/Sportfishing up to 6
- 4 hr – $1240 up to 6 anglers
- 6 hr – $1500 up to 6 anglers
- 8 hr – $1975 up to 6 anglers
- 4 hr – $1650
- 6 hr – $2250
- 8 hr – $3100
- 9 hr – $2050 day/night