Fishing in Florida: The Ultimate Guide

When it comes to fishing, you will hardly find a country as unique as Florida! This is not only because of the various fishing species but also because it offers a well-rounded and clearly defined fishing experience for all anglers.

From the endless beaches of the Atlantic Ocean to the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and all that goes with it, Florida's amazing nature offers fishing like no other.

Every bay, coral reef, and swamp flat hides unique opportunities for high-quality catch and entertainment of every kind! Florida is home to the most beautiful and fun world cities, so the only thing that can happen to you is to be overwhelmed! 

Therefore, stay with us and head to fishing exoticism and excitement. Fishing in Florida, the ultimate guide will be your ally, revealing the best locations, most sought-after species, and tricks to help you understand and immerse yourself in Florida's fishing paradise.

Fish Species Found in Florida

From the shimmering Atlantic coast to the lush Gulf of Mexico, Florida's waters are an angler's paradise and home to an impressive array of fish species. Some are always present, and others are occasionally during their migratory sessions.

Native Species

Native Florida fish existed for centuries before humans began hunting them. They have adapted to the specific conditions and unique ecosystems of Florida. From Tarpon to fighting Red Drum, each fish tells a unique story about the fascinating state and its natural wealth.

Tarpon

Tarpon is undoubtedly the undisputed legend of Florida's coastal waters. This beautiful silver fish is known for its incredible strength and jumping power. Its nickname is the "Silver King" because its silver scales glisten under the sun. Tarpons can reach up to 8 feet long and weigh over 200 pounds. They can create a fascinating and powerful fight and are found in warm coastal waters, lagoons, and estuaries. 

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and summer

• Habitat: Estuaries and coastal waters

• Preferred Bait: Worms and artificial baits

• Fishing Technique: Trolling, casting, sight fishing

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Depth: Moderate to deep

Tarpon is most active in the spring and summer when it is officially in season in Florida. It can be hunted in other seasons as well but with undiminished intensity. They will gladly bait artificial baits or live worms. Casting, sight fishing, kayak fishing, and Tarpon are perfect for technique experimentation.

Snook

Snook lives in a similar environment as Tarpon. It is a sleek and intelligent predator of Florida's mangroves, bays, and estuaries. Its torpedo-shaped body and dark lateral line are designed for stealth and speed, lurking in shallow waters to catch prey. In good conditions, it can grow up to 4 feet. 

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and summer

• Habitat: Vegetation and structures

• Preferred Bait: Metal or plastic jigs, live bait

• Fishing Technique: Jigging, casting, live bait

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: Moderate

Snook is a cunning fighter who likes to chase and dive to free himself from the hook – the season peaks in spring and summer, when it is hunted around vegetation and structures. Jigging, casting, and live bait fishing are methods for catching it.

Redfish

The Redfish is a famous Florida inshore fish with its copper-bronze body and distinctive black spot on the tail. Strong, resilient, and adaptable, the Redfish thrives in grass flats and mangroves, especially around structures where it can catch prey. It looks specific but has a typical fish appearance, can grow quite big, and is very tasty.

• Best Time to Catch: Fall and early spring

• Habitat: Grass flats and mangroves

• Preferred Bait: Soft plastic, cut bait

• Fishing Technique: Jigging, casting, live bait

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: Moderate

It can grow up to 50 inches, weigh over 50 pounds, and offer an intense fight, making it a prime target for anglers using soft plastics and cut bait. The peak season for hunting this species is in the cooler months of fall or early spring.

Spotted Seatrout

The Spotted Seatrout is a striking fish with a body covered in unique black spots. It likes to glide through Florida's bays and estuaries. It is known to be sensitive to water temperature and prefers cooler areas. If the conditions are good, this fish can reach up to 30 inches.

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and early summer

• Habitat: Cooler shallow flats

• Preferred Bait: Soft plastic, cut live or artificial bait

• Fishing Technique: Fly fishing, casting

• Difficulty: Shallow

• Depth: Moderate

Although delicate and seemingly timid, the Seatrout is a fierce fighter who responds well to light strikes and soft plastics, fly fishing, and casting. Spring and early summer are the best times to catch this iconic species, known for its beauty and tasty bites. It is a delight for light-catch enthusiasts.

Florida Gar

This fish is native to Florida and is a prehistoric-looking predator, with its long, slender body covered in dark spots. It has a somewhat infamous muzzle full of teeth made for. It is native to Florida's freshwater rivers, lakes, and swamps and often lurks in vegetation-rich areas. 

• Best Time to Catch: Warmer months

• Habitat: Rivers, lakes and swamps

• Preferred Bait: Popper baits, minnows, shiners, or bluegill

• Fishing Technique: Float fishing, sight fishing

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Depth: Moderate to challenging

Florida Gar can be fished using float fishing techniques or sight fishing using popper baits, minnows, shiners, or small bluegill. It can grow up to 4 feet tall and provides strong resistance. The best time to target it is in warm months when it is more active and less cautious. Catching Florida Gar is an exciting, authentic Florida experience, both visually and fishing.

Migratory Species

Migratory fish that migrate through Florida's waters travel long distances between freshwater and marine habitats. Some are searching for food, mating, or better living conditions, and their journeys are fascinating and crucial for ecological balance. Let's meet some of those fish.

King Mackerel 

King Mackerel is one of Florida's most famous migratory species. It is known for its speed and keen hunting instinct. Its long snake-like body is covered with silver scales and sharp teeth that testify to its extraordinary predatory skills. The Mackerel migrates along the Florida coast, moving to warmer waters during the winter and returning north in spring and summer.

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and summer

• Habitat: Deeper waters, underwater structures and reefs

• Preferred Bait: Mackerel or herring

• Fishing Technique: Trolling, drifting

• Difficulty: Deep

• Depth: Moderate to challenging

This fish loves deeper waters, underwater structures, and reefs, so trolling or drifting works well. It can reach up to 5 feet in length and 50 pounds. Stick primarily to live bait like mackerel or herring and fast-pulled artificial lures to catch it. King Mackerel can also be dangerous, so beware of its sharp teeth.

Cobia

This firm, somewhat shark-like fish captivates with robust strength and elegance. It has an elongated body with dark brown tones and a white belly, allowing it to move through the water and deceive its prey quickly. Cobia prefers deeper waters and usually lurk very close to the sea bottom. It is found in Florida waters during the spring and fall when it migrates to warmer climates. 

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and fall

• Habitat: Deeper waters, sea floors

• Preferred Bait: Crabs or minnows

• Fishing Technique: Trolling, bottom fishing

• Difficulty: Deep

• Depth: Challenging

It can grow to 6 feet long, weigh over 100 pounds, and is known for its energetic fighting style. Its preferred habitats are near buoys, reefs, or other structures, where it will happily pounce on live bait such as crabs or minnows. It is a fascinating and beautiful fish and one of Florida's favorite migratory fish.

Spanish Mackerel

The Spanish Mackerel is a fast and graceful species that brings dynamism to Florida waters during migrations in spring and fall. This fish follows the currents and is very common in Florida waters. It has a silvery body with characteristic yellow spots, grows to an average length of 3 feet, and weighs about 10 pounds.

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and fall

• Habitat: Deeper waters, underwater structures and wrecks

• Preferred Bait: Metal jigs or fast-moving bait

• Fishing Technique: Trolling, jigging

• Difficulty: Deep

• Depth: Challenging

Although not overly attractive in size, this fish is a great fighter and very fast. Anglers know it for its quick attack on lures such as metal jigs or fast-moving baits, providing a stimulating and rewarding experience for anglers of all levels.

Blackfin Tuna

The Blackfin Tuna is a tiny but powerful member of the famous Tuna family. It is a favorite fish for hunting and food. With a streamlined body and dark fins, it is swift and durable. The migration season in the warmer waters of Florida is during the spring and fall when the tuna follows schools of small fish such as anchovies and sardines.

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and fall

• Habitat: Deeper waters, underwater structures and wrecks

• Preferred Bait: Live bait

• Fishing Technique: Trolling, jigging

• Difficulty: Deep

• Depth: Challenging

Depending on the season, Blackfin Tuna prefers shallow and deeper water and will most likely be offshore around coral reefs and structures. In the best case, it can grow to 40 pounds and is known for its explosive attacks on pulled lures or some of the more expensive live bait. True to its origins, it will put up a long and intense fight, making it a popular and relatively easy-to-find Tuna. 

Bonefish

This Bonefish is an icon of Florida's shallow waters and a favorite among fly fishing enthusiasts in sea or brackish waters. Its silvery body allows it to blend perfectly with the sandy bottom as it migrates through lagoons and mangroves in search of warm, calm waters. Although tiny, it rarely reaches a length of more than 3 feet and is known for its speed in escaping after being caught in a net.

• Best Time to Catch: Spring and fall

• Habitat: Shallow, clear waters

• Preferred Bait: Shrimp or artificial imitations

• Fishing Technique: Fly fishing, light tackle

• Difficulty: Shallow

• Depth: Moderate

The prime season for Bonefish is spring and fall, and they are usually caught by fly fishing or light tackle. You will find it in shallow, clear waters, and it is best to catch it using light baits such as shrimp or artificial imitations. Its advantage is speed and cunning, and these are the qualities that irritate fishermen.

Prime Fishing Spots in Florida

Florida is an angler's paradise on both the micro and macro levels. It is a sunny country where every place, bay, island, and coral reef hides its specific fishing gems. And, without exaggeration, the Sunshine State offers everything from famous beaches to hidden fishing gems, and while it's hard to pick favorites, we've rounded up some spots you shouldn't miss.

Key West

When someone mentions Florida and fishing, Key West is simply unavoidable. Its lively and rich waters offer a little bit of everything: the possibility of fishing in deep ocean waters, shallows, and tidal flats. Key West skillfully balances a relaxed atmosphere with some of the most exciting fishing opportunities, so Marlin, Snapper, Tarpon, Mahi Mahi, and many others are primarily caught here.

If you are a beginner or do not have deep-sea fishing gear, local charters are plentiful and superbly equipped and will ensure you experience every kind of fishing you want. If you get bored of fishing, Key West also has a cultural heritage and stunning places with beautiful sunsets.

Panama City Beach

With its breathtaking looks of the utopian dream, Panama City Beach is the ultimate coastal retreat with unreal white sand and waters home to some of Florida's most representative fish species. From Redfish and Speckled Trout to Mackerel and Grouper in deeper waters, your fishing bag will hardly stay empty.

Panama City Beach has a vibrant fishing community and excellent infrastructure that gives everyone access to the waters. You will have excellent conditions if you go by boat, charter, or fish from the shore. The beach is also very picturesque, with many good fish restaurants and relaxing areas.

Islamorada

The fact that Islamorada is the world capital of sports fishing is evidence of its importance. Indeed, this Florida destination offers a variety of fishing opportunities. It is famous for its turquoise waters and impressive range of fish species, including Bonefish, Permit, Mahi Mahi, and Marlin.

Like most Florida destinations, Islamorada stands out for its rich culture and beautiful landscape. You can fly fish in shallower waters or trot offshore, alone or with the help of charters and highly professional guides.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is an ideal destination for those who love freshwater and saltwater fishing. The famous St. Johns River, with its complex brackish waters, provides opportunities for inshore fishing for Redfish, Trout, and Flounder. In the vicinity, the Atlantic waters are perfect for hunting slightly more vicious species such as Cobia or Sharks.

Jacksonville combines urban culture with natural beauty, easy dock access, kayak fishing, and charter options. It is known for its southern hospitality and great place for group and solo fishing adventurers.

Florida Keys

When you say tropical paradise, you mean the Florida Keys, although you might not know it! It is a dream destination with shallow waters and coral reefs teeming with life, attracting anglers worldwide. From Bonefish to Tarpon, the possibility of hunting for larger fish, such as Swordfish and Tuna, adds to the excitement.

In the Florida Keys, you can treat yourself to various techniques, from shore fishing to serious deep-sea fishing, and numerous charter fishing companies offer everything you need. As a special bonus, there are fantastic opportunities to enjoy natural beauty, mangroves, coral reefs, and abundant wild animals.

Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is a generous blend of rich marine fauna and an excellent training ground for various techniques. With its vast shallow waters, Tampa Bay offers an abundance of target species such as Redfish, Snook, and Sea Bass – also the possibility for research through kayak fishing or fishing from the shore. 

Known for its calm lagoons and wetlands, Tampa Bay offers year-round fishing. Many anglers come here for the unique combination of sport fishing and natural scenery, where they can observe dolphins and seabirds. The bay is full of habitats ideal for beginners and experienced anglers alike, offering challenges and the opportunity to catch big fish, all close to the city.

Lake Okeechobee

If you want to change your routine, get away from the coast, and fish in a slightly different environment, Lake Okeechobee is the place. It is the largest lake in Florida and one of the best freshwater fishing destinations in the US. Many anglers here seek a new trophy catch among the extensive vegetation belts. 

Among other things, this lake has the reputation of being the habitat of large Bass fish that attract passionate anglers from all over the world. In addition, it offers a unique experience in nature, far from the city crowd, where impressive specimens of Bass are often caught in shallow waters throughout the year.

You'll also find Crappie and Catfish, which are favorites among local anglers. You can also go camping, which makes this destination a favorite place for weekend adventures and relaxation.

Naples Pier

Naples Pier, located in the heart of Naples, is another picturesque and well-known coastal destination that combines the convenience of pier fishing with the beauty of the high-end fishery. This attractive location is a gathering place for anglers of all ages who enjoy fishing for Snook, Pompano, and even Sharks. 

It is picturesque and accessible because it allows easy fishing without a boat. At the same time, the jetty's construction allows for catching larger fish living in coastal waters. 

For those looking to explore fishing in Naples, the pier is an excellent spot for fishing, relaxing in other ways, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings with a spectacular sunset while watching the local birds and marine species. It is a true paradise for nature and photography lovers.

Destin

Destin is often called the "Red Perch Capital of the World" because of its abundance of this beautiful fish. It is also specific for its proximity to deep waters, which enables fishing of large marine species such as Tuna, Swordfish, and King Mackerel. 

You can enjoy offshore fishing and trophy fish hunting challenges if you want a more complex adventure with plenty of professional charter companies. Destin is the perfect combination of adventure with the proximity of beautiful sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.

Fishing Techniques in Florida

There are many ways to catch fish, especially in Florida's diverse coastline and waters. On the open sea, in calm lagoons, or on the shore of a lake, each technique has its charm and requires specific skills. You can practice many techniques here, and we describe the most popular ones below.

Casting

Casting is at the heart of every fishing technique. It allows precise placement of the bait where the fish usually hides. This technique can be carried out on a river, lake, or coastal waters with various equipment. It is accessible to everyone, so you can choose gear from more expensive to very affordable. It allows the use of both live and artificial bait.

In Florida, it is mainly used by recreational anglers or beginners. Due to the abundance of jetties and bridges and easy access, it is indispensable for hunting species such as Bass, Pike, and Perch. It is popular for its simplicity and excitement, as well as the fast action and hauling of the catch.

Bottom Fishing

Bottom fishing is an excellent flexibility technique. Adaptable to fresh and saltwater, it is ideal for catching fish that feed near the bottom of the water, such as Catfish, Cod, Grouper, or  Flounder. 

It involves placing the bait deep, combined with heavy leads, to fix the bait. Depending on where you fish, the gear can be robust and combined with live or artificial baits and various locations, such as boats, piers, or shores.

It is practical and allows you to catch more prominent and substantial specimens. Bottom fishing is a classic technique that has evolved significantly and is adapted to mass commercial fishing and recreationists of all levels. Luckily, gear for everything is easy to find, especially in Florida.

Trolling

Trolling is the most common offshore technique. It is primarily used for hunting big game fish but can also be used in shallower waters and reduced to basic settings. Trolling is simple: pulling the bait behind the boat in open waters such as seas and large lakes.

Trolling uses its large and robust equipment to catch fish such as Tuna, King Mackerel, and Cobia, enabling anglers to cover large water areas. In Florida, trolling is also available as a charter experience if you are not experienced enough for an offshore trolling adventure.

Fly Fishing

A famous sophisticated technique, fly fishing finds its fans and fish in the complex waters of Florida. It uses artificial flies and special rods and lines to place the bait on the water's surface precisely. 

You can practice it in lakes, rivers, and calmer or flat ocean and sea areas. Trout, Redfish, Bonefish, and other types of fish are the primary targets, especially in the famous Florida swamps. Fly fishing requires skill and patience, but it also brings unforgettable results and teaches you self-control and patience.

Jigging

Another technique allows improvisation and creativity. In some segments, it is similar to trolling. It involves quickly raising and lowering the bait, creating attractive movements, and presenting a vivid presentation to attract predators of various species. It is popular for Pollack, Cod, and Amberjack, especially in deeper water.

This technique allows you to control the bait and adjust the rhythm of the movement, which can be crucial for a successful catch in the open sea. Vertical jigging is also popular. In this technique, you drop the bait directly under the boat and move it vertically – an excellent option for targeting bigger fish like Tuna or Grouper.

Fishing Tournaments in Florida

It is simply impossible for a top fishing destination like Florida to not have fishing tournaments. And indeed, there are all kinds of them, from small and fun to medium and grandiose. Here is our selection of those you should not miss as participants or supporters.

Florida Keys Fishing Tournament

It is one of those with the longest traditions, and it is specific in that it lasts almost the whole year, from January to December. During the Florida Keys Fishing Tournament, anglers can compete in different categories and sizes of fish for species such as Tarpon, Bonefish, and Snook. It is open to anglers of all ages and skill levels, allowing all interested to enjoy the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys and test their skills in hunting trophy species.

Destin Fishing Rodeo

The Destin Fishing Rodeo is one of Florida's oldest and most important fishing events. It takes place every year in October and attracts thousands of competitors and spectators. During that month, the primary focus of the participants is trophy fish, while Swordfish, King Mackerel and Tuna are the main focus. In addition to bringing together professional and recreational anglers, the Rodeo also offers rich prizes, which makes it even more attractive and one of the most exciting fishing competitions in the USA.

Sarasota Slam

The Sarasota Slam is also an annual tournament held every August. It involves hunting and competing for different types of fish, such as Trout, Bass, and Mackerel. The Sarasota Slam is particularly popular because of the numerous and varied categories of the races and the friendly but competitive atmosphere among the participants. The competition is organized in several disciplines, including sea and coastal fishing, and it attracts anglers and scientists of all ages who enjoy the spectacle and socializing.

Fishing Regulations and Licenses in Florida

Fishing in Florida is rarely a one-size-fits-all experience, and it is crucial to preserve all these natural resources and ensure sustainable fishing. Anglers must follow local laws and regulations, and Florida has strict guidelines governing the size, quota, and season for certain types of fish. To always be up-to-date before any fishing activity, visit the official site, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), where you can find all the information.

Licenses are mandatory for most recreationists over 16, both for freshwater and saltwater. There are various types of permits, including daily, annual, and species-specific licenses. 

They can be easily obtained through the government's website, app, or authorized sales outlets nationwide. Violations such as hunting without a license or exceeding the limit are severely punished, so responsible fishing is essential because of the penalties and to preserve Florida's waters.

Final Thoughts

Florida is a rich state in so many segments! And this magnificence is also reflected in fishing. It is a real adventure in the heart of nature, where every stroke or cast can bring incredible moments. From the most straightforward fishing to the ultimate fun on the open sea, boring averages are simply out of the question!

But before you set sail on your adventures, premiere in Florida, or explore new Sunshine State destinations, we'd love to hear about your experience! What are your favorite spots and fish in Florida? Did you catch something memorable, or do you have advice for other anglers? Write everything in the comment section and share your fishing story! We are all eager to read you!