Your Guide to Miami Florida Fishing Seasons

Miami, Florida is known for its abundant fishing opportunities and is considered one of the premier fishing destinations in the United States. With its diverse ecosystems, including the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay, and the Everglades, Miami offers a wide range of fishing experiences throughout the year.

Since it’s an angler’s paradise, you might be left wondering when you should plan your ultimate fishing trip. Read on as we talk about Miami Florida fishing seasons!

 

Miami Florida Fishing Seasons

One of the important factors to consider when selecting a date for your fishing trip is your target species. Certain fish species may be more abundant during one season but almost non-existent in another. That’s why our guide focuses more on the fish species you can catch and the temperatures you can expect when fishing in Miami:

 

Winter Season (December to February)

During the winter months, Miami experiences mild temperatures, making it an excellent time for various fishing activities. Inshore fishing in Biscayne Bay and the surrounding flats is popular during this season. Anglers can target species like bonefish, permit, tarpon, and snook. Additionally, offshore fishing for sailfish, kingfish, and blackfin tuna is also productive during this time.

• Inshore fishing: Biscayne Bay and the surrounding flats are prime locations for targeting bonefish, permit, tarpon, and snook during the winter months. These species can be found in shallow waters and are known for their thrilling fights and acrobatic displays.
• Offshore fishing: While offshore fishing is not as prominent during winter, anglers can still target sailfish, kingfish, and blackfin tuna. These species can be found closer to the Gulf Stream, which provides favorable conditions for their presence. Hiring a charter boat from Miami Beach or Key Biscayne can provide access to prime offshore spots.

 

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is considered one of the best seasons for fishing in Miami. The weather starts warming up, and both inshore and offshore fishing opportunities increase. Inshore, anglers can target bonefish, permit, tarpon, and snook, which are abundant in the shallow waters. Offshore, sailfish, mahi-mahi, kingfish, and wahoo are common catches. The Gulf Stream current comes closer to the coast, bringing pelagic species in abundance.

• Inshore fishing: Spring is an exciting time for inshore fishing, with bonefish, permit, tarpon, and snook becoming more active. These species can be found in the shallows, flats, and mangrove-lined channels of Biscayne Bay and the surrounding areas. Other spots to consider heading to are Flamingo and Elliot Key.
• Offshore fishing: The Gulf Stream moves closer to the coast during spring, bringing with it a wide range of pelagic species. Anglers can target sailfish, mahi-mahi (dolphin fish), kingfish, and wahoo. Additionally, bottom fishing for grouper and snapper can be productive during this season.

 

Summer Season (June to August)

Summer in Miami can be hot and humid, but it offers some excellent fishing opportunities. Offshore fishing is at its peak during this season, with anglers targeting species such as mahi-mahi, wahoo, blackfin tuna, and sailfish. The calm seas and warm waters also make it a great time for deep-sea fishing. Inshore, anglers can find tarpon, snook, and redfish in the backcountry areas of Biscayne Bay and the Everglades.

• Offshore fishing: Summer is the peak season for offshore fishing in Miami. The warm waters and calm seas attract an abundance of fish. Anglers can target species like mahi-mahi, wahoo, blackfin tuna, and sailfish. Deep-sea fishing for species such as marlin and swordfish is also popular during this time. We recommend heading over to the backcountry areas of Biscayne Bay, including Flamingo and the Everglades.
• Inshore fishing: While inshore fishing can be slower during summer due to higher water temperatures, anglers can still find tarpon, snook, and redfish in the backcountry areas of Biscayne Bay and the Everglades. The waters around the Gulf Stream, located several miles offshore, are particularly productive. Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, and Government Cut are popular departure points for offshore charters.

 

Fall Season (September to November)

Fall is another fantastic fishing season in Miami, as the weather begins to cool down. Inshore fishing remains productive, with species like bonefish, permit, snook, and tarpon being the primary targets. Offshore, mahi-mahi, kingfish, blackfin tuna, and sailfish are still prevalent. This season also marks the start of the annual migration of baitfish, which attracts larger game fish.

• Inshore fishing: Fall is a great time for inshore fishing, with bonefish, permit, snook, and tarpon being the primary targets. These species are active and can be found in shallow waters, flats, and mangrove-lined channels. The cooling temperatures make fishing more comfortable. Flamingo, Elliott Key, and the flats around Key Biscayne are worth exploring during this time.
• Offshore fishing: During fall, mahi-mahi, kingfish, blackfin tuna, and sailfish are still prevalent offshore. The annual baitfish migration begins during this season, attracting larger game fish like amberjack and barracuda. Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, and Haulover Inlet are popular departure points for offshore trips.

It’s important to note that fishing seasons can vary depending on various factors such as weather patterns, water temperatures, and fish migration patterns. While you can expect the target species during the seasons mentioned above, it can change depending on these individual factors.

That’s why it’s always a good idea to check local fishing reports, consult with local guides or fros, and adhere to fishing regulations and licensing requirements when planning a fishing trip in Miami, Florida.

 

Wrapping It Up

Hopefully, our quick guide to Miami Florida fishing seasons helped you out! At this point, you’ll now be more than ready to set a date and start preparing for the time of your life as an angler.

As you prepare, don’t forget to pack according to the season you’re visiting Miami and the fish you plan to catch. Also, make sure you have a fishing charter booked before you run out of slots! Contact us now to learn more about our charter services.