Fishing is an exciting sport, and Florida is one of the best places in the country to experience it. There’s always something biting, from the crystal-clear flats of the Florida Keys to the rich offshore waters near Stuart and beyond. But timing your trip based on the season can help you land the species you’re after. Whether you’re looking for a trophy fish or the perfect catch for dinner, use the calendar below to discover what’s in season and where to go.
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Amberjack
Best Season: Spring through early summer (April–June)
Amberjack are powerful reef fish found offshore near wrecks and deep structures. Expect a serious fight when these brutes bite.
Barracuda
Best Season: Spring through early summer (April–June)
These aggressive predators are lightning-fast and often found near reefs and wrecks. Ideal for anglers looking for explosive strikes.
Bonito
Best Season: Spring to early fall (March–September)
Often confused with Little Tunny, Bonito are fast and feisty. While not a prized table fish, they’re fun on light tackle and great as bait.
Cobia
Best Season: Late winter through spring (February–May)
Often found near buoys, wrecks, and rays, Cobia are highly prized for their strong fight and excellent table fare. These fish fight to get to the boat, even after being boated.
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Best Season: Late spring through summer (May–August)
Fast, colorful, and aggressive, Mahi Mahi are a summer favorite. They’re often found around floating debris or weed lines and strike almost anything when feeding. Great for both sport and the dinner plate.
King Mackerel or Kingfish
Best Season: Spring and fall (March–May & October–November)
Known for fast runs and occasional aerial displays, Kingfish are a staple of Florida’s offshore fishery. They’re commonly found nearshore and offshore and make for exciting trolling action.
Blue Marlin
Best Season: Summer (June–August)
The ultimate offshore game fish. Blue Marlin can grow to immense sizes and is famed for its acrobatics and raw power. These fish are targeted by serious big game anglers and provide a true test of skill and stamina.
Redfish
Best Season: Fall (September–November)
A favorite among inshore anglers, Redfish are abundant year-round and offer fierce fights. Look for them on the flats, around oyster beds, or in mangroves—especially during fall.
Blacktip Shark
Best Season: Spring and early summer (March–June)
These sharks offer thrilling light-tackle action, often leaping out of the water during the fight. Found in shallow coastal waters, they’re an exciting challenge for any angler.
Mangrove Snapper
Best Season: Summer (June–August)
The most commonly caught Snapper inshore, Mangrove Snapper, are bright, fast, and delicious. They are found near structures, bridges, and mangroves, and make for great family-friendly fishing.
Snook
Best Season: Spring through fall (April–October), with peak action in summer
Highly sought after and known for their cleverness and explosive runs, Snook are a prized Florida inshore catch. They’re active in warm water and often around docks, bridges, and mangroves.
Swordfish
Best Season: Year-round, with strong action in fall and winter (October–February)
One of the most prestigious deep-sea targets, Swordfish are elusive, strong, and dangerous to handle. Often caught at night or with deep drop techniques, they’re the crown jewel of any offshore trip.
Tarpon
Best Season: Late spring through summer (May–August)
The “Silver King” is famous for its aerial displays and unmatched power. Tarpon are catch-and-release only but offer one of the most thrilling fights in saltwater fishing.
Blackfin Tuna
Best Season: Spring and fall (March–May & September–November)
The smallest of the tunas, but still a feisty opponent. Blackfin Tuna are fast, powerful, and make great sushi. Often found offshore in warm currents or around wrecks.
Yellowfin Tuna
Best Season: Late spring to early fall (May–September)
Yellowfin are prized for their power, speed, and taste. Often caught on longer trips offshore or to the Bahamas, they’re one of the most rewarding catches in Florida waters.
Wahoo
Best Season: Fall and winter (October–February)
One of the fastest fish in the ocean, Wahoo are often caught while high-speed trolling. Their explosive strikes and hard runs make them a favorite among offshore anglers.
What’s the Best Season to Fish in Florida?
The best season to fish in Florida largely depends on the species you’re targeting, but in general, spring and summer are considered peak fishing seasons. From March to August, warm waters bring abundant fish closer to shore and ignite feeding frenzies. Species like Mahi Mahi, Kingfish, Tarpon, and Tuna are particularly active during these months. Fall offers excellent opportunities for inshore species like Redfish and Snook, while winter months can still provide excellent action for species such as Sailfish and Wahoo offshore. No matter the time of year, Florida’s waters are full of opportunity; you just need to know where and when to cast your line.
Stuart, Florida’s Most Trusted Private Fishing Charter
Hate 2 Lose in Stuart, FL, offers professional fishing charter experiences in inshore and offshore waters. Our experienced captain and crew are here to help you target the fish of your dreams and create lasting memories on the water. Whether you’re fishing for Swordfish in deep water or chasing Redfish along the flats, we’ll make sure your day is unforgettable.
