Seasonal Fishing Guide: What to Catch and When

Fishing in South Florida isn’t just a year-round activity—it’s an ever-changing adventure. Each season brings a new lineup of fish to target, and knowing when to go for what can make your trip even more rewarding. From chasing sailfish in the winter to mahi-mahi in the summer, here’s your guide to what’s biting and when.

Winter (December–February): Sailfish Season
Winter is sailfish time in South Florida, especially in the famed Sailfish Alley. As temperatures drop, these incredible game fish move closer to shore, giving anglers the chance to experience their signature acrobatic jumps and lightning-fast runs. It’s also a great time for kingfish and wahoo, adding even more excitement to your trip.

• What You’ll Catch:
  • Sailfish
  • Kingfish
  • Wahoo
  • Blackfin Tuna
• Tip: Winter seas can be choppy, so if you’re prone to seasickness, come prepared with remedies. Kite fishing is particularly effective for sailfish during this time.

Spring (March–May): Variety at Its Best
As the waters start to warm, spring brings a mix of species that keeps anglers on their toes. Mahi-mahi begin to show up, and the kingfish action is still going strong. Blackfin tuna are also a highlight during this time, giving you plenty of opportunities to test your skills.

• What You’ll Catch:
  • Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish)
  • Kingfish
  • Blackfin Tuna
  • Cobia
• Tip: Keep an eye out for floating debris or seaweed lines—mahi-mahi love to hang around these areas.

Summer (June–August): Mahi-Mahi Madness
When summer rolls in, it’s all about mahi-mahi. These colorful fighters are plentiful and put up a fun battle for anglers of all skill levels. Wahoo also start making appearances, especially around the full moon, and bottom fishing for snapper and grouper is another great option.

• What You’ll Catch:
  • Mahi-Mahi
  • Wahoo
  • Bonito
  • Yellowtail Snapper
• Tip: The Florida sun can be brutal in the summer, so consider booking an early morning trip to beat the heat and get the fish biting.

Fall (September–November): Wahoo and More
As the weather cools, wahoo and kingfish steal the spotlight. Fall is also an excellent time for bottom fishing, with plenty of grouper and snapper ready to be caught. Plus, as the year winds down, you might start seeing the return of sailfish, kicking off the next big season.

• What You’ll Catch:
  • Wahoo
  • Kingfish
  • Grouper
  • Snapper
• Tip: Wahoo love the full and new moons, so plan your trip around those times for the best chance at landing one.

Fishing Anytime: Year-Round Favorites
Even when it’s not peak season, South Florida’s waters are never empty. Barracuda, sharks, and bonito are just a few of the species you can catch all year long. There’s always something biting!

Plan Your Perfect Fishing Trip
The beauty of fishing in South Florida is that every season offers something unique. Whether you’re after the adrenaline rush of a sailfish fight or the steady action of mahi-mahi, there’s never a bad time to get on the water. At Hillsboro Inlet Fishing Center, we’ll make sure your trip is tailored to the season and your goals, so you leave with incredible memories—and maybe even dinner.

Let’s Get Fishing!
No matter the time of year, the waters off Pompano Beach are calling your name. Ready to reel in your next big catch? Book your adventure with Hillsboro Inlet Fishing Center today, and let’s make your fishing dreams a reality!