South Florida is a dream destination for anglers. With warm waters, diverse fish species, and access to both inshore and deep-sea fishing, there’s never a bad time to drop a line. Whether you’re after an adrenaline-pumping fight with a sailfish or looking to reel in some fresh snapper for dinner, there’s always something biting.
At Hillsboro Inlet Fishing Center, we’ve spent years guiding anglers to the best fishing spots and know exactly when and where to find the action. Here’s a breakdown of the top fish to catch in South Florida and the best times to target them.
Sailfish (Best in Winter: November – March)
If there’s one fish that South Florida is famous for, it’s the sailfish. These high-flying, fast-moving predators provide some of the most exciting fishing you’ll ever experience. They migrate through our waters in the cooler months, making winter the best time to go after them.
Pro Tip: Sailfish are catch-and-release only, so handle them with care, snap a quick photo, and let them swim free.
Mahi-Mahi (Best in Spring & Summer: April – August)
Mahi-mahi, also known as dolphinfish or dorado, are a favorite among anglers for their dazzling colors, fierce fights, and delicious meat. They’re one of the most exciting fish to catch, especially when they school up, creating non-stop action.
Pro Tip: If you hook one, keep it in the water—mahi-mahi often travel in schools, and others may stick around for an easy second catch.
Wahoo (Best in Fall & Winter: September – February)
Wahoo are built for speed, and they hit bait hard. Known for their razor-sharp teeth and explosive runs, they’re a challenge even for experienced anglers. If you’re looking for a serious fight and a great meal, wahoo is the fish for you.
Pro Tip: Wahoo are more active around the full moon, so plan your trip accordingly for the best bite.
Blackfin Tuna (Best in Spring & Fall: March – May, September – November)
Blackfin tuna may not be the biggest in the tuna family, but they’re strong fighters and taste incredible. These fish travel in schools and are known for their powerful, deep dives when hooked.
Pro Tip: Tuna have incredible eyesight—use a fluorocarbon leader and smaller hooks to make your bait look more natural.
Kingfish (Best in Spring & Fall: March – May, September – November)
Kingfish, or king mackerel, are known for their aggressive strikes and lightning-fast runs. They’re a favorite for tournaments and casual anglers alike.
Pro Tip: Larger “smoker” kingfish tend to hit bigger baits like live blue runners, so come prepared with a variety of bait sizes.
Snapper & Grouper (Best in Summer: May – September)
For anglers looking to bring home dinner, snapper and grouper are top choices. These bottom-dwelling fish are known for their excellent flavor and challenging fights when pulling them up from the depths.
Pro Tip: When targeting grouper, use strong gear and be ready to reel fast—once they dart into a hole or reef, it’s tough to pull them out.
Why South Florida is a Year-Round Fishing Paradise
Unlike other destinations that have short peak seasons, South Florida offers incredible fishing 12 months a year. Whether you want to chase sailfish in the winter, mahi-mahi in the summer, or wahoo in the fall, there’s always a trophy fish waiting to be caught.
At Hillsboro Inlet Fishing Center, our experienced captains know how to maximize your time on the water, taking you to the best spots and using the best techniques for the season.
Book Your Next Fishing Trip
No matter the time of year, there’s always something biting in South Florida. Book your fishing charter with Hillsboro Inlet Fishing Center and let our expert captains put you on the fish. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed offshore trip or a relaxing day on the water, we’ll make sure it’s an adventure you won’t forget.