I was looking forward to fishing in Florida. After all, the Sunshine State is renowned for its diverse fishing opportunities. But when I went, I didn’t catch as many fish as I hoped. Then I was told that it was not the best time of the year for that particular location.
After this disappointment, I decided to do some research on the topic, and now I want to share what I found with you to save you from fishing heartache.
This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about fishing in Florida, including the best time to fish in Florida and where to find the best spots. So let’s get started.
Why Fish in Florida?
Fishing is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Florida. That’s no surprise considering that the state has about 7500 freshwater ponds, lakes, and reservoirs. The state is also home to over 12000 miles of fishable canals, streams, and rivers.
As such, if you are into fishing, then Florida is the place to be. The state has a diverse range of fish species, including largemouth bass, snook, tarpon, and redfish. So no matter what type of fish you’re after, you’re sure to find it in Florida.
The Common Florida Fish Species
Here are some of the most common fish you’ll find in the state.
Red Fish
You probably know this fish species as the red drum. It’s a saltwater fish that is popular among anglers.
These fish are usually found in shallow waters near grass flats, reefs, and oyster bars. They’re also commonly found in shipwrecks and around pilings.
Redfish can be caught using various methods, lures, and flies. However, the most common bait used for redfish is shrimp.
Snook
Snook is another popular saltwater fish species in Florida. It’s considered one of the premier gamefish in the state.
You’ll usually find them near mangroves, seagrass beds, and docks in brackish waters. They’re also commonly found in canals and around bridges.
Like redfish, snook can be caught using various methods, including live bait, lures, and flies. However, the most common bait used for snook is mullet.
Tarpon
Tarpon is another saltwater fish species that are popular among anglers in Florida. Tarpons thrive in warm waters, making Florida an ideal place.
Tarpons are usually found near shallow-water seagrass beds, mangroves, and docks. They’re also commonly found in canals and around bridges.
Flounder
Flounder is a saltwater fish species that are popular among anglers in Florida. Flounder are usually found in shallow waters near grass flats, reefs, oyster bars, and shipwrecks. They’re also commonly found in canals and around pilings.
Flounder can be caught using various methods, including live bait, lures, and flies. However, the most common bait used for flounder is shrimp.
Sharks
You may want to try catching a shark if you are adventurous and daring. Florida is home to various shark species, including tiger, hammerhead, and bull sharks.
Sharks are usually found in offshore waters, near reefs, and shipwrecks. They’re also commonly found in canals and around bridges.
Catching a shark requires special gear and techniques. Therefore, I recommend hiring a charter boat and captain if you’re interested in catching one of these fish.
Largemouth Bass
The largemouth bass is a freshwater fish species popular among Florida anglers. The fish is commonly found in canals and around bridges.
Largemouth bass can be caught using various methods, including live bait, lures, and flies. The most common bait used for largemouth bass is minnows.
Best Time To Fish in Florida: Afternoons or Mornings?
The best time to fish may depend on where you go, but overall, mornings are preferable. Afternoons may have excess heat.
Where and When To Fish In Florida
Now that you know what type of fish you can find in Florida discover the best spots and the best time to fish in Florida.
Naples
Naples is home to turquoise waters and beaches, which makes it an ideal spot for saltwater fishing. And the best part is that this is a family destination, so if you want fun for the entire family, look no further.
What to fish: You can find a variety of fish species in Naples, including snook, tarpon, and redfish.
Best time to fish: Naple is an all-year-round fishing destination based on what fish you wish to catch. For instance, between May and September is the ideal time for tarpon, sharks, and barracuda. Early spring and winter are best for grouper and redfish, and October to March is perfect for snapper.
The Keys
The Keys are a chain of islands off the coast of Florida. And they offer some of the best saltwater fishing in the state. The area is so famous for fishing that it’s often referred to as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World.”
What to fish: You can find a variety of fish species in the Keys, including tarpon, bonefish, permit, and barracuda.
Best time to fish: May and September are ideal for tarpon, sharks, and barracuda. If you want to catch a permit, then the best time is between January and April.
Miami
Miami is a hotspot for saltwater fishing, thanks to its warm waters and abundance of fish species. The city is also home to several charter boats, which makes it easy to get out on the water and start fishing.
What to fish: You can find a variety of fish species in Miami, including snook, tarpon, bonefish, permit, and barracuda.
Best time to fish: April to October is the best time to fish in Miami, thanks to the warm waters and abundance of fish species. However, you can still catch fish year-round in Miami.
Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay is known as home to the best inshore fishing in Florida. The area is also home to several charter boats, making it easy to get out on the water and start fishing.
What to fish: You can find a variety of fish species in Tampa Bay, including snook, sheepshead, redfish, and trout.
Best time to fish: One thing to love most about Tampa Bay is that no matter what time of the year it is, there’s always something biting. However, the best time to fish in Tampa Bay is between April and October.
Destin
Also known as the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, Destin is a popular spot for saltwater and freshwater fishing. The area is home to several charter boats, making it easy to get out on the water and start fishing.
What to fish: You can find a variety of fish species in Destin, including red snapper, grouper, triggerfish, and amberjack.
Best time to fish: Summer is the best time to fish in Destin, while January through March is the offseason. However, you can still catch fish year-round in Destin.
Panama City
Panama City Beach attracts thousands of anglers yearly thanks to its sugar-white sand beaches and emerald-green waters. The destination is also known for myriad inshore opportunities, making it an excellent spot for family fishing.
What to fish: You can find a variety of fish species in Panama City, including redfish, speckled trout, mangrove snapper, Mahi Mahi, and flounder.
Best time to fish: The best time to fish in Panama City is summer through mid-fall. But some species, such as flounder and redfish, are all-year rounds. So, no matter when you come to Panama City, there’s always a good chance you’ll catch something.
Fort Myers
Fort Myers is a popular saltwater fishing destination thanks to its many charter boats and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. The area is also home to several freshwater lakes, which makes it a great spot for family fishing.
What to fish: You can find a variety of fish species in Fort Myers, including snook, tarpon, redfish, trout, and permit.
Best time to fish: Spring through fall is the best time to fish in Fort Myers. However, you can still catch fish year-round in Fort Myers.
What You Need To Know Before You Go Fishing in Florida
Now that you know where to go fishing in Florida, it’s essential to understand what you need to do before you go. So here are a few things to keep in mind.
Fishing License
First, you must be above 16 years old to have a fishing license. You can purchase a permit online or at a local tackle shop. The cost of a license varies depending on how long you want it for and whether you’re a Florida resident.
If you’re saltwater fishing, you also need to purchase a saltwater fishing products license, which allows you to sell your catch. This can be purchased online or at a local tax collector’s office.
If you’re planning to go boat fishing, you must ensure your boat is properly registered. You can do this through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
What To Bring
When you go fishing, a braided fishing line is a must-carry. Here are other items to go with:
- A fishing rod and reel
- Hooks
- Sinkers
- Lures
- Bait
- A net
- A first-aid kit
- A cooler for your catch
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
Take Aways
The best time to fish in Florida is whenever you feel like it. Florida is a great place to go fishing, no matter what time of year. However, if you’re looking to fish a particular species consult our guide to find out when they’ll be around.
There are many spots around the state where you can cast your line and try to catch a big one.
Just remember to purchase a license and bring the proper gear with you. Then, all you need is a little patience and some luck, and you’re sure to have a successful day of fishing in Florida.
