Fishing in Miami

Fishing locations in Miami range from canals, bays and breakwaters along the coast to offshore reefs and wrecks.

Fishing in canals is often practiced in Miami's numerous canals, creeks and lagoons. Anglers fish for species such as mangrove snapper, jacks, tarpon and permit, as well as other saltwater species.

Fishing offshore wrecks and reefs produces snapper, amberjack, grouper and other smaller reef fish species.

Largemouth bass, pikeperch, bluegill and wreckfish are common inshore fishing species in Miami. A variety of lures and tackle are used to fish for these Species.

The Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW), the Everglades and the Miami River offer freshwater fishing opportunities in Miami.

Miami Bait of Choice

For many Miami Fishing Species, the best bait is live bait. Minnows and shrimp are common for fishing for inshore Species such as redfish and trout. Catching your own minnows for bait is easy. You can pick them up in the city's waterways or buy them at a local tackle store.

Artificials are also used for inshore and offshore fishing. Professional fly fishing pros in Miami fish for several species: bonefish, tarpon, permit and sailfish.

The proper type of fishing gear varies depending on the species you want to fish for. A typical inshore fishing outfit includes a medium to heavy rod and a good quality reel with a 20-30 pound line. For offshore fishing, you'll need gear that can handle a fight from a powerful saltwater fish like marlin or tuna. You can find local gear at your nearest Miami tackle store.

Although you can go fishing in Miami any time of the year, there are specific times of the year that offer the best results.

Winter fishing in Miami is good in Biscane Bay, with species such as trout, tarpon and bonefish. Offshore, sailfish are quite active.

Towards early spring, tarpon and bonefish arrive. Offshore there are kingfish, tuna and dorado. Also try bottom fishing in Miami during the spring.

The billfish season in Miami is best in May, June and July.

When the water warms up, tarpon migrate north. In the summer you can fish for permit offshore. Offshore, there are many pelagic species such as blackfin tuna, kingfish and bonito. Wreck fishing is excellent for snapper and grouper.

In autumn, dorado appear closer to the coast, as well as sailfish. Blackfin tuna and wahoo can also be found on the reefs. Inshore fishing continues to be excellent. In December, tarpon return from their trip north to Biscayne Bay.

Of course, this list is not all-inclusive. Contact your Miami Fishing charter for the most up-to-date information on specific species and their Seasons.

Miami is a top tourist destination, and for good reason. The South Florida American city has plenty of things to do and places to visit, from classic beaches to entertainment venues.
Spice up your stay in the city with:

- A visit to the Everglades.
- Dinner and drinks at the famous Nikki Beach Miami nightclub.
- An afternoon of shopping at Lincoln Road, one of South Florida's most popular outdoor shopping malls
- Playing golf at Miami Dade College or another nearby course
- Shopping in Miami Beach at Lincoln Road Mall, Collins Avenue or other popular area
- A visit to Bayside Marketplace for a quick bite to eat and a drink in the water
- An afternoon of sightseeing at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
- Hanging out with friends at Coyo Taco in Wynwood or another trendy spot
- Watching a game at one of Miami's best sports bars, such as Yard House
- A visit to the Wynwood Walls for an afternoon of outdoor art
- Dancing to the music at LIV nightclub, inside the famous Fontainebleau Miami Beach hotel.
- Dance the night away at E11even nightclub, where you can party like a VIP for an affordable price.
- A visit to the Brickell City Centre, in the financial district of downtown Miami.
- Breakfast or lunch at Joe's Stone Crab restaurant in South Beach
- A Trip to Matheson Hammock Park for a relaxing afternoon by the water
- A shopping spree on Lincoln Road, where you'll find Miami's top brands at some of the best prices in the world
- A unique showcase on Collins Avenue, with some great art galleries and boutiques

There you have it. We hope you enjoy your stay in South Florida, and don't hesitate to ask us if you have any questions. Cheers.

Although Anglers need a fishing license for their Miami fishing trips, licenses are covered if you go fishing with a Fishing charter.

Florida Fishing License

The state of Florida offers residents, tourists and experienced Anglers a variety of Fishing licenses to choose from, ranging from short-term to annual.

You can obtain a Florida Fishing license through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission website. You can also purchase it from licensed resellers or from a local Miami fishing tackle store.

Can You Fish Without a License in Miami?

You do not need a Florida saltwater fishing license if you are a non-resident fishing from a boat whose operator has a fishing license. This means that if you go fishing with a Fishing charter in Miami, you do not need a fishing license.

Catch Limits

To protect local fish stocks, the state of Florida has strict rules on catch limits. For each species there are minimum sizes and daily recreational bag limits. Check the rules before you cast a line in the water in Miami.