Florida · Southeast
DEEP SEA FISHING FISHING
IN FORT LAUDERDALE
Explore the best deep sea fishing fishing charters in Fort Lauderdale. Book verified captains, compare prices, and fish the legendary deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs.
About Deep Sea Fishing Fishing in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, Florida offers some of the finest deep sea fishing fishing on the Gulf Coast. Fort Lauderdale is a premier deep sea fishing destination where the Gulf Stream passes within a mile of the coast, creating some of the most accessible big-game fishing in the world. Sailfish, mahi mahi, wahoo, tuna, and kingfish are caught year-round just minutes from Port Everglades. The area is especially famous for its winter sailfish migration, when double-digit releases in a single day are not uncommon. The natural and artificial reef system off Fort Lauderdale is equally impressive, with three distinct reef lines running parallel to shore holding grouper, snapper, cobia, and amberjack. Inshore, the Intracoastal Waterway, New River, and surrounding canals provide habitat for snook, tarpon, and peacock bass. Fort Lauderdale's yacht-filled marinas, waterfront dining, and proximity to world-class fishing make it a top destination for anglers visiting South Florida. The deep sea fishing waters here — deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs — provide world-class angling opportunities that draw fishermen from across the country.
Deep Sea Fishing anglers in Fort Lauderdale target an impressive roster of species including Blackfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Swordfish, Wahoo and more. Peak season runs through January, March, December, but productive deep sea fishing fishing is available year-round.
We're actively partnering with the best deep sea fishing fishing captains in Fort Lauderdale. Request a quote and we'll connect you with a top-rated local captain. All charters include gear, bait, tackle, Florida fishing licenses, and fish cleaning — everything you need for an unforgettable day on the water.
What's Biting in Fort Lauderdale This September
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Calendar — Fort Lauderdale
Month-by-month availability for deep sea fishing species. Plan your trip around peak season for the best action.
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blackfin Tuna |
P
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
P
|
| Mahi Mahi |
F
|
F
|
G
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
G
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
F
|
| Sailfish |
P
|
P
|
P
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
G
|
P
|
| Swordfish |
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
F
|
F
|
F
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
| Wahoo |
G
|
G
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
G
|
G
|
| Yellowfin Tuna |
F
|
F
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
F
|
F
|
| Blue Marlin |
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
F
|
G
|
G
|
P
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
Best Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Spots in Fort Lauderdale
From legendary bays to productive reefs, here are the top deep sea fishing fishing spots your captain will target in the Fort Lauderdale area.
Gulf Stream (Fort Lauderdale)
The Gulf Stream flows just 2-3 miles off Fort Lauderdale, closer than almost anywhere else in the United States. Sailfish are the star attraction from November through March, with Fort Lauderdale consistently producing the highest sailfish catch rates in the nation. Mahi-mahi, wahoo, and tuna are bonus catches while kite fishing for sails.
Swordfish Grounds (Deep Drop)
The deep waters east of the Gulf Stream in 1,000-1,800 feet provide world-class daytime swordfish deep-dropping. Fort Lauderdale pioneered the modern daytime swordfishing technique, and the area remains one of the most productive swordfish grounds in the Atlantic. Catches of 200-plus-pound swords are not uncommon on full-day trips.
Pushbutton Hill
Pushbutton Hill is a deepwater bottom formation roughly 20 miles offshore where the seafloor rises from over 1,000 feet to around 300 feet. This seamount concentrates swordfish, blackfin tuna, and mahi-mahi and is a legendary waypoint for Fort Lauderdale offshore captains. The upwelling currents around the structure create a natural feeding zone.
Fort Lauderdale Wrecks (Deep)
Multiple deep wrecks lie in 200-400 feet of water east of Fort Lauderdale, including the Mercedes I and the Jim Atria. These wrecks hold amberjack, almaco jack, barracuda, and large grouper on the structure, while pelagics cruise overhead in the Gulf Stream current. Deep wreck fishing is a signature Fort Lauderdale offshore technique.
Top Deep Sea Fishing Fish Species in Fort Lauderdale
These are the primary deep sea fishing species you'll target on a Fort Lauderdale charter. Click any species to learn more.
Blackfin Tuna
Thunnus atlanticus
Peak: Jan, Dec
Smaller cousin of the yellowfin but excellent eating and great light-tackle sport.
Mahi Mahi
Coryphaena hippurus
Peak: Apr, May, Jun
Also called Dolphin or Dorado. Stunningly beautiful and acrobatic. Excellent eating.
Sailfish
Istiophorus platypterus
Peak: Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
The fastest fish in the ocean with spectacular aerial displays. A premier sport fish.
Swordfish
Xiphias gladius
An iconic deep-water species prized for incredible fights and outstanding flesh.
Wahoo
Acanthocybium solandri
One of the fastest fish in the ocean. Prized for firm, white flesh and blistering runs.
Yellowfin Tuna
Thunnus albacares
A powerful open-water predator prized for sashimi-grade flesh. Found in blue water near rips and structure.
Blue Marlin
Makaira nigricans
Peak: Aug
The ultimate big game fish. Spectacular fighters that can exceed 1,000 pounds.
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Boats & Tackle in Fort Lauderdale
Here's what to expect when you book a deep sea fishing charter in Fort Lauderdale.
Boats
Deep Sea Fishing fishing in Fort Lauderdale is typically done on center consoles, sportfishers, and offshore charter boats (28-65 ft).
Tackle & Gear
Deep Sea Fishing charters in Fort Lauderdale typically use heavy conventional and trolling gear with 30-80 lb test line. Live bait, trolling lures, and heavy jigs are standard.
What to Bring
Motion sickness medication (if prone), sunscreen, hat, light rain jacket, non-marking shoes, food and drinks. All fishing gear and licenses provided by the captain.
Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Charters in Fort Lauderdale
We're partnering with top deep sea fishing fishing captains in Fort Lauderdale. Request a quote below and we'll match you with the best local experts.
Captains Coming Soon to Saltwater Pros
We're actively partnering with the best deep sea fishing fishing captains in Fort Lauderdale. Request a quote and we'll connect you with a top-rated local captain within 24 hours.
Request a Free QuoteFrequently Asked Questions About Deep Sea Fishing Fishing in Fort Lauderdale
Deep sea fishing 20+ miles out. Chase tuna, marlin, mahi mahi, wahoo and other pelagic gamefish in blue water.
The top deep sea fishing species in Fort Lauderdale include Blackfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Swordfish, Wahoo, Yellowfin Tuna. Availability varies by season — check our seasonal calendar above for month-by-month details.
The peak months for deep sea fishing fishing in Fort Lauderdale are January, March, December, when the most species are at peak availability. However, Fort Lauderdale offers productive deep sea fishing fishing year-round.
Deep Sea Fishing fishing in Fort Lauderdale is typically done on center consoles, sportfishers, and offshore charter boats (28-65 ft). These vessels are specifically designed for navigating the deep Gulf waters beyond the continental shelf, blue water, and offshore reefs.
No — when you book a charter in Fort Lauderdale, your captain provides all required Florida fishing licenses as part of the trip. You don't need to purchase a separate license.
Motion sickness medication (if prone), sunscreen, hat, light rain jacket, non-marking shoes, food and drinks. All fishing gear and licenses provided by the captain.
Deep Sea Fishing fishing can be more challenging due to longer boat rides and heavier tackle, but experienced captains in Fort Lauderdale welcome anglers of all skill levels. Let your captain know your experience level when booking so they can tailor the trip accordingly.
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