Florida · Southeast
SWORDFISH FISHING
IN FORT LAUDERDALE
Fort Lauderdale is a solid destination for swordfish fishing, with good fishing in January, February, March, April. Book a charter and target swordfish with local experts.
About Swordfish Fishing in Fort Lauderdale
An iconic deep-water species prized for incredible fights and outstanding flesh.
Fort Lauderdale is a solid destination for swordfish fishing, offering good fishing in January, February, March, April. The best months to target swordfish here are January, February, March, April.
Scientific name: Xiphias gladius
Swordfish Seasonal Calendar — Fort Lauderdale
Month-by-month availability for swordfish in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
How to Catch Swordfish in Fort Lauderdale
Techniques & Bait
Consult your local charter captain for the most effective baits and techniques in the area.
Recommended Tackle
Your captain will provide all tackle and gear suited to the target species and local conditions.
Best Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Spots in Fort Lauderdale
Top spots where local captains target swordfish and other deep sea fishing species.
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.
Other Species in Fort Lauderdale
More fish you can target while visiting Fort Lauderdale.
Swordfish Fishing in Fort Lauderdale — FAQ
Swordfish fishing in Fort Lauderdale is productive during January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November, December.
Swordfish fishing charters in Fort Lauderdale are typically deep sea fishing trips. Prices vary by trip duration and group size. Most charters include all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning.
Consult your local charter captain for the most effective baits and techniques in the area.
No — when you book a charter in Fort Lauderdale, your captain provides all required Florida fishing licenses as part of the trip.
Swordfish regulations in Florida include minimum size limits and bag limits that vary by season. Your captain will know the current regulations and ensure compliance.
While targeting Swordfish in Fort Lauderdale, you may also catch Sailfish, Snook, Mahi Mahi, Blackfin Tuna, Mangrove Snapper. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
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