Florida · Southeast
INSHORE FISHING
IN MIAMI
Explore the best inshore fishing charters in Miami. Book verified captains, compare prices, and fish the legendary calm bays, estuaries, grass flats, and mangrove-lined shorelines.
About Inshore Fishing in Miami
Miami, Florida offers some of the finest inshore fishing on the Gulf Coast. Miami offers world-class fishing with the Gulf Stream flowing just miles from shore, providing one of the shortest runs to blue water anywhere on the East Coast. Sailfish, mahi mahi, wahoo, kingfish, and swordfish are targeted year-round in the deep Atlantic waters, with winter sailfish season drawing anglers from around the globe. Miami's innovative kite fishing technique was pioneered right here and remains one of the most effective methods for hooking sailfish and tuna. Inshore, Biscayne Bay is a massive shallow-water playground for snook, tarpon, bonefish, and permit on the flats, while the bay's bridges and channels hold snapper, grouper, and barracuda. The Government Cut inlet and the jetties produce exciting action for a variety of species. Miami's world-famous nightlife, dining, and beaches combined with elite-level fishing make it one of the most exciting fishing destinations in the world. The inshore waters here — calm bays, estuaries, grass flats, and mangrove-lined shorelines — provide world-class angling opportunities that draw fishermen from across the country.
Inshore anglers in Miami target an impressive roster of species including Black Drum, Flounder, Mangrove Snapper, Pompano, Redfish and more. Peak season runs through April, May, June, but productive inshore fishing is available year-round.
We're actively partnering with the best inshore fishing captains in Miami. 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 Miami This September
Inshore Fishing Calendar — Miami
Month-by-month availability for inshore species. Plan your trip around peak season for the best action.
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Drum |
F
|
F
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
F
|
| Flounder |
R
|
R
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
R
|
| Mangrove Snapper |
F
|
F
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
P
|
P
|
G
|
G
|
F
|
F
|
F
|
| Pompano |
F
|
F
|
G
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
F
|
F
|
| Redfish |
F
|
F
|
F
|
F
|
F
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
F
|
F
|
F
|
F
|
| Sheepshead |
G
|
G
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
F
|
G
|
| Snook |
F
|
G
|
G
|
P
|
P
|
G
|
G
|
G
|
P
|
G
|
G
|
F
|
| Speckled Trout |
R
|
R
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
R
|
R
|
| Tarpon |
—
|
—
|
—
|
G
|
P
|
P
|
G
|
F
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
Best Inshore Fishing Spots in Miami
From legendary bays to productive reefs, here are the top inshore fishing spots your captain will target in the Miami area.
Biscayne Bay Flats
The shallow grass flats of Biscayne Bay offer world-class sight-fishing for bonefish, permit, and tarpon on the southern end near Elliott Key and Sands Key. The bay's crystal-clear water and expansive turtle grass beds make it one of the closest bonefish fisheries to any major U.S. city. Guides pole skiffs across the flats on calm mornings for trophy fish.
Government Cut
Government Cut is the main shipping channel entrance to the Port of Miami between Miami Beach and Fisher Island. Tarpon, snook, jack crevalle, and large barracuda patrol the channel edges and jetties year-round. Night fishing around the channel markers produces consistent action, especially during the spring and summer tarpon migration.
Rickenbacker Causeway Bridge
The Rickenbacker Causeway connecting Miami to Key Biscayne features bridge pilings and channel edges holding tarpon, snook, sheepshead, and mangrove snapper. The adjacent flats on both sides of the causeway are prime territory for bonefish and permit on the higher stages of the tide. It is one of the most accessible urban fishing spots in South Florida.
Black Point Marina Area
The mangrove shorelines and flats around Black Point Marina in southern Biscayne Bay provide excellent snook, redfish, and tarpon fishing. The nearby channels connecting to Card Sound offer access to additional bonefish and permit flats on the oceanside. The area serves as a gateway between the bay and the upper Florida Keys backcountry.
Top Inshore Fish Species in Miami
These are the primary inshore species you'll target on a Miami charter. Click any species to learn more.
Black Drum
Pogonias cromis
A powerful bottom-feeding species found in bays and passes. Juveniles are excellent table fare.
Flounder
Paralichthys albiguttata
A prized flatfish found along sandy bottoms and structure. Excellent table fare and fun to catch on light tackle.
Mangrove Snapper
Lutjanus griseus
Peak: Jun, Jul
Also called Gray Snapper. Found around structure, mangroves, and docks. Excellent eating.
Pompano
Trachinotus carolinus
One of the most prized eating fish in the Gulf. Found in the surf and along sandy beaches.
Redfish
Sciaenops ocellatus
Also known as Red Drum, one of the most sought-after inshore gamefish in the Gulf. Known for powerful runs and the distinctive spot on the tail.
Sheepshead
Archosargus probatocephalus
The "convict fish" with distinctive black and white stripes. Found around structure and pilings, known for stealing bait.
Snook
Centropomus undecimalis
Peak: Apr, May, Sep
A premier inshore gamefish found around structure, passes, and mangroves in south and central Florida.
Speckled Trout
Cynoscion nebulosus
A favorite inshore species found throughout the Gulf. Excellent eating fish that feeds aggressively on live bait and artificial lures.
Tarpon
Megalops atlanticus
Peak: May, Jun
The Silver King. One of the most exciting gamefish in the world, known for spectacular aerial acrobatics.
Inshore Fishing Boats & Tackle in Miami
Here's what to expect when you book a inshore charter in Miami.
Boats
Inshore fishing in Miami is typically done on bay boats, flats boats, and skiffs (typically 18-24 ft).
Tackle & Gear
Inshore charters in Miami typically use light spinning tackle with 6-12 lb test line. Live shrimp, cut bait, and soft plastics are the top choices.
What to Bring
Sunscreen (reef-safe), polarized sunglasses, light layers, non-marking shoes, snacks, and water. Your captain provides all fishing gear, tackle, bait, and licenses.
Inshore Fishing Charters in Miami
We're partnering with top inshore fishing captains in Miami. 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 inshore fishing captains in Miami. Request a quote and we'll connect you with a top-rated local captain within 24 hours.
Request a Free QuoteFrequently Asked Questions About Inshore Fishing in Miami
Fish the bays, flats, and passes close to shore. Target redfish, speckled trout, flounder and more in calm, protected waters.
The top inshore species in Miami include Black Drum, Flounder, Mangrove Snapper, Pompano, Redfish, Sheepshead. Availability varies by season — check our seasonal calendar above for month-by-month details.
The peak months for inshore fishing in Miami are April, May, June, when the most species are at peak availability. However, Miami offers productive inshore fishing year-round.
Inshore fishing in Miami is typically done on bay boats, flats boats, and skiffs (typically 18-24 ft). These vessels are specifically designed for navigating the calm bays, estuaries, grass flats, and mangrove-lined shorelines.
No — when you book a charter in Miami, your captain provides all required Florida fishing licenses as part of the trip. You don't need to purchase a separate license.
Sunscreen (reef-safe), polarized sunglasses, light layers, non-marking shoes, snacks, and water. Your captain provides all fishing gear, tackle, bait, and licenses.
Absolutely! Inshore fishing in Miami is one of the best options for beginners and families. The calm waters, light tackle, and consistent action make it an ideal introduction to saltwater fishing. Most captains welcome children and first-timers.
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