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If you close your eyes and think of a place to fish whether it is in an ocean, river or lake, Florida ought to come in most people’s minds. Residing between the ever blue Gulf of Mexico and the magnificent Atlantic Ocean, Florida has become one of the most renowned vacation destinations for everyone over the years.
Whether you are looking for fly-fishing sites or deep water fishing, you can get it all in Florida. Having an array of saltwater and freshwater hotspots, Florida is considered as the ‘Fishing Capital of the World’ by most fishing enthusiasts.
If you are thinking of driving down to Florida to catch some bass or panfish, you need to know about all of the best spots for fishing. Hence, in this article, we will talk about all of the best places you could find in Florida for fishing opportunities irrespective of your age or skill level.
10 Fishing Spots in Florida You Cannot Miss
| Bradenton Beach | On Anna Maria Island off the Gulf Cost |
| Amelia Island | North East coast of Florida |
| Daytona Beach | On the Atlantic Costal part of Florida |
| Steinhatchee | Southern part of Taylor Country in Florida |
| Charlotte Harbor | On the South West Coast of Florida |
| Key Largo | In Monroe Country, Florida |
| Islamorada | In Monroe Country, Florida |
| Fort Pierce | On the Treasure Cost |
| Key West | Island City of Florida |
| Sarasota | Located on the Southwest Cost of Florida |
Why Should You Fish In Florida?
Florida claims that it is the Fishing Capital of the World for pretty solid reasons. Not only does the state have great resources but it also contains endless diversity of amazing weather, awestruck habitats, countless possibilities of sport fish as well as year-round fish and last but not the least, it also has a defining infrastructure relating to fishing industry which contributes 5 billion dollars to the US economy.
Florida comprises more than 7700 lakes, 10550 miles of beautiful rivers and 2276 miles of sandy tidal shorelines which gives you never finishing spots to fish whether it is with your friends or family. After every five years, a survey is conducted by the National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation which is the basic standard that draws a comparison between the recreational activities conducted by different states. The survey conducted in 2006 concluded Florida as the top fishing destination.
Though there is no hard and fast rule to determine which time or season is best for fishing, according to popular beliefs, it is best if you go fishing early in the morning or late in the evening during the hot, summer days. During the spring and autumn seasons, it is preferable that you fish around the dusk time. Though lucky for the citizens of the US, in the southern parts of the country, fish are swimming blissfully in the rivers, lakes or oceans around the year so even in winter’s you can catch a fish.
Each person has a different taste and preference and likes to act accordingly. While some people love to fish in freshwater rivers and lakes, others like to hunt the sea monsters residing in the salty water.
Best 5 Saltwater Fishing Spots in Florida
In this section we’re going to hit some of the best spots to go fishing in Florida, which can include rivers, lakes, beaches, and even locations off the coast! We want to give you the best ideas for your next fishing trip to one of the top fishing states in the US!
1. Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach resides on the Atlantic Coast of Florida. Known for the Daytona International Speedway, the beach consists of hard-packed sand roads so you can drive right up to the ocean. Furthermore, in addition to an unreal variety of different kinds of fish to catch, the Beach’s Bandshell stages give you a phenomenal concert free of charge! Furthermore, it contains a water park that has go-karts, waterslides, laser tag and much more. That all makes it the perfect get-a-way site for fishing.
Some of the fish that you can hook onto your fishing rod or even your spear are Redfish, Sharks, Snook, Jack Crevalle, Spotted Sea Trout, Scamp Grouper, Mangrove Snapper, Marlin, Flounder, Tarpon and Black Drum! Thus, you will get a variety of fish to catch and have for lunch or dinner.
The weather is perfect for a family day out. The beach stays in the sun all year round and the super mild temperatures make fishing enjoyable anytime. The cold oceanic breeze gives you refreshing, salty winds in the summer while in winters, the temperature turns cool with windy days and cloudy skies.
One of the great advantages Daytona Beach has over other locations is that there are plenty of piers to fish off of, so you don’t need a boat to land that massive catch! Some of the deep sea fish like Marlins you will need a boat, but if you’re going for a relaxing family vacation fishing off a pier will do the trick!
2. Charlotte Harbor
Located on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, Charlotte Harbor is the second-largest bay in Florida and it is known for the man-made waterways, abundant recreational opportunities, and ever-growing commercial complexes. It is located between the two Counties of Florida –Charlotte County and Lee County. Moreover, it has been considered as one of the best places to live after retirement with endless activities like golfing, fishing and sailing easily accessible around the clock.
Some of the fish that you can catch at the harbor are the common snook, the red drum, cobia, tarpon, Spotted Seatrout, the grouper and much more.
In Charlotte Harbour, the summers are characterized with long, sweaty, and sunny days while the winters are short with chilly winds and a typically overcast the majority of the day. Overall, the temperature of the place varies from 52 degrees to 91 Degrees Fahrenheit.
The barrier Islands and the beaches that reside around Charlotte Harbor have become the main target of many anglers. Furthermore, various deep sear fishing enthusiasts have caught fish as large as 180 pounds Tarpon! Shallow water fishing participants have caught a variety of trough, redfish, and snook. One of the big draws to Charlotte Harbor is the accessibility of fishing either deep sea or just off the shore!
3. Key Largo
Key Largo is one of the first-ever Florida Keys that has proclaimed itself as the ‘Dive Capital of the World’. It homes the world’s biggest artificial reefs, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the 510-foot USS Spiegel Grove and the African Queen. Furthermore, it has magnificent mangrove forests and expansive flats that cause a huge influx of tourists.
It is located in Monroe County –in the upper Florida keys. In addition to fishing, it has various watersport activities like swimming with the dolphins, and kayaking. If you just want to relax, grab a tropical drink and watch the beautiful shell on the coastline. Marlin, Kingfish, Spearfish, Wahoo, Sailfish, Dolphin, Barracuda, Tuna, Cobia, Sharks and Jacks are just some of the popular fish that are found in the water. The keys are closest to the equator and get a variety of weather changes around the year. Varying from sunny days in the summer to cold nights in the winters and occasional showers, Key Largo has it all!
It is considered one of the most beautiful fishing places in the United States. Since it contains a number of colorful fish, it attracts a lot of anglers. Fish like bonefish, snook, and tarpon are major attention grabbers of many anglers.
4. Islamorda
Known as the Sportfishing Capital of the world, it is famous for its astonishing collection of coral reefs and the world’s largest fishing fleet per square mile! The village contains six of the most beautiful keys to Florida. It is located between Miami and Key West on five different islands. Lower Matecumbe Key, Tea Table Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Plantation Key, and Windley Key.
Islamorada is known for the set of amazing sea life and fun sea life and incredible beaches that it adorns. If you are looking for a weekend getaway, Islamorada can be the ideal location to just forget about reality for a few days. Moreover, with snorkel tours, water sports abound, and scuba diving, you will forget all about work and relationship strains.
Behold, fishing enthusiasts! Did you know that activities under, near or above water are available around the clock? Yes, they are! Some of the local fish found swimming in the clear waters of Islamorada are Jack Cravelle, Tarpon, Snook, Bonefish, Spotted Sea Trout, Permit, Black drum, and Ladyfish.
Whether it rains or not, people are fishing 365 days a year in this vibrant fishing town. With the warm temperature in the months of July and August and lowest in January, February, and December, it is a perfect place for fishing. No matter, whether you are an angler, deep-sea diver or a freshwater fish hunter.
5. Amelia Island
On the Atlantic coast of Florida, an island “Amelia Island” resides, which is one of the sea islands chains of barrier islands. It is known for its history of French, American, British and Spanish rule. Furthermore, it is one of the most popular vacation destinations due to golf courses, resorts, and abundant sandy beaches.
Some of the best go-to places in the city are Fort Clinch State Park, Big Talbot Island Boneyard each and Amelia Island State Park.
With a small population of 25,000 only, the island is breathtaking. Including tourist guides and horseback rides, you will be able to observe the golden-hued sand and enjoy your day while fishing King Mackerel or Wahoo.
Best 5 Fishing Cities in Florida
In this section we’re going to hit some of the best cities to stay in while planning a fishing trip in Florida. If you’re a big group or have a few people that aren’t interested, its always good to have other attractions and things to do while you’re out on the water landing fish left and right!
1. Bradenton Beach
Bradenton Beach is a city located on Anna Maria Island in Manatee County. It is the 52nd largest city in Florida. In addition, it has an estimated population of the city is 57,644 according to a recent census.
The city is known for sugar-sand beaches, fishing piers and long arrays of shops. Furthermore, the restaurants that will keep you busy if you decide to visit the place. Some of its most endearing sites to visit are Coquina Beach, Anna Maria Island, Bridge Street and Cortez Beach.
2. Sarasota
Residing in the south of Tampa on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Sarasota hosts numerous cultural institutes. Moreover, it is home to various beaches that have fine sand and deep sea-green water containing various types of fish. The destination has many public access points to the ocean and various tour guides that will make sure you enjoy your day fishing and also get the insider tips on the best things to do around Sarasota.
There are tons of bright, distinct fish which are in the area; Snook, Spanish Mackerel, Redfish, Pompano, Bluefish, Speckled Trout, Jack Crevalle and Mangrove Snapper are a few of the main ones but there are tons of others! These fish take both artificial lures and live bait so no matter your skill level; you will surely be able to easily catch a fish during your time in Florida.
The weather is Sarasota contains both unbearable sweaty days and the pleasant cool days. March, April, and November are the heavenly months in the area where the temperature is nice and comfortable for fishing. Whereas July and August can leave people to sweating profusely and trying to find ways to deal with the humidity. The beauty of fishing in Florida is that you can do it all year round (excluding hurricanes) and the weather and enviroment will always be beautiful and enjoyable!
3. Steinhatchee
With a population of 920, Steinhatchee is the 15659th largest city in the US. It has a population density (288 square mi) 30% less than that of Florida’s Average population density.
The location of this is in the southern part of Taylor County, Steinhatchee is a gulf coast community which is prevalent for its Spanish moss and various fishing opportunities. Also, the place combines the aesthetics of the 19th century with the ease of the 21st century and is the perfect option for those looking to get off the beaten path and have a unique Florida vacation!
Some of the big attractions other than fishing are the Steinhatchee falls, Hagens cove, Tide Swamp Wildlife and Hangen’s cove park just to name a few.
4. Fort Pierce
Fort Pierce is a city on the east coast of Florida and is popular as the ‘Sunrise City. It has been the hub of St. Lucie County for more than 100 years and has a current population of 45,581 people as per the census of 2017. The coast it is on is called the Treasure Coast which was named due to the Treasure Fleet of Spain that sank in the 18th century.
Just because it is one of the oldest communities on the east side of Florida does not mean that it lacks its own beauty and attraction. It homes Florida A1A which is a beach lagoon and a running place, Hutchinson Island, Ft. Pierce Inlet State Park and Navy UDT SEAL Museum.
Having abundant opportunities to catch fish, the city allows recreational activities like swimming, snorkeling, bird-watching, surfing and much more.
5. Key West
Known for its jaw-dropping sunsets and tolerant atmosphere. Key West draws visitors from not the only United States but from all around the world. It is in the southernmost part of Florida. Also, it is a part of the Florida Keys Archipelago.
Pastel-hued, conch-style houses, coral reefs, and beaches are major characteristics of this small city. It has a population of 25,208 according to the census in 2017.
Key West is popular for catching deep water dishes like Blackfin Tuna, King or Cero Mackerel, Mahi Mahi. In the winters, yellowtail, grouper, mutton snappers, and snapper are most eaten.
There are various charters and boat rentals that let you tour around the coral reefs, shallow water and mangrove islands of Key West. Moreover, you get numerous opportunities for fishing, swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the sea.
Wrapping Up The Best Fishing In Florida
Florida is one of the most popular states of the US when it comes to having a tremendous, worth remembering vacation. With multiple islands, Florida Keys and villages, towns and cities, you get ample chances of engaging in various activities. Not only fishing but also swimming, diving, snorkeling, and many other recreational activities. Furthermore, the state contains diverse types of fish. So, you will get to try out different types of fish and different tastes wherever you go within the state of Florida.