“Let’s go fishing.” The phrase perks the ears, raises the blood pressure and gets many a boater champing at the bit. There is nothing like hitting your favorite fishing spot at the crack of dawn, cool breeze mixing with the warmth of the day’s first rays of sunlight. Spending the day catching (or at least trying to catch) Florida fish is a Sunshine State pastime that we love.
However, Florida is such an eclectic bastion of fishing hot spots that it’s sometimes hard to figure out exactly which Florida fish are in season and where to drop your lure.
Which Florida Fish Can I Catch?
- Grouper – Generally found at lower depths, there are multiple species of grouper found throughout West and Southwest Florida.
- King Mackerel – Often found near shore and migrating south during cooler months, this fish is popular among tournament fishermen.
- Red Drum – Residing in mostly shallow, salty or brackish waters of Southwest Florida, these fish used to be overfished but are now allowed to catch up to two fish per day (outside of federal waters).
- Red Snapper – This pink-hued Florida fish is allowed to be caught in the Gulf up to nine nautical miles from shore and up to three nautical miles in the Atlantic.
- Sailfish – A fish known for its sword-like nose, large dorsal fin and ability to jump out of the water, this beauty is a prized catch in the tropical/subtropical waters of South Florida.
- Spotted Sea Trout – Found in the shallower waters of Indian River Lagoon and Clearwater areas, this is another extremely popular sportfish.
- Tarpon – Though not known for its good eating, tarpon is a gamefish that’s sure to put up a noble fight. Find this super popular gamefish across the east of the state, including Tampa, the Keys, and Fort Myers.
Note that all of the fish listed above may have varying rules and regulations associated with them. To make sure you’re following Florida’s fishing regulations, be sure to check in on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for a comprehensive list. If you need any help finding a boat lift that can help keep your vessel safe after that big fishing trip, we may just know a thing or two. Oh, and feel free to let us know if you need help with leftovers from your fish fry.
