Florida offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities throughout the year, with both freshwater and saltwater species available in different seasons. Whether you’re an avid angler or a casual fisherman, understanding the seasonal patterns of fish in Florida can help you plan your fishing trips and increase your chances of success.
Freshwater Fishing Seasons in Florida
January to March
During the winter months, the freshwater fishing in Florida is focused on species such as Bass, Bluegill, Redear, Specks (Crappie), Stripers, Sunshines, and Catfish. These fish are active and can be targeted in lakes, rivers, and ponds across the state.
April to May
As spring arrives, the freshwater fishing shifts slightly, with Redear, Specks, Stripers, Sunshines, and Catfish being the primary targets. Bass may still be active, but their activity may decrease during this time.
June to December
The summer and fall months bring a resurgence of Bass activity, along with continued action on Specks, Stripers, Sunshines, and Catfish. Stripers and Catfish can also be targeted during the winter months.
Saltwater Fishing Seasons in Florida
January to February
In the Florida Keys, anglers can target Tarpon, Bonefish, and Black Drum during the winter months. Offshore, species like Tuna, Sailfish, and Wahoo are also available.
March to April
As spring approaches, Amberjack and Marlin arrive in the Gulf of Mexico, while inshore species like Redfish, Snook, and Speckled Trout remain active.
May to June
The summer months bring a variety of offshore species, including Red Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack, and King Mackerel. Inshore species like Redfish, Snook, and Trout continue to be active.
December
In the winter, Tarpon, Bonefish, and Permit are active in the Florida Keys, while Sailfish can be found off the coast of Miami and Palm Beach.
Specific Species Seasons
Red Snapper
The best months for catching Red Snapper in Florida are May and June.
Grouper
The prime months for Grouper fishing in Florida are from November to March.
Amberjack
The best months for Amberjack fishing are April and May.
King Mackerel
The peak season for King Mackerel in Florida is from December to March.
Tarpon
The best months for Tarpon fishing in Florida are from June to October.
Fishing Regulations and Resources
It’s important to always check with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for the most up-to-date information on fishing regulations and seasons. Additionally, resources like the Lime Tree Bay Resort’s fishing calendar and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s seasonal fishing calendar can provide valuable information on the best times to target specific species.
Additional Tips
Solunar Theory
The Solunar Theory can help anglers predict fishing activity based on moon phases and peak-fishing times, which can be useful in planning your fishing trips.
Water Temperature
Monitoring the monthly temperature averages for key Florida cities and understanding the preferred feeding and spawning temperatures for various species can also help you time your fishing trips effectively.
By understanding the seasonal patterns of fish in Florida, anglers can plan their fishing trips more effectively and increase their chances of success. Whether you’re targeting freshwater or saltwater species, this guide to Whats in Season Florida Fishing can help you make the most of your time on the water.
References
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (n.d.). Seasonal Fishing Calendar. Retrieved from https://myfwc.com/fishing/freshwater/fishing-tips/seasons/
Fishing Booker. (2024). Fishing Seasons in Florida: The Complete Guide for 2024. Retrieved from https://fishingbooker.com/blog/florida-fishing-seasons/
Lime Tree Bay Resort. (n.d.). Florida Keys Fishing Seasons. Retrieved from https://limetreebayresort.com/amenities-activities/fishing-calendar/
Black Label Marine Group. (2024). Florida Fishing Seasons Guide. Retrieved from https://blacklabelmarinegroup.com/blog/florida-fishing/
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (n.d.). Saltwater Recreational Fishing Regulations. Retrieved from https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/.