Fort Lauderdale Offshore & Reef Fishing Update
Fishing in Fort Lauderdale has been slower than average over the past couple of weeks, mainly due to rough weather patterns. While big seas often trigger strong bites, the favorable conditions did not last long enough to create sustained action. The good news is that the 10–14 day weather forecast looks excellent, with stable high pressure moving in. As conditions improve, fishing is expected to steadily get better heading deeper into winter.
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Kite Fishing Report – Fort Lauderdale
Kite fishing has been slow overall, with only a few productive days mixed in. January is typically one of the best months for sailfish in Fort Lauderdale, but recent weather instability has kept the bite inconsistent. As conditions calm and cold fronts continue to push south, sailfish activity should improve.
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Shark Fishing Report – Fort Lauderdale
Shark fishing has been exceptional. Just days ago, we landed our second Great White shark ever, which even made the news. The shark measured approximately 10½ feet long and weighed an estimated 300–400 pounds.
Winter shark fishing in Fort Lauderdale can be extremely productive. While bites are not always frequent, the sharks you do encounter this time of year are typically very large and powerful, making for unforgettable fishing experiences.
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Reef Trolling Report – Fort Lauderdale
Reef trolling has been very consistent, especially during late afternoon trips. Anglers have been catching blackfin tuna, wahoo, barracuda, and several large sailfish. This style of fishing remains productive throughout the winter months.
If you’re looking for edible fish during winter, reef trolling is one of the best options through March. There have also been a few mahi-mahi mixed in along the reef.
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Swordfish Fishing Report – Fort Lauderdale
Swordfishing offshore has been excellent, both during the daytime and at night. Swordfish are one of the most challenging fish in the ocean to catch, and trips can be feast or famine. Approximately 50% of hooked swordfish are lost due to their soft flesh and unique feeding behavior.
These challenges are exactly what make swordfish one of the most sought-after deep-sea game fish, and they are also among the best-tasting fish in the ocean.
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Bottom Fishing Report – Fort Lauderdale
Bottom fishing has been slow, with only a few golden tilefish and small snappers caught offshore. Grouper fishing is limited due to seasonal closures in our area.
However, shallow-water snapper fishing along the reef has been productive. Species such as yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, mangrove snapper, and lane snapper are biting. This is a great option for families or anglers fishing with kids who want steady action.
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Offshore Mahi-Mahi Fishing Report
Offshore mahi-mahi fishing has been very slow, which is typical for this time of year. Most mahi migrate through South Florida during the summer months, with peak season running July through October. Recent offshore trips have required moving back toward the reef to find consistent action.
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Fort Lauderdale Fishing Outlook
Overall fishing in Fort Lauderdale has been slow recently, but that usually means conditions are about to improve. As winter cold fronts continue pushing south, they bring larger migratory game fish into our area. The upcoming weather forecast is very promising, and fishing should continue to improve in the coming weeks.
If you’re visiting Fort Lauderdale and looking to go fishing with family, friends, or coworkers—or if you’d like to book a corporate fishing charter—we’d love to have you onboard.
Marlin My Darlin
(954) 778-8173
www.all-inclusivesportfishing.
