Bright notes from the last 14 Days and our crew: mahi-mahi fishing has been absolutely fantastic lately, and the overall offshore bite is firing on all cylinders. Here’s the latest on what we’re seeing around Fort Lauderdale and the South Florida reefs.
What’s biting now
– Mahi-mahi (dorado): Large schools and big mahi have been the highlight, driven by cooperative east winds and abundant seagrass. Expect strong odds of multiple hookups when you find the pods.
– Sailfish: We’re seeing more respectable sizes, with several big sails showing up offshore. Kite fishing and live bait rigs have been productive for these acrobats.
– Wahoo: A steady bite in the mix, especially when trolling along the reef and deeper humps.
– Tuna and sharks: Blackfin tuna are on the prowl in late afternoons, alongside big hammerhead and other sharks patrolling the reef edges.
– Grouper season: Open and running strong. Amberjack, gag grouper, black grouper, and other reef dwellers are providing solid bottom bites on shipwrecks and reefs.
– Kingfish and bonitas: Plenty of action along the reef with good numbers of bonitas and kingfish making lasting memories for trolling rigs and downriggers.
– Bottom fishing: Excellent lately with a steady haul of groupers and jacks. Expect a mix of amberjack, gag grouper, black grouper, and some snapper on shipwrecks and structure.
Trolling and reef fishing
– Trolling along the reef has been superb over the past few days. Look for weed lines and current breaks where big mahi and sailfish like to hang.
– Reef and structure action: 150 to 400 feet of water has produced consistent bites from wahoo, sailfish, and kingfish. Don’t overlook the shipwrecks for steady bottom and mid-water action.
Bottom fishing
– The bottom bite is strong with multiple species in play: amberjack, gag, black grouper, and some snappers. The shipwrecks continue to be productive hotspots, especially for those targeting mixed bag days.
Kite fishing
– Kite fishing remains a premier method in these southeasterly winds. You’ll find large sailfish, big mahi-mahi, and occasional big blackfin tuna on live-bait presentations. This technique shines in the late afternoon during spring through early summer.
Offshore swordfishing
– Swordfishing has been lights-out. Fort Lauderdale is a world-class destination for swordfish, with both daytime and nighttime bites offering exciting encounters. For many anglers, landing a swordfish is a bucket-list moment—the kind of fish that keeps you coming back.
Overall outlook
– If you’re in town and looking to fish, you’re in the right place. The fishing has been absolutely fantastic and should continue into the summer barring major hurricane activity.
– Memorial Day weekend is a great time to get out on the water. Whether you’re planning a family charter or want to join the Marlin My Darl for a day of excitement, we’d love to have you aboard.
Book your Fort Lauderdale fishing charter
– We’re your local South Florida charter fishing company, based in Fort Lauderdale, ready to tailor a trip to your group. Whether you want to target mahi-mahi and sails on a half-day, or go deep for swordfish and tuna, we’ve got you covered.
– For availability, charters, and custom trip options, give us a call or reach out online. Let us show you a great time on the water with a memorable day of fishing in Fort Lauderdale.
Marlin My Darlin (954)778-8173
www.all-inclusivesportfishing.com
