THE ULTIMATE FLORIDA FISHING SEASONS CALENDAR: WHAT TO CATCH AND WHEN TO PLAN YOUR TRIP
From mangrove-lined estuaries to deep-sea ledges just miles from shore, Florida offers one of the most diverse and productive fishing calendars on the planet. Whether you're targeting tarpon in the Keys or sheepshead along the Panhandle’s piers, knowing what’s biting and when can turn a good trip into a legendary one. This ultimate guide breaks down Florida’s fishing opportunities by season and region, offering expert insights to help you plan the perfect angling adventure.
SPRING: MARCH – MAY
Statewide Highlights:
- Tarpon begin their epic migration along both coasts—prime time in the Keys and Everglades.
- Snook season heats up in Southwest and Southeast Florida as waters warm.
- King Mackerel and Spanish Mackerel blitz the Gulf and Atlantic nearshore waters.
Top Regional Picks:
- Florida Keys: Tarpon on fly or live bait, bonefish on the flats.
- Southwest Florida: Snook, redfish, and early cobia runs near nearshore wrecks.
- Northwest Florida: Sheepshead, pompano, and early red snapper in federal waters.
Travel Tip:
Spring Break crowds make coastal bookings tight—reserve accommodations and charters early, especially in family-friendly areas like Destin, Tampa Bay, and Marathon.
SUMMER: JUNE – AUGUST
Statewide Highlights:
- Red Snapper Season opens federally in the Gulf—massive draw for offshore anglers.
- Dolphin (Mahi-Mahi) and Wahoo peak offshore along the Atlantic coast.
- Largemouth Bass feeding frenzies during early mornings in North and Central Florida lakes.
Top Regional Picks:
- West Central Florida: Scalloping trips in Homosassa paired with inshore fishing for trout and redfish.
- East Central Florida: Offshore trolling for mahi and kingfish; nearshore tarpon in Brevard County.
- North Central Florida: Suwannee and St. Johns River systems offer top freshwater action.
Travel Tip:
Plan early mornings and sunset sessions to avoid the midday heat. Consider destinations offering shaded mangroves and cooler water inflows for inshore fishing.
FALL: SEPTEMBER – NOVEMBER
Statewide Highlights:
- Redfish school up in massive groups across the state—especially prolific in the Big Bend and Northeast regions.
- Grouper and Snapper offshore opportunities improve with cooler water temperatures.
- Snook transition from passes to backwaters and river mouths.
Top Regional Picks:
- Northeast Florida: Bull redfish in the surf and inlets of Jacksonville and St. Augustine.
- Big Bend (Steinhatchee, Cedar Key): Epic shallow water redfish action.
- Florida Bay and Everglades: Combo trips for snook, redfish, and tarpon with fewer crowds.
Travel Tip:
Fall offers fewer crowds and lower rates, making it ideal for serious anglers. Pair trips with local seafood festivals for the ultimate coastal experience.
WINTER: DECEMBER – FEBRUARY
Statewide Highlights:
- Sailfish dominate the offshore scene in Southeast Florida.
- Sheepshead spawn along rocky structures and piers in North Florida.
- Speckled Trout stack in rivers and deeper grass flats in Central and North Florida.
Top Regional Picks:
- Southeast Florida (Palm Beach to Miami): High-flying sailfish and slab-sized king mackerel.
- Panhandle: Sheepshead around bridges and jetties; trout in the bays.
- Central Florida Lakes: Crappie and largemouth bass action at its winter best.
Travel Tip:
Book your saltwater guides early during sailfish season in Southeast Florida. Freshwater options are often overlooked and offer peaceful, high-action trips.
PRO TIPS TO OPTIMIZE YOUR FLORIDA FISHING ADVENTURE
- Consult Local Forecasts: Check regional fishing forecasts from Great Florida Fishing to dial in species and hotspots.
- Hire a Charter: Especially for offshore or tarpon trips, a local guide maximizes success and minimizes learning curve.
- License and Seasons: Be sure your saltwater or freshwater licenses are valid and you’re familiar with size and bag limits.
- Follow the Moon: New and full moons boost tide movement—ideal for inshore and reef fishing action.
PLAN YOUR NEXT FISHING JOURNEY
No matter the season, Florida delivers world-class fishing. Use this calendar as your starting point, then head over to GreatFloridaFishing.com to match your travel plans with peak fishing action. From panfish in hidden lakes to pelagics offshore, the Sunshine State has a bite waiting for you—hook the thrill, live the journey.
