Common Catches
Great Catches Happen On Florida Fishing Trips
South Florida charter fishing catches vary from season to season. Those who embark on Florida fishing trips are often surprised at the wide range of species inhabiting the coastlines around Fort Lauderdale. Fish we catch range from small tropical reef fish to large pelagic game fish, so Florida fishing trips have something to offer people of all ages and skill levels.
Some species are more rare than others and inhabit the waters of South Florida at different times throughout the year. Thankfully, though, there are many species of fish that swim the coastal areas around Fort Lauderdale year-round. More often than not, our Florida fishing trips end with a great catch and lasting memories.
We believe strongly in preserving South Florida’s native fish species as best we can. Advances in marine taxidermy have helped us provide high quality trophies so you can remember your South Florida charter fishing trip while also helping to preserve the coastline’s native fish species.
The most common species caught on South Florida charter fishing trips:
SAILFISH
The Sailfish is probably the most sought after game fish on Florida fishing trips. They put on one of the most acrobatic, aerial fights with long hard runs and numerous jumps.
SWORDFISH
The swordfish is, quite possibly, the hardest fighting game fish in the ocean. They are fished for primarily at night, and usually on heavier tackle. With their sword-like bill and purple coloration, they are a highly desired prize to haul in during Florida fishing trips.
MARLIN
Although not as numerous as Sailfish or Swordfish, Marlin are sometimes caught by a lucky angler on a South Florida charter fishing trip. Because of their tendency to be where the Dolphin fish are, Marlin are usually hooked on lighter tackle which makes for a much more challenging fight.
SHARK
There are many types of Sharks in the waters off of South Florida. Some of the more frequently caught are the Hammerhead, Big Eyed Thresher, Mako, as well as some in the Requim Shark family, which includes the Bull, Black tip, Dusky, Silky, Spinner, and Sandbar sharks.
BARRACUDA
The Barracuda is an excellent light tackle game fish, known for their large sharp teeth. They have no food quality, but are one of the more popular fish to have mounted, make a great trophy and are wonderful reminders of your South Florida fishing trips.
AMBERJACK
The Amberjack has a brown back and white belly with a golden colored stripe in the middle. It also has a brown stripe around its eyes and head. It is known for its hard, long lasting fighting ability.
DOLPHIN FISH (MAHI-MAHI)
The Dolphin fish has bright green and yellow skin with blue spots, and is one of the most colorful fish you will find in the ocean. Males of the species – called bulls – have a blunt head, while the females – called cows – have a more rounded head. Sought after for their food quality, larger Dolphin fish make great South Florida charter fishing trophies.
MACKEREL
The three types of Mackerel that are caught in South Florida are Cero, Spanish, and King. The Kingfish is the largest of species, usually over ten pounds, while the Cero and Spanish range from one to about five pounds.
SNAPPER & GROUPER
There are far too many varieties of these fish to name them all. That aside, most of them are good to eat and can be prepared in a variety of ways including steaming, grilling and baking.
