Fishing Charters in Florida
Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch catfish.
Fish-In-Daze Charters
With Destin Fishing Trips, you can try your luck catching dinner during our variety of trips! Catch ladyfish, sail catfish, and blue fish.
Scuppers Watersports
Scupper's Watersports offers the most activities on the water in the Upper Keys! We have two locations, our Key Largo location is at the beautiful Baker's Cay Resort. Our Islamorada location is at the iconic Cheeca Lodge and Spa. We have access to the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. We offer parasailing, jetskiing, snorkeling, sunset cruises, water-tricycles, clear kayaks, paddle boards and hobie cats. We also offer fishing excursions and private charters.
Best Time to Catch Catfish
Catfish can be caught year-round in Orlando. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Catfish
If you're after whiskered giants, Orlando's freshwater systems offer fantastic catfish opportunities. The St. Johns River, with its numerous tributaries and lakes, is a prime location to target channel, blue, and flathead catfish. Warmer months, particularly late spring and summer, are ideal as catfish become more active. For channel cats, try fishing with stink baits, cut bait, or nightcrawlers near submerged structures. Blue catfish often prefer larger cut bait, such as shad or mullet. Flatheads, the apex predators, are best targeted with live bait like bluegill or bullheads. Night fishing can be incredibly productive. Be mindful of the current and adjust your weight accordingly to keep your bait on the bottom. There are numerous public access points along the St. Johns River, but be sure to check local regulations regarding permitted baits and size limits.
How to Catch Catfish
Catfish Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit, except for channel catfish which is 5 per day in specific Fish Management Areas.
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
Check specific Fish Management Area regulations for channel catfish limits.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for catching Catfish in Orlando?
Commonly used baits for Catfish in Orlando include stink baits, chicken liver, nightcrawlers, and cut bait. Experiment to see what the catfish are biting on that day.
Are there any size or bag limits for Catfish in Florida?
There is no bag limit for most catfish species in Florida, except for Channel Catfish in specific Fish Management Areas where the limit is 5 per day. There is no size limit for catfish in Florida.
Where are the best places to fish for Catfish near Orlando?
Good places to fish for Catfish near Orlando include Lake Tohopekaliga, the St. Johns River, and various canals and lakes throughout Central Florida.
Can I fish for catfish year-round in Orlando?
Yes, you can fish for Catfish year-round in Orlando and throughout Florida, as there is no closed season.
More Catfish Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Orlando
Ready to Catch Catfish in Orlando?
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