Featured Sailfish Charters in Fort Lauderdale
Expert captains ready to take you on your next sailfish adventure.
Playtime Sportfishing
Experience the thrill of kite fishing, a specialized technique that uses a kite with release clips to suspend live bait right on the water's surface. This presentation keeps the bait struggling in distress, making it irresistible to surface-feeding predators like Sailfish, Mahi-Mahi, Blackfin Tuna, King Mackerel, and Wahoo.
Cool Runnings Sport Fishing
Join us for the finest fishing charters in North Miami. We target anything from tarpon to sailfish.
Top Shot Sportfishing Charters
Fort Lauderdale, Florida fishing charters - deep sea big game sport fishing trips for sailfish, tuna, mahi, wahoo and sharks aboard Happy Day Today charter boat.
Best Time to Catch Sailfish
Sailfish can be caught year-round in Fort Lauderdale. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Sailfish
Fort Lauderdale sits in the heart of Sailfish Alley, making it a premier destination for pursuing these billfish. The winter months, particularly from November to February, are peak season when sailfish migrate south along the Florida coast. Trolling with live bait, such as goggle eyes or threadfin herring, is the most common and productive method. Focus your efforts in depths ranging from 120 to 300 feet, paying close attention to current edges and temperature breaks. The Bahia Mar Marina is a popular departure point for charter boats and private vessels alike. A local tactic is to use a kite to present your bait near the surface, enticing sailfish to strike. Remember to use circle hooks to ensure a higher survival rate for released fish, as sailfish are primarily a catch-and-release species in this area. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, as conditions can change rapidly offshore.
How to Catch Sailfish
Sailfish Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
1 per person
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
Prohibited to possess or land sailfish in Atlantic coastal waters north of the St. Lucie Inlet.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the bag limit for sailfish in Florida?
The bag limit for sailfish in Florida is one sailfish per person.
Do I need a license to fish for sailfish in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, you will need a valid Florida Saltwater Fishing License to target sailfish in Fort Lauderdale.
Are there any size restrictions for sailfish in Florida?
There is no size limit for sailfish in Florida. However, it is important to handle sailfish carefully and release them properly to ensure their survival.
When is the best time to fish for sailfish near Fort Lauderdale?
Sailfish are typically more abundant off the coast of Fort Lauderdale during the winter months, particularly from November to April. This is when they migrate closer to shore.
More Sailfish Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Fort Lauderdale
Ready to Catch Sailfish in Fort Lauderdale?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.