Tag Archive for: Fishing

Lake George, Florida, United States

Just 20 minutes northwest of Deland and 30 minutes east of Ocala sits one of the preeminent largemouth bass fishing destinations in central Florida. Lake George is Florida’s second largest lake (roughly 46,000 acres) with portions of the lake in both Putnam and Volusia counties. The lake is part of the St. Johns River system (also see Lake Monroe) and contains fairly extensive vegetation providing an exceptional habitat for a wide variety of fish.

Public access is available from Blue Creek Road to Lake George Road off of Highway 40. Private / paid launches are also available, check out our map which includes details about both the public and private launches. Pine Island Fish Camp (386-749-2818) and Georgetown Marina & Lodge (386-467-2002) are two popular private launches. Lake George is also accessible by a fishing pier located along the east side of the lake at the end of Nine Mile Point Road.

Fish Species

Largemouth Bass

The lake’s fairly extensive vegetation provides a great habitat for bass. Your best bets are around deeper structures such as the jetties at the south side of lake, old pilings found at numerous locations throughout the lake as well as docks, partially sumerged tree trunks (dead-heads) as well as other submerged obstructions. Live bait such as shiners as well as deep diving crank baits are going to be your best bets in these areas. Other options include fishing in areas of eel grass with top-water baits such as buzz baits or even plastic worms fished on the surface. In the cooler months as well as in early morning and late afternoon of warm months fishing live baits near the edges of the eelgrass beds gives you a great opportunity for success. Hot spots on the lake include the areas near Juniper Creek, Salt Springs and Silver Glen Spring Springs Run. During the cooler months of the year fishing the jetties on the south side fo the lake can also be very productive.

The lake also plays host to variety of other species including: Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Black Crappie, Striped Bass and Brown Bullhead. Striped bass tend to move to deeper areas. Crickets are a great bait option for Bluegill; worms usually work better for Redear Sunfish.

 

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Everglades, Florida, United States

When it comes to fishing the Everglades, you can catch fish year-round. Most anglers come here to catch snook, tarpon and redfish. But you’re definitely not limited to those species. The fishing opportunities in Everglades National Park are vast. You can catch permits, ladyfish, jacks, sharks, redfish, tarpon, black drum and triple tail. And the best part is that you can catch tarpon 365 days a year. There is no other place on earth you can do that. It’s a fly fishermen’s dream.

Fish Species

Tarpon

As mentioned, tarpon can be caught year-round in the Everglades, with peak fishing opportunities occurring in July. From the gulf, all the way to the deepest back country big tarpons can be hauled in all day if you know how to fish for them. The tarpon here range from around 6 pounds to upwards of 150 pounds. We recommend using a 10 -12 weight rod if you’re targeting big tarpon. If you’re looking to catch juvenile tarpon then you can go with a 8 or 9 weight rod.

Snook

Fly fishing for snook at Pompano Beach is something local anglers love. They say to target the mangrove shorelines and the flats. You can catch nice size snook here —from between 3 and 12 pounds. They’re typically caught on a 6 – 9 weight rod.

Redfish

You can catch reddish in the Everglades pretty much anywhere. Fish for them along the Everglade’s Gulf Coast, and in deep backcountry waters. The reds here weigh between 3 and 12 pounds. Try using a 6 – 9 weight rod.

Where to Fish

Fishing at Everglades National Park is absolutely magical. You’re exposed to amazing wildlife, and some of the best saltwater fishing Florida has to offer. It’s one of he best places you can visit to hone your fly saltwater fishing skills and master sight fishing with light tackle gear.

The Everglades is a very diverse fishery. This area of Florida, also referred to as the “ ruler of grass “, runs from Florida Bay to Lake Okeechobee. You can fly fish for rolling tarpon, or hit the flats to catch some nice size redfish. Within the same fishing area you can catch snook, trout, redfish, grouper, snapper, black drum, trample tail and largemouth bass. Plus, Everglades National Park also has diverse wildlife. There’s a variety of birds such as wood storks, blue herons, roseate spoonbills and egrets. Flamingo is the perfect family fishing getaway.

If you want to snag some South Florida tarpon, then Ft. Lauderdale is a prime fishing destination. The channel known as Port Everglades runs from the Atlantic ocean to the Intra coastal waterway, and feeds the Ft Lauderdale fishing areas. It brings in some of the largest tarpon in Florida, weighing up to 200 pounds. Ft. Lauderdale’s offshore fishing opportunities are endless, and there’s also excellent inshore fishing opportunities as well. Near the bridges of Bahia Mar, you can catch really big snook during the fall and spring mullet run.

We highly recommend night fishing in Ft Lauderdale. There are underwater lights in the intercostal highway dock area to help anglers see. They also attract bait fish. In turn, the bait fish attract predatory fish like Tarpon, red, and snook. These well lit dock areas are the best places to use live bait. We suggest trolling the shadowy perimeter of these dock areas to catch giant tarpon.

The natural structures in Ft Lauderdale waters help you catch fish as well. We suggest setting a drift tide approach. This means casting your lure or bait towards drift structures like bridges or pilings, and letting them drift to areas with the most fish. Tarpon, reds, and snook sit and wait at the shadows, and will gladly bite your lure once it reaches them. Target the bridges proximal to the inlets. They tend to hold the most fish.This technique is the best way to night fish at Ft. Lauderdale.

Night fishing yields the the most snook and tarpon. This is because tarpon and snook are night feeders. They prefer low light conditions. Since night fishing is not always possible, we suggest fishing for tarpon and snook early in the morning or late in the evening. During these times, the light levels are low to moderate.

When it comes to inshore fishing at Ft. Lauderdale, there are many advantages. For starters, you won’t get sea sick. Since you’re in shallow waters, there will be no bumpy ride, plus the weather won’t be a big factor. Hitting bays, canals, and estuaries is a great way to catch lots of fish without going offshore. Plus you can fish with light tackle in these areas. Giant snook thrive in these areas, which makes it exciting!

If bass fishing is your forte, then fishing the Florida Everglades is a dream come true. On a really good day you can catch 100 bass or more using a fly and spin tackle. All you need is a fly rod and pretty much any type of top water bug. Just ask around, you’ll hear stories of anglers watching bass swim up and explode on their top water fly. If you’re a beginner fly fisherman, go with a longer rod. It will help with the accuracy and distance of your casts.

If you’re fishing for largemouth bass in the Everglades, you’ll need to bring the best fishing gear. We recommend using a 5 – 8 weight rod. Going with a lighter rod, such as a 5 or 6 weight makes it more fun to catch bass. But to catch Everglade lunkers you will want to go with a 7 or 8 weight rod. Use top water lures like gurgles, poppers, or various types of water flies. If you want to fish deeper, go with clousers. We also recommend using a 25 – 30 pound tippet when fishing for bass in dense cover. This helps if you get caught on a lily pad. And there a lot of lily pads in the Everglades.

 

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Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, United States

When it comes to fishing the Everglades, you can catch fish year-round. Most anglers come here to catch snook, tarpon and redfish. But you’re definitely not limited to those species. The fishing opportunities in Everglades National Park are vast. You can catch permits, ladyfish, jacks, sharks, redfish, tarpon, black drum and triple tail. And the best part is that you can catch tarpon 365 days a year. There is no other place on earth you can do that. It’s a fly fishermen’s dream.

Fish Species

Tarpon

As mentioned, tarpon can be caught year-round in the Everglades, with peak fishing opportunities occurring in July. From the gulf, all the way to the deepest back country big tarpons can be hauled in all day if you know how to fish for them. The tarpon here range from around 6 pounds to upwards of 150 pounds. We recommend using a 10 -12 weight rod if you’re targeting big tarpon. If you’re looking to catch juvenile tarpon then you can go with a 8 or 9 weight rod.

Snook

Fly fishing for snook at Pompano Beach is something local anglers love. They say to target the mangrove shorelines and the flats. You can catch nice size snook here —from between 3 and 12 pounds. They’re typically caught on a 6 – 9 weight rod.

Redfish

You can catch reddish in the Everglades pretty much anywhere. Fish for them along the Everglade’s Gulf Coast, and in deep backcountry waters. The reds here weigh between 3 and 12 pounds. Try using a 6 – 9 weight rod.

Where to Fish

Fishing at Everglades National Park is absolutely magical. You’re exposed to amazing wildlife, and some of the best saltwater fishing Florida has to offer. It’s one of he best places you can visit to hone your fly saltwater fishing skills and master sight fishing with light tackle gear.

The Everglades is a very diverse fishery. This area of Florida, also referred to as the “ ruler of grass “, runs from Florida Bay to Lake Okeechobee. You can fly fish for rolling tarpon, or hit the flats to catch some nice size redfish. Within the same fishing area you can catch snook, trout, redfish, grouper, snapper, black drum, trample tail and largemouth bass. Plus, Everglades National Park also has diverse wildlife. There’s a variety of birds such as wood storks, blue herons, roseate spoonbills and egrets. Flamingo is the perfect family fishing getaway.

If you want to snag some South Florida tarpon, then Ft. Lauderdale is a prime fishing destination. The channel known as Port Everglades runs from the Atlantic ocean to the Intra coastal waterway, and feeds the Ft Lauderdale fishing areas. It brings in some of the largest tarpon in Florida, weighing up to 200 pounds. Ft. Lauderdale’s offshore fishing opportunities are endless, and there’s also excellent inshore fishing opportunities as well. Near the bridges of Bahia Mar, you can catch really big snook during the fall and spring mullet run.

We highly recommend night fishing in Ft Lauderdale. There are underwater lights in the intercostal highway dock area to help anglers see. They also attract bait fish. In turn, the bait fish attract predatory fish like Tarpon, red, and snook. These well lit dock areas are the best places to use live bait. We suggest trolling the shadowy perimeter of these dock areas to catch giant tarpon.

The natural structures in Ft Lauderdale waters help you catch fish as well. We suggest setting a drift tide approach. This means casting your lure or bait towards drift structures like bridges or pilings, and letting them drift to areas with the most fish. Tarpon, reds, and snook sit and wait at the shadows, and will gladly bite your lure once it reaches them. Target the bridges proximal to the inlets. They tend to hold the most fish.This technique is the best way to night fish at Ft. Lauderdale.

Night fishing yields the the most snook and tarpon. This is because tarpon and snook are night feeders. They prefer low light conditions. Since night fishing is not always possible, we suggest fishing for tarpon and snook early in the morning or late in the evening. During these times, the light levels are low to moderate.

When it comes to inshore fishing at Ft. Lauderdale, there are many advantages. For starters, you won’t get sea sick. Since you’re in shallow waters, there will be no bumpy ride, plus the weather won’t be a big factor. Hitting bays, canals, and estuaries is a great way to catch lots of fish without going offshore. Plus you can fish with light tackle in these areas. Giant snook thrive in these areas, which makes it exciting!

If bass fishing is your forte, then fishing the Florida Everglades is a dream come true. On a really good day you can catch 100 bass or more using a fly and spin tackle. All you need is a fly rod and pretty much any type of top water bug. Just ask around, you’ll hear stories of anglers watching bass swim up and explode on their top water fly. If you’re a beginner fly fisherman, go with a longer rod. It will help with the accuracy and distance of your casts.

If you’re fishing for largemouth bass in the Everglades, you’ll need to bring the best fishing gear. We recommend using a 5 – 8 weight rod. Going with a lighter rod, such as a 5 or 6 weight makes it more fun to catch bass. But to catch Everglade lunkers you will want to go with a 7 or 8 weight rod. Use top water lures like gurgles, poppers, or various types of water flies. If you want to fish deeper, go with clousers. We also recommend using a 25 – 30 pound tippet when fishing for bass in dense cover. This helps if you get caught on a lily pad. And there a lot of lily pads in the Everglades.

 

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Pompano Beach, Florida, United States

When it comes to fishing the Everglades, you can catch fish year-round. Most anglers come here to catch snook, tarpon and redfish. But you’re definitely not limited to those species. The fishing opportunities in Everglades National Park are vast. You can catch permits, ladyfish, jacks, sharks, redfish, tarpon, black drum and triple tail. And the best part is that you can catch tarpon 365 days a year. There is no other place on earth you can do that. It’s a fly fishermen’s dream.

Fish Species

Tarpon 

As mentioned, tarpon can be caught year-round in the Everglades, with peak fishing opportunities occurring in July. From the gulf, all the way to the deepest back country big tarpons can be hauled in all day if you know how to fish for them. The tarpon here range from around 6 pounds to upwards of 150 pounds. We recommend using a 10 -12 weight rod if you’re targeting big tarpon. If you’re looking to catch juvenile tarpon then you can go with a 8 or 9 weight rod. 

Snook 

Fly fishing for snook at Pompano Beach is something local anglers love. They say to target the mangrove shorelines and the flats. You can catch nice size snook here —from between 3 and 12 pounds. They’re typically caught on a 6 – 9 weight rod. 

Redfish

You can catch reddish in the Everglades pretty much anywhere. Fish for them along the Everglade’s Gulf Coast, and in deep backcountry waters. The reds here weigh between 3 and 12 pounds. Try using a 6 – 9 weight rod. 

Where to Fish

Fishing at Everglades National Park is absolutely magical. You’re exposed to amazing wildlife, and some of the best saltwater fishing Florida has to offer. It’s one of he best places you can visit to hone your fly saltwater fishing skills and master sight fishing with light tackle gear. 

The Everglades is a very diverse fishery. This area of Florida, also referred to as the “ ruler of grass “, runs from Florida Bay to Lake Okeechobee. You can fly fish for rolling tarpon, or hit the flats to catch some nice size redfish. Within the same fishing area you can catch snook, trout, redfish, grouper, snapper, black drum, trample tail and largemouth bass. Plus, Everglades National Park also has diverse wildlife. There’s a variety of birds such as wood storks, blue herons, roseate spoonbills and egrets. Flamingo is the perfect family fishing getaway. 

If you want to snag some South Florida tarpon, then Ft. Lauderdale is a prime fishing destination. The channel known as Port Everglades runs from the Atlantic ocean to the Intra coastal waterway, and feeds the Ft Lauderdale fishing areas. It brings in some of the largest tarpon in Florida, weighing up to 200 pounds. Ft. Lauderdale’s offshore fishing opportunities are endless, and there’s also excellent inshore fishing opportunities as well. Near the bridges of Bahia Mar, you can catch really big snook during the fall and spring mullet run. 

We highly recommend night fishing in Ft Lauderdale. There are underwater lights in the intercostal highway dock area to help anglers see. They also attract bait fish. In turn, the bait fish attract predatory fish like Tarpon, red, and snook. These well lit dock areas are the best places to use live bait. We suggest trolling the shadowy perimeter of these dock areas to catch giant tarpon. 

The natural structures in Ft Lauderdale waters help you catch fish as well. We suggest setting a drift tide approach. This means casting your lure or bait towards drift structures like bridges or pilings, and letting them drift to areas with the most fish. Tarpon, reds, and snook sit and wait at the shadows, and will gladly bite your lure once it reaches them. Target the bridges proximal to the inlets. They tend to hold the most fish.This technique is the best way to night fish at Ft. Lauderdale. 

Night fishing yields the the most snook and tarpon. This is because tarpon and snook are night feeders. They prefer low light conditions. Since night fishing is not always possible, we suggest fishing for tarpon and snook early in the morning or late in the evening. During these times, the light levels are low to moderate. 

When it comes to inshore fishing at Ft. Lauderdale, there are many advantages. For starters, you won’t get sea sick. Since you’re in shallow waters, there will be no bumpy ride, plus the weather won’t be a big factor. Hitting bays, canals, and estuaries is a great way to catch lots of fish without going offshore. Plus you can fish with light tackle in these areas. Giant snook thrive in these areas, which makes it exciting!

If bass fishing is your forte, then fishing the Florida Everglades is a dream come true. On a really good day you can catch 100 bass or more using a fly and spin tackle. All you need is a fly rod and pretty much any type of top water bug. Just ask around, you’ll hear stories of anglers watching bass swim up and explode on their top water fly. If you’re a beginner fly fisherman, go with a longer rod. It will help with the accuracy and distance of your casts.

If you’re fishing for largemouth bass in the Everglades, you’ll need to bring the best fishing gear. We recommend using a 5 – 8 weight rod. Going with a lighter rod, such as a 5 or 6 weight makes it more fun to catch bass. But to catch Everglade lunkers you will want to go with a 7 or 8 weight rod. Use top water lures like gurgles, poppers, or various types of water flies. If you want to fish deeper, go with clousers. We also recommend using a 25 – 30 pound tippet when fishing for bass in dense cover. This helps if you get caught on a lily pad. And there a lot of lily pads in the Everglades. 

 

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Virginia Key, Florida, United States

This South Florida water systems is comprised of canals and is a massive civil works project. It was built to control water levels and move water to aid in drainage, flood control and navigation. The system also helps sustain lakes, wetlands, rivers and estuaries. It has over 1,300 water control structures and dozens of control pumps. It boasts over 2,500 miles of freshwater canals.

Everglades National Park

This is the biggest sub-tropical wilderness reserve in the US. It’s diverse with fresh and dark waters, bays, and deep coastal waters. Its habitat naturally supports a wide variety of fauna and flora. Situated on the Florida Peninsula on the East side of Cape Sable, it’s home to the biggest mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere. It also has the most massive stand of sawgrass prairie and facilitates breeding for numerous wading bird species. It offers vast fishing opportunities and is an angler’s dream come true.

Main Species of Fish 

The Everglades

Everglades National Park holds numerous fishing opportunities for avid anglers. It’s ideal for boat fishing. You can catch lots of freshwater game fish like largemouth bass, pickerel, peacock bass, bowfin, and gar. You can also find numerous saltwater fishing species like tarpon, redfish, ladyfish, jack, snapper, bonefish, grouper, permit, cobia, sharks, black drum, tarpon and seatrout.

Miami’s Urban Canals

There are lots of fish in the canals —including many non-native species. It’s unique, because many of the fish are species native to South America. You can find native and non native fish such as largemouth bass, tarpon, snook, jacks, Mayan cichild, spotted talapia, jaguar guapote, crappie, bluegill, sunfish, pickerel, knifefish, bullseye snakehead, and oscar.

Where to Fish

Offshore 

Greater Miami offers some the best offshore fishing opportunities in the country. It has a wide variety of amazing fish to catch. It’s a melting pot of awesome fish species. You can catch an array of species like tuna, kingfish, swordfish, kingfish, shark, mani mahi, and and sailfish all within a few miles radius. The best way to fish its waters are with an experienced charter captain.

The Urban Canals of Miami

Within the Broward and Dade Counties you can find excellent fishing opportunities. Peacock bass are the most popular target species in this area. They were introduced to the region nearly 50 years ago to help control the fish population. They’re very colorful and aggressive.

There are also plenty of largemouth bass, midas cichlids, pacu, clown fish, carp and spotted tilapia. You an also find tarpon, snook, and jacks. If you like kayak and canoe fishing, these canals are an ideal place to fish. There are even ideal places to fish from the bank.

Everglades National Park 

Flamingo Camping Center is a key access point within the Everglades National Park. It has a marina, boat launch, and camping center. From there, you can gain access to The Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay —plus other remote backcountry areas.

Flamingo offers multiple hiking trails and canoe trails as well. It boasts over 300 species of birds. You can also see crocs and manatees in the marina. You can rent camping supplies, boats, plus there is a small aea in the marina as well. Keep in mind that there’s currently no lodging options at Flamingo during this time —although RV and tent camping is allowed.

The fishing opportunities here a plentiful. Take your pick from the mangrove islands, shallow bays, creeks, and flats. Flamingo is also a great place to fish with a kayak or canoe.

You can paddle into Florida Bay, or into Coot Bay. And if you’re an opportunist, then feel free to take advantage of all the places to fish along the highway. There are plenty of places to camp as well. But keep in mind that the fishing opportunities along these spots are limited.

To be smart, make sure you understand the fishing rules and regulations within the area so you can abide by the rules while fishing Ever glades National Park. They cover things like no fishing zones, poll and troll zones, and no power boat zones. And remember, the smartest thing you can do is check the Everglades National Park website prior to fishing at https://www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/index.htm.

Tackle and Gear

Spinning Tackle

When it comes to the best lines, rods and reels here’s what works. Use medium to fast action rods in the 8 – 20 pound range. Make sure you get a reel with a solid drag that can easily handle 150 yards of braided line. For small to mid-size catches use a 10 pound outfit. It’s ideal for fish like baby tarpon, snook, snapper and small sharks. For bigger sharks and adult tarpon we recommend using a 20 pound outfit.

Fly Tackle

When using a fly rod you’ll want to go with a fast action ranging from 6 – 10 pounds in weight. Make sure it’s capable of holding 150 yards of backing. For small to mid-size fish like redfish, barracudas and snooks go with an 8 weight. Depending on the wind, you can opt to go wiyj a 6 to 10 weight. If you’re targeting adult tarpon and sharks, 10 – 12 weight rods are ideal. You will likely use a floating line the majority of the time. But an intermediate tip will come in handy as well.

Lures

Locals say to use soft plastics. Jerk baits, fish imitations, paddle tails, Gulp shrimp and plastics shrimp are said to yield the best results. You’ll also want to try plugs ranging from 3 to 6 inches in length. Spoons and bucktail jigs work well. Deep diving and top water lures alike will catch fish.

Bait 

You can find live bait at the majority of tackle shops in the area. Use shrimps and crabs, they’re the most effective. You’ll catch a number of fish species using them. Also try using worms, shiners, and crickets for fresh water canals.

Flies

Flies work well for bonefish and permit. Go with the fly patterns that works best. Patterns like mantic shrimp, spawning shrimp, clousers, kwans, gotchas, and crabs also work well.

Clothing 

Make sure you wear tropical clothing made of fast drying fabrics. Stay away from cotton. Wear long sleeve shirts and pants. Bring a hat for UV protection. Also you may want to bring polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a mosquito head net and mosquioto spray.

 

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Key Biscayne, Florida, United States

About

Miami-area Freshwater Canal System

This South Florida water systems is comprised of canals and is a massive civil works project. It was built to control water levels and move water to aid in drainage, flood control and navigation. The system also helps sustain lakes, wetlands, rivers and estuaries. It has over 1,300 water control structures and dozens of control pumps. It boasts over 2,500 miles of freshwater canals.

Everglades National Park

This is the biggest sub-tropical wilderness reserve in the US. It’s diverse with fresh and dark waters, bays, and deep coastal waters. Its habitat naturally supports a wide variety of fauna and flora. Situated on the Florida Peninsula on the East side of Cape Sable, it’s home to the biggest mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere. It also has the most massive stand of sawgrass prairie and facilitates breeding for numerous wading bird species. It offers vast fishing opportunities and is an angler’s dream come true.

Main Species of Fish 

The Everglades

Everglades National Park holds numerous fishing opportunities for avid anglers. It’s ideal for boat fishing. You can catch lots of freshwater game fish like largemouth bass, pickerel, peacock bass, bowfin, and gar. You can also find numerous saltwater fishing species like tarpon, redfish, ladyfish, jack, snapper, bonefish, grouper, permit, cobia, sharks, black drum, tarpon and seatrout.

Miami’s Urban Canals

There are lots of fish in the canals —including many non-native species. It’s unique, because many of the fish are species native to South America. You can find native and non native fish such as largemouth bass, tarpon, snook, jacks, Mayan cichild, spotted talapia, jaguar guapote, crappie, bluegill, sunfish, pickerel, knifefish, bullseye snakehead, and oscar.

Where to Fish

Where to Fish Offshore 

Greater Miami offers some the best offshore fishing opportunities in the country. It has a wide variety of amazing fish to catch. It’s a melting pot of awesome fish species. You can catch an array of species like tuna, kingfish, swordfish, kingfish, shark, mani mahi, and and sailfish all within a few miles radius. The best way to fish its waters are with an experienced charter captain.

The Urban Canals of Miami

Within the Broward and Dade Counties you can find excellent fishing opportunities. Peacock bass are the most popular target species in this area. They were introduced to the region nearly 50 years ago to help control the fish population. They’re very colorful and aggressive.

There are also plenty of largemouth bass, midas cichlids, pacu, clown fish, carp and spotted tilapia. You an also find tarpon, snook, and jacks. If you like kayak and canoe fishing, these canals are an ideal place to fish. There are even ideal places to fish from the bank.

Everglades National Park 

Flamingo Camping Center is a key access point within the Everglades National Park. It has a marina, boat launch, and camping center. From there, you can gain access to The Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay —plus other remote backcountry areas.

Flamingo offers multiple hiking trails and canoe trails as well. It boasts over 300 species of birds. You can also see crocs and manatees in the marina. You can rent camping supplies, boats, plus there is a small aea in the marina as well. Keep in mind that there’s currently no lodging options at Flamingo during this time —although RV and tent camping is allowed.

The fishing opportunities here a plentiful. Take your pick from the mangrove islands, shallow bays, creeks, and flats. Flamingo is also a great place to fish with a kayak or canoe.

You can paddle into Florida Bay, or into Coot Bay. And if you’re an opportunist, then feel free to take advantage of all the places to fish along the highway. There are plenty of places to camp as well. But keep in mind that the fishing opportunities along these spots are limited.

To be smart, make sure you understand the fishing rules and regulations within the area so you can abide by the rules while fishing Ever glades National Park. They cover things like no fishing zones, poll and troll zones, and no power boat zones. And remember, the smartest thing you can do is check the Everglades National Park website prior to fishing at https://www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/index.htm.

Tackle and Gear

Spinning Tackle

When it comes to the best lines, rods and reels here’s what works. Use medium to fast action rods in the 8 – 20 pound range. Make sure you get a reel with a solid drag that can easily handle 150 yards of braided line. For small to mid-size catches use a 10 pound outfit. It’s ideal for fish like baby tarpon, snook, snapper and small sharks. For bigger sharks and adult tarpon we recommend using a 20 pound outfit.

Fly Tackle

When using a fly rod you’ll want to go with a fast action ranging from 6 – 10 pounds in weight. Make sure it’s capable of holding 150 yards of backing. For small to mid-size fish like redfish, barracudas and snooks go with an 8 weight. Depending on the wind, you can opt to go wiyj a 6 to 10 weight. If you’re targeting adult tarpon and sharks, 10 – 12 weight rods are ideal. You will likely use a floating line the majority of the time. But an intermediate tip will come in handy as well.

Lures

Locals say to use soft plastics. Jerk baits, fish imitations, paddle tails, Gulp shrimp and plastics shrimp are said to yield the best results. You’ll also want to try plugs ranging from 3 to 6 inches in length. Spoons and bucktail jigs work well. Deep diving and top water lures alike will catch fish.

Bait 

You can find live bait at the majority of tackle shops in the area. Use shrimps and crabs, they’re the most effective. You’ll catch a number of fish species using them. Also try using worms, shiners, and crickets for fresh water canals.

Flies

Flies work well for bonefish and permit. Go with the fly patterns that works best. Patterns like mantic shrimp, spawning shrimp, clousers, kwans, gotchas, and crabs also work well.

Clothing 

Make sure you wear tropical clothing made of fast drying fabrics. Stay away from cotton. Wear long sleeve shirts and pants. Bring a hat for UV protection. Also you may want to bring polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a mosquito head net and mosquioto spray.

 

Get Forecast

 

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Biscayne Bay, Florida, United States

About

Miami-area Freshwater Canal System

This South Florida water systems is comprised of canals and is a massive civil works project. It was built to control water levels and move water to aid in drainage, flood control and navigation. The system also helps sustain lakes, wetlands, rivers and estuaries. It has over 1,300 water control structures and dozens of control pumps. It boasts over 2,500 miles of freshwater canals.

Everglades National Park

This is the biggest sub-tropical wilderness reserve in the US. It’s diverse with fresh and dark waters, bays, and deep coastal waters. Its habitat naturally supports a wide variety of fauna and flora. Situated on the Florida Peninsula on the East side of Cape Sable, it’s home to the biggest mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere. It also has the most massive stand of sawgrass prairie and facilitates breeding for numerous wading bird species. It offers vast fishing opportunities and is an angler’s dream come true.

Main Species of Fish 

The Everglades

Everglades National Park holds numerous fishing opportunities for avid anglers. It’s ideal for boat fishing. You can catch lots of freshwater game fish like largemouth bass, pickerel, peacock bass, bowfin, and gar. You can also find numerous saltwater fishing species like tarpon, redfish, ladyfish, jack, snapper, bonefish, grouper, permit, cobia, sharks, black drum, tarpon and seatrout.

Miami’s Urban Canals

There are lots of fish in the canals —including many non-native species. It’s unique, because many of the fish are species native to South America. You can find native and non native fish such as largemouth bass, tarpon, snook, jacks, Mayan cichild, spotted talapia, jaguar guapote, crappie, bluegill, sunfish, pickerel, knifefish, bullseye snakehead, and oscar.

Where to Fish

Where to Fish Offshore 

Greater Miami offers some the best offshore fishing opportunities in the country. It has a wide variety of amazing fish to catch. It’s a melting pot of awesome fish species. You can catch an array of species like tuna, kingfish, swordfish, kingfish, shark, mani mahi, and and sailfish all within a few miles radius. The best way to fish its waters are with an experienced charter captain.

The Urban Canals of Miami

Within the Broward and Dade Counties you can find excellent fishing opportunities. Peacock bass are the most popular target species in this area. They were introduced to the region nearly 50 years ago to help control the fish population. They’re very colorful and aggressive.

There are also plenty of largemouth bass, midas cichlids, pacu, clown fish, carp and spotted tilapia. You an also find tarpon, snook, and jacks. If you like kayak and canoe fishing, these canals are an ideal place to fish. There are even ideal places to fish from the bank.

Everglades National Park 

Flamingo Camping Center is a key access point within the Everglades National Park. It has a marina, boat launch, and camping center. From there, you can gain access to The Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay —plus other remote backcountry areas.

Flamingo offers multiple hiking trails and canoe trails as well. It boasts over 300 species of birds. You can also see crocs and manatees in the marina. You can rent camping supplies, boats, plus there is a small aea in the marina as well. Keep in mind that there’s currently no lodging options at Flamingo during this time —although RV and tent camping is allowed.

The fishing opportunities here a plentiful. Take your pick from the mangrove islands, shallow bays, creeks, and flats. Flamingo is also a great place to fish with a kayak or canoe.

You can paddle into Florida Bay, or into Coot Bay. And if you’re an opportunist, then feel free to take advantage of all the places to fish along the highway. There are plenty of places to camp as well. But keep in mind that the fishing opportunities along these spots are limited.

To be smart, make sure you understand the fishing rules and regulations within the area so you can abide by the rules while fishing Ever glades National Park. They cover things like no fishing zones, poll and troll zones, and no power boat zones. And remember, the smartest thing you can do is check the Everglades National Park website prior to fishing at https://www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/index.htm.

Tackle and Gear

Spinning Tackle

When it comes to the best lines, rods and reels here’s what works. Use medium to fast action rods in the 8 – 20 pound range. Make sure you get a reel with a solid drag that can easily handle 150 yards of braided line. For small to mid-size catches use a 10 pound outfit. It’s ideal for fish like baby tarpon, snook, snapper and small sharks. For bigger sharks and adult tarpon we recommend using a 20 pound outfit.

Fly Tackle

When using a fly rod you’ll want to go with a fast action ranging from 6 – 10 pounds in weight. Make sure it’s capable of holding 150 yards of backing. For small to mid-size fish like redfish, barracudas and snooks go with an 8 weight. Depending on the wind, you can opt to go wiyj a 6 to 10 weight. If you’re targeting adult tarpon and sharks, 10 – 12 weight rods are ideal. You will likely use a floating line the majority of the time. But an intermediate tip will come in handy as well.

Lures

Locals say to use soft plastics. Jerk baits, fish imitations, paddle tails, Gulp shrimp and plastics shrimp are said to yield the best results. You’ll also want to try plugs ranging from 3 to 6 inches in length. Spoons and bucktail jigs work well. Deep diving and top water lures alike will catch fish.

Bait 

You can find live bait at the majority of tackle shops in the area. Use shrimps and crabs, they’re the most effective. You’ll catch a number of fish species using them. Also try using worms, shiners, and crickets for fresh water canals.

Flies

Flies work well for bonefish and permit. Go with the fly patterns that works best. Patterns like mantic shrimp, spawning shrimp, clousers, kwans, gotchas, and crabs also work well.

Clothing 

Make sure you wear tropical clothing made of fast drying fabrics. Stay away from cotton. Wear long sleeve shirts and pants. Bring a hat for UV protection. Also you may want to bring polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a mosquito head net and mosquioto spray.

 

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Miami Beach, Florida, United States

About

Miami-area Freshwater Canal System

This South Florida water systems is comprised of canals and is a massive civil works project. It was built to control water levels and move water to aid in drainage, flood control and navigation. The system also helps sustain lakes, wetlands, rivers and estuaries. It has over 1,300 water control structures and dozens of control pumps. It boasts over 2,500 miles of freshwater canals.

Everglades National Park

This is the biggest sub-tropical wilderness reserve in the US. It’s diverse with fresh and dark waters, bays, and deep coastal waters. Its habitat naturally supports a wide variety of fauna and flora. Situated on the Florida Peninsula on the East side of Cape Sable, it’s home to the biggest mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere. It also has the most massive stand of sawgrass prairie and facilitates breeding for numerous wading bird species. It offers vast fishing opportunities and is an angler’s dream come true.

Main Species of Fish 

The Everglades

Everglades National Park holds numerous fishing opportunities for avid anglers. It’s ideal for boat fishing. You can catch lots of freshwater game fish like largemouth bass, pickerel, peacock bass, bowfin, and gar. You can also find numerous saltwater fishing species like tarpon, redfish, ladyfish, jack, snapper, bonefish, grouper, permit, cobia, sharks, black drum, tarpon and seatrout.

Miami’s Urban Canals

There are lots of fish in the canals —including many non-native species. It’s unique, because many of the fish are species native to South America. You can find native and non native fish such as largemouth bass, tarpon, snook, jacks, Mayan cichild, spotted talapia, jaguar guapote, crappie, bluegill, sunfish, pickerel, knifefish, bullseye snakehead, and oscar.

Where to Fish

Where to Fish Offshore 

Greater Miami offers some the best offshore fishing opportunities in the country. It has a wide variety of amazing fish to catch. It’s a melting pot of awesome fish species. You can catch an array of species like tuna, kingfish, swordfish, kingfish, shark, mani mahi, and and sailfish all within a few miles radius. The best way to fish its waters are with an experienced charter captain.

The Urban Canals of Miami

Within the Broward and Dade Counties you can find excellent fishing opportunities. Peacock bass are the most popular target species in this area. They were introduced to the region nearly 50 years ago to help control the fish population. They’re very colorful and aggressive.

There are also plenty of largemouth bass, midas cichlids, pacu, clown fish, carp and spotted tilapia. You an also find tarpon, snook, and jacks. If you like kayak and canoe fishing, these canals are an ideal place to fish. There are even ideal places to fish from the bank.

Everglades National Park 

Flamingo Camping Center is a key access point within the Everglades National Park. It has a marina, boat launch, and camping center. From there, you can gain access to The Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay —plus other remote backcountry areas.

Flamingo offers multiple hiking trails and canoe trails as well. It boasts over 300 species of birds. You can also see crocs and manatees in the marina. You can rent camping supplies, boats, plus there is a small aea in the marina as well. Keep in mind that there’s currently no lodging options at Flamingo during this time —although RV and tent camping is allowed.

The fishing opportunities here a plentiful. Take your pick from the mangrove islands, shallow bays, creeks, and flats. Flamingo is also a great place to fish with a kayak or canoe.

You can paddle into Florida Bay, or into Coot Bay. And if you’re an opportunist, then feel free to take advantage of all the places to fish along the highway. There are plenty of places to camp as well. But keep in mind that the fishing opportunities along these spots are limited.

To be smart, make sure you understand the fishing rules and regulations within the area so you can abide by the rules while fishing Ever glades National Park. They cover things like no fishing zones, poll and troll zones, and no power boat zones. And remember, the smartest thing you can do is check the Everglades National Park website prior to fishing at https://www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/index.htm.

Tackle and Gear

Spinning Tackle

When it comes to the best lines, rods and reels here’s what works. Use medium to fast action rods in the 8 – 20 pound range. Make sure you get a reel with a solid drag that can easily handle 150 yards of braided line. For small to mid-size catches use a 10 pound outfit. It’s ideal for fish like baby tarpon, snook, snapper and small sharks. For bigger sharks and adult tarpon we recommend using a 20 pound outfit.

Fly Tackle

When using a fly rod you’ll want to go with a fast action ranging from 6 – 10 pounds in weight. Make sure it’s capable of holding 150 yards of backing. For small to mid-size fish like redfish, barracudas and snooks go with an 8 weight. Depending on the wind, you can opt to go wiyj a 6 to 10 weight. If you’re targeting adult tarpon and sharks, 10 – 12 weight rods are ideal. You will likely use a floating line the majority of the time. But an intermediate tip will come in handy as well.

Lures

Locals say to use soft plastics. Jerk baits, fish imitations, paddle tails, Gulp shrimp and plastics shrimp are said to yield the best results. You’ll also want to try plugs ranging from 3 to 6 inches in length. Spoons and bucktail jigs work well. Deep diving and top water lures alike will catch fish.

Bait 

You can find live bait at the majority of tackle shops in the area. Use shrimps and crabs, they’re the most effective. You’ll catch a number of fish species using them. Also try using worms, shiners, and crickets for fresh water canals.

Flies

Flies work well for bonefish and permit. Go with the fly patterns that works best. Patterns like mantic shrimp, spawning shrimp, clousers, kwans, gotchas, and crabs also work well.

Clothing 

Make sure you wear tropical clothing made of fast drying fabrics. Stay away from cotton. Wear long sleeve shirts and pants. Bring a hat for UV protection. Also you may want to bring polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a mosquito head net and mosquioto spray.

 

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Miami, Florida, United States

This South Florida water systems is comprised of canals and is a massive civil works project. It was built to control water levels and move water to aid in drainage, flood control and navigation. The system also helps sustain lakes, wetlands, rivers and estuaries. It has over 1,300 water control structures and dozens of control pumps. It boasts over 2,500 miles of freshwater canals.

Everglades National Park

This is the biggest sub-tropical wilderness reserve in the US. It’s diverse with fresh and dark waters, bays, and deep coastal waters. Its habitat naturally supports a wide variety of fauna and flora. Situated on the Florida Peninsula on the East side of Cape Sable, it’s home to the biggest mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere. It also has the most massive stand of sawgrass prairie and facilitates breeding for numerous wading bird species. It offers vast fishing opportunities and is an angler’s dream come true.

Main Species of Fish 

The Everglades

Everglades National Park holds numerous fishing opportunities for avid anglers. It’s ideal for boat fishing. You can catch lots of freshwater game fish like largemouth bass, pickerel, peacock bass, bowfin, and gar. You can also find numerous saltwater fishing species like tarpon, redfish, ladyfish, jack, snapper, bonefish, grouper, permit, cobia, sharks, black drum, tarpon and seatrout.

Miami’s Urban Canals

There are lots of fish in the canals —including many non-native species. It’s unique, because many of the fish are species native to South America. You can find native and non native fish such as largemouth bass, tarpon, snook, jacks, Mayan cichild, spotted talapia, jaguar guapote, crappie, bluegill, sunfish, pickerel, knifefish, bullseye snakehead, and oscar.

Where to Fish

Where to Fish Offshore 

Greater Miami offers some the best offshore fishing opportunities in the country. It has a wide variety of amazing fish to catch. It’s a melting pot of awesome fish species. You can catch an array of species like tuna, kingfish, swordfish, kingfish, shark, mani mahi, and and sailfish all within a few miles radius. The best way to fish its waters are with an experienced charter captain.

The Urban Canals of Miami

Within the Broward and Dade Counties you can find excellent fishing opportunities. Peacock bass are the most popular target species in this area. They were introduced to the region nearly 50 years ago to help control the fish population. They’re very colorful and aggressive.

There are also plenty of largemouth bass, midas cichlids, pacu, clown fish, carp and spotted tilapia. You an also find tarpon, snook, and jacks. If you like kayak and canoe fishing, these canals are an ideal place to fish. There are even ideal places to fish from the bank.

Everglades National Park 

Flamingo Camping Center is a key access point within the Everglades National Park. It has a marina, boat launch, and camping center. From there, you can gain access to The Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay —plus other remote backcountry areas.

Flamingo offers multiple hiking trails and canoe trails as well. It boasts over 300 species of birds. You can also see crocs and manatees in the marina. You can rent camping supplies, boats, plus there is a small aea in the marina as well. Keep in mind that there’s currently no lodging options at Flamingo during this time —although RV and tent camping is allowed.

The fishing opportunities here a plentiful. Take your pick from the mangrove islands, shallow bays, creeks, and flats. Flamingo is also a great place to fish with a kayak or canoe.

You can paddle into Florida Bay, or into Coot Bay. And if you’re an opportunist, then feel free to take advantage of all the places to fish along the highway. There are plenty of places to camp as well. But keep in mind that the fishing opportunities along these spots are limited.

To be smart, make sure you understand the fishing rules and regulations within the area so you can abide by the rules while fishing Ever glades National Park. They cover things like no fishing zones, poll and troll zones, and no power boat zones. And remember, the smartest thing you can do is check the Everglades National Park website prior to fishing at https://www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/index.htm.

Tackle and Gear

Spinning Tackle

When it comes to the best lines, rods and reels here’s what works. Use medium to fast action rods in the 8 – 20 pound range. Make sure you get a reel with a solid drag that can easily handle 150 yards of braided line. For small to mid-size catches use a 10 pound outfit. It’s ideal for fish like baby tarpon, snook, snapper and small sharks. For bigger sharks and adult tarpon we recommend using a 20 pound outfit.

Fly Tackle

When using a fly rod you’ll want to go with a fast action ranging from 6 – 10 pounds in weight. Make sure it’s capable of holding 150 yards of backing. For small to mid-size fish like redfish, barracudas and snooks go with an 8 weight. Depending on the wind, you can opt to go wiyj a 6 to 10 weight. If you’re targeting adult tarpon and sharks, 10 – 12 weight rods are ideal. You will likely use a floating line the majority of the time. But an intermediate tip will come in handy as well.

Lures

Locals say to use soft plastics. Jerk baits, fish imitations, paddle tails, Gulp shrimp and plastics shrimp are said to yield the best results. You’ll also want to try plugs ranging from 3 to 6 inches in length. Spoons and bucktail jigs work well. Deep diving and top water lures alike will catch fish.

Bait 

You can find live bait at the majority of tackle shops in the area. Use shrimps and crabs, they’re the most effective. You’ll catch a number of fish species using them. Also try using worms, shiners, and crickets for fresh water canals.

Flies

Flies work well for bonefish and permit. Go with the fly patterns that works best. Patterns like mantic shrimp, spawning shrimp, clousers, kwans, gotchas, and crabs also work well.

Clothing 

Make sure you wear tropical clothing made of fast drying fabrics. Stay away from cotton. Wear long sleeve shirts and pants. Bring a hat for UV protection. Also you may want to bring polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a mosquito head net and mosquioto spray.

 

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Pensacola, Florida, United States

There is a wide array of fishing possibilities in Pensacola. Pick from your choice of top Florida fishing locations, such as Ft. Morgan, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Perdido Key, and Pensacola Beach. You can even gain access to Orange Beach, Alabama. They’re all family-friendly fishing locations and make ideal vacation destinations.

As far as inshore fishing options, you’ll have Big Lagoon, Old River, Perdido Bay, Escambla Bay, East Bay and pensacola Bay. The most revered areas to fish are

the bedded, grassy areas of Old River and Big Lagoon. They’re fed by several or more creeks and rivers. The flats by the coast are said to be prime fishing territory. Also, The dock areas hold plenty of speckled trout, redfish and flounder.

If you’re doing some Alabama fishing from the Florida border, you can access plenty of man made reefs. They hold lots of fish. You can find snapper and grouper in fall and summer. Cobia are really active in these areas during spring. Mackerel are more active during the summer. Anglers catch the most when they troll close to the coast. If you’re looking to catch big game fish, target billfish and tuna during winter months.

Main Species of Fish 

There are numerous fish species. If surf fishing is your forte, then you’ll have access to plenty of redfish, flounder, pompano, ladyfish and sharks. For inshore fishing options there are speckled trout, Jack Crevalle and sheephead.

Nearshore you’ll have your pick of cobia, Spanish mackerel and king mackerel. There’s also plenty of bottom fishing options like mangrove snapper, snowy grouper snapper, black snapper, amberjack and triggerfish. Or you can go offshore fishing and catch wahoo, mahi mahi, sail fish, swordfish, marlin and tuna.

Best places to Fish in Pensacola

The grass flats of Big Lagoon and the dock lights of Old River offer some of the best speckled trout fishing in all for Florida. Hit the lagoon during the day, and the docks at night. Try hitting the the bridge pilings and rocks in the pass between Perdidio and Orange Beach. For good winter fishing in Pensacola be sure to hit these same exact spots for sheephead.

November is the best time to go floundering in the eastern point of Perdido Key. You can find boat ramps in the Cotton Bayou on the eastern side of Orange Beach. Hub Stacies is another place where you can find a ramp. It’s located just off Innerarity Point.

Ft. McCray and Perdidio Pass are the two main gateways to the open water.

As far as water boundaries go, it can be a bit tricky. Fort McCray is located in Florida, whereas Perdido pass is in Alabama territory. Old River is laterally split in half by the state line. It’s a smart idea to locate and target structures while fishing in this area. Visit with Alabama Marine Resources and get a map. If you’re bottom fishing, stick with the Alabama coast. To access public boat ramps for deepwater angling, use the National Sea Shore in Pensacola Beach.

Best Fishing Gear for Pensacola 

First things first —wherever you fish, make sure you bring a waterproof jacket. It ends to rain a good bit in Pensacola. Having said that, if you’re looking to do some inshore fishing, then use live bait for the best results. You can find all the live bait options you need at Grays Tackle Shop or Tops Gun Tackle. The locals there can tell you what’s working best.

For bottom fishing, use cut bait on a hook. Be sure to bring  plenty of chum and cut bait. Because there is debris on the wrecks, use thick leaders. Make sure you bring a bat as well do deal with the remoras.

If you’re heading out to do some offshore fishing, make sure you use a big boat filled  with plenty of gas. It can take a lot of gas to seek out blue water and troll for gamefish like marlin, tuna, and swordfish. Make sure you bring a wide variety of trolling rigs, and check with local guides and anglers before heading out on the boat. And always know the weather forecast for Pensacola before you head out to fish.

 

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