12 Best Fishing Spots in Florida

Hey there my fellow fishing and traveling enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 12 best fishing spots in Florida to wet a line in this year. Florida is known as the “Fishing Capital of the World” and for good reason.

With over 8,000 miles of shoreline, 7,700 lakes and 1,700 rivers, Florida offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Florida has something to offer everyone.

Map Of Florida Fishing Spots

Use this map to identify the location of the best fishing in Florida listed below:

Best Fishing Spots in Florida

As above, Florida covers quite a large area with numerous lakes, rivers and hundreds of miles of coastline. This of course means that if you are looking to fish, you really could just head to the closet waterway, get the right bait and cast away.

However if you are looking for a specific type of fishing, I have broken down the best locations based on the areas you may be either visiting, or interested in.

So, let’s rig up our lines and check out all out.

1. Miami

Fishing in Miami offers a diverse and exciting experience for anglers due to its unique geographical location, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Deep sea fishing enthusiasts can venture into the Atlantic to chase big game species such as Marlin, Sailfish and tuna, enjoying the thrill of battling these large and powerful fish.

In contrast, inshore fishing in Miami’s shallower waters provides a different kind of challenge, with anglers targeting species like Tarpon, Snook and redfish. The variety of fishing environments, from the open ocean to the calm inshore waters, ensures that both novice and experienced fishermen can find something to suit their preferences, making Miami a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts.

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2. Jacksonville/St. Augustine

Fishing in the Jacksonville and St. Augustine area of Florida presents a unique and varied angling experience, drawing both amateur and seasoned fishermen. Inshore fishing is particularly popular in the backwaters and estuaries, where anglers can target Redfish, Spotted Seatrout and flounder whereas offshore fishing in the Atlantic allows for the pursuit of larger game fish such as Mahi-Mahi, Wahoo and various species of Tuna.

The area’s fishing piers, like the Jacksonville Beach Pier, also offer accessible fishing spots for those looking to catch a variety of species without a boat. The blend of inshore and offshore environments, along with the region’s rich marine life, makes the Jacksonville and St. Augustine area a versatile and exciting fishing destination in Florida.

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3. Siesta Key/Sarasota

Fishing in the Siesta Key and Sarasota area, nestled on the Gulf Coast of Florida, is a delightful experience for anglers, thanks to the region’s stunning natural beauty and abundant marine life. Inshore fishing is particularly popular here, with anglers frequently targeting species like Snook, Redfish and Spotted Seatrout in the area’s bays, flats and mangrove estuaries.

Offshore fishing around Siesta Key and Sarasota offers a different kind of thrill, with the Gulf of Mexico’s deeper waters home to a variety of game fish such as Grouper, Snapper, Kingfish and even tarpon, especially during their migratory seasons. The region’s numerous fishing charters provide opportunities for both novice and experienced fishermen to explore these waters.

Additionally, the area’s piers and beaches, such as the popular Siesta Key Beach, offer more relaxed fishing experiences, perfect for families and casual anglers as well.

Book your fishing trip to Florida here!

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4. Destin

Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin is situated on the Emerald Coast and boasts some of the finest saltwater fishing in the region. Its unique location on a peninsula provides quick access to the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico, making it an ideal spot for both inshore and offshore fishing.

Inshore fishing around Destin is a extremely popular, with the Choctawhatchee Bay and nearby estuaries offering abundant opportunities to catch Speckled Trout, Redfish and Flounder. Offshore fishing is where the area truly shines as the proximity to deep waters allows anglers to quickly reach fishing grounds teeming with a variety of game fish such as Amberjack, Snapper, Grouper and even Billfish.

The famous Destin Fishing Rodeo, held annually in October, highlights the area’s rich fishing culture and attracts anglers from all over the world.

Destin’s fishing piers, such as the Okaloosa Island Pier, provide easy access for those looking to enjoy fishing without a boat and are popular spots for catching a variety of species including Spanish Mackerel, Pompano and occasionally even Sharks.

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5. Naples

thanks to its picturesque setting on the Gulf of Mexico and its rich marine ecosystems, Naples is renowned for its excellent backwater fishing, where the calm and shallow waters of the Ten Thousand Islands and the nearby Everglades provide a haven for inshore species.

Anglers in these waters typically target Snook, Redfish and Spotted Seatrout, enjoying the serene beauty of the mangrove-lined shores and the abundant wildlife. Offshore fishing in Naples is equally impressive, with the Gulf of Mexico’s deeper waters home to a variety of game fish such as Grouper, Snapper, King Mackerel and Tarpon, especially during their migratory seasons.

Naples also boasts several fishing piers and beaches, such as the iconic Naples Pier, where anglers can enjoy a more relaxed fishing experience. These spots are ideal for families and casual anglers looking to catch a variety of species including Pompano, Spanish Mackerel and occasionally Sharks.

Check out these: Best Places to Vacation in Florida

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6. Islamorada/Florida Keys

Fishing in Islamorada and the Florida Keys is an extraordinary experience, often regarded as some of the best in the world. Islamorada, known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” is a true paradise for anglers, located in the heart of the Florida Keys. The unique geographical location of the Keys, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, creates a perfect environment for a wide variety of fish species.

Inshore fishing in Islamorada and the surrounding Keys is renowned, particularly for its flats and backcountry fishing. Anglers here often target Tarpon, Bonefish and Permit, which are highly prized for their fighting abilities. The shallow waters of Florida Bay and the numerous flats around the Keys offer excellent opportunities for sight fishing, making it a favorite among fly fishing enthusiasts as well.

Offshore fishing in the Florida Keys is equally impressive with the deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean just a short boat ride away. Here, anglers can pursue big game species like Sailfish, Marlin, Mahi-Mahi and Wahoo. The Gulf Stream, which flows close to the Keys, brings nutrient-rich waters that attract a diverse array of game fish, providing some of the most exciting deep-sea fishing experiences.

Additionally, the numerous reefs and wrecks around Islamorada and the Keys also offer fantastic opportunities for bottom fishing, where anglers can catch Snapper, Grouper and other reef-dwelling species. And finally, as Islamorada’s fishing culture is deeply ingrained in the local community, numerous fishing tournaments held throughout the year, attracting anglers from all over the globe.

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7. Fort Myers

Fishing in Fort Myers offers a diverse and enjoyable experience for anglers, thanks to its prime location along the Gulf Coast and its access to a variety of marine habitats. Fort Myers is particularly known for its excellent inshore fishing, where the calm waters of the Caloosahatchee River, Pine Island Sound and the surrounding estuaries and mangrove shorelines provide ideal conditions for targeting popular species like Snook, Redfish, and Spotted Seatrout.

Offshore fishing in Fort Myers is also a major draw, with the Gulf of Mexico’s deeper waters accessible for those seeking bigger game. Here, anglers can chase after species such as Grouper, Snapper, Kingfish and occasionally Tarpon, especially during their migratory seasons. The area’s artificial reefs and natural ledges are hotspots for these species, providing excellent opportunities for both trolling and bottom fishing.

Fort Myers is also home to several fishing piers and beaches, such as the Fort Myers Beach Pier, which offer easy and accessible fishing opportunities. These locations are great for families and casual anglers, providing chances to catch a variety of fish without the need for a boat.

Book your fishing trip to Florida here!

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8. Lake Okeechobee

Now let’s have a look at some freshwater locations starting with Lake Okeechobee which is a renowned experience for freshwater anglers, offering some of the best Largemouth Bass fishing in the United States. Lake Okeechobee, often referred to as Florida’s “inland sea,” is the largest freshwater lake in the state and the second-largest natural freshwater lake contained entirely within the U.S. This vast and shallow lake provides an ideal habitat for bass, making it a premier destination for bass fishermen.

The lake’s abundant aquatic vegetation including hydrilla, bulrush, and eelgrass, creates perfect environments for Bass and other species to thrive. Anglers often target Largemouth Bass using various techniques such as flipping, pitching and casting spinnerbaits or soft plastics around the vegetation and structure. The lake is also known for producing trophy-sized Bass, adding to its allure.

In addition to Largemouth Bass, Lake Okeechobee is home to a variety of other freshwater species, including Crappie (Speckled Perch), Bluegill and Shellcracker. These species provide additional fishing opportunities, especially during their respective spawning seasons when they are more readily caught.

And finally, the lake hosts numerous fishing tournaments throughout the year, attracting anglers from all over the country as well.

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9. St. Johns River

Fishing in the St. Johns River in Florida is a unique and diverse experience, attracting anglers for its variety of freshwater species and scenic beauty. The St. Johns River, one of the few rivers in the United States that flows north, spans a significant portion of Florida, offering a wide range of fishing environments along its course.

The river is particularly famous for its Largemouth Bass fishing which are known here for their size and abundance, making it a popular destination for Bass anglers. The river’s extensive system of tributaries, lakes and marshes provides ideal habitats for Bass, with ample vegetation and structure for effective fishing. Techniques such as flipping and pitching in the lily pads and grass beds, as well as casting spinnerbaits and plastic worms, are commonly used.

In addition to Largemouth Bass, the St. Johns River is home to a variety of other species, including Crappie, Bluegill and Catfish. The river’s diverse ecosystem means that anglers can enjoy different types of fishing experiences, from targeting bass in shallow waters to fishing for catfish in deeper channels.

The river also hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the year, drawing both recreational and competitive anglers as well.

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10. The Kissimmee Chain of Lakes

The Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, a series of interconnected lakes and waterways, is located in Central Florida and is renowned for its abundant and diverse freshwater habitats and particularly known for its exceptional Largemouth Bass fishing..

The chain includes several notable lakes such as Lake Tohopekaliga (often called Lake Toho), East Lake Tohopekaliga, Lake Kissimmee and Lake Cypress, each teeming with Largemouth Bass, making them a hotspot for Bbass anglers. The bass in these lakes are known for their size, and the area is frequently a destination for competitive bass fishing tournaments.

The lakes’ environments, characterized by a mix of open water, lily pads, grass beds and other aquatic vegetation, provide ideal conditions for bass fishing. Anglers often employ techniques like flipping and pitching in the vegetation, topwater fishing over grass beds, and casting soft plastics and spinnerbaits.

Besides largemouth bass, the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes is home to other species such as Crappie, Bluegill and catfish, offering a well-rounded fishing experience. The diversity of the fishery means that anglers can enjoy different styles of fishing, from targeting Bass in shallow waters to pursuing Crappie and Bluegill in deeper areas.

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11. Lake George

Lake George, the second-largest freshwater lake in Florida, is part of the St. Johns River system and is known for its abundant and diverse fish populations. As with most others in Florida, the lake is especially renowned for its Largemouth Bbass fishing which are known for their size.

The lake provides a variety of habitats for Bass fishing including submerged vegetation, docks and the numerous springs that feed into the lake. Anglers often target Bass using a range of techniques such as flipping and pitching around vegetation, casting spinnerbaits and using topwater lures, especially in the early morning or late evening.

In addition to Largemouth Bass, Lake George is home to other freshwater species like Bluegill, Crappie and Catfish offering additional fishing opportunities and making Lake George a versatile destination for anglers. The lake’s wide expanse and relatively shallow waters provide ideal conditions for both boat-based and shoreline fishing too.

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12. Florida Everglades

Fishing in the Florida Everglades offers a unique and unforgettable experience, attracting anglers from all over the world to its vast and diverse ecosystem. The Everglades, often referred to as the “River of Grass,” is a massive network of wetlands and forests that spans the southern portion of Florida that provides a habitat for a wide array of wildlife, including a rich variety of fish species.

The Everglades is particularly renowned for its excellent backcountry fishing and anglers here often target species such as Snook, Redfish, Tarpon and Spotted Seatrout. The intricate network of mangrove islands, shallow flats and tidal creeks creates an ideal environment for these fish and offers a unique challenge for fishermen. Sight fishing in the clear waters is a popular technique, especially for those pursuing Snook and Redfish.

In addition to the popular inshore species, the Everglades is also home to Largemouth bass, particularly in the freshwater areas of the ecosystem. The area also offers a unique fly fishing experience as well with anglers often wading or using flats boats to navigate the shallow waters.

Beyond the fishing, the Everglades is a place of unparalleled natural beauty and tranquility. It’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, with opportunities to see a variety of birds, Alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Planning Your Florida Fishing Trip

When planning your Florida fishing trip, there are a few things such as fishing licenses and regulations that you need to be aware of, as well as the best times to fish in Florida.

Fishing Licenses and Regulations

Before you start planning your Florida fishing trip, it’s important to know the fishing licenses and regulations in the state. All anglers who are 16 years old or older must have a valid Florida fishing license which can be purchased online or at a local bait and tackle shop. The cost of a license varies depending on whether you’re a Florida resident or not and how long you want the license to be valid.

Florida also has specific regulations for the types of fish you can catch, the size of the fish, and the number of fish you can keep. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these regulations before you start fishing. You can find the regulations as well as apply for licenses on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website.

Best Times to Fish

Florida is a great place to fish year-round, but there are certain times of the year that are better than others and the best time to fish in Florida depends on the species you’re targeting.

If you’re looking to catch Tarpon, the best time to fish is from May to August as this is when they migrate to the shallow waters of the Florida Keys to spawn. If you’re targeting Redfish, the best time to fish is from September to November as this is when they are most active and feeding heavily before the winter months.

For Bass fishing, the best time to fish is in the spring and fall. This is when the water temperatures are cooler, and the Bass are more active. And if you’re looking to catch Snook, the best time to fish is from March to June as this is when they are spawning making them more active and aggressive.

In general, the best time to fish in Florida is early in the morning or late in the evening. This is when the water is cooler, and the fish are more active. If you’re fishing in the middle of the day, try to find areas with shade or structure, such as docks, bridges or wrecks. These areas provide cover for the fish, and they are more likely to be feeding there.

FAQs

Conclusion

There you have it, my 12 best places to fish in Florida. I hope it has been helpful and as usual, please let me know of your experiences here or if there are any other must visit locations that I need to add – which based on the sheer amount of water in Florida, there should be a few – haha.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul