Damn Good Fort Lauderdale Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Fort Lauderdale fishing trips. Deep Sea, Nearshore, Inshore, Lake, and River trips available.

Choose a Date
Choose a Trip Type
4.85/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Fort Lauderdale, Fl

Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Peacock Bass: Fly Or Spin

100% (18)
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Sea Monster Catch Adventure

100% (1)
32 ft 1 - 12 People From $725
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Super Quick Trips

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Invasive Species Fishing, Hunting Trip in Fort Lauderdale

Cast And Blast Adventures

100% (18)
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $950
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Deep Sea Ft. Lauderdale 46'

100% (1)
46 ft 1 - 6 People From $875
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Daily Reef Fishing (Shared Trip)

50% (2)
85 ft 1 - 15 People From $69

Top Types of Trips in Fort Lauderdale

Top Species for Fishing in Fort Lauderdale

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Target Species in Fort Lauderdale

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

Deep Sea Fishing Charters In Fort Lauderdale, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Not Your Normal Fishing Charter!

NEW
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Florida Fishing Fun!

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Full Day Trip - 37’ SeaVee

100% (1)
37 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Luxury Full Day - 64’ Viking

NEW
64 ft 1 - 10 People From $5,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Luxury Half Day - 61’ Viking

NEW
64 ft 1 - 10 People From $4,195
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Sportfishing

100% (3)
29 ft 1 - 4 People From $600

Nearshore Fishing Charters In Fort Lauderdale, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Super Quick Trips

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Peacock Bass & Snakehead Combo!

100% (18)
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $900
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Luxury Half Day - 61’ Viking

NEW
64 ft 1 - 10 People From $4,195
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Not Your Normal Fishing Charter!

NEW
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Luxury Full Day - 64’ Viking

NEW
64 ft 1 - 10 People From $5,200
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Peacock Bass: Fly Or Spin

100% (18)
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $550

Inshore Fishing Charters In Fort Lauderdale, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Luxury Full Day - 64’ Viking

NEW
64 ft 1 - 10 People From $5,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Lake Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Everglades Peacock Bass/Largemouth

100% (8)
20 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Peacock Bass: Fly Or Spin

100% (18)
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Everglades Trip - 21’ Storm

100% (3)
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Luxury Half Day - 61’ Viking

NEW
64 ft 1 - 10 People From $4,195
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Peacock Bass & Snakehead Combo!

100% (18)
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $900

More Fishing Charters In Fort Lauderdale, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Unforgettable Day Offshore

100% (16)
45 ft 1 - 6 People From $850
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Fort Lauderdale

Shoreline Peacock Bass Fishing

100% (7)
1 - 4 People From $200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Ft. Lauderdale Quick Trips

NEW
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Full Day Ultimate Fishing Trip

NEW
52 ft 1 - 6 People From $875
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Florida Fishing Fun!

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Luxury Half Day - 61’ Viking

NEW
64 ft 1 - 10 People From $4,195
See All Trips in Fort Lauderdale

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

What are the best fishing charters in Fort Lauderdale?

Why should I book a fishing charter in Fort Lauderdale with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 190 trips in Fort Lauderdale, and the most popular trips in the area are Peacock Bass: Fly or Spin guided by Justin, Unforgettable Day Offshore guided by Tim, and Sea Monster Catch Adventure guided by Mike.

Our guides in Fort Lauderdale are rated a 4.85 out of 5 based on 3679 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly charters / fishing lessons in Fort Lauderdale? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Fort Lauderdale.

What types of fishing charters are common in Fort Lauderdale?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Fort Lauderdale as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and lake fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Fort Lauderdale are: 1. mahi mahi, 2. kingfish, 3. sailfish, 4. wahoo, and 5. blackfin tuna.

The most common fishing techniques in Fort Lauderdale are live bait fishing, trolling, and heavy tackle fishing but bottom fishing and light tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much do Fort Lauderdale fishing charters cost?

Prices in Fort Lauderdale can range anywhere from about $650 to $6,300, but the average price for a half day trip in Fort Lauderdale is $1,806. The average price for a full day trip in Fort Lauderdale is $3,511.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in Fort Lauderdale?

The most popular season for fishing in Fort Lauderdale is spring, and most anglers book their trips 30 days in advance.

Do I need a Fort Lauderdale fishing license and what are the bag limits in Fort Lauderdale?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Fort Lauderdale, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Fort Lauderdale. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale Fishing Charter Overview

Fort Lauderdale offers a diverse range of fishing charters that cater to various preferences. The city's proximity to calm canals, remote reefs, and the Gulf Stream's warm currents makes it an ideal location for fishing enthusiasts. Local captains offer customized trips that cater to different groups, ensuring that everyone has a memorable experience.

Inshore fishing charters in Fort Lauderdale primarily target Snook and Tarpon, which are popular among fly fishers and sporting anglers due to their fighting abilities. Reef fishing trips venture into the ocean, where anglers can bottom fish for Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack, and other species that are available year-round. However, the best time to target these fish is during the summer.

Offshore charters specialize in trolling and kite fishing, targeting Sailfish, Tuna, Marlin, and other species that are available throughout the year. Sailfish are abundant during winter and spring, while Marlin peak in summer. Swordfishing is popular during the fall season. Regardless of the time of year, anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish.

Inshore charters are suitable for beginners and young children, while reef fishing trips are ideal for those seeking a more challenging experience. Deep sea charters are designed for seasoned anglers and are available as half or full-day trips. Full-day charters are recommended for those targeting big Billfish.

Fishing licenses are not required for saltwater charters in Fort Lauderdale. However, a license is necessary for freshwater species like Bass. It is important to note that Snook are release-only from December 15 to January 31 and June 1 to August 3. Most Grouper species are protected between January 1 and April 30, and Tarpon are catch-and-release all year round.

Inshore Fishing Fort Lauderdale

The inshore fishing opportunities in Fort Lauderdale do not get the recognition they deserve. With Canals, backwaters, and waterways full of bucket list fish like snook and tarpon, the inshore fishing is excellent. With redfish, sheepshead, and jack crevalle also inhabiting these waters, there are plenty of species to target on an inshore trip.

Tarpon fishing in Fort Lauderdale is sure to be exciting and when the bite peaks in the fall, the snook seems to be getting hungry as well. These two bucket list fish can be hard to find let alone catch in other areas, but these explosive fish can be found throughout the canals and backwaters in Fort Lauderdale at the right time of year.

Nearshore Fishing Fort Lauderdale

With plenty of nearby reefs, structures, and baitfish, mackerel, kingfish, and various snapper species can be found in the waters just offshore. With various species of snapper like mutton, mangrove, and yellowtail, you can drop bait deep year-round. Red snapper is also a popular game fish found in the waters around Fort Lauderdale, but the season for recreational red snapper fishing typically opens in June and lasts for a limited time based on the health of the red snapper population.

Catching mackerel and kingfish is an action-packed experience with these aggressive predators. With big blowups, and pound for pound some of the hardest fighting fish, this is an experience that’s hard to beat. With various species of snapper like mutton, mangrove, and yellowtail you can drop bait deep year-round.

Deep Sea Fishing Fort Lauderdale

Our Fort Lauderdale deep sea fishing charters take place aboard spacious and accommodating sportfishing boats that are fantastic options for large groups of friends and families. Running out to deep bluewater means taking a shot at tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and billfish. Serious anglers come from all over to take advantage of the offshore opportunities in Fort Lauderdale. The blue marlin bite comes on strong in the summer months followed by the swordfish and sailfish in the winter. With mahi-mahi, tuna, and wahoo biting year-round, there are always giant fish to be caught with an offshore charter out of Fort Lauderdale.

The opportunity to catch a massive sailfish has brought many anglers to Fort Lauderdale and it just might be the best place in the world to do it. The sailfish and swordfish bite peaks in the winter months but can be caught throughout most of the cooler months. With the unique style of kite fishing for these lightning-fast fish, it’s an experience like no other. If you want to catch a sailfish you will want to do it on a charter in Fort Lauderdale.

View All Fort Lauderdale Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Popular Types of Fishing In Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale fishing charters offer a variety of options for anglers of all levels. The most common types of fishing charters in Fort Lauderdale include deep-sea fishing, inshore fishing, and drift fishing.

Deep-sea fishing charters take you out to the Gulf Stream, where you can catch big game fish like sailfish, marlin, and tuna. Inshore fishing charters stay closer to shore and target species like snook, redfish, and tarpon. Drift fishing charters are perfect for beginners and families, as they provide a more relaxed fishing experience and target species like snapper, grouper, and triggerfish.

Some of the most common fish to catch in Fort Lauderdale include mahi-mahi, wahoo, kingfish, and snapper. Depending on the type of fishing charter you choose, you may also have the opportunity to catch sailfish, marlin, tuna, and other big game fish.

Fort Lauderdale fishing charters often depart from landmarks like the Bahia Mar Marina and the Las Olas Marina. These locations provide easy access to some of the best fishing grounds in the area and offer a variety of amenities for anglers, including bait and tackle shops, restaurants, and restrooms.

The Best Places To Fish In Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, Florida is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. With its warm waters and diverse marine life, there are plenty of great spots to cast a line. Here are some of the best places to fish in Fort Lauderdale, whether you're looking to go on a fishing charter or just fish from shore:

1. Hillsboro Inlet: This inlet is a popular spot for fishing charters, as it's home to a variety of fish species, including snapper, grouper, and kingfish.

2. Port Everglades: This deepwater port is a great place to catch big game fish like sailfish and marlin. Fishing charters often depart from here.

3. Dania Beach Pier: This pier is a great spot for shore fishing, with plenty of snapper, pompano, and other species to be caught.

4. Lake Sylvia: This freshwater lake is a hidden gem for bass fishing, with plenty of largemouth and peacock bass to be caught.

5. Fort Lauderdale Beach: While not known for its fishing, Fort Lauderdale Beach can be a great spot to catch snook and other species from shore.

6. The Everglades: For a truly unique fishing experience, consider a fishing charter in the Everglades. You'll have the chance to catch everything from tarpon to alligator gar in this vast wilderness.

Other Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale

While Fort Lauderdale fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this vibrant city. Take a stroll down Las Olas Boulevard, known for its trendy shops and restaurants. Visit the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, a historic home with beautiful gardens and art exhibits. For a family-friendly activity, head to the Museum of Discovery and Science, featuring interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater. If you're looking for some outdoor fun, check out Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and kayak rentals. And of course, no trip to Fort Lauderdale is complete without a visit to the beach - head to Fort Lauderdale Beach Park for a day of sun, sand, and surf.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Chris is an awesome guide. Real Miami native who knows the bay better than anyone. He really cares about fishing and he is not on a hard "trip ending" time. Chris also suggested some local Miami restaurants and took us there after our trip. A certified damn good guide in my book.

    Hollis B. | November 4, 2024

    Trip: South Florida Inshore fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Brett was the best, I have some friends in Canada I will be sending info to.

    Tara P. | November 3, 2024

    Trip: Iguana Hunt in South FL

  • ★★★★★
    Fun day on the water, captain worked hard and was very knowledgeable. Would go again.

    John G. | November 2, 2024

    Trip: Sea Monster Catch Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    He was great. Food was great. Fishing was fun. I would go again for sure

    Marc A. | November 1, 2024

    Trip: Peacock Bass: Fly or Spin

  • ★★★★★
    Jonathan was a great captain. Will go back again definitely.

    Brent S. | October 27, 2024

    Trip: Florida gar

  • ★★★★★
    Alex was a very nice guy. I enjoyed our short visit. Unfortunately my friend got very sea sick but they enjoyed the experience .

    Luis A. | October 26, 2024

    Trip: Inshore Trip / Gentle Waters

  • ★★★★★
    Charlie was an awesome guide. My group had so much fun. We had a great experience. Would definitely recommend an Iguana excursion with Charlie!

    Daniel S. | October 20, 2024

    Trip: Iguana Hunting Insanity

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience. Sympatic guys. I can only recommend

    Vejvar M. | October 17, 2024

    Trip: 5hr Offshore Big Game Trip

  • ★★★★★
    We had a wonderful time with Edmond. He was very prepared for the trip and he did his best to make sure we had every opportunity to catch fish. The bite was tough to get today and we had a few hits that slipped the hook. The weather was perfect and we enjoyed ourselves. I would go with him again.

    Robert K. | October 15, 2024

    Trip: Pompano Fishing Frenzy

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Brian was fantastic. I took my two boys and we caught fish all day. Five different species of fish including 2 big clown knife fish. Capt was professional, knowledgeable and had everything we needed on the boat for a great day of fishing. I strongly recommend Capt Brian for a great day on the water.

    Stephen P. | October 14, 2024

    Trip: Peacock Bass Trophy Hunt

  • ★★★★★
    I go on several fishing and hunting charters a year. This one has me counting the days until we go again. The cast and blast is a perfect split day balance without getting burned out on one species. Justin is an excellent guide with great personality and patience (I’ve found that rare with most captains). Puts us on the game and wife had a great time!

    Tyson W. | October 13, 2024

    Trip: Iguana Hunting

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Byran is so fun and so professional in fishing. I love his dog, she went fishing with us and she’s so kind with my kids. We had the best time together! Definitely recommend captain Bryan for your advisor!

    Luxi W. | October 12, 2024

    Trip: 5hr Offshore Big Game Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Jusin was able to put together a great Cast and Blast trip for us.  He does work very hard to put together a good trip.  Fishing for Peacocks, he did make several moves to various spots and successfully put us on fish.  Hunting for iguanas, again he was able to put us on them for a total of 25 iguanas.  Lunch was very good, and along with good weather made for a really good trip, would definitely recommend.

    Erik R. | October 2, 2024

    Trip: Cast and Blast Adventures

  • ★★★★★
    Jason was an excellent guide and the trip was so much fun. Got to catch several Mahi Mahi. Would highly recommend!!!!!

    Amanda W. | September 24, 2024

    Trip: Reef fishing trip

  • ★★★★★
    Absolutely I’m not recommending this guy

    Edgar G. | September 20, 2024

    Trip: Iguana Hunt in South FL

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time with Captain Ron and first mate Chris! They were really helpful and went out of their way to help us reel in our desired catch! They also offered water and ice which was life saving on a hot day! Assisted us with any questions we had about fishing and the area! We plan on booking with them again!

    Ashley N. | September 14, 2024

    Trip: Sunrise Saltwater Slam

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Bill is exactly what a guide should be. He was professional, funny, knowledgeable and I felt like I had known him for years. I had two first time hunters with me that had an amazing and safe time. He put us in a game rich environment where we were very successful! Thanks

    Rob F. | September 8, 2024

    Trip: Iguana Hunts Delray Beach

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip! Captain Aaron is super knowledgeable and fun! The kids had a great time.

    Nicole S. | September 8, 2024

    Trip: Lobstering Miami Beach

  • ★★★★★
    Super fun dive! Conditions weren’t ideal but captain Aaron made sure to find prime & safe spots regardless and was able to shoot some fish & lobsters to enjoy the rest of my Florida trip!

    Angela Y. | August 30, 2024

    Trip: Spearfishing Miami Beach

  • ★★★★★
    Ron and Chris were incredible hosts. We were in town from Seattle without a clue of what group to book with. Both were super knowledgeable about all things fishing, made it easy for beginners to feel like pros and the boat was a smooth, fun ride. Overall, easily 5-stars. Would highly recommend.

    Jeff J. | August 13, 2024

    Trip: Sportfishing in Style

Top Targeted Hunting Species in Fort Lauderdale

Top Fishing Techniques in Fort Lauderdale

Top Hunting Techniques in Fort Lauderdale

Top Types of Fishing in Fort Lauderdale

Top Types of Hunting in Fort Lauderdale

How are fishing conditions in Fort Lauderdale?

View Fort Lauderdale Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Trips in Fort Lauderdale