With summer upon us, there’s no better time to hit the water and cast a line. And when it comes to summer fishing in Florida, there are some truly amazing spots to drop a line and reel in some big catches. From the Keys to the east coast and beyond, here are some of our top picks for Florida summer fishing spots, so grab your gear and let’s get started.
- Destin – Starting in the panhandle and working our way south, we find ourselves in Destin – known for its impressive white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here you’ll find some of the best deep-sea fishing in Florida, with access to the Gulf’s top game fish like marlin, swordfish, and amberjack.
- St. Augustine and Jacksonville – For those looking to fish on the east coast, St. Augustine and Jacksonville are great choices. The city’s many bays, inlets, and reefs offer a diverse range of habitats for all types of fish, including redfish, trout, and flounder. Plus, with its historic charm and beautiful scenery, St. Augustine is an ideal summer getaway for anglers and their families. Nearby Jacksonville is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, St. Johns River, and countless freshwater lakes and streams. This range of water environments allows for a variety of fishing experiences, from deep-sea fishing to fly-fishing in small creeks.
- Daytona Beach – Daytona Beach is another east coast gem for fishing enthusiasts. The Halifax River and nearby Ponce Inlet provide ample opportunities for snook, redfish, and spotted sea trout, while the offshore waters offer the chance to reel in mahi-mahi, tuna, and even sailfish.
- Tampa Bay – This massive body of water offers saltwater fishing for a variety of species, including redfish, snook, and tarpon. The warmer months are ideal for targeting these fish, with redfish and snook biting best around the mangrove islands and oyster bars. Tarpon fishing is at its peak from May to July and requires a bit more expertise, as these fish are notoriously tough to reel in. But with patience and skill, you could land the catch of a lifetime.
- Sarasota – Sarasota is a must-visit destination for serious anglers. The area’s abundant grass flats and shallow water make it perfect for wade or kayak fishing. Redfish and speckled trout are in abundance, with snook and tarpon also making an appearance. If you’re up for a challenge, try your hand at catching permit in the nearby Boca Grande Pass.
- Fort Myers and Cape Coral – Next, we head further south to Fort Myers and Cape Coral. The Caloosahatchee River and nearby Estero Bay offer some of the best inshore fishing in Florida. Expect to find snook, redfish, mangrove snapper, and more in these waters. For offshore fishing, head out to the Gulf of Mexico to target grouper, snapper, and kingfish, among others.
- Miami – Thanks to its location on the Atlantic Ocean, Miami is another great place to catch a wide variety of fish, from snook to mahi-mahi. With numerous fishing charters and easy access to popular spots like Biscayne Bay, Miami is a perfect place to experience the thrill of the catch.
- The Florida Keys – Last but certainly not least, we make our way down to the Florida Keys. This fishing paradise offers a wide range of options, from backcountry and flats to reef and deep-sea fishing. Tarpon, bonefish, and permit are prevalent in shallow waters, while grouper, snapper, and barracuda can be found near the reefs. And of course, the big game fish like marlin, sailfish, and tuna are all on the table when heading offshore. From Key Largo to Key West, don’t miss your ample opportunities to catch big fish in the Southernmost part of the state.
There you have it, the top Florida fishing destinations in Florida are waiting for you. No matter where you choose to fish this summer, it’s important to mention the importance of protecting your boat while docked. With SmartPlug’s marine shore power solutions, you can prevent overheating and potential electrical fires. Don’t let a faulty shore power connection ruin your day on the water – equip your boat with SmartPlug, today. Pack up your rods, hit the water, and enjoy the ultimate fishing experience with SmartPlug on board.
For more information about our marine lineup of products, visit our website.
