South Florida’s summer offshore season is in gear, with mahi scattered along the Gulf Stream edge and the occasional sailfish and tuna mixed in. Inshore, tarpon are working Port Everglades and the beaches, and the reef line is holding snapper. Get the offshore run in early before the afternoon storms stack up over the Atlantic.
What’s Hitting
Mahi are the offshore target, found along the weed lines and color changes in the Gulf Stream. Sailfish, blackfin tuna, and bonito are mixed in, and kingfish are on the reef edge. Inshore, tarpon are rolling in Port Everglades and along the beaches, and mangrove and mutton snapper are biting on the reefs. Snook line the inlet and beaches (release only).
Where to Find Them
Push offshore to the 120- to 250-foot edge and run weed lines, debris, and frigate birds for mahi. The reef line in 60 to 120 feet holds snapper and kings. Inshore, fish Port Everglades and the beaches for tarpon on the tide, and the inlet rocks for snook. The deeper patch reefs are stacked with mangrove snapper, especially around the spawn.
Tides & Conditions
Mahi fishing keys on finding weed lines, current edges, and bird activity along the Stream. Tarpon bite the moving tides in the inlet. The morning offshore window is calmest before the sea breeze and afternoon storms build. Water is warm and the Stream has been pushing in close. Plan to be running home before the daily thunderstorms develop. The Gulf Stream has been pushing in close, putting the mahi edge within an easy morning run before the building southeast breeze stands the seas up.
Tackle & Tactics
For mahi, troll rigged ballyhoo on the edge or run-and-gun with spinning gear and pitch baits to floating debris and weed lines. Tarpon want live mullet and crabs in the inlet on 50- to 60-pound fluoro. Snapper respond to light fluoro and live baits on the reef. Keep a pitch rod rigged and ready — summer mahi often show up fast around any floating structure.
This Week’s Tip
Cover water until you find life offshore. A weed line with no bait and no birds is just grass; keep moving until you find the edge that’s holding flying fish, frigate birds, or schoolie mahi flashing. Once you find one good piece of structure with life on it, work it thoroughly before running again — summer dolphin travel in packs.