Best Times & Seasons to Catch Sailfish in Florida (Guide)
Sailfish are one of the most targeted fish species in Florida waters. Knowing the best times and seasons to target marlin in Florida increases anglers’ chances for success.
The best times to catch sailfish in Florida are from January to February and November to December. Sailfish are more active during the colder months of the year.
Florida is one of the world’s best fishing destinations. The destination impresses anglers with its flats, mangroves, and wrecks. Anglers can target sailfish either in the Atlantic Ocean on the east or in the Gulf of Mexico on the west.
Sailfish Fishing in Florida
Sailfish fishing in Florida is good in January – March and in June – September. The best months to catch sailfish in Florida waters are January – February, July, and November – December. The worst months to catch sailfish in Florida are April – May, and October.
Anglers get the best results when targeting sailfish during the morning hours. Tides don’t matter too much for sailfish fishing in the region. It’s possible to catch sailfish successfully on all tides.
However, it would be better to target Florida sailfish during an early morning incoming tide. Sailfish feed actively in water temperatures 70° – 83°F. The most optimal water temperature for sailfish fishing in the region is 75° – 80°F.
Best Seasons for Florida Sailfish (by Region)
Florida Gulf Coast
The west coast of Florida attracts anglers, who would like to target sailfish during their fishing trips. It’s possible to catch sailfish in the different depths of the Gulf. However, a lot of sailfish can be found in the deep blue waters of the Gulf Stream.
Sailfish is active in the local waters throughout the year. However, sailfish fishing is best on the Florida Gulf coast during the spring and fall months.
Florida Atlantic Coast
The southern Atlantic coast of Florida has many great sailfish fishing spots. It makes a lot of sense to target sailfish near the Treasure Coast. It’s also known as “Sailfish Alley.”
Anglers can also target sailfish in West Palm Beach, Jensen Beach, and Stuart. Fishermen should go 4 miles in offshore waters to catch sailfish successfully. Sailfish fishing is the most productive on the Atlantic coast of Florida in the late fall and during the winter months.
Florida Keys
It’s possible to catch sailfish in the Florida Keys at any time of the year. However, sailfish fishing is good in the local waters during the winter months. Sailfish are the most abundant in the region during winter and spring migrations. Sailfish can be found in deeper waters and near reefs.
Deep sea fishing is also a great way to fish for sailfish in the Florida Keys. The peak season to catch sailfish in the Florida Keys is from November to January and from April to early May.
Recommended Sailfish Fishing Charters in Florida
These Florida-based charters are some of the best at putting you on great fishing action. The captains are knowledgeable and professional and are sure to put you on fish. By clicking the links below, you will be taken to the charter’s respective profile on Fishing Booker where you can read reviews, learn more about the charter, view photos, and book online at the best rate.
| Recommended Fishing Charters | Location |
| Jolly Roger II Fishing Charters | Key West, FL |
| Florida Adventure Outfitters | Fort Lauderdale, FL |
| Sea Dancer Charters | Jacksonville, FL |
| Who Cares Fishing Charters | Port Orange, FL |
| Hillbilly Hookers Charters | Key West, FL |
| Papa Bear’s Fishing Charters | West Palm Beach, FL |
| Bulldog Fishing Charters | West Palm Beach, FL |
| All Points Guide Service | Cape Canaveral, FL |
| Kekoa Charters | Islamorada, FL |
| Strippin Lips Offshore Charters | Port Orange, FL |
| Boa Vida Charters | Key West, FL |
| True Grit Sportfishing | Pompano Beach, FL |
| Jersey Key Charters | Marathon, FL |
Is Sailfish Fishing Good in Winter?
Sailfish fishing is excellent in Florida waters during the winter months. In December, it makes a lot of sense to target sailfish in the southeast part of Florida. The Stuart Sailfish Club Light Tackle Tournament is held in the region in the early winter.
The tournament brings many anglers together. Sailfish continue to bite well in January. The West Palm Beach Silver Sailfish Derby takes place in the region this month. Anglers can also target sailfish in Florida in February. Sailfish fishing is great in the waters around Islamorada.
Night Fishing Sailfish in Florida
Sailfish bite well at night. That means that fishing for sailfish can be incredible during the nighttime. Summer is the best time of the year to fish for sailfish at night. If you choose to go fishing at night, then you’ll be able to avoid summer heat as well as sunburns.
Night fishing for sailfish is good in the region during night hours. Anglers get the best results in July when targeting sailfish in Florida waters. It’s important to know that the moon affects sailfish fishing in Florida. Sailfish fishing is more productive in the region around the new moon.
For a complete breakdown of the best times to fish for sailfish in the Florida Keys, check out this article out. For a complete breakdown of the best times to fish for sailfish in Costa Rica, check out this article out. For a complete breakdown of the best times to fish for tuna in Florida, check out this article out. For a complete breakdown of the best times to catch sheepshead in Florida, check out this article. Click here for a breakdown of the best times to catch marlin in Florida.
