Target Species
Fish Species We Target - Miami Fishing Charters
The waters off Miami offer some of the most diverse fishing on the Atlantic coast. From nearshore reefs to deep offshore waters, you'll find opportunities to catch trophy fish year-round. Below is a detailed look at the main species you can target during your charter with Nomad Fishing Charters. Click the links to learn more about each species and the techniques we use to catch them.
Target Species During Your Miami Fishing Charter
Grouper
Grouper are powerful bottom dwellers that live around wrecks and reef structure in 60 to 300+ feet of water off Miami. These fish don't mess around—they fight hard and head straight for cover the moment they're hooked. Black grouper, red grouper, and gag grouper are the most common species we target. They make excellent table fare and provide a serious test of tackle and technique.
Jacks
Jacks are some of the hardest fighting fish pound-for-pound in Miami waters. Amberjack, commonly called reef donkeys, school around wrecks and can reach 50+ pounds. They make blistering runs that test your arms and your drag system. Jack crevalle are another aggressive species found nearshore and in the bay. Both species put up incredible fights and amberjack make great eating when prepared properly.
Mahi Mahi
Mahi mahi, also called dolphin or dorado, are a favorite for anglers of all skill levels. These fast-growing fish travel in schools and put on an acrobatic show when hooked. Their bright colors, aggressive strikes, and excellent taste make them one of the most popular targets off Miami. We catch mahi year-round, with spring and summer offering the best action. They're often found around floating debris, weed lines, and current breaks.
Sailfish
Sailfish are the signature species of South Florida sportfishing. These incredible billfish are available year-round but peak from November through June along the continental shelf in 100 to 300 feet of water. We primarily target sailfish using kite fishing techniques, which creates exciting visual encounters as fish attack baits on the surface. Watching a sailfish light up and charge a bait is one of the most thrilling sights in sportfishing.
Snapper
Snapper fishing in Miami targets several species including mangrove snapper, mutton snapper, yellowtail snapper, and lane snapper. These fish range from shallow mangrove areas to offshore reefs in 200+ feet of water. Mutton snapper are prized for their size and fighting ability, while yellowtail provide fast action on lighter tackle. All snapper species are excellent eating and require finesse fishing with lighter leaders since they have sharp eyesight and cautious feeding habits.
Snook
Snook are one of the most sought-after inshore gamefish in South Florida. These aggressive predators hang around mangroves, docks, bridges, and inlet structures. They're known for explosive strikes, powerful runs, and impressive jumps. Snook fishing is best during summer months when they spawn near inlets and passes. We target them using live bait and artificial lures on light spinning tackle. Their fighting ability and the challenge of fishing around structure makes them a top choice for experienced anglers.
Tarpon
Tarpon are called the "silver king" for good reason. These prehistoric fish can reach over 200 pounds and are known for spectacular aerial displays when hooked. Tarpon migrate through Miami's coastal waters from spring through fall, with peak season from May through July. We target them around inlets, bridges, and channels using live bait. They're most active during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours. Landing a tarpon requires patience, proper technique, and a lot of perseverance—but the reward is worth it.
Tuna
Blackfin tuna are the most common tuna species we catch off Miami, available year-round with larger fish showing up in spring. These hard-fighting tuna typically range from 10 to 30 pounds and make blistering runs that will test your tackle. They're excellent eating as sashimi or seared. We also occasionally hook into skipjack tuna and rare yellowfin or bluefin tuna when conditions align. Tuna are caught while trolling, kite fishing, or chunking around schools of baitfish.
Wahoo
Wahoo are speed demons with razor-sharp teeth and incredible acceleration. While not as common as some other species, we catch wahoo throughout the year with better numbers in winter and spring. These fish cruise along the reef edge and drop-offs in 100 to 400 feet of water. We typically catch them while trolling with planers or high-speed lures. Wahoo make excellent table fare with firm white meat. Their explosive strikes and blistering runs make them one of the most exciting catches offshore.
Ready to target your favorite species? Book your charter now or call 786-266-0171 to discuss which fish are biting and plan your next trip with Captain Orly.
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