If you’re planning a Fort Lauderdale fishing charter this summer, now is the time to book your trip! The shallow reefs and wrecks off the coast of Fort Lauderdale are starting to come alive with action. Over the past week, we’ve seen an increase in yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, and a few keeper-size grouper moving into their seasonal haunts.
Snapper Season is Heating Up
Late June marks the beginning of the peak snapper fishing season in South Florida, and it typically runs strong through early September. On recent Fort Lauderdale deep sea fishing charters, our crews have been targeting snapper in 40 to 80 feet of water, especially around natural reef structures and small shipwrecks just offshore. Yellowtails have been schooling up nicely, hitting small chunks of cut bait and live pilchards on light tackle.
The mutton snapper bite is starting to pick up too, especially on the outgoing tide. Anglers drifting live baits like cigar minnows or ballyhoo along the bottom have found good success. As water temperatures continue to climb, we expect the muttons to become even more active.
Grouper Making an Appearance
While grouper fishing in Fort Lauderdale is usually better in deeper water, we’ve seen some nice black and red grouper starting to show on the same reef lines. These fish are hitting larger live baits and jigs worked slowly near structure. Keep in mind that grouper regulations apply, so make sure you’re within the legal size and bag limits.
Book Your Fort Lauderdale Charter Today
Whether you’re targeting snapper, grouper, or pelagic species like mahi and kingfish, the summer bite is on. Now’s a great time to book a private fishing charter in Fort Lauderdale for a half-day or full-day trip. We provide everything you need for a successful day on the water!
🐟 Caribbean-Style Grilled Snapper Recipe with Tropical Sides
Here’s a mouth-watering way to enjoy your fresh catch after a great day offshore.
🔥 Grilled Caribbean Snapper
Ingredients:
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2 whole yellowtail or mutton snapper, scaled and gutted
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3 tbsp olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp fresh lime juice
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1 tsp allspice
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp thyme
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional), finely chopped
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Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
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Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
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In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lime juice, allspice, paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and scotch bonnet (if using).
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Rub mixture all over the fish, including inside the cavity. Let marinate for 15–30 minutes.
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Grill fish for about 5–6 minutes per side, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
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Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
🍍 Tropical Side Dishes
Coconut Rice:
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Cook jasmine rice with a mix of water and coconut milk.
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Add a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top.
Grilled Pineapple Salsa:
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Dice grilled pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
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Mix with lime juice and a touch of honey.
Fried Plantains:
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Slice ripe plantains and fry in oil until golden brown.
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Sprinkle lightly with sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor.
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