Top Fish to Catch in Key Biscayne

Top Fish to Catch in Key Biscayne: What’s Biting This Season

Hook the Dream: Top Fish to Catch in Key Biscayne with Island Time Charters

Welcome aboard! At Island Time Charters, we know that when you cast off from Key Biscayne, you're not just looking for any fish—you’re hunting for the Florida trophy that makes your trip legendary. Key Biscayne is uniquely positioned right next to the Gulf Stream, which acts as a superhighway for some of the world’s most sought-after game fish. Forget the generic fishing reports; we’re here to give you the real local knowledge on what’s biting and why this is the best spot for your next deep sea fishing charter.

The biggest myth about fishing near Miami is that you have to travel far into the Keys for the action. Myth Busted! The deep waters and vibrant reefs just a stone’s throw from the iconic Cape Florida Lighthouse offer year-round, world-class fishing. Our Captain Jesus Castell, a lifelong resident, has mastered the seasonal patterns of these waters, ensuring every trip is optimized for the best possible haul. Here’s a look at the spectacular species we target during the prime seasons in Key Biscayne.

1. The Colorful Contender: Mahi-Mahi (Dolphin)

Mahi-Mahi, also called Dolphin or Dorado, is arguably the most famous catch in South Florida, and for good reason. They are stunningly colored, notoriously hard-fighting, and absolutely delicious.

The main Mahi-Mahi season in Key Biscayne runs from Spring through Fall (roughly April to October). During this time, we chase them offshore, typically looking for floating debris (like weedlines or sargassum) where they gather to feed. The thrill of hooking a school of Mahi is unmatched; it's a fast-paced, high-energy environment that delivers non-stop action. When you book a deep sea fishing trip with Island Time Charters, we ensure you have the heavy tackle and expert guidance needed to land these vibrant trophies.

2. The Mighty Migrator: Sailfish

The Sailfish is the undisputed king of South Florida waters, a true bucket-list catch for any angler. Known for their spectacular aerial acrobatics and blazing speed, they offer a fight you will never forget.

The best time to target Sailfish is during the Winter and early Spring (November through March) when the cold fronts push baitfish (like Ballyhoo) down the coast. We often employ kite fishing techniques right off the reefs of Key Biscayne to present live baits at the surface. Landing a Sailfish is a testament to skill and patience, and the photos we get of these majestic fish—released to fight another day—are the highlight of any trip with Island Time Charters.

3. The Reef Wreckers: Snapper and Grouper

While the big pelagics get all the glory, the bottom fish provide some of the most reliable and tasty action right here in Key Biscayne. Red Snapper, Yellowtail Snapper, and various species of Grouper (like Black and Gag) populate the countless wrecks and reefs along our coast.

These species are caught year-round, though specific seasons apply to Grouper, so always check the latest regulations. Fishing for these reef dwellers requires precise navigation and technique, often using live or dead bait dropped directly onto the structure. They offer a strong, stubborn fight straight down, providing a challenging workout before becoming the main course at your dinner table. These are excellent targets for a family fishing charter as they offer consistent action.

4. The Summer Speedster: Wahoo

If you are looking for pure adrenaline, the Wahoo is your target. Famous for its incredible speed and razor-sharp teeth, this sleek predator is typically caught while trolling high-speed lures.

Wahoo can be caught year-round, but the bite intensifies during the full and new moons—especially in the warmer months and during the transition periods of Spring and Fall. We head out past the 300-foot contour near Key Biscayne, searching the Gulf Stream edge for them. The strike from a Wahoo is often violent, stripping hundreds of yards of line in seconds. Are you ready for the fight of your life?

Ready to Hook Your Key Biscayne Trophy?

The legendary fishery of Key Biscayne is waiting. Our Captain Jesus at Island Time Charters lives and breathes these waters; he knows where the fish are hiding and exactly what they're biting on this season. Whether you are a seasoned angler chasing a trophy Wahoo or a family looking for a memorable snapper catch, we have the custom gear, expertise, and passion to make your dream trip a reality.

Don't wait—the fish are biting right now! View our real-time calendar and book your next deep sea fishing charter with Island Time Charters today to experience the best offshore adventure in Key Biscayne!