Miami, Florida is a destination for outdoorsmen (and women) who lover the sun and salty sea air all year round. Miami is poised along the Atlantic coast near to estuaries, coral reefs and the Gulf Steam Current and all the deep sea fish it brings. Deep sea fishing can be done all year due to the constant sunny and warm temperatures of Miami, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and anglers, especially during the winter months.
Geography and Climate
Florida is a low-lying peninsula. Miami is situated on the south end on the Atlantic coast. To the west of Miami lay miles and miles of Everglade swamplands. The rich brackish estuaries around Miami are breeding grounds for many types of ocean fish, making the oceans around Miami especially rich in all kinds of sea life. Miami is also very close to the Gulf Stream Current, which lies about two miles offshore and can be reached in a 10-minute boat ride. This makes it an excellent place for deep sea fishing, since the nutrient-rich Gulf Stream brings with it all sorts of game, including shark, snapper, sailfish, marlin and mahi mahi
When to Go
Deep sea fishing is a year-round sport in Miami. Different times of the year will bring different fish. Check with local fishing reports to see what is biting. The deep sea waters off the coast of Miami are known for sharks, especially large ones, sailfish, marlin, wahoo, and tuna. One of the most sought-after of the deep sea fish by fisherman, the majestic Blue Marlin, is often found flying through the deep sea waters off the coast of Miami.
Getting Out to the Fish
If you don't own your own fishing boat, you will be charting one from one of many companies that specialize in deep sea fishing in Miami waters. While chartering a boat can tend to be expensive, you will have the benefit of guides who are familiar with the area and know where the fish are biting. Many charters will provide you with all the gear you need, bait, lures and usually also include your fishing license. Charters are typically for either a half day that lasts about four hours, a six-hour trip, or a full day of eight hours. Night charters are also offered, which specialize in going after swordfish. Deep sea fishing charter trips can accommodate anglers of all skill sets, including children.
What You Need
If you choose to go out by yourself, you will need to be sure and have a fishing license from the state of Florida. Fishing licenses can be purchased online from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or from licensed vendors and guides. Also, check the current fishing regulations on saltwater fishing that are regularly posted on the commission's website. This will include current bag limits, if any. If you go with a charter, the guide will have this information for you, but if you go out alone, be sure and educate yourself to avoid hefty penalties.
Health Considerations
Being out in the sun is essential for a healthy body. The skin's direct contact with sunlight promotes the synthesis of Vitamin D in the skin. Vitamin D is an important vitamin that can only be gotten naturally from the sun. However, too much sun can be a bad thing, especially if your skin is not used to it. To prevent painful burns, be sure to wear a hat and protective clothing. Stay in the shade when possible and be sure to drink lots of water to remain hydrated so that your skin will be less likely to burn. The hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. are when the sun's rays are the strongest, so fish early or late to avoid the intense sun. Keep a leaf or two of fresh aloe in your cooler when fishing and apply to skin if it becomes red or irritated to soothe and cool it.
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