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Summer Fishing Season in Florida
Summer fishing season in Florida is fun; at least, that’s what I think. Fishing in Florida during the summer can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors. The days are long, the water is warm, and many types of fish are active. Yes, it can get very hot, but with the right plan, summer fishing can be a fun and relaxing experience.
Why Summer Fishing in Florida is a Good Idea
Summer is a busy season for fish in Florida. Many species, like snook, tarpon, and snapper, are more active when the water is warm. Because of the heat, fish often feed early in the morning and later in the evening. If you plan your trip during these cooler times, you’ll have a better chance of catching something. Also, Florida’s summer months have fewer tourists than winter, so some spots are less crowded. This gives you a little more space and quiet to enjoy the water.
What You Will Need to Bring
You don’t need expensive equipment to go fishing. Here are the basics:
- Fishing rod and reel — A medium setup is fine for most inshore fish.
- Fishing line — Use 15–20 lb braided line with a 20–30 lb leader.
- Hooks and lures — Live bait like shrimp or small fish works well. Artificial lures like soft plastics or topwater plugs are also good.
- Polarized sunglasses — These help you see into the water and protect your eyes.
- Sun protection — Bring a hat, long-sleeve shirt, and sunscreen.
- Plenty of water — Staying hydrated is very important.
- Fishing license — You can buy one online unless you’re fishing with a charter that includes it.
Optional but helpful items:
- A small cooler for drinks and fish
- Pliers for removing hooks
- A simple first-aid kit
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Best Places to Fish in Florida During Summer
Florida has many great fishing spots. Here are a few places that are popular in the summer:
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The Florida Keys
The Keys are a good place to catch tarpon, snapper, and mahi-mahi in summer. If you are new to the area, booking a guide can help.
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Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay is full of snook, redfish, and tarpon. You can fish from the shore, bridges, or a boat.
Tip: Try fishing early near the Skyway Bridge for better luck.
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Sarasota and Charlotte Harbor
These areas have a lot of mangroves where snook and redfish hide.
Tarpon also come through in big numbers during the summer.
Tip: Look for moving water around sunrise or sunset.
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Destin & Pensacola
Destin is known for red snapper and grouper fishing in the summer.
It’s one of the easier places to book an offshore fishing trip.
Tip: Snapper season usually opens in June. Check the dates before you go.
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Everglades National Park
The Everglades offer fishing for snook, tarpon, and redfish in a quiet, natural setting. It’s a great place for those who like exploring.
Tip: Bring strong bug spray. There are a lot of mosquitoes.
Check my blog posts:
The Best Fishing Spots in Sarasota, Florida for a Memorable Adventure
7 Secret Beaches Around Sarasota Only Locals Know About
What Fish Are Biting in Florida?
Here is a simple chart of what you might catch in Florida during the summer:
| Fish | Where to Find | Good Bait | Notes |
| Snook | Beaches, inlets, mangroves | Live bait, soft plastics | Summer is spawning season. Handle them carefully. |
| Tarpon | Bridges, passes, beaches | Live crabs, mullet | Known for jumping when hooked. |
| Redfish | Flats, mangroves | Shrimp, cut bait | Can be found in shallow water. |
| Snapper | Reefs, wrecks | Small fish, squid | Great to eat, common near structure. |
| Grouper | Offshore reefs | Live pinfish, heavy jigs | Some species have closed seasons, so check the rules. |
When to Fish in the Summer
The middle of the day is usually too hot for both you and the fish. Fish early in the morning or late in the evening when the temperatures are cooler.
Best fishing times:
- Sunrise to 9 AM
- 6 PM to sunset
Fishing at night is also an option, especially around dock lights where fish gather. Just make sure you bring proper lights and stay safe.
How to Handle the Heat
Florida summers are hot and humid. Here is how to stay happy and healthy while fishing:
- Drink lots of water. Start drinking before you feel thirsty.
- Wear lightweight clothes. Long sleeves and hats help block the sun.
- Take breaks. Find shade when you can.
- Use sunscreen. Apply it often, especially after sweating or swimming.
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion. If you feel dizzy, tired, or sick, stop fishing and cool off.
Fishing isn’t fun if you get overheated, so listen to your body.
A Few Personal Stories
One of my favorite summer fishing trips was an early morning in Sarasota. A few friends and I started fishing right as the sun was rising. We caught a few small snook using live shrimp and had a simple breakfast on the beach afterward. Another time, we spent an evening fishing near a bridge in Tampa. We didn’t catch anything big, but watching the sunset and feeling the cooler breeze made the trip worth it. Sometimes, it’s not just about how many fish you catch. It’s about being outside, relaxing, and enjoying the water.
So, Should You Fish in Florida This Summer?
Summer fishing in Florida takes some planning because of the heat, but it can be a really good experience. If you fish early or late in the day, bring enough water, and protect yourself from the sun, you’ll have a much better time. Florida offers so many places to explore — from beaches to mangroves to offshore reefs. Even if you are new to fishing, summer is a great time to give it a try.
Remember: keep it simple, stay safe, and enjoy your time outdoors.
Breakfast by the Fishing Spots in Florida
If you are fishing in The Florida Keys (Islamorada area):
Midway Café & Coffee Bar
- Location: 80499 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 3303
- Phone number: 305-664-2622
- Why go: Cute, casual spot known for fresh breakfasts, homemade pastries, and strong coffee.
- Popular dishes: Breakfast burritos, homemade banana bread, smoothies.
If you are fishing in Tampa Bay (near Skyway Bridge):
Skyway Jack’s Restaurant – St. Petersburg, just north of the Skyway Bridge.
- Location: 2795 34th St S, Saint Petersburg, FL 33711
- Phone number: 727-867-1907
- Why go: A classic old-school diner. Big portions, fast service, and a real “local” feel.
- Popular dishes: Biscuits and gravy, corned beef hash, pancakes.
If you are fishing in Sarasota / Charlotte Harbor (near Boca Grande or Siesta Key): Sarasota (close to Siesta Key and downtown).
Toasted Mango Café – Sarasota (close to Siesta Key and downtown).
- Location: 6621 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
- Phone number: 941-552-6485
- Why go: Fun, bright place with fresh, homemade breakfast food and friendly service.
- Popular dishes: Mango waffles, omelets, fresh-squeezed juices.
If you are fishing in Destin / Pensacola:
The Donut Hole – Destin, right along Highway 98.
- Location: 635 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
- Phone number: 850-837-8824
- Why go: Famous for big breakfast plates, homemade donuts, and great coffee.
- Popular dishes: Eggs Benedict, giant cinnamon rolls, classic breakfast platters.
- Website: donutholebakerycafe.store
If you are fishing in the Everglades (Everglades City):
Island Café – Everglades City, right near the water.
- Location: 305 Collier Ave, Ochopee, FL 34139
- Phone number: 239-695-0003
- Why go: Laid-back spot where locals go before or after fishing. Nothing fancy, just good basic food.
- Popular dishes: Simple egg breakfasts, grits, and fresh fish when available.
Useful websites before you go fishing:
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Florida Red Tide: Survival Tips & Best Florida Beaches to Visit
Best Hiking Trails in Sarasota Florida
Good luck, and happy fishing!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means we may earn a commission should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using these links. Read the disclaimer, terms & conditions, and privacy policy.
