The Gulf Stream runs close to the coast here, so deep water and big fish are only a short ride from the inlet. That makes Fort Lauderdale and its neighbors, Pompano Beach and Hollywood, some of the easiest places in Florida to book a fishing trip, whether you want a few hours on a shared boat or a full day chasing sailfish.
Here's how to choose the right trip for your group, what you need to know about Florida fishing licenses, and where the fleets are.
Key takeaways
- Shared drift boats are the budget-friendly, kid-friendly option: about 4 hours, with bait and tackle provided.
- Private charters are best for groups who want their own boat, target species and schedule.
- If you fish from a licensed for-hire boat (charter, guide or shared headboat), you do not need your own Florida saltwater license.
- Kids under 16 do not need a license. Non-residents 16+ fishing on their own need one: $17 (3 days), $30 (7 days) or $47 (annual).
- Winter is prime time for sailfish, according to local captains. Book weekends early.
Drift fishing (shared boats): best for families and first-timers
On a drift boat you share a large boat with other anglers. The captain drifts over reefs and wrecks, and the crew baits hooks and helps unhook fish. It's the easiest way to introduce kids to ocean fishing.
- Example: Lady Pamela 2 runs a 4-hour trip on its shared boat, the "Lois Ann," for $70 per person, 7 days a week. It's based in Hollywood (5400 N Ocean Dr), just south of Fort Lauderdale. The operator says it provides bait, tackle and fishing licenses.
- Bring motion-sickness remedies, sunscreen, a hat, water and a small cooler for your catch.
Private charters: best for groups of 6 and serious anglers
A private charter gives your group the whole boat, a captain and a mate. You choose half day, three-quarter day or full day, and target species such as sailfish, mahi-mahi, kingfish, wahoo, tuna or bottom fish, depending on the season.
The main fleets near our house:
- Hillsboro Inlet (Pompano Beach): the Hillsboro Fishing Fleet at 2705 N Riverside Dr has direct ocean access through the Hillsboro Inlet and specializes in deep-sea, sailfish, mahi, kingfish, wahoo, swordfish and bottom fishing.
- Fort Lauderdale: charters leave from marinas along the Intracoastal and Port Everglades.
- Hollywood: a short drive south, with drift boats and charters.
Questions to ask before you book: maximum passengers, whether fishing licenses, bait and tackle are included, who keeps the fish and whether the crew cleans it, the weather cancellation policy, and what tip is customary for the mate.
Do you need a Florida fishing license?
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC):
- On a licensed charter, guide or shared headboat: no personal saltwater license needed. The boat's charter license covers you.
- Kids under 16: exempt.
- Fishing on your own (from a private boat, the beach or most docks) as a non-resident 16 or older: you need a license. FWC lists non-resident saltwater licenses at $17 for 3 days, $30 for 7 days and $47 for a year, plus a possible small vendor fee.
- Fishing piers: on a licensed pier like the Pompano Beach pier, the pier's license covers you. See our Pompano Beach fishing pier guide.
Best time of year
You can fish here year-round. Local captains generally consider winter, roughly November through March, the best season for sailfish, while spring and summer are popular for mahi-mahi. Ask your captain what's biting the week you visit. Winter cold fronts can bring wind and rough seas, so keep a backup day in your plan.
Tips for fishing with kids
- Choose a shorter trip (4 hours) and a morning departure, when seas are often calmer.
- Bring snacks, water and a light jacket for the ride back.
- Give each child a job: watching the rod tip, counting fish, taking photos.
- For the youngest kids, try the canal or a pier first.
After the trip
Some waterfront restaurants will cook your cleaned catch ("hook and cook"). Call ahead to ask about the policy and price. See our waterfront restaurants guide.
From our family: Cardoso Realty
Dreaming of a home with your own dock?
If a few mornings on the water have you picturing a boat behind your own house, our family also operates Cardoso Realty, a Fort Lauderdale real estate brokerage led by broker Martius Cardoso. We help buyers compare waterfront neighborhoods, ocean access, bridge clearances, flood zones and insurance before they make an offer.
FAQ
Do I need a fishing license on a charter in Florida?
No. FWC exempts people fishing from a for-hire vessel (charter, guide or shared headboat) that has a valid charter license.
How much is a Florida fishing license for non-residents?
FWC lists non-resident saltwater licenses at $17 for 3 days, $30 for 7 days and $47 for one year, plus a possible small vendor fee.
What is the cheapest way to go deep-sea fishing near Fort Lauderdale?
A shared drift boat. For example, Lady Pamela 2 in Hollywood lists a 4-hour shared trip at $70 per person, with bait and tackle provided.
Is drift fishing good for kids?
Yes. The crew helps with bait and unhooking, trips are about 4 hours, and kids under 16 don't need a license.
When is sailfish season in Fort Lauderdale?
Local captains generally consider winter, roughly November through March, the best sailfish season.
Stay on the water between fishing trips
Our Fort Lauderdale canal home sleeps 12, with a private dock, kayaks and paddleboards, a heated pool and a game room. Floranada Park is across the street and the beach is about 10 minutes away.
More ideas: boat tours, sandbar guide and our local guide.
Sources
Last checked November 2026. Hours, prices and schedules change, so confirm with each venue before you go.
- FWC, Do I need a license?: myfwc.com/license/recreational/do-i-need-a-license
- FWC, Saltwater fishing licenses and fees: myfwc.com/license/recreational/saltwater-fishing
- FWC, Visitors' licenses: myfwc.com/license/recreational/visitors
- Lady Pamela 2, Fort Lauderdale fishing charters: www.ladypamela2.com
- Hillsboro Fishing Fleet (Pompano Beach): pompano.flyingcompass.com/see-do/hillsboro-fishing-fleet