Since much of the water off the Gulf coast is only between 30 and 300 feet deep: one must journey offshore some ways to find deep water columns like those in the Atlantic. As a result, Gulf fishermen are more likely to reel in fish like grouper, amberjack, and snapper.
What side of Florida has better fishing?
West in offshore fishing, the East Coast wins hands-down. The primary reason for this is the Gulf Stream is located off the East Coast and the water gets much deeper, much faster south of Stuart. Consequently, you don’t have to run as far offshore to get to the fish and the fish are often pelagic’s.
Which has better fishing the Gulf or Atlantic?
The Atlantic coast was responsible for 67% of the country’s recreational fishing trips and 60% of its catch. The Gulf coast accounted for 29% of trips and 37% of catch. Surprisingly, the Pacific coast only accounted for 3% of trips and 2% of catch.
Where is the best saltwater fishing in Florida?
Popular Fishing Locations:
- Big Lagoon State Park.
- Fort Pickens fishing pier & beaches.
- Johnson’s Beach at Gulf Islands National Seashore.
- Old 3 mile bridge fishing pier.
- Oriskany Artificial Reef (22.5 nautical miles southeast of Pensacola Pass)
- Palafox Pier.
- Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier.
Which is better the Gulf or Atlantic side of Florida?
The only debate worth having is which side of Florida has the best beaches. The Atlantic coast has plenty to offer in the way of water sports. They get the better waves and, thus, some greater action. Florida’s Gulf Coast, however, is responsible for those visions of smooth, sandy beaches and crystal, clear water.
What is the best month to fish in Florida?
The best time to fish in the state of Florida in saltwater is normally April through September whereas the best times to fish freshwater are spring through November. Each species of Florida gamefish will have its peak high seasons.
Which coast in Florida is best for fishing?
After surveying over 100 experienced anglers, knowledgeable about beach fishing along the Florida Coastlines, responses show that the best overall Florida coast for beach fishing is the West Coast (Gulf Side).
How deep is the Gulf of Mexico along the Florida coast?
Some Areas Are Really, Really Deep
The average depth of the Gulf is roughly 5,200 feet, but other parts of the Gulf of Mexico are surprisingly deep.
Where is the best fishing on the west coast of Florida?
1. South Padre Island. South Padre Island has amazing fishing in July. You can spend the day on beaches and swim these calm waters, then go fishing around the bay, jetties, and flats for Redfish and Speckled Trout.
Is the Atlantic Ocean good for fishing?
Fisheries of the Atlantic Ocean. The Atlantic’s major fishing grounds—representing more than half the world’s total—long were the most productive and most heavily utilized of all the oceans. For some time, many Atlantic species have been intensively fished, and some key populations are thought to be at or near collapse
Where is the best fishing in Florida?
10 Best Saltwater Fishing Spots in Florida
- Ft Myers Beach: Located on Estero Island, just south of Sanibel & Captiva Islands.
- Sanibel Island: South of Captiva Island which is separated by the famous Blind Pass, and wrapping around the southern tip of Pine Island.
What is the fishing capital of the world?
Florida is the “Fishing Capital of the World” because of its great resources and responsible management. The diversity of sport fishes, habitats, great weather, year-round fishing and superb tourism and fishing industry-related infrastructure are unsurpassed.
Which side of Florida has the clearest water?
If you’re on the hunt for the absolute clearest water beaches in Florida, head nowhere but the Emerald Coast, which is the northern end of the west coast, just next to Alabama beaches like Gulf Shores. This area is known for its absolutely stunning beaches and waters, so the name Emerald Coast is quite fitting.
Which side of Florida has nicer water?
The water on the East Coast of Florida gets nicer as you travel south. In my experience, the area from Stuart to Delray Beach is the best for crystal clear water. My theory on what makes these waters so special is the area’s proximity to the Gulf Stream ocean current.
Where is the clearest blue water in Florida?
Panama City Beach
These beaches are widely considered to be the clearest and pure in the country. There is nearly no river runoff in the area and the St. Andrew Bay filters much of the sediment out.
Is fishing good in Florida in March?
March is always a good month in Florida for Trophy Bass. Not only can you catch them on wild shiners, but you can also catch them on top water lures. Buzzbaits and toads will draw some vicious strikes and some fun action on the waters of Lake Toho and the entire Kissimmee Chain.
What fish are in season in the Gulf?
Federal Fishing Regulations
| Species | 2022 Recreational Regulations | |
|---|---|---|
| Hogfish | Open year-round Hogfish Management Area | 5 per person |
| Greater Amberjack | Closed January – April Open May* Closed June – August Open September– October* Closed November – December | 1 per person |
| Lesser Amberjack | Open* | |
| Banded Rudderfish | Open* |
What time of year is good for deep sea fishing in Florida?
Florida deep sea fishing is hot all throughout the year. Many anglers prefer September to November months for fishing in Florida. During this time, fish start migration and come to warmer waters in search of prey closer to shore. This is a time when anglers can catch trophy size fish easily.
Where is the best Gulf coast fishing?
Mobile Bay, Galveston Bay, the Ten Thousand Islands, and the Barrier Islands are top spots. Sight fishing is a popular shallow water technique all along the coast, usually paired with light tackle. The beauty of inshore fishing for these species along the Gulf Coast is that anyone can enjoy it!
Can you fish off the beach in Florida without a license?
Resident saltwater anglers who fish from shore or a structure affixed to shore will need a shoreline fishing license unless they have a regular saltwater fishing license, persons with disabilities fishing license, other combo license or are exempt.
What kind of fish can you catch in the Gulf of Florida?
The prolific Gulf waters around the Forgotten Coast are teeming with grouper, red snapper, mangrove snapper, hogfish, tripletail, amberjack, cobia, mahi mahi, blackfin tuna, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, jack crevalle, wahoo and more.