Top Florida Gulf Fish
The Florida gulf coast offers some of the best fishing in the entire country. You can find species large and small, from trophy fish for the lifetime angler to bountiful small fish for youth, there is something for everyone.
Frankly, there are too many Florida gulf fish to list them all in one article, but here are some of the top species you can target when fishing the Gulf of Mexico.
Top Florida Gulf Fish
Sailfish
One of the most visually stunning species, the sailfish has a splendid dorsal fin (the sail) that is colorful and elegant. Weighing around 50 pounds on average, this fish can go beyond 100 pounds, creating a strong challenge for even the most experienced angler.
Dolphinfish
Perhaps the most unique and colorful of all the Florida gulf fish, the dolphinfish (not to be mistaken for the entirely-different dolphin) is greenish in color with a sleek, metallic appearance. They fight hard, making them an excellent game fish, but they are also prized as a fish for the table.
Tuna
There are many types of tuna found in Florida’s Gulf Coast waters, so it may not be fair to lump them all together. Florida anglers can find blackfin tuna, yellowfin tuna, and albacore, which is a tuna species as well.
Amberjack
These are considered by many to be the hardest-fighting fish in the Gulf of Mexico. Available all year, these fish are also good table fare, making them a popular species among Florida anglers. They can also be caught with a variety of techniques, making them an interesting, versatile species.
Wahoo
The Gulf of Mexico is one of the best waters for catching wahoo, a fun, active, and enjoyable species. Florida anglers can find these fish from roughly May to September, and the fish creates fast and active fishing, as well as a wonderful dish.
Sheepshead
Caught off of jetties and piers, this species is a great fish for young anglers, as the size is manageable and the required equipment is not too large. Averaging about two pounds, they can be a hefty species that is considered one of the finest table fish in the gulf.
Red Drum (aka Redfish)
You don’t have to go far to catch Florida gulf fish. The red drum is a perfect example, as it can be caught in coastal waters and estuaries, rarely ranging far from shore. These fish are fun to catch, fight hard, and, because they are found close to shore, can be caught from smaller boats and even kayaks.
This list leaves off many of the most popular Florida gulf fish; we certainly left off someone’s personal favorite. The main point, however, is that the Florida gulf coast offers some of the most unique and engaging fishing you can find!
Find the Best Boat for Fishing the Florida Gulf Coast
From the Florida Keys to Pensacola, if you want to catch the top Florida gulf fish while enjoying luxury, refinement, and technology, you need a Scout.
Visit one of our fine dealers to get the service and information you need on your next boat purchase.
