What Sportfish You Can Catch in the Palm Beaches
With more than 7,700 lakes, 10,550 miles of rivers and 2,276 miles of tidal shoreline it should come as no surprise that Florida is famous for its fishing. Here are some of the most impressive sport fish you can catch in the Sunshine state.
Sailfish
Florida’s official state saltwater fish, sailfish inhabit tropical and subtropical waters. Sailfish usually travel alone or in small groups. The outstanding feature is the long, high first dorsal fin. Known for its high, acrobatic jumps, the sailfish is a favorite of blue-water anglers.
Spotted Sea Trout
Commonly known as speckled trout, this is a schooling species usually found in the shallow waters of bays and estuaries. It has two large canine teeth in the upper jaw and feeds mainly on shrimp and small baitfish in grassy areas. One of Florida’s most popular sportfish, spotted sea trout will hit everything from topwater plugs to saltwater flies.
Tarpon
Tarpon is highly prized for its fighting ability but not valued as food. One of the state's most popular gamefish, tarpon can tolerate a wide range of salinities and are found throughout the state’s waters.
Snook
Snook are highly sensitive to temperature and are typically found in Florida's warmer waters. A strong predator, this fish will rip a fishing line to shreds. Great sport on light tackle, snook are a cagey prey but well worth the time it takes to catch them.
Snapper
An offshore species usually found in 60 to 440 feet. Red snapper is pinkish to red in color, and its pointed anal fin distinguishes it from other members of the snapper family. Juvenile red snapper once died by the millions in shrimp trawls, but new regulations have helped this species bounce back. Red snapper is considered one of the finest food fish found in Florida waters.
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