North Miami Fishing Charters
North Miami fishing charters work Biscayne Bay’s grass flats, channels, and nearshore reefs for bonefish, tarpon, snapper, and seasonal pelagics.
Top Rated Charters in North Miami
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North Miami, FL Fishing Guide
North Miami sits in a prime stretch of South Florida’s coastline, giving anglers quick access to both inshore and nearshore fishing grounds. Most trips launch from public ramps like Pelican Harbor Marina or Haulover Park, which offer direct access to Biscayne Bay and its network of flats, channels, and cuts. Inshore charters often stick to half-day runs, working shallow grass flats and mangrove shorelines for bonefish, permit, and snook, with tarpon showing strong in spring and summer around bridge pilings and channel edges. Nearshore and reef trips may head just a few miles offshore to target snapper, grouper, mackerel, and sailfish when the season’s right.
The fishery here is diverse. Biscayne Bay offers sheltered water even on windy days, with sight fishing possible in calm conditions. Anglers run light-tackle spin or fly gear for bonefish and permit on the flats, while deeper cuts call for live bait rigs or jigs for mutton snapper and jack crevalle. Offshore charters, which usually require a full day, may troll along color changes or drift over reefs just beyond the inlet.
Seasonal shifts keep the action moving—winter brings mackerel and sailfish nearshore, spring kicks off the tarpon migration, summer sees permit and bonefish at their peak, and fall offers mixed-bag action on the flats and reefs. Nearby alternatives include heading north toward Hollywood for wreck fishing or south toward Key Biscayne for more protected flats. North Miami’s location means most productive spots are within a 5–15 minute run from the dock, keeping travel time low and fishing time high.
Fishing Seasons in North Miami
Spring (March–May)
Warmer water triggers the start of the tarpon run, with fish moving along the beaches and gathering around Haulover and Baker’s Haulover Inlet. Bonefish and permit feed aggressively on the flats, especially on warming tides. Charters often split time between sight casting inshore and running the channels for snapper and jacks. Live crabs and mullet are top baits for tarpon, while shrimp-tipped jigs work well for bonefish.
Summer (June–August)
This is prime time for bonefish, permit, and snook on the flats, with early morning and late afternoon trips beating the heat. Offshore waters hold dolphin (mahi), king mackerel, and blackfin tuna just a few miles past the reef line. Tarpon linger around the bridges at night, making evening trips a popular option. Calm seas in summer make fly fishing a strong choice for inshore targets.
Fall (September–November)
Cooling temperatures bring bait runs along the beaches, drawing in mackerel, jacks, and bluefish. Bonefish and permit remain active, especially during stable weather windows. Offshore, wahoo and sailfish start showing with the first cold fronts. Many charters focus on mixed-bag action—casting lures inshore early, then trolling nearshore in the afternoon.
Winter (December–February)
Sailfish season peaks, with nearshore trolling and kite fishing producing big fish just outside the inlet. Spanish mackerel flood the bay and nearshore waters, often caught on spoons and jigs. Inshore, cooler water pushes bonefish deeper, but snapper and grouper bite well around structure. Many winter trips run shorter inshore sessions when winds are high, keeping anglers in the protected waters of Biscayne Bay.
Gamefish in North Miami
- Tarpon – 30–150 lbs. Found near inlets, bridges, and channels in spring and summer; best on live mullet or crabs.
- Bonefish – 3–10 lbs. Sight-fished on shallow grass flats year-round, strongest in summer and fall.
- Permit – 10–30 lbs. On deeper flats and wreck edges, peak spring through summer; crabs are prime bait.
- Snook – 5–20 lbs. Around mangroves, docks, and bridge shadow lines; takes live bait or soft plastics.
- Mutton Snapper – 5–15 lbs. On channels, reef edges, and wrecks; caught by drifting live bait or jigging.
- Sailfish – 40–80 lbs. Offshore in winter; targeted with kite baits and trolled ballyhoo.
- King Mackerel – 10–40 lbs. Nearshore reefs and wrecks, strongest in winter and early spring.
- Dolphin (Mahi-Mahi) – 5–25 lbs. Offshore summer months; caught trolling or casting around debris and weed lines.
North Miami Fishing FAQs
What are the main launch points for fishing trips in North Miami?
Pelican Harbor Marina and Haulover Park are the two primary launch sites, both offering direct access to Biscayne Bay and the ocean. These ramps have parking, fuel, and nearby bait shops.
How long are typical fishing charters here?
Half-day trips of 4–5 hours are common for inshore fishing, while nearshore or offshore runs are usually booked as 6–8 hour full-day trips. Night tarpon trips run about 4 hours.
Is fishing gear provided by local charters?
Yes, most charters supply rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Fly fishing trips may require booking with a guide who specializes in that style.
What species can I expect in winter?
Winter brings sailfish, king mackerel, and Spanish mackerel offshore, plus snapper and grouper inshore. Bonefish remain an option but are less active.
Do I need a fishing license in North Miami?
Yes, as long as it meets legal size and bag limits. Most charters will clean your catch, and local processors offer vacuum sealing and shipping.
When is the best time to fish for tarpon here?
Late spring through summer is prime for tarpon, especially around Haulover Inlet and local bridges during early morning or night tides.
What techniques are popular in North Miami?
Light-tackle spinning and fly fishing dominate the flats, while live bait drifting, kite fishing, and trolling are used nearshore and offshore.
Can large groups book a trip together?
Yes, many charter boats can accommodate 4–6 anglers, with some larger vessels offering space for up to 12 passengers for offshore trips.
Are there night fishing charters available?
Yes, night fishing is popular for tarpon and snook around the bridges and dock lights, especially in warmer months