Premiere Sport Fishing Regions And Charters Near Fort Lauderdale

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If a fishing venture or fishing trip in the beauty of Alaska isn't your gig but you love your time as an angler on the water, then how about a fishing expedition at the other end of the U.S. in Florida?.

Fort Lauderdale sport fishing is one of the area's biggest tourism generators. Because Fort Lauderdale and its nearby suburbs provides both saltwater and freshwater fishing, anglers can enjoy a deep sea experience, leisurely fly fishing or even bottom fishing.

Because sport fishing is so popular in Fort Lauderdale, you won't have a hard time locating a charter boat or fishing guide company. However, for the most current information on prices, quality companies and pier locations, try the resources below.

The International Game Fish Association World Fishing Center

The World Fishing Center, run by the IGFA (International Game Fish Association) is an incredible 3-acre park, museum and library that's also home to a virtual reality sport fishing simulator. Anglers can practice reeling in a computer-generated catch, browse the library resources or even find a list of recommended local guides and charter companies.

You can visit the World Fishing Center daily between 10am and 6pm, or you can call them at 1-954-927-2628 and ask to speak with a librarian. The IGFA has a website at igfa.org. The site even lets you search for IGFA-certified captains in the Fort Lauderdale area.

Fort Lauderdale's Hall of Fame Marina

The Hall of Fame Marina, on Seabreeze Boulevard, is full of captains and charter fishing companies, all clamoring for your Fort Lauderdale sport fishing business. Going down to take a look lets you inspect the boats in person, develop a rapport with local captains and often garner a better price.

Fort Lauderdale's Pier 66

Like the Hall of Fame Marina, the Pier 66 Marina is another hot spot for some of Fort Lauderdale's biggest and best fishing charter companies. The marina can be found on SE 17th Street or by phone at 954-525-6666. Again, ask your hotel concierge or the IGFA for a recommended boat and captain.

Hillsboro Inlet Charters

Actually located in Pompano Beach, Hillsboro Charters are recommended by both Fodor's Florida guide and Frommer's. The company operates over a dozen charter vessels and tracks marlin, shark, sailfish and pompano. You can contact them by phone at 954-943-8222 to make a reservation.

Average Prices and Charter Rates

For bottom fishing, most boats charge about $40 per person for a 4-hour trip and will typically include reel, rod and bait. For private charters, expect to pay around $350 for a six-person, half-day trip and about $600 for a full day adventure.

For the frugal fisher or those looking for a quieter Fort Lauderdale sport fishing experience, pier fishing may be the way to go. Places like Pompano Beach, Lauderdale by the Sea and Deerfield Beach all offer fishing piers that range from free to $5 for a full day of use. Rod and reel rentals are also available.