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Miami's Best 2-Hour Afternoon Inshore Fishing
- Published Date: July 23, 2025
- Fishing
- Key Biscayne
- $400 - $1,000 price range
- Updated Date: December 7, 2025
Summary
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Reeling in Miami's Best
Quick Afternoon Fishing in Miami's Hot Spots
Hey there, angler! Ready for a fast and furious fishing adventure right in the heart of Miami? We've got just the ticket with our 2-hour afternoon trip that'll have you reeling in some of the city's most prized catches before you can say "fish on!" Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, our crew at Reel'n Tails Charters knows exactly where the fish are biting. We'll zip you out to the prime spots where Snapper, Grouper, and a whole host of other species are just waiting to test your skills. It's the perfect way to squeeze in some quality fishing time without taking up your whole day. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's make some waves!
Trip Overview
Picture this: You're cruising along Miami's stunning coastline, the city's iconic skyline fading behind you as we head for the fish-rich waters just offshore. Our compact 2-hour trip is designed to pack a serious punch, getting you right into the action without any fuss. We've got room for two, so bring your fishing buddy or make it a solo mission – either way, you're in for a treat. Our expert crew will have you dropping lines in no time, targeting hot spots where the fish are known to hang out. No need to worry about grub; this quick trip is all about the fishing. We provide all the gear you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. All you need to bring is your game face and maybe a cold drink to celebrate your catches.
Tactics and Techniques
On this trip, we're all about efficiency and results. We'll be using a mix of light tackle and bottom fishing techniques to target the inshore species that call Miami's waters home. Expect to do some drift fishing over reefs and wrecks, where we'll tempt Grouper and Snapper with live bait or cut chunks. For the more active fish like Jacks and Mackerel, we might switch it up with some casting or trolling. Our crew is always on hand to show you the ropes, whether you're new to these techniques or just want to brush up on your skills. We've got a few secret spots up our sleeves too, so don't be surprised if we pull in some unexpected catches. It's all part of the Miami fishing experience!
Target Species
Tarpon: Known as the "Silver King," Tarpon are the rockstars of inshore fishing. These prehistoric-looking fish can grow over 6 feet long and put up a fight that'll have your arms burning. They're famous for their acrobatic leaps and powerful runs. In Miami, we see them year-round, but the peak season is from March to June. Hooking into one of these beauties is an unforgettable experience – just be ready for a workout!
King Mackerel: Also called "Kingfish," these speedsters are a blast to catch. They're known for their blistering runs and sharp teeth. We usually find them in the cooler months, from October to April. Kings can reach over 50 pounds, though most we catch are in the 15-30 pound range. They're great eating fish too, so if you land one, you're in for a tasty dinner.
Mahi Mahi: These colorful fish, also known as Dorado or Dolphinfish (though they're not related to dolphins at all), are a favorite among anglers. They're known for their vibrant blue and green colors when they're in the water. Mahi are fast growers and can be found year-round in Miami, but the best action is usually from April to September. They're acrobatic fighters and make for excellent table fare.
Crevalle Jack: These bruisers are the bulldogs of the sea. Jacks are known for their powerful, bullish fights that'll test your stamina. They're year-round residents in Miami waters, but we see more of them in the warmer months. While they're not the best for eating, they're a blast to catch and release. Don't let their size fool you – even a small Jack can give you a run for your money.
Black Grouper: These bottom-dwellers are prized for both their fight and their flavor. Black Grouper like to hang around reefs and wrecks, and they can grow to impressive sizes. The bigger ones are known for their initial powerful run towards structure, so you've got to be quick on the reel. We catch them year-round, but the cooler months often see better action. If you're lucky enough to land a keeper, you're in for some of the best fish tacos of your life.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Let me tell you, there's something special about fishing in Miami that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the thrill of battling a hard-fighting Jack right as the sun starts to dip, or the surprise of pulling up a colorful Snapper when you least expect it. Our quick afternoon trips are perfect for those who want to scratch that fishing itch without committing to a full day on the water. Plus, with the Miami skyline as your backdrop, even a slow day of fishing beats a good day at the office, right? Whether you're a local looking for a post-work stress buster or a visitor trying to squeeze in some line time between beach sessions, this trip fits the bill. And hey, there's always the chance you'll hook into something big – that's the beauty of fishing in these waters.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, folks, here's the deal – if you're itching to get out on the water and see what Miami fishing is all about, this is your chance. Our 2-hour afternoon trip is the perfect way to dip your toes into the local fishing scene without taking up your whole day. We've got the know-how, the gear, and the spots to put you on fish, whether you're after a tasty dinner or just want to bend a rod. Remember, we can only take two anglers at a time, so these trips tend to fill up fast, especially on weekends. Don't miss out on your chance to make some Miami fishing memories. Grab your spot now, and let's go catch some fish!
Learn more about the species
Black Grouper
Black grouper are the heavyweights of the reef, with a typical catch running 15-30 pounds and some monsters topping 100. You'll find them around deeper reefs and wrecks, usually in 60-250 feet of water. They're here year-round, but winter tends to be best as they move shallower. Grouper are prized for their firm, white meat, but hooking one is only half the battle. Once they feel the hook, they bolt straight for their rocky lairs. You need heavy tackle and quick reflexes to turn their heads before they break you off. Live bait like pinfish or grunts works well, fished right on the bottom. Here's a local trick: When you feel that first bump, don't set the hook. Wait until you feel weight, then reel fast and pull hard. Grouper often grab bait then retreat to their holes before fully committing. If you can muscle one up from the depths, you're in for some fantastic eating.
Crevalle Jack
Crevalle jacks are the bulldogs of the ocean - stocky, powerful fish that punch well above their weight. Most run 5-15 pounds, but they can top 50. You'll find them anywhere from the flats to offshore reefs, often in big schools terrorizing bait. They're around all year, but really fire up when bait schools arrive in spring and fall. Jacks aren't known for subtle takes - when they hit, it's like you've hooked a freight train. While not the best eating, pound-for-pound they're some of the hardest fighting fish out there. Topwater lures, jigs, or live bait all work well. My favorite way to target them is sight-casting to surface-busting schools. Just look for the birds and splashing water, then hang on tight! If you want to test your tackle and your arms, crevalle jacks are happy to oblige.
King Mackerel
King mackerel, or kingfish, are one of the fastest fish in our waters. These streamlined predators typically run 15-40 pounds, with some topping 90. You'll find them anywhere from right off the beach to 20 miles out, usually in 40-150 feet of water. Kings love to chase bait, so look for diving birds or surface commotion. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they migrate through. Anglers love targeting kings for their blistering runs - when they hit, hang on tight! They also make great eating. For the best shot at a big one, try slow-trolling live blue runners or goggle-eyes. My go-to trick is using a stinger rig with two hooks - kings often short-strike baits, so that trailing hook ups your odds. Whether you're after a smoker king for the grill or just want to feel that reel scream, these fish deliver.
Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish
Mahi mahi are one of the most beautiful fish you'll see, with electric blue and green colors that fade quickly after they're caught. Most run 15-30 pounds, but they can get up to 70+. You'll find them offshore around weed lines, debris, or birds. Spring through fall is prime mahi season here. These acrobatic fish put on an amazing show, jumping and tail-walking across the surface. They're also excellent eating - mild, flaky meat that's great on the grill. Trolling with ballyhoo or small lures is effective, but sight-casting to a school is a real rush. Here's a local tip: When you hook one, leave it in the water. Others will often stay with it, giving you a shot at multiple fish. Whether you're after a tasty dinner or just want to tangle with a neon rocket, mahi are always a fun target.
Tarpon
Tarpon are one of the most exciting fish to catch in Miami waters. These silver giants can grow up to 8 feet long and weigh over 200 pounds, though most are in the 80-100 pound range. You'll find them in coastal areas, channels, and around bridges. Tarpon season peaks from April to July, but you can hook them year-round here. What makes tarpon special is their acrobatic fight - they'll jump clear out of the water multiple times trying to throw the hook. It's a real test of skill and strength to land one. Live bait like mullet or pinfish work best. My top tip: When a tarpon jumps, lower your rod tip to give it slack. That'll help keep it hooked when it crashes back down. Even if you don't boat one, just seeing a 100-pounder launch itself skyward is something you won't forget.
About the 21' Dusky
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 175
