8-Hour Deep-Sea Sportfishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale — Reel in Sailfish & Mahi
Spend a full day aboard a 46' Hatteras chasing sailfish, mahi, tuna and more off Fort Lauderdale. This shared 8-hour charter supplies gear, bait, and an experienced crew—bring sunscreen and sea legs.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring sea-sickness prevention
Take preventative medication 30–60 minutes before departure and choose a midship seat to reduce motion, especially if you’re prone to nausea.
Sun protection is crucial
Use SPF 30+ waterproof sunscreen, wear a wide-brim hat and polarized sunglasses to cut glare and protect from reflected UV on open water.
Hydrate throughout the day
Sip water regularly—salt air and sun increase dehydration even without heavy exertion; bottled water is provided but bring a refillable bottle if you prefer.
Secure cameras and loose items
Use straps for phones and cameras and stow loose items; sudden strikes and boat motion can send gear overboard in seconds.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hillsboro Inlet lighthouse viewpoints — great for pre- or post-trip photos
- •Local reef lines and wrecks close to the shelf edge often hold strong bottom fish later in the day
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •Sea turtles
Conservation Note
Crews typically follow state bag limits and release practices for billfish; responsible charters prioritize proper handling, species reporting, and minimal bycatch.
Fort Lauderdale’s rise as a sportfishing hub followed the expansion of Port Everglades in the mid-20th century, which shortened runs to deep-water canyons and reefs.
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Cuts glare, improves visibility of birds and bait schools, and protects eyes in reflected light.
Sea-sickness medicine or patchEssential
Helps prevent nausea during the ride to the fishing grounds and reduces discomfort if seas get choppy.
Non-slip deck shoesEssential
Protects your feet and provides traction on wet, moving decks while working a rod.
High-SPF sunscreen and lip balmEssential
Prevents sunburn during long, unobstructed exposure; reapply after oily sunscreen contact with bait or water.
Common Questions
Is prior fishing experience required?
No — the crew provides instruction and all gear; they’ll show beginners how to bait, fight fish, and use the equipment.
Are fishing licenses included?
Yes — the charter includes required Florida fishing licenses for guests as noted in the trip inclusions.
What kinds of fish can I expect to catch?
Seasonally you can target sailfish, mahi-mahi, tuna, wahoo, grouper, and snapper; specific species depend on season and water conditions.
Is tipping expected for the crew?
Gratuities are customary in the charter industry; 15–20% of the trip cost is a common guideline for good service.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Comfortable standing for long periods, able to climb a ladder, and handle brief bursts of physical exertion when fighting fish.
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