Private 5-Hour Deep-Sea Sportfishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale: Target Sailfish, Mahi, Tuna
Head offshore from Fort Lauderdale on a private 5‑hour charter aboard a 46' Hatteras. Chase sailfish, mahi, tuna and bottom species with all gear, licenses and a licensed crew included.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early for Briefing
Plan to be at the marina 30 minutes before departure for safety checks, baiting, and line setup so you don’t miss productive drift windows.
Motion Sickness Prep
If you’ve felt queasy at sea before, take an antiemetic the night before and again 1–2 hours prior to departure; fresh air and focusing on the horizon help.
Dress for Sun and Spray
Use breathable layers, a waterproof shell for spray, polarized sunglasses and a high-SPF hat—sun exposure is intense on open water.
Pack a Small Cooler Bag
Bring a soft cooler bag for your share of packed fish and any snacks—crew provides ice and cleaning but space is limited in personal bags.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Request a short visit to productive nearshore wrecks if weather allows; they concentrate snapper and grouper.
- •Ask the mate about local bait sources—knowing which live bait is in season can dramatically increase bite rates.
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins often escort boats near the shelf edge.
- •Sea turtles occasionally surface around floating sargassum patches.
Conservation Note
Operators typically follow Florida fisheries regulations and practice selective harvesting; consider catch limits and proper fish handling to reduce mortality.
Fort Lauderdale’s charter industry grew with mid‑20th century sportfishing and the development of Port Everglades; today the area is a hub for pelagic angling on the South Florida shelf.
What to Bring
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Reduces glare to spot fish and protects eyes from reflected UV on the water.
Non‑Slip Deck ShoesEssential
Provides traction on wet decks and comfort during several hours standing.
Light Rain Shell
Blocks spray and wind when the boat is moving or weather shifts offshore.
Motion Sickness Medication
Helpful if you are prone to seasickness—take as directed before boarding.
Common Questions
How many people can join this private charter?
The boat accommodates up to six guests for a private experience with a licensed captain and mate.
Are rods, bait and fishing licenses included?
Yes—rods, reels, bait, tackle and required fishing licenses are provided as part of the trip.
What species might we catch on a 5‑hour trip?
Depending on season and conditions, anglers commonly encounter mahi‑mahi, tuna, wahoo, snapper, grouper, amberjack and occasionally sailfish or sharks.
Is fish cleaning and storage provided?
Yes—the crew will clean and pack your catch; bring a cooler or arrange transport storage for your fish if you plan to take them home.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; expect short bursts of strength during fights and periods of standing.
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