Florida Sportsman

Florida Sportsman is the complete fishing magazine for Florida and the Tropics. Devoted to fishing, boating, and outdoor activities in the Sunshine State, Florida Sportsman is the authoritative source for Florida's most active fishermen.

Florida Sportsman

Pointing the Way

Return ’Em Right • GULF REEF FISH ANGLERS: SIGN UP FOR PROGRAM, FREE DESCENDER KIT

CTA

The Pinnacle of Captiva Island • From a classy island resort, it’s a short skiffride—or even a short cast!—to epic Gulf Coast fishing.

IF YOU GO

Get it Straight for Swords • How to properly set a bait for daytime swordfish.

Flounder Frenzy • Surefire tactics for the flat fish.

Back to School • Try these by-the-book strategies when bass are active and on the move.

Your Wake, Your Responsibility • Regardless of the “speed limit,” self-regulation through courteous, informed boatmanship is the proper course.

At the Helm • Here are a few commonsense practices to help you avoid liability and conflicts on the waterways.

Snook in the Spotlight • Don’t miss the evening show on the coastal waterways.

Footwear for the Florida Hunter • Why boots that keep the scent in—and the water out—are favored.

Snakeproof Option

In Over My Head • Pan-fried grouper? Check. What comes next in this dish, not so easy.

ALERT! Pandemic Alert—for Whitetail • FWC is taking vital steps to reduce risk of chronic wasting disease spreading into Florida. What hunters need to know, now.

I CARE About Coral • Florida Keys marina donates space for corals nursery, replanting efforts.

THREATS TO CORAL REEFS

FLORIDA Hidden Gems • Discover new species, new seasons and new hotspots. Florida Sportsman Field Editors take you on a tour of the state and beyond.

Fresh Shrimp • Cast netters reap a fall harvest on the St. Johns River.

TRAVEL PLANNER: ST. JOHNS SHRIMPING

LICENSES AND REGULATIONS

Red Tides – The Good Kind • Find a calm, clear day and start scanning the waves for Northeast Florida redfish.

Hidden Gems DISCOVERY

Triple Your Fun • When this ocean favorite makes an inshore appearance, it never fails to impress.

Hidden Gems DISCOVERY

Sailfish Alley Crevalle • In the pantheon of Southeast Florida gamefish, a nearshore brawler is gut-punching its way to notoriety.

Hidden Gems DISCOVERY

A Pitch for Golden Tiles • It’s a statewide fishery, and there’s much to learn.

GOLDEN TILEFISH REGULATIONS

Wheelin’and Reelin’ Through the Glades • Alligator Alley is a scenic and convenient cross-state highway. It’s also gateway to some fantastic fishing.

Hidden Gems DISCOVERY

Tackle Van Life • Searching for Hidden Gems? How about basing your exploration out of a mobile, self-contained fishing lodge?

New Squid on the Dock • A Puerto Rican fishing captain shares the recipe for catching deepwater squid.

Hidden Gems DISCOVERY

Family Firsts • For sheer variety, it’s hard to beat the Florida Keys. Many styles of boats are available today, to suit the needs of any visitor.

Hidden Gems DISCOVERY

Golden Gate Peacocks • The popular transplanted gamefish have made permanent inroads into the canal systems of Collier County.

Hidden Gems DISCOVERY

Boca Grande Bonus • After the famed spring and early summer tarpon fishing, Boca Grande offers a colorful mixed bag.

Hidden Gems DISCOVERY

Got Mullet? • In case you weren’t aware, they’re delicious. Smoking is the classic prep, and West Central Florida is a great place to get a taste.

Hidden Gems DISCOVERY

Clear Out to the Horizon • Eventually you’ll lose sight of bottom, but...