The late-summer bite off Fort Lauderdale is holding strong, giving us a mix of high-energy offshore action and laser-focused moonlit reef runs. Whether pushing out past the ledge or working the drop-offs under the night sky, lines have been staying tight.

Offshore: Mahi Mahi Schools in the Deep

Pushing offshore past the initial edge, we’ve been finding active schools of Mahi Mahi holding under floating debris and weedlines.

• The Setup: Looking for structural current rips and organized sargassum mats in 600 to 1,200+ feet.
• The Technique: Trolling light lures and rigged ballyhoo to locate the pack, then switching to light tackle live baits and cut bait once the school fires up around the boat.
• The Result: Fast-paced action, excellent bailer to gaffer sized fish, and plenty of fresh fillets for the fish box.

The Reef Edge: High-Speed Wahoos Under the Full Moon

The full moon period always shifts the reef dynamic into high gear, and this cycle brought a solid push of Wahoo right along the edge.

• The Zone: Concentrating along the deep reef drop-offs (120 to 250 ft), particularly where heavy current hits underwater structure.
• The Strategy: High-speed trolling with wire-rigged cowbells and dark-colored skirts early in the morning and during moonlit night runs, or slow-trolling live goggle eyes on planer rigs right at dawn.
• The Result: Screaming drags, razor-sharp strikes, and heavy-weight fish making brief, explosive appearances on the deck.

What’s Next & Booking Your Trip

With clean water moving in and steady current aligned along the coast, both the offshore pelagic bite and reef trolling conditions are prime.

Ready to get out on the water and experience the action firsthand? Reach out directly to secure your charter date while the bite remains hot!