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Bottom Fishing Charters in Fort Lauderdale & Miami
Drop a line straight down, feel the weight settle, and wait for the first hard pull. That's bottom fishing—no chasing, no casting, just a direct connection to the fish holding tight to reefs and wrecks. The pace is steady, the focus is on structure, and every bite comes with a jolt you feel in your arms. We set you up right over the fish, so you spend your time catching, not searching in the waters off Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
Forget the long runs offshore or the constant motion of trolling. Bottom fishing targets the real residents of the ocean floor: snapper, grouper, amberjack, and others that don't wander far from cover. The fight is all muscle. When a fish hits, you know it's there to stay, and you'll need to work to bring it up. This is fishing with substance, not just scenery.
Choose Us for Your Reef Fishing Adventure
Just off the coast of South Florida are a variety of natural and artificial reefs. These reefs are home to snappers, groupers, cobia, jacks, sharks, and barracudas just to name a few. Just like most fishing, time of year is everything when it comes to bottom fishing. Half day, three-quarter day, and full day are all options, giving you the flexibility to match your schedule and fishing goals.
Why Our Approach to Bottom Fishing Works
While many charters chase open water, we focus on the places where fish gather and stay. Anchoring or drifting over proven structure, we drop lines right into the strike zone. The gear is built for the job: heavier rods, strong reels, and rigs that hold steady even when the current picks up. You're not waiting for luck; you're fishing where the action happens.
- Anchored or Drift Fishing: We hold position over reefs or wrecks, giving you a direct shot at fish that rarely leave their cover.
- Heavier Tackle: Our setups handle the weight and fight of bottom species, so you stay in control from hookset to landing.
- Structure-Based Targeting: We know where baitfish gather and predators hunt, putting you right in the middle of the action.
- Less Running, More Fishing: Once we're on the spot, lines go down and the catching begins. No wasted time between locations.
- Accessible for All Skill Levels: The process is straightforward, and the excitement is real, whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned angler.
Some trips skim the surface or chase distant targets. Our inshore fishing charters keep you close to the best action, making it a top pick for families, beginners, and anyone who wants to spend more time with a rod in hand and less time watching the horizon.
What You'll Catch on Our Reefs and Wrecks
Every drop brings a new contender. South Florida's reefs and wrecks are home to snapper, grouper, amberjack, and a rotating cast of other hard-fighting fish. The variety keeps things interesting, and the quality of the catch stands out. These are fish that taste as good as they fight.
- Mangrove Snapper: Quick to bite and always ready for a fight, these fish crowd around structure and keep rods bent.
- Yellowtail Snapper: Known for their speed and sharp senses, they're a favorite for anglers who like a challenge.
- Red Grouper: Strong, stubborn, and a staple for anyone who wants a meal worth remembering.
- Black Grouper: Larger and more determined, they'll test your gear and your resolve as they dive for cover.
- Greater Amberjack: When these hit, you'll know it. Expect a battle that leaves your arms burning.
- Triggerfish: Smaller but feisty, with a flavor that surprises anyone who tries it for the first time.
- Cobia: Powerful and aggressive, cobia patrol reefs and put up a serious fight.
- Jacks: Fast and relentless, jacks school up around structure and strike hard.
- Sharks: Reef sharks add excitement and test your endurance with long, powerful runs.
- Barracuda: Lightning-fast strikes and sharp teeth make every hookup memorable.
Shallow reefs bring in snapper and porgies, while deeper wrecks attract bigger grouper and amberjack. The mix changes with the season and the current, but we track the patterns and put you where the fish are biting. Our experience on these waters near Miami, Miami Beach, Sunny Isles, Aventura, and Fort Lauderdale means you get the best shot at a memorable catch. See more of our recent catches in the gallery or check out the latest fishing reports.
Where We Fish and What to Expect
With reefs starting at 30 feet and ledges dropping past 200, the range of fishing grounds is wide. Each depth brings its own set of challenges and rewards, and we match the spot to your group's experience and goals. The boat is ready for anything, from shallow family trips to deep drops for trophy fish in the Fort Lauderdale and Miami area.
- Shallow Reefs (30-60 Feet): Easy access and plenty of action, ideal for newcomers and kids.
- Mid-Depth Wrecks (80-150 Feet): The sweet spot for grouper and amberjack, with steady bites and bigger fish.
- Deep Ledges (150+ Feet): For those who want a real test, these spots hold the largest bottom species.
- Artificial Reefs: Consistent producers year-round, built to attract and hold fish in numbers.
- Natural Rock Formations: Classic ambush points where predators wait for baitfish to pass by.
We adjust each trip to the day's conditions and your preferences, making sure you get the most out of your time on the water. Whether you want easy action or a shot at something big, we know where to go. Find more information about our charter information and what to expect on your trip.
What Happens After the Catch
Once the fishing wraps up, we handle the cleaning and filleting at the dock. Snapper and grouper come off the knife ready for the grill or pan. Amberjack works well smoked or grilled, while triggerfish offers a unique taste that stands out when fried or baked. Keep your fillets cold and use them soon for the best flavor, or freeze portions for later meals. If you want advice on cooking, we're always ready to share what works best for each species.
Bottom fishing with us means steady action, quality fish, and a trip that fits any skill level. You'll leave with more than just stories. You'll have a cooler full of fish and the experience to enjoy them at home.
Book Your Bottom Fishing Trip Today
Ready to drop a line and fill the cooler? Call Cool Runnings Sportfishing Charters at 954-588-0578 or book a charter to set up your next bottom fishing trip. Ask about our discount when you book your third sport fishing trip with us.
