Barracuda Fishing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fort Lauderdale is one of the top destinations in Florida for saltwater anglers, and barracuda are a common catch in both inshore and offshore waters. These sleek predators are lightning-fast, hit hard, and often leap out of the water during battle. Whether fishing near the reefs or cruising the inlets, barracuda deliver non-stop action.
Where to Catch Barracuda
In the Fort Lauderdale area, barracuda are frequently caught:
Along nearshore and offshore reefs just a mile or two from shore
Near shipwrecks and artificial reef structures
Inside Port Everglades Inlet and around bridges and docks
They’re often sight-cast in clear water or hooked while trolling for kingfish or mahi, especially in waters with strong bait presence.
Best Time to Fish for Barracuda
| Season | Barracuda Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Good – fish begin to increase around inlets and reefs |
| Summer | Excellent – peak season with fish found nearshore and offshore |
| Fall | Good – still active, especially on warmer fall days |
Peak Season: May through September
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Tube lures, topwater plugs, spoons, and jerkbaits
Bait: Live pilchards, mullet, or blue runners work well
Leaders: Heavy wire leaders are necessary due to sharp teeth
Technique: Fast retrieves, sight-casting near structure, and high-speed trolling all produce results
