Islamorada Fishing in February Peak sails, calmer seas

4.6 on Google, 11 reviews

February keeps the sailfish coming on the reef edge, with kingfish and mackerel steady between fronts. A three-quarter day gives you time for both, $1,975.

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HeadlinersSailfish, mackerel, amberjack
The waterClean, cool winter water
The crowdsBusy, especially Presidents week

$1,975Deep sea three-quarter day

February keeps January's promise. Sailfish stay the target, and on the right post-front afternoon, you can watch free-jumping billfish all around the boat.

Inside the edge it is a mackerel month: kings on the color changes and ceros over the patches, so your younger crew stays busy while the kites soak. The wrecks fish heavy with amberjack, and cobia ride the rays across the patches.

Fish a weekday

Outside the holiday weeks, February weekdays are some of high season's easiest bookings. Same fish as the peak weeks, fewer boats on your spots.

What's biting in February

Everything you can fish for in February, from the reef to the blue water. Tap a fish for how it is caught and which trip fits.

Sailfish

Winter jumpers on the edge, caught and released.

Wahoo

Blistering runs off the reef edge, best on fall and winter moons.

Blackfin tuna

Hard pullers on the humps, all year.

Swordfish

The overnight trophy, fished deep after dark.

King mackerel

Smoking runs along the reef edge in winter.

Amberjack

The reef donkey. Pure pulling power on the wrecks.

Mutton snapper

A prized eater from the reef and channels.

Yellowtail snapper

Steady bites on the reef and the best fish tacos.

Sharks

Sunset fights on heavy tackle, every one released.

Ready to book?

$1,975 Deep sea three-quarter day

Book this trip (954) 326-7360

Quick answers

Are sailfish still around in February?

Yes. February sits inside the winter peak, and post-front days are the ones to chase.

Is February too rough to fish?

Fronts bring some windy days, but you fish the calm windows between them, and those are outstanding. The 55 foot Hatteras handles winter chop with ease.

Good month for kids?

Yes. The mackerel bite makes it a sneaky-good family month: constant action inside, big-game drama outside.