Islamorada Fishing in January Sailfish weather on the edge

4.6 on Google, 11 reviews

January is sailfish season, and the days after a cold front are often the best. Kites go up on the reef edge, with kingfish around too. Three-quarter day, $1,975.

Book this trip Plan a trip (954) 326-7360

HeadlinersSailfish, kingfish, cobia
The waterCool and breezy after fronts
The crowdsPeak season: book ahead

$1,975Deep sea three-quarter day

January belongs to the sailfish. Pick a day right after a cold front, when the wind swings northeast and the swell stands up, and you see what the month is about: tailing fish all along the edge. Your kite baits fly, a pitch rod stays ready, and doubleheaders happen when the bite is on.

Between sails, you stay busy: smoker kingfish crash the same baits, cobia ride the rays across the patches, and the wrecks hold amberjack if you want to trade finesse for a fistfight.

Book January early

It is high season, so dates fill, especially around the holidays and MLK weekend. Book the deep sea three-quarter day: the winter bite moves along the edge, and the extra range turns your good January day into a great one.

What's biting in January

Everything you can fish for in January, 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

Is January a good month to fish Islamorada?

Yes, one of the best. It is peak sailfish season on the edge, and kingfish and cobia keep your rods bent between bites.

What should we wear in January?

Layers. Your morning can start in the 60s and breezy on the water, then warm up fast by afternoon. Pack a windbreaker.

Do winter fronts cancel trips?

If the wind blows a day out, the captain makes the call and you hear early. Call or text (954) 326-7360 to sort out your date. The days between fronts are often the calmest, clearest of the month.