What Can we Catch?
Port Canaveral is home to an exciting array of offshore fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers from all over the world. From the lightning-fast Wahoo to the hard-fighting Amberjack, there’s a fish for every type of angler in these waters.
One of the most popular catches is the Mahi Mahi, also known as Dorado or Dolphin Fish. With their striking colors and acrobatic displays, Mahi Mahi are a favorite among sport fishermen. Other species that call Port Canaveral home include the powerful Sailfish, the elusive Swordfish, and a variety of Tuna species, including Yellowfin, Blackfin, and Skipjack.
But that’s not all – Port Canaveral is also home to a range of Grouper species, including Red Grouper, Gag Grouper, Black Grouper and Goliath Grouper, as well as Snapper species such as Red Snapper, Mangrove Snapper, and Lane Snapper. And let’s not forget the fierce Sharks that prowl these waters, including the Hammerhead, Blacktip, and Bull Sharks.
No matter what your fishing preferences are, The waters around Port Canaveral has something to offer. So come on down and experience the thrill of fishing in these abundant waters.
Offshore Species
Mahi-Mahi
Catching Mahi-Mahi near Port Canaveral, FL is a thrilling experience that draws anglers from all over the world. These colorful and acrobatic fish are known for their powerful fighting ability and are a favorite among sport fishermen.
Mahi-Mahi are typically caught offshore in the Gulf Stream, where the water is warm and the fish are plentiful. The best time to catch Mahi-Mahi near Port Canaveral is from May through September, when the water is at its warmest and the fish are most active.
One of the key factors in catching Mahi-Mahi is locating floating debris such as sargassum weed or floating debris where they like to congregate. Mahi-Mahi are also known to school around buoys and other structures in the water. If you see anything floating, don’t be afraid to let the Captain know!
King Mackerel
Catching King Mackerel is an adrenaline-pumping experience. These fast-swimming fish are known for their powerful fighting ability and are a favorite among fishermen.
King Mackerel are typically caught offshore around many of our wrecks and reefs. The best time to catch King Mackerel near Port Canaveral is from May through October, when the water temperature is at its warmest and the fish are most abundant.
Red Snapper
Catching big Red Snappers is a thrill. These powerful fish are known for their hard-fighting ability and are a prized catch among sport fishermen.
Red Snappers can be found near reefs, shipwrecks, and other underwater structures, typically at depths ranging from 30 to 200 feet.
When a Red Snapper takes the bait, the fight is on. These fish are known for their powerful runs and can take a lot of line in a short amount of time. Landing a big Red Snapper requires patience and skill, but the reward is well worth the effort.
Catching big Red Snappers is an exciting and challenging experience that every angler should try. With the right equipment, knowledge, and a bit of luck, you’ll be able to catch your own trophy-sized Red Snapper and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Sailfish
Fighting an Atlantic Sailfish is an experience like no other. These majestic creatures are known for their speed, agility, and acrobatics, making them one of the most sought-after game fish in the world.
When a Sailfish takes the bait, the fight is on. They are incredibly strong and can reach speeds of up to 68 miles per hour, making them a formidable opponent for even the most experienced anglers. As soon as they feel the hook, they’ll take off on a series of powerful runs, stripping line off the reel at an incredible pace.
The Sailfish is also known for its acrobatic displays, often leaping out of the water and shaking its head in an attempt to throw the hook. This makes for an exhilarating fight as the angler battles to keep the fish on the line.
Sailfish fights can last anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour, and landing one requires skill, patience, and a bit of luck. With their incredible speed and strength, Atlantic Sailfish are truly one of the most thrilling fish to catch.
Blackfin Tuna
Catching Blackfin Tunas while trolling for King Mackerel is an unexpected surprise that adds a whole new level of excitement to your fishing trip. Blackfin Tunas are known for their speed and hard-fighting ability, making them a challenging catch for even the most experienced anglers.
As you troll for King Mackerel, keep an eye out for schools of baitfish breaking the surface. Blackfin Tunas often feed on the same baitfish.
These fish are incredibly strong and can take a lot of line in a short amount of time. If we catch one, this will be some of the best sushi you’ve ever had – you can get a sushi setup from the Grills Restaurant and we’ll eat it right at the dock sashimi style.
Nearshore Species
Red drum
Catching big Bull Redfish (Red Drum) in Port Canaveral, Florida is an unforgettable experience that will have you hooked on fishing for life.
Bull Redfish are typically found in the rivers and make their way to the coastal waters and surrounding Port Canaveral, especially during the fall months.
Once hooked, Bull Redfish put up a fierce fight, taking off on powerful runs and making every moment of the battle a thrilling experience.
Sharks
Sharks are fascinating creatures that can provide an exciting challenge for anglers. Although they can be a bit of a nuisance when they steal your catch, targeting these apex predators can be an incredible experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. If you’re looking for a big, thrilling fight, then shark fishing is definitely worth trying.
At Catch Dog, we offer up-close and personal shark fishing experiences that are suitable for all ages. We don’t have to travel far offshore to find these magnificent creatures, and the action is usually great.
During your shark fishing adventure with us, you may even have the opportunity to hold one of these magnificent creatures. However, we always prioritize the safety of both our guests and the sharks, so we ensure that all interactions are handled with care.
Overall, shark fishing is an excellent way to experience the thrill of the ocean and witness these majestic creatures up close. Contact us today to book your shark fishing adventure and create unforgettable memories.
Goliath Grouper
Catching Goliath Groupers around the buoys of Port Canaveral is an experience that will leave even the most seasoned anglers with a rush of adrenaline. These massive fish can weigh up to 800 pounds, so it’s no wonder that they put up a fight like no other.
To target these behemoths, we use large baits such as whole bonita. Once a Goliath Grouper takes the bait, the real fun begins. These fish are so strong that they can easily pull a person overboard but that’s what the reel’s drag is for!
Goliath Grouper are so massive that they can literally take your breath away when you see them up close. You’ll feel the weight and strength of the fish as you reel it in, and the thrill of the fight will stay with you for years to come.
The buoys of Port Canaveral are a great place to target Goliath Groupers, as they offer structure for the fish to hide in and around.
