FISHING

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission claims the state is “The Fishing Capital of the World.”   Fort Lauderdale is one of few places in the world where freshwater fishing and salt-water fishing is possible within 20 minutes for the angler.  This area has more than 200 types of fresh water fish and there are numerous deep sea fishing fleets located within just miles of Fort Lauderdale.  Whether you own your vessel or want to charter a boat, the options are abundant.

The state of Florida requires that anyone fishing must purchase a license.  This includes fishing from your own boat, a friend’s boat, from a pier or shoreline.  Substantial fines are imposed for those fishing without a license.  Additionally, all boat owners must register their vessels.  Go to Take Me Fishing.org for pertinent information on how and where to purchase a license and register a boat.

Fresh Water Fishing information

 Freshwater fishing is one type of fishing that is ideal for the novice angler because it can be enjoyed from shore or land using a simple tackle set up and does not require the costly expense of purchasing and maintaining a boat.  There are several freshwater lakes, reservoirs, ponds, streams and rivers in the Fort Lauderdale where you can catch fish and enjoy a great day by the water.  Local species include Bass, Bluegill, Catfish and Sunfish.

Lake Okeechobee can make a fun day trip for the avid freshwater angler living in the Fort Lauderdale area, as it is located smack dab in the middle of the state.  Locally known as  “The Lake or The Big “O”, it is the largest freshwater lake in Florida and the second largest lake in the continental United States.   If large mouth Bass is your catch, this is your place to fish.

For more information visit: Florida Go Fishing.com

Saltwater Fishing

Whether you choose to fish on land or by boat, the fishing is can be fast and furious year-round in Florida. But not all saltwater fish are here year-round. Water temperature varies by season and spawning takes place at certain times of the year motivating fish to migrate with the seasons. Weather also influences fish feeding.  Offshore deep-sea species include, Dolphin, Kingfish, Marlin, Sailfin, Sharks, Swordfish, Tuna and Wahoo.

For more information visit:

VisitFlorida.com or FloridaGoFishing.com

Charter Boating

Chartering is a viable option for novice anglers who want instruction as well as an experienced captain’s knowledge of getting you to the perfect fishing spot.  This is also a great option for experienced boat owners who prefer to pass on the timely front-end preparation and final cleanup on your own boat.  Enjoy the views, camaraderie with friends and/or family, reeling in your catch, and allow someone else to cover the front and backend preparations.  Relaxation and fun all the way around…

http://traveltips.usatoday.com/fishing-fort-lauderdale-18358.html

 Women’s Fishing

Sportfishing for women has become a vibrant activity and hobby in the Fort Lauderdale area beginning in 1986.    The longevity of the Ladies Annual Fish-Off Tournament and the Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing organization is a testament to the fishing community in South Florida.  Both of these organizations are dedicated to attracting women to the sport as well as promoting conservation and responsible angling.

Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing” is the largest organization in the world introducing women to fishing from beginner techniques to advanced levels.  Betty Bauman, a Fort Lauderdale resident, founded the organization in 1997 and she remains very active in the organization.  She and the organization have received grand review from NBC’S “Nightly News with Tom Brokaw, “Good Morning America”, the Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, and one of the Top 21 Most Influential Marine Industry Leaders for the 21st Century by Boating Industry magazine.  Need more be noted?

The Ladies Annual Fish-Off Tournament was organized in 1986 by a group of 10 lady organizers.  The lady anglers are family-oriented with a passion for fishing, their community, and donating significant money to local charities.

Both organizations are 501C3 organizations dedicated to enhancing and empowering lives of so many lives.

Visit www.ladiesfishoff.com or www.ladiesletsgofishing.com for more information

Bass Pro Shops

One of Bass Pro Shops 77 retail stores in the United States is located in Dania Beach just a few miles south of Fort Lauderdale.  Bass Pro Shops are more than just Fishing and Hunting stores…they are a destination experience for the outdoor enthusiast.  Each location is customized to reflect the character of the region.  This location provides a vast selection of all fishing equipment as well as a 30,000 gallon aquarium filled with native fish and fish feeding sessions for guests, the Islamorada Fish Company Restaurant, and many workshops focusing on fishing and boating throughout the year.  For additional information visit:

Visit www.bassproshops.com/us/fl/dania-beach for more information.