Sailfish Fishing in Miami
Istiophorus platypterus
Sailfish are the signature winter fish off Miami. When cold fronts push south, they ride the edge of the Gulf Stream within sight of the skyline, often in water 100 to 250 feet deep. They are caught on live baits flown from kites and fished on light tackle, then released. Watching a sail light up and attack a bait on the surface is the reason many anglers book a winter trip.
Quick facts
Most Miami sails are 5 to 7 feet long, including the bill.
Larger fish show up on the strongest winter fronts.
They are among the quickest fish in the ocean and jump repeatedly when hooked.
Usually along the reef edge and the inside edge of the Gulf Stream.
Our anglers release sailfish in the water after photos alongside the boat.
Where to catch them off Miami
Reef edge off Miami Beach
When the water is clean and blue, sailfish push right up to the drop-off, sometimes in less than 100 feet.
Gulf Stream color change
The line where green coastal water meets blue Stream water concentrates baitfish and the sails that hunt them.
Off Key Biscayne and Fowey Rocks
South of Government Cut, the reef edge holds fish through the winter, especially on a north current.
Season in Miami
How to read this meter
- PPeak best time to catch
- FFair can catch
- OOff rarely caught
- CClosed season, no harvest
The best run is from November through March. Fish are caught all year, but the numbers rise sharply once the first strong fronts arrive.
Key events
Sailfish cold-front bite
North wind after a cold front, against the north-flowing Gulf Stream, pushes bait and sailfish up along the reef edge.
Depends on how many fronts reach Miami; a mild winter means fewer big days.
AffectsSailfishKing Mackerel
Best time and conditions
After a cold front
A north or northeast wind after a front pushes fish south along the edge. The first two days after a front are often the best of the season.
Time of day
Morning trips are reliable, but sails often feed hard in the afternoon when the current and wind line up.
Techniques and baits
Kite fishing
Two kites hold up to six live baits right on the surface, well away from the boat. It is the classic Miami method.
Flat-lining live bait
Live goggle-eyes or pilchards are drifted back behind the boat on light line.
Circle hooks
Circle hooks set in the corner of the jaw, which keeps the fish healthy for release.
Light tackle
Spinning or conventional reels with 20 lb line give the best fight.
Top baits and lures
- Goggle-eyes
- Pilchards
- Threadfin herring
- Blue runners
- Ballyhoo
Florida regulations
Sailfish are protected as billfish. Almost every sail on our boats is released. On a Salty Fresh charter, your fishing license is included.
FWC: Billfish, tuna and swordfish rules · Last checked October 27, 2026
On the table
Sailfish are not a food fish here. We release them so they can be caught again.
Which charter is best?
Full Day Fishing
- $1,200 per trip
- 8 hours, 7:00 AM start
- Up to 6 guests
- Also targets Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, King Mackerel, Blackfin Tuna, Cobia, Tripletail, Amberjack, Almaco Jack, Shark and Barracuda
Sailfish FAQ
When is sailfish season in Miami?
The best months are November through March, with the peak usually December to February. They are caught in smaller numbers the rest of the year.
How far offshore are sailfish in Miami?
Often just 2 to 5 miles, along the reef edge and the inside edge of the Gulf Stream. Runs are short.
Can I keep a sailfish?
Legally, only if it is at least 66 inches to the fork and you follow the billfish rules. On our trips we release them.
What is kite fishing?
Kites hold live baits on the surface far from the boat, where sailfish attack them in plain view.
Which charter is best for sailfish?
The Full Day offshore trip gives the most time on the reef edge during the winter run.
Can I cancel my trip?
Free cancellation up to 3 days (72 hours) before your trip. This applies to every trip, including iguana hunts and snorkeling. To cancel, call Capt. Charles at (305) 972-5659 or email saltyfreshfishingcharters@gmail.com.