If you’re heading out of Sailfish Marina and into the Palm Beach Inlet, the truth is this: there’s no bad season to fish here. Our waters hold life year-round — but every month brings its own personality, patterns, and species.
Below is a captain’s breakdown of what we catch, when we catch it, and what makes each season special here in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Winter (December – February)
Peak Sailfish Season
When the temps drop up north, the sailfish stack up offshore. This is when the water gets clean, the birds start working, and the ocean gets that electric energy you only see in winter.
Typical Targets:
- Sailfish
- Blackfin Tuna
- Kingfish
- Mahi (on the right days)
Why this season is special:
The winter bite is fast, visual, and adrenaline-heavy. Sailfish popping up behind the spread is something you don’t forget.
Best Trip: 4-hour morning run — get out while the wind is right.
Spring (March – May)
The Mixed-Bag Season
As the waters warm, we start seeing more mahi, wahoo, and tuna sliding through. This is also when conditions get calmer, making spring one of the most consistent times to fish.
Typical Targets:
- Mahi Mahi
- Wahoo
- Blackfin Tuna
- Sailfish (late season stragglers)
Why people love spring trips:
It’s comfortable weather, steady action, and you never know what’s going to hit next.
Summer (June – August)
Mahi, Bonito, and Bluewater Days
Summer fishing out of Palm Beach is classic offshore fun — blue skies, warm water, and long weedlines full of life. Even short trips can produce excitement.
Typical Targets:
- Mahi (schoolies & gaffers)
- Bonito (great action, fight hard)
- Kingfish along the reefs
- Occasional Wahoo and Blackfin
Great for:
Families, beginners, visiting anglers, “just want to catch something” people.
4-Hour Trips Shine Here:
The fish are close — you don’t waste time running.
Fall (September – November)
The Re-Set & Heavy Hitters
Fall is when the ocean recharges. Bait moves in, predators follow, and the reef line comes alive again. It’s also one of the most underrated seasons in Palm Beach.
Typical Targets:
- Mahi
- Blackfin Tuna
- Wahoo
- Kingfish
- Grouper & Snapper inshore structure spots
Bonus:
Weather is still warm, traffic on the water drops — locals love this season.
So… When Is the Best Time to Fish West Palm Beach?
Honestly? It depends on what you want.
Book a 4-Hour Offshore Trip Out of Sailfish Marina
We run easy, fun, no-stress trips perfect for:
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First-time anglers
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Travelers in town
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Families
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Anyone who wants to get on the water and bend a rod
You show up.
We handle the gear, bait, licenses, and experience.
Just bring sunglasses and the good vibes.
