Drift fishing: what it is and where to book a drift boat trip
How drift fishing works, the fish you’ll catch and where to book an affordable drift or party boat trip.
Drift fishing is a popular way to fish the offshore wrecks, reefs and bottom structure for grouper, snapper, cobia, kingfish, mackerel, tuna, bonito, mahi-mahi and wahoo. It is an economical way for the whole family to get out to the deep blue.
Fish you can catch drift fishing
Snapper and grouper on the bottom, plus kingfish and other reef fish. Swipe to see them.
Seasons, size and bag limits apply: see the FWC saltwater fishing regulations. The crew can tell you what you can keep.
What is drift fishing?
Drift fishing is fishing from a boat that drifts with the wind and current instead of anchoring, so baits cover more of the reef or wreck below. In saltwater it usually means a big drift or party boat, priced per person, where everyone bottom fishes for snapper and grouper. It is the most affordable way to fish offshore.
Drift boat vs private charter
Drift fishing on a party boat is the budget-friendly way to fish offshore. Here is how it compares to a private charter.
| Drift / party boat | Private charter | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Per person (Fort Lauderdale from $70) | One price for the boat (Florida offshore from $700) |
| Boat | Large boat shared with other anglers; restrooms, snack bar, shade | Smaller boat just for your group |
| Fishing | Boat drifts over reefs and wrecks; everyone bottom fishes | Captain picks trolling or bottom fishing for your group |
| Fish | Snapper, grouper, kingfish and other reef fish | Adds mahi-mahi, sailfish, tuna and bigger game |
| Best for | Families, solo anglers, groups on a budget | Groups who want the boat to themselves |
Drift and party boat fishing trips
Fort Lauderdale drift fishing books online from $70 per person (4 hours). Party boats in Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Key West, Tampa and Destin are booked by phone.
How drift fishing works
Drift fishing works offshore, inshore and in freshwater. On our saltwater drift boats the captain finds a reef or wreck and lets the boat drift while everyone fishes.
On the boat
Drift fishing boats are large boats with plenty of amenities: a snack bar, restrooms and shelter from the sun and weather. The captain shuts off the engines over a reef or wreck and lets the boat drift while everyone drops a bait to the bottom.
The crew
The crew is friendly and knowledgeable and will help with fishing techniques, bait, untangling lines and identifying your catch. Captains hold US Coast Guard licenses; safety is our number one priority.
What’s included
Rods, reels, tackle and bait, and the boat’s saltwater license covers everyone fishing. Not included: food and drinks and the crew tip.
What to bring
Sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, a light jacket, non-scuff shoes, a small cooler with snacks and drinks, and a camera. Show up at the marina with a good attitude and a lucky charm.
Seasickness
Big drift boats are steadier than small boats, but if you are prone to seasickness take medicine before the boat leaves the dock. More tips: how to prevent sea sickness. Trips that end early because of seasickness are not refunded.
Groups and parties
Drift and party boats are a fun, low-cost way to fish with a big group, from family reunions to a fishing bachelor party.
Best drift fishing destinations
Florida
Florida has reefs and wrecks close to shore on the Atlantic, the Gulf and in the Keys. See Florida drift fishing.
Florida Keys
Gulf of Mexico
Local guide sites: Naples FL fishing charters · Marathon fishing. Want a grouper trip? See grouper fishing.
Recent guest reviews
5.07 reviewsReviews from our Florida fishing trips.
Capt Brad was great for both of our fishing trips. He took great care to make my husbands birthday fishing experience amazing and taught me how to use a bait caster. His boat was immaculate and most importantly, he put us on fish.
Ashley Eubanks · April 2026 · Google
A most delightful town
The town of New Smyrna is worth seeing and visiting. We enjoyed walking along the waterfront. You can drive your car to the beach. Ate dinner near the water at one of the Town Tavern which featured a live band. My friend and I went fishing, what fun, highly recommend it!
Lisa Wilson · January 2021
Obstacles conquered!
Started out with a full moon the night before and wind blowing 3 times what was forecast but Captain Brad had a plan. We got out and in no time had fish on! I had no expectations for what we might catch which turned out great 8 different species and two nice redfish! I had a great time!
Doug M. · March 2019 · TripAdvisor
Loved fishing
I have to say, this was one of the most professional organizations I have experienced. Booking was easy and customer support answered all my questions. Even when I remembered them and called back hours later! :) What was recommended was an afternoon trip with Capt Brad. I chose the 6 hour trip…
Tim S · January 2019
Best Birthday Gift Ever !!!
I booked this trip for my Dad's Birthday he loves to fish but rarely catches anything. We went with Capt Brad Kayholm and he delivered an awesome trip he was on time ,very friendly ,knowledgeable and put us on the fish !!! I would definitely recommend booking a trip with him!!!
flhomesbyrich · October 2018
Best Birthday Gift Ever !!!
I booked this trip for my Dad's Birthday he loves to fish but rarely catches anything. We went with Capt Brad Kayholm and he delivered an awesome trip he was on time ,very friendly ,knowledgeable and put us on the fish !!! I would definitely recommend booking a trip with him!!!
flhomesbyrich · October 2018 · TripAdvisor
Four hour trip with Captain Brad
We had a great time with Captain Brad. He had us on the fish right away in the morning and always kept us moving looking for more. He was very knowledgeable.
Eli L · October 2018 · TripAdvisor
How to book a drift fishing trip
Book Fort Lauderdale drift fishing online, or call us for party boats in Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Key West, Tampa and Destin.
Drift and party boat trips in 5 Florida towns
Saltwater license covered by the boat. Free cancellation up to 72 hours before. Full refund or free reschedule if the captain cancels for weather. Questions? Call (407) 392-4593, 9 am – 6 pm.
Drift fishing questions
What is drift fishing?
Drift fishing is fishing from a boat that drifts with the wind and current instead of anchoring, so your bait covers more water. In saltwater it usually means drifting a party (head) boat over reefs and wrecks for snapper and grouper; in freshwater anglers drift for catfish, walleye and trout, and fly anglers fish from drift boats on rivers.
What is the difference between a drift boat and a party boat?
In saltwater the terms overlap: a drift boat or party boat (head boat) is a large boat that takes many anglers, charges per person and drifts over reefs and wrecks. In freshwater, a drift boat is a small rowing boat used to fish rivers.
Is drift fishing cheaper than a private charter?
Yes. Drift and party boats charge per person, so they cost far less than a private charter for small groups. Our Fort Lauderdale drift trips start at $70 per person for 4 hours.
What fish can you catch drift fishing?
Offshore: grouper, snapper, cobia, kingfish, mackerel, tuna, bonito, mahi-mahi and wahoo, depending on the area and season. Most party boat catches are snapper and grouper.
Is drift fishing good for beginners and families?
Yes. The crew sets up the rods and bait and helps everyone, the boats are big and stable, and they have restrooms, snacks and shade.
Where can I go drift fishing near me?
In Florida we book drift and party boat trips in Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Key West, Tampa and Destin. Fort Lauderdale books online; the rest are booked by phone.
How do I book a drift fishing trip?
Book Fort Lauderdale online, or call (407) 392-4593, 9 am – 6 pm, for party boats in our other towns.