Flats fishing in Florida
Sight fish shallow water for bonefish, tarpon, permit, redfish and snook.
Florida’s shallow grass flats are known around the world for bonefish and tarpon, with permit, redfish, trout, snook and sharks on the same water. Pick a town below, then call (407) 392-4593, 9 am – 6 pm, to book.
Fish you can catch on Florida’s flats
Bonefish and tarpon, plus permit, redfish, snook, trout and sharks. Swipe to see what you could catch.
Permit
Flats permitFound on the same flats as bonefish and tarpon. Seasons and size limits apply.
Bonefish and tarpon are catch and release in Florida. Seasons, size and bag limits apply to other fish: see the FWC saltwater fishing regulations. Your captain can tell you what you can keep.
Where is the best flats fishing in Florida?
The Florida Keys, Miami’s Biscayne Bay and Tampa Bay are where we book flats trips. The Keys, Mosquito Lagoon and the Everglades are among the best-known flats in the state. Trips are light tackle or fly with a local guide and a boat built for shallow water. Call (407) 392-4593, 9 am – 6 pm, to book.
Best Florida towns for flats fishing
Each town page has the trip details, fish and seasons for that area.
Florida Keys
Bonefish, permit and tarpon on the flats, with snook, redfish and trout in the backcountry. Islamorada is known for big bonefish.
Call to book · See the trip →
Miami
Bonefish over 10 pounds, permit and tarpon, plus redfish, snook and sharks. Trips leave from Miami or Key Biscayne.
Call to book · See the trip →
Tampa Bay
Snook, redfish, trout and tarpon, with a chance at permit. Sight fishing on light tackle or fly.
Call to book · See the trip →How to book a Florida flats trip
Online booking isn’t available for flats trips yet. Call us and we’ll book your town and date.
Flats trips in the Keys, Miami and Tampa Bay
Call (407) 392-4593Saltwater license covered by the captain. Free cancellation up to 72 hours before. Full refund or free reschedule if the guide cancels for weather. Questions? Call (407) 392-4593, 9 am – 6 pm.
Rather book online?
These related Florida trips have live calendars. Pick your date and book online.
Flats fishing by season
Winter Dec–Feb
- Trout and redfish on the flats
- Tides, wind and water temperature move the fish
Spring Mar–May
- Snook move to the beaches and passes
- Redfish on the flats
Summer Jun–Aug
- Tarpon season
- Fish early in the day
Fall Sep–Nov
- Bull redfish and snook
- Your captain picks the flats for the day’s tide
Florida flats fishing questions
Where is the best flats fishing in Florida?
The Florida Keys, Mosquito Lagoon and the Everglades are among the best-known flats in the state. We book flats trips in the Keys, Miami and Tampa Bay.
What fish can I catch on Florida’s flats?
Bonefish and tarpon are what Florida’s flats are famous for. Permit, redfish, snook, trout and sharks live on the same water.
What is flats fishing?
Sight fishing in shallow, clear water. You spot a fish, make the cast and watch it eat, usually on light tackle or a fly rod.
Do I need fly fishing experience?
No. Trips are light tackle or fly, and new anglers are welcome. Your guide sets up the tackle and helps with the cast.
What is a flats grand slam?
Catching a bonefish, a permit and a tarpon on the same day.
Can I keep a bonefish or tarpon?
No. Bonefish and tarpon are catch and release in Florida. Other fish have seasons, size and bag limits set by FWC.
How do I book a Florida flats trip?
Call (407) 392-4593, 9 am – 6 pm. Tell us the town and dates and we’ll book your guide.
Can I book a flats trip online?
Not yet. If you’d rather book online, Miami tarpon, Miami inshore, Marathon backcountry and Palm Beach inshore trips have live calendars.
Do I need a fishing license?
No. The captain’s saltwater license covers everyone fishing on the trip.
What should I bring?
Polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, a light long-sleeved shirt, non-scuff shoes, and water and snacks.