Fort Lauderdale Fishing Report 2/28/2026 - Don't Tell Mom

Capt. William Daley
February 28, 2026
Fort Lauderdale - Saltwater Fishing Report

Weekly Fishing Report | Don't Tell Mom Sportfishing – South Florida

This week delivered absolutely beautiful conditions on the water. We had light winds, calm seas, very little current, and clean blue water with temperatures holding steady in the mid to high 70s. When it lays down like that, it makes for comfortable runs to the fishing grounds and ideal conditions for deep sea fishing along the South Florida coast.

The lack of strong current actually made for easier trolling and controlled drifts, allowing us to really dial in our presentations and stay tight to structure.

Shallow water trolling was the most consistent pattern this week. Working depths between 25–50 feet along the reef, we caught Lizard Fish, Cero Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Bonita, and even a few Mutton Snapper while pulling small spoons, swimbaits, and Sea Witches with strips. It was steady action and perfect for anglers looking to bend rods and stay busy on a sportfishing charter.

The wrecks are still holding quality Barracudas, and they've been crushing baits. Light tackle battles with those fish are always a highlight, especially on half-day trips where clients want consistent action.

Sailfish activity slowed slightly compared to previous weeks, but there are still fish around for anglers willing to put in the time fishing live baits. A few Wahoo were caught in the 150–300 foot range, and with the full moon approaching, we expect that bite to continue improving. This time of year, conditions can shift quickly — and when they line up, the pelagic bite turns on fast.

The catch of the week was a massive Goliath Grouper landed in 120 feet by our friends Dakota and Clay. They brought their wives and infants out for a family-friendly private fishing charter and ended up checking a bucket list fish off the board. That's what it's all about — creating memories on the water.

Blackfin Tuna were hit or miss. Some days they were feeding well, other days they disappeared — that's winter fishing. Timing, tide, and subtle current changes make all the difference when targeting tuna.

We also saw a few Mahi in the 100–200 foot range, another sign that seasonal patterns are continuing to transition. As water temperatures rise, we typically see more consistent action with both reef and pelagic species.

With calm seas, manageable current, and active reef and bluewater fish, this is shaping up to be a great stretch for deep sea fishing in South Florida. Whether you're looking for steady action on a half-day trip or targeting a bucket list species on a full-day charter, conditions are lining up nicely.

Call or text 954-522-9399 or visit www.donttellmomsportfishing.com to get on the schedule.

Tight lines,
Capt. Will Daley
Don't Tell Mom Sportfishing 🎣

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