Don't Tell Mom Sportfishing 9/14/26 Fort Lauderdale Report
Capt. William Daley
September 14, 2026
Fort Lauderdale - Saltwater Fishing Report
Weekly Fishing Report | Don't Tell Mom Sportfishing
The past week and a half has produced some really exciting fishing aboard the Don't Tell Mom, but the biggest highlight by far was an incredible 98-inch Lemon Shark that put on one of the most memorable battles we've had in a long time.
We were wreck fishing with a large dead bait on the bottom when the big female Lemon Shark picked it up and took off. The fish immediately started peeling line and putting the tackle to the test. Our angler, Sean, was quickly in the fight, and he battled this massive Shark for roughly 40 minutes before finally getting it boatside.
The fish was an absolute giant. Lemon Sharks are powerful predators and can be incredibly impressive up close, and this large female was a fish we don't get to see very often. After getting some photos, we tagged the Shark and safely released her to continue swimming. It was a true trophy catch and an experience Sean won't soon forget.
King Mackerel Are Showing Up-
One of the other really encouraging developments over the past week or so has been the increased presence of King Mackerel. We've been seeing more fish around and, importantly, we've been catching them ourselves. The Kingfish bite has been noticeably better, and we're excited to see what happens as we continue into the fall.
There are also still opportunities for Blackfin Tuna, along with some Barracudas and other hard-fighting reef predators. Live bait has continued to be an excellent option when targeting bigger fish around the wrecks and structure.
We've also been catching some nice Amberjacks and more Barracudas on live bait, giving our anglers plenty of opportunities for a serious battle even when we're not specifically targeting Sharks.
Fall Fishing Is Starting to Take Shape-
Conditions have been fairly stable, with generally light winds and comfortable seas. We've had the usual South Florida afternoon showers and thunderstorms, but overall the weather has been very cooperative. Current has been relatively light recently, although we're beginning to see some of the stronger tidal movements that come with this time of year.
You can definitely feel the seasonal transition beginning. The days are getting shorter, temperatures are gradually becoming more comfortable, and bait movement is increasing. Flying Fish and Ballyhoo are around, and the Mullet Run is getting closer.
That bait migration is one of the things that makes September and October such exciting months to fish. As the bait moves, the predators follow, creating opportunities for King Mackerel, Mahi-Mahi, Wahoo, Sailfish, Sharks, and plenty of other species.
We expect the King Mackerel bite to continue improving, while Mahi-Mahi and Wahoo should become increasingly important as fall progresses. Blackfin Tuna should also become more consistent as water temperatures begin to drop.
A Great Time to Get on the Water-
September is typically one of our quieter months from a business standpoint, which means there is often more availability for anglers looking to get out on the water. We're taking advantage of that by spending plenty of time on the water and making the most of every opportunity.
Whether you're looking to catch fresh fish for the dinner table, battle a hard-fighting Amberjack or King Mackerel, or chase a true trophy like the 98-inch Lemon Shark we caught this week, there are plenty of exciting possibilities right now.
Fishing is never guaranteed, but we'll continue to use our experience, knowledge of the local waters, and whatever techniques are producing to give our guests the best opportunity possible.
The fall bite is just getting started, and there is a lot to look forward to.
Don't wait—come fishing with us!
Visit donttellmomsportfishing.com or call or text 954-522-9399 to book your charter.
Tight lines,
Capt. Will Daley
954-522-9399
More Fishing Reports:
