Don't Tell Mom Sportfishing Report 7/17/2026 - Fort Lauderdale
Capt. William Daley
July 17, 2026
Fort Lauderdale - Saltwater Fishing Report
Weekly Fishing Report | Don't Tell Mom Sportfishing – South Florida
This past week, everything seemed to come together on the water. Despite the Sargassum grass continuing to be a challenge, we worked around it and were rewarded with some outstanding summer fishing. In fact, the action seemed to improve as the week went on.
Trolling was the most consistent technique throughout the week, with the majority of the bites coming on our deeper presentations fished 40+ feet down on the planers. Both 3.5" Drone Spoons and Sea Witches rigged with Bonita strips produced excellent action. We caught a great variety of fish, including Blackfin Tuna, King Mackerel, plenty of Bonitas, and even some big Blue Runners.
It was especially exciting to see the King Mackerel bite continue to improve. Blackfin Tuna fishing also remained steady, giving anglers plenty of opportunities to take home some of the best-eating fish in our local waters.
Live bait fishing on the wrecks produced several large Amberjacks, while slow trolling live baits resulted in a few giant Barracudas that put on incredible fights with blistering runs and powerful strikes.
The highlight of the week, however, had to be the shark fishing. The hot summer water temperatures really had them feeding. We caught and safely released several different species, including Dusky Sharks, Lemon Sharks, Sandbar Sharks, and even a giant male Nurse Shark. Every one of them provided an unforgettable battle and reminded us why summertime is one of the best seasons to target big game fish in South Florida.
Bottom fishing also continued to produce. The Yellowtail Snapper bite remained very consistent, giving anglers looking to bring home fresh fish for dinner another excellent option.
Conditions were fairly stable all week, with light winds, light current, and hot summer temperatures. While the Sargassum grass occasionally made trolling more challenging, finding clean water was well worth the effort, and it consistently produced fish.
Summer fishing in Fort Lauderdale is in full swing, and with King Mackerel becoming more plentiful, Blackfin Tuna and Snapper fishing remaining strong, and sharks becoming increasingly active, the weeks ahead are shaping up to be some of the best of the season.
We have very few openings remaining, so don't wait to reserve your trip. We'd love to get you out on the water so you can experience everything that summer fishing in Fort Lauderdale has to offer.
Visit www.donttellmomsportfishing.com or call or text 954-522-9399 to book your charter today.
Tight lines,
Capt. Will Daley
Don't Tell Mom Sportfishing 🎣
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