Best Winter Fishing Destinations

The winter season is one of my favorite times to take a vacation. I know most people opt for the summer months; it works better for school and work schedules. But give me a January or February trip over June and July anytime! The weather is cooler, it’s usually less crowded where we travel, and the prices are much more affordable during the non-peak times. When we travel, my husband and I, there’s usually a half day or full day of fishing scheduled. At first I would complain, but now I usually enjoy a day on the water. We’ve had some fantastic days of fishing, and some not-so-great days, but that’s the joy of fishing. It keeps you coming back for more and more.

Here are a few of my personal favorite winter fishing vacations:

Largemouth Bass Fishing in Orlando, Florida

The Central Florida area is one of my favorites to vacation… and it’s not just because of the theme parks! The temperatures are honestly my favorite part, usually averaging in the low to mid-70s. And you don’t have to look far to find a good hotel. We usually stay near the theme parks (Disney World, Universal Studios, or Sea World) and can find reasonable rates just off the beaten path. There are several with professional guides. We hired a fantastic guide that took us for a four hour trip on Lake Toho. They had the live bait already set-up and on the hook for us. It didn’t take long to start reeling in some beauties! We did have to let them go, largemouth bass are catch-and-release in Florida, but it was fun to take pictures with our lunkers. I won’t say who caught the biggest fish that day, but let’s just say my husband was not too happy with me for the rest of the day (wink, wink)!

Fishing for Redfish in Charleston, South Carolina

Another one of my favorite places to visit is Charleston. The history of the city, the beautiful homes on Rainbow Row, and the Waterfront Park are all exquisite places to visit (and shop). Whether you stay in the city or just outside, you’re sure to run into some of the nicest people on the planet; there really is something about “southern charm.” While visiting Charleston in the winter we hired a captain who specialized in fishing Charleston Harbor for redfish. I was happy with the view of the city, unlike any scene from the shore. My husband was happy with the seven redfish he caught on our half day charter. Some he had to let go for regulatory reasons (too big or too small), but the slot-sized ones we were able to harvest and keep. Our Captain was nice enough to clean our catch and pointed us in the direction of a nearby restaurant that was happy to cook it for us. Overall it was a fantastic trip, one that was filled with warm hearts and happy stomachs.

Sailfish Charter in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

One of our most exciting winter trips was to South Florida! There is so much to do, no matter where you end up visiting: Miami, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale. The beaches are not crowded and this snowbird is happy to take a walk or two along the sandy shores. For our a few years ago we decided to go offshore and try our hand at a full day charter. Boy did we have the trip of a lifetime! As this was our first time fishing for sailfish, we booked a full day offshore charter from the recommendations from friends who insisted that a half day wasn’t enough time for offshore fishing. I’m so glad we did, we didn’t feel rushed and got to visit a few different spots. Of course the most exciting parts of the trip were when we caught sailfish, twice! Sailfish are beautiful creatures, and to see them jump from the water was unlike anything I had seen before. Such big and strong fish jumping and leaping like they were lighter than air… it was unbelievable! We still remember this trip fondly, and the amount of time really was perfect. If you’re looking for an incredible adventure, book a sailfish charter from Fort Lauderdale, Florida… schedule a full day and get the full experience - you won’t regret it!

Schedule A Fishing Trip on Your Next Winter Vacation

I’m telling you… vacationing in winter is the way to go. Travel to a new place (or warmer place) and there’s sure to be good fishing available. Search for your next trip on FishAnywhere.com. It’s easy to use, and the Customer Support team is the best around - friendly and very accommodating. I bet your winter vacations will be just as amazing when you schedule a fishing adventure!