Florida Keys Fishing in February

February is a great month to trade cold weather for a fishing rod in the Florida Keys.

Winter fishing is still going strong, which means sailfish, king mackerel, cobia, cero mackerel and other cooler-season species can all be part of the picture.

Reef anglers can target snapper.

Offshore anglers can look for sailfish, tuna, wahoo and kingfish.

You can also fish wrecks, bridges, the backcountry and shallow flats.

February is especially interesting because you’re getting close to the seasonal transition into spring.

Winter species are still around, while tarpon season is getting closer.

If you want to compare February with other months before booking your trip, start with our Florida Keys Fishing Calendar.

Here’s what you need to know about fishing the Florida Keys in February.

What Fish Are Biting in the Florida Keys in February?

Some of the fish worth considering during February include:

• Sailfish
• King mackerel
• Cobia
• Wahoo
• Blackfin tuna
• Cero mackerel
• Spanish mackerel
• Yellowtail snapper
• Mangrove snapper
• Barracuda
• Sharks
• Swordfish
• Tarpon

The exact fishing changes with water temperature, wind, current, bait movement and cold fronts.

February is firmly within the traditional winter sailfish and mackerel periods.

The official Florida Keys fishing calendar lists sailfish from November through May, cobia from November through April, king mackerel from October through April, cero mackerel from November through April and Spanish mackerel from November through March. See the official Florida Keys fishing information

That makes February one of those months when you can build several very different fishing trips.

Is February a Good Month to Fish the Florida Keys?

Yes.

February is particularly attractive if you enjoy offshore and reef fishing.

You can potentially target several species without having to build the entire vacation around one fish.

Possible options include:

• Sailfishing
• Kingfish trolling
• Cobia fishing
• Blackfin tuna fishing
• Wahoo fishing
• Reef fishing
• Wreck fishing
• Bridge fishing
• Backcountry fishing

February also falls during what the Florida Keys tourism bureau calls peak sailfish season. February 2026 included multiple sailfish tournaments in Islamorada, including the Keys Kids Sailfish Tournament. Florida Keys February fishing and events information

If sailfish have been on your fishing bucket list, February deserves serious consideration.

Sailfish Fishing in February

Sailfish are one of the biggest reasons to visit the Florida Keys in February.

February falls right in the heart of the cooler-season sailfish fishery.

These fish are famous for:

• Incredible speed
• Long runs
• Spectacular jumps
• Their large dorsal sail
• Surface strikes
• Acrobatic fights

There are several ways captains target them.

Live Bait Fishing

Live bait is one of the classic Florida Keys sailfish techniques.

Depending on availability, baits might include:

• Pilchards
• Ballyhoo
• Goggle-eyes
• Other live baitfish

Captains may drift or slow-troll baits near reef edges or other productive offshore water.

Kite Fishing

Some sailfish crews use fishing kites to suspend live baits close to the surface.

This technique can spread several baits away from the boat while keeping much of the tackle out of the water.

Watching a sailfish attack a bait at the surface can be one of the most exciting sights in Florida Keys fishing.

Trolling

Trolling rigged baits or lures gives anglers another way to cover water while searching for sails.

If catching a sailfish is the main reason for your February trip, look for a captain who spends a lot of winter days specifically targeting them.

King Mackerel Fishing in February

King mackerel, commonly called kingfish, are another excellent February target.

Kingfish are fast predators that frequently associate with:

• Reef edges
• Wrecks
• Schools of bait
• Offshore structure
• Drop-offs

One of the most popular techniques is slow-trolling live bait.

Trolling rigged baits and artificial lures can also produce fish.

Kingfish have sharp teeth, so appropriate leaders matter.

A good king can make a blistering first run.

The official Florida Keys fishing brochure places king mackerel season from October through April, putting February right in the middle of the traditional period.

Cobia Fishing in February

Cobia are another species worth watching during February.

The Florida Keys tourism fishing calendar lists cobia from November through April.

These powerful fish may be encountered:

• Around wrecks
• Near reefs
• In deeper channels
• Around rays
• Near other structure
• While sight-fishing from boats with elevated towers

Cobia can sometimes be spotted near the surface.

That makes sight-fishing particularly exciting.

You see the fish first.

Then you make the cast.

Then you find out whether it wants what you’re offering.

Cobia are strong fighters, and larger fish can test both angler and tackle.

Wahoo Fishing in February

Wahoo can remain a possibility during February.

They’re among the fastest predators an angler can hook in the Keys.

Common methods include:

• High-speed trolling
• Trolling rigged baits
• Artificial trolling lures
• Fishing near drop-offs
• Working current edges
• Fishing around offshore structure

Wahoo have extremely sharp teeth.

They also have a habit of taking off with surprising speed after the strike.

Late fall and early winter get considerable attention for Florida Keys wahoo fishing, but February anglers should still ask their captain whether wahoo have been showing up recently.

Blackfin Tuna Fishing in February

Blackfin tuna give February offshore anglers another possible target.

These fish aren’t as large as bluefin or yellowfin tuna, but don’t underestimate them.

Blackfin can be:

• Fast
• Powerful
• Aggressive
• Excellent table fare

Fishing techniques can include:

• Live bait
• Trolling
• Chumming
• Jigging
• Casting

Bird activity can sometimes help reveal feeding fish.

A flock of birds repeatedly diving into the same patch of water deserves a closer look.

If blackfin tuna are being caught during your trip, your captain may recommend shifting the plan to take advantage of the opportunity.

Cero Mackerel Fishing in February

Cero mackerel don’t always get the attention given to sailfish and wahoo.

They should.

Ceros are fast, aggressive fish that can provide excellent light-tackle action.

They’re commonly found around reefs and areas holding baitfish.

Fishing methods may include:

• Trolling
• Live bait
• Plugs
• Spoons
• Other artificial lures

The official Florida Keys fishing calendar lists cero mackerel from November through April, making February a natural month to target them.

Spanish Mackerel Fishing in February

Spanish mackerel are another cooler-season possibility.

They’re smaller than king mackerel but can provide fast action.

They may respond well to:

• Spoons
• Small trolling lures
• Live bait
• Fast-moving artificial baits

The official Keys fishing calendar lists Spanish mackerel from November through March.

They’re a good example of why February anglers shouldn’t become obsessed with catching only one species.

A mixed mackerel bite can turn into a very entertaining day.

Yellowtail Snapper Fishing in February

If you prefer reef fishing, yellowtail snapper are a classic Florida Keys target.

Unlike many highly seasonal species, yellowtails are listed as a year-round opportunity in the Keys.

A typical yellowtail trip involves:

• Anchoring around productive reef structure
• Establishing a chum line
• Drifting small baits naturally through the chum
• Using relatively light tackle

Yellowtails can be surprisingly cautious.

Clear water gives them plenty of time to inspect your leader and bait.

A natural presentation can make a huge difference.

Yellowtail fishing is worth considering for:

• Families
• Beginners
• Light-tackle anglers
• Visitors hoping to catch dinner
• People who don’t want a long offshore run

Mangrove Snapper Fishing in February

Mangrove snapper give reef and structure anglers another possibility.

The official Keys fishing calendar lists mangrove snapper as a year-round species.

They may be encountered around:

• Reefs
• Bridges
• Wrecks
• Rocky structure
• Channels

Mangrove snapper can also be caught from shore in some situations.

They’re smart fish and can become difficult to fool in clear water.

Live bait, shrimp and cut bait can all enter the picture depending on how and where you’re fishing.

What About Mahi-Mahi in February?

Could you catch mahi in February?

Yes.

Should you plan your entire February vacation around mahi?

Probably not.

The official Florida Keys fishing calendar places the traditional mahi-mahi period from April through October.

Fish don’t know what month is printed on the calendar, so occasional mahi can certainly appear outside that period.

But if mahi-mahi are the main reason for your trip, later spring and summer usually give you a better seasonal match.

February has other strengths.

Sailfish, kingfish, cobia and mackerel are much more closely associated with this part of the year.

Can You Catch Tarpon in February?

You may encounter tarpon in February, particularly resident fish.

But February is early for the famous Florida Keys tarpon season.

The official Florida Keys fishing calendar identifies March through August as the main tarpon period.

That means February sits right on the doorstep.

Resident tarpon may still be found around:

• Bridges
• Channels
• Harbors
• Backcountry water
• Areas holding bait

If you’re already visiting in February, ask your guide whether tarpon opportunities exist.

If catching a large migrating tarpon is the sole purpose of your vacation, I’d consider planning the trip later in spring.

Barracuda Fishing in February

Barracuda are available throughout the year in the Florida Keys.

They’re also a lot more fun to catch than some people give them credit for.

Barracuda can be found around:

• Flats
• Reefs
• Wrecks
• Bridges
• Channels

They’re fast, aggressive and capable of explosive strikes.

February even has a fishing tournament dedicated to them.

The annual Cuda Bowl in Key West and the Lower Keys targets barracuda on shallow-water flats, with both spin and fly divisions. See current Florida Keys fishing tournament information

That’s a pretty good sign that February can be an interesting month for anglers who want something different from offshore trolling.

Shark Fishing in February

Sharks are another year-round possibility.

Depending on where you’re fishing, species may include several different coastal and offshore sharks.

Shark fishing can be particularly exciting for:

• Families
• Kids
• Beginners
• Anglers who simply want something powerful on the end of the line

Many shark trips are catch and release.

Follow current handling and fishing rules, and let your captain handle species identification and safe release.

Swordfish in February

Swordfish are another year-round Florida Keys possibility.

They’re a very different type of fishing trip.

Swordfishing may involve:

• Deep water
• Heavy weights
• Specialized tackle
• Long fishing days
• Significant offshore travel

This is usually a specialized charter rather than something you add casually to a half-day reef trip.

If swordfish are your goal, find a captain who regularly fishes for them.

Reef Fishing in February

Reef fishing can be one of the better February options for visitors who simply want to catch fish.

Potential catches can include:

• Yellowtail snapper
• Mangrove snapper
• Mackerel
• Barracuda
• Sharks
• Other reef species

The Florida Keys tourism bureau notes that wreck and reef fishing can produce snapper, mackerel, cobia, barracuda, sharks and other species. Florida Keys fishing styles and species

Reef fishing can work particularly well for families because the fishing grounds may be closer than some offshore destinations.

That means less travel and more time with lines in the water.

Wreck Fishing in February

Wrecks attract baitfish.

Baitfish attract predators.

That makes wrecks worth considering during February.

Depending on the wreck, depth and conditions, you could encounter:

• Cobia
• Snapper
• Mackerel
• Barracuda
• Sharks
• Jacks
• Other species

Some captains may combine reef and wreck fishing during the same trip.

A six-hour trip can provide more flexibility than a short half day if you want to try several locations.

Offshore Fishing in February

February is an excellent month to consider an offshore charter.

Potential targets include:

• Sailfish
• Kingfish
• Wahoo
• Blackfin tuna
• Cobia

The exact plan should be based on recent fishing.

Don’t arrive insisting that the captain must chase one species regardless of conditions.

A better conversation is:

“We’d love to catch a sailfish, but what has been biting best lately?”

That’s one of the reasons hiring local knowledge can be worth the money.

If you’re still debating whether to hire a captain, see our Is a Florida Keys Fishing Charter Worth It? guide.

Backcountry Fishing in February

Offshore isn’t your only option.

The Florida Keys backcountry includes bays, channels, mangrove islands and shallow protected waters.

Potential catches can include:

• Barracuda
• Sharks
• Snapper
• Cobia
• Tarpon
• Other inshore species

Backcountry fishing can become particularly attractive when winter winds make offshore conditions rough.

A captain may be able to find considerably more comfortable water on the protected side of the islands.

Bridge Fishing in February

Don’t have a boat?

You can still fish the Keys.

Several historic bridges remain open to fishing.

The official Florida Keys fishing information page lists accessible fishing bridges including Channel 2, Channel 5, Long Key, portions of Seven Mile Bridge, Spanish Harbor and several Lower Keys bridges. See the official list of Florida Keys bridges open to fishing

Possible catches around bridges can include:

• Snapper
• Barracuda
• Mackerel
• Jacks
• Sharks
• Other passing fish

Moving water can matter considerably around bridge channels.

Pay attention to tides.

And make sure you’re fishing from a location where access is currently permitted.

Where Should You Fish in February?

There isn’t one best location for every angler.

Your target fish and preferred fishing style should guide the decision.

Key Largo

Key Largo provides access to:

• Reefs
• Offshore water
• Wrecks
• Florida Bay

It also has one major convenience advantage.

It’s the first major Florida Keys destination for people driving south from mainland Florida.

If you’re considering this area, our Key Largo Fishing Guide covers local fishing styles, species and trip-planning considerations.

Islamorada

Islamorada is one of the strongest choices for a dedicated February fishing vacation.

Anglers have access to:

• Sailfish
• Kingfish
• Cobia
• Tuna
• Reef fishing
• Wreck fishing
• Backcountry fishing

Islamorada’s winter sailfish fishery is serious enough to support multiple competitive tournaments.

If sailfish are near the top of your list, Islamorada deserves a close look.

Marathon

Marathon gives you access to both Atlantic and Gulf-side fishing.

Possible options include:

• Sailfish
• Cobia
• Reef fishing
• Wreck fishing
• Bridge fishing
• Backcountry trips

Marathon charter operators also specifically target sailfish and cobia using live bait and sight-fishing techniques.

See our Marathon Fishing Guide for more ideas.

Lower Keys

The Lower Keys are especially appealing if you enjoy:

• Flats fishing
• Backcountry fishing
• Barracuda
• Light tackle
• Quieter fishing areas

February’s Cuda Bowl is held in Key West and the Lower Keys and is centered around sight-fishing barracuda on the flats.

Key West

Key West gives anglers access to several completely different fisheries.

You can fish:

• Offshore
• Reefs
• Wrecks
• Flats
• Backcountry

Potential February targets include sailfish, kingfish, cobia, tuna, barracuda and snapper.

That variety makes Key West especially useful for anglers staying several days.

What Is the Best Bait for February Fishing?

There isn’t one February bait.

Your target species should determine what you use.

Possible natural baits include:

• Ballyhoo
• Pilchards
• Goggle-eyes
• Shrimp
• Crabs
• Squid
• Cut bait
• Other live baitfish

Artificial choices can include:

• Jigs
• Spoons
• Plugs
• Trolling lures
• Feathers
• Soft plastics

For sailfish, your setup will look very different from a yellowtail snapper rig.

Ask your captain or local bait shop what has been working recently.

What Is the Weather Like in February?

February is one of the cooler months in the Florida Keys.

For visitors escaping snow and ice, “cool” is relative.

You’ll often find comfortable conditions, but winter cold fronts can still move through South Florida.

Those fronts can bring:

• Cooler air
• Stronger wind
• Rougher seas
• Changing water temperatures
• Different fishing conditions

The Florida Keys tourism bureau describes February as having mild midwinter days and abundant sunshine, but individual weather systems can still affect fishing plans.

Pack for changing conditions.

What Should You Wear Fishing in February?

Dress in layers.

Consider:

• Lightweight fishing shirt
• Shorts or lightweight pants
• Light jacket
• Windbreaker
• Rain shell
• Hat
• Polarized sunglasses
• Non-slip shoes

You may leave the marina feeling chilly and be fishing in a T-shirt several hours later.

A moving boat also creates wind.

Temperatures that feel comfortable on land can feel much cooler during an early-morning run.

What Should You Bring on a February Charter?

Bring:

• Polarized sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Light jacket
• Rain protection
• Water
• Snacks or lunch
• Phone or camera
• Waterproof bag
• Motion-sickness medication if appropriate
• Money or another method for tipping the crew

Most established charters provide fishing tackle.

Ask before bringing rods, large coolers or tackle boxes.

Half Day or Full Day in February?

Both can work.

Consider a Half-Day Charter If:

• You’re a beginner.
• You’re fishing with young children.
• You mainly want reef fishing.
• You’re worried about seasickness.
• Fishing is only part of the vacation.

Consider a Full-Day Charter If:

• Sailfish are your main target.
• You’re serious about offshore fishing.
• You want maximum flexibility.
• Fishing is the main reason for your trip.
• You’re hoping to try several locations.

If you’re unsure, look at our guide comparing half-day and full-day Florida Keys fishing charters before booking.

How Much Does a February Fishing Charter Cost?

Rates depend much more on boat size, fishing style and trip length than on February itself.

A small backcountry charter and a large offshore sportfishing boat are completely different products.

Before comparing prices, decide whether you want:

• Reef fishing
• Offshore fishing
• Flats fishing
• Backcountry fishing
• A half day
• A full day

Then compare similar boats.

Our Florida Keys Fishing Charter Cost Guide explains what current private-charter prices can look like and what additional expenses to budget for.

Do You Need a Fishing License?

It depends on how you’re fishing.

If you’re fishing aboard a properly licensed Florida saltwater charter vessel, FWC says paying fishing passengers are covered under the charter license and do not need their own recreational saltwater fishing license for that trip. Read the FWC charter fishing license rules

If you’re fishing independently, different requirements may apply.

Nonresident anglers fishing from shore, for example, generally need an appropriate saltwater license unless another exemption applies. Check Florida visitor fishing-license requirements

Check Current Fishing Regulations

Don’t use an old blog post to decide whether a fish is legal to keep.

Fishing rules can involve:

• Minimum sizes
• Maximum sizes
• Daily bag limits
• Vessel limits
• Closed seasons
• Gear restrictions
• State waters
• Federal waters
• Special management areas

Rules can change.

Use the current FWC saltwater fishing regulations before keeping your catch.

Your charter captain should also know the regulations applying to the water you’re fishing.

Florida Keys February Fishing FAQ

What fish can you catch in February in the Florida Keys?

Possible February targets include sailfish, king mackerel, cobia, wahoo, blackfin tuna, cero mackerel, Spanish mackerel, snapper, barracuda, sharks and other species.

Is February good for sailfish?

Yes. February falls within peak winter sailfish season in the Florida Keys.

Is February good for kingfish?

Yes. King mackerel are a classic cooler-season Florida Keys target, and February falls within their traditional October through April period.

Can you catch cobia in February?

Yes. February falls within the traditional November through April cobia period listed by the Florida Keys tourism bureau.

Can you catch wahoo in February?

Yes. Wahoo can remain available during February, although exact fishing varies from year to year.

Can you catch mahi-mahi in February?

It’s possible, but February is outside the main traditional Florida Keys mahi period. If mahi are your main target, spring and summer are usually better seasonal choices.

Can you catch tarpon in February?

Resident tarpon can be encountered, but February is early for the main seasonal period. The official Keys fishing calendar lists tarpon primarily from March through August.

Is February good for snapper fishing?

Yes. Yellowtail and mangrove snapper are year-round Florida Keys possibilities.

Is February good for fishing in Islamorada?

Yes. February is particularly attractive for sailfish and other winter offshore species, while reef and backcountry fishing provide additional choices.

Is February good for fishing in Key West?

Yes. Key West provides access to offshore, reef, wreck, flats and backcountry fishing.

Is February too cold to fish in the Florida Keys?

No. Fishing continues throughout February. Cold fronts can produce cooler, windier days, so bring layers and remain flexible about fishing locations.

Is February good for family fishing?

Yes. Reef, backcountry and shorter private charters can all work well for families.

Is February Worth It for a Florida Keys Fishing Trip?

Absolutely.

February gives you a strong mix of winter fishing opportunities.

Sailfish are in season.

Kingfish are active.

Cobia can be in the picture.

Cero and Spanish mackerel provide additional opportunities.

Snapper can keep reef anglers busy.

And barracuda, sharks, wreck fish and backcountry species give you plenty of alternatives.

The best approach is flexibility.

Tell your captain what you’d love to catch.

Then ask what has actually been biting.

A February trip doesn’t need to revolve around only one fish.

Pick the right fishing style, pay attention to the weather and give your captain room to follow the better bite.

While everyone back home is wondering how much more snow they’re going to get, you could be watching a sailfish jump behind a boat in the Florida Keys.

February sounds a lot better from that perspective.