Trip 1:
Gina and Rick, adventurous siblings who are locals, had booked us for a deep-sea fishing charter aboard Happy Day Today in the beautiful waters of Fort Lauderdale. The afternoon promised clear skies, calm seas, and, hopefully, thrilling fishing action.
We began the charter by catching bullet Bonita bait near a local sea buoy. These agile, silvery fish make for exceptional live bait, perfect for slow bump trolling along the reef. Fort Lauderdale has unique underwater topography, with its close proximity to the coast, offers a prime hunting ground for migratory species like Mahi, Wahoo, King Mackerel, Tuna, and Sailfish.
With a lively spread of six bullet Bonitas in the water, we set out to fish depths ranging from 100 to 300 feet. As we slowly trolled along, the first sign of action came in 150 feet of water. One of the live baits started darting erratically—a clear indication that something big was nearby. Within moments, a magnificent Sailfish charged the bait, its dorsal fin cutting through the water like a knife. Gina was up first.
She grabbed the rod, her face a mix of excitement and determination as the Sailfish took off in a blistering run. With guidance from Kyle, our seasoned first mate, Gina expertly worked the fish, her arms straining with effort but her resolve unwavering. After a heart-pounding battle, she brought the Sailfish alongside the boat. Kyle carefully removed the hook, and after a quick photo, we watched the majestic fish swim off to fight another day.
With spirits high, we set the baits back out and resumed our search. We worked the area for a while, but with no immediate bites, I decided to shift our efforts to deeper waters, close to one of Fort Lauderdale’s many sunken shipwrecks. These structures are magnets for marine life and often hold large predators like Sailfish.
Not long after, another Sailfish appeared behind the long bait, its sleek form unmistakable. As soon as I shouted, RIGHT LONG! Rick sprang into action, grabbing the rod just as the Sailfish engulfed the bait. The reel screamed as the fish bolted, its powerful runs and aerial acrobatics providing an incredible spectacle. Rick, fueled by adrenaline, fought the fish with skill and determination. Finally, after another epic battle, he brought the Sailfish alongside the boat for a safe release.
Two Sailfish in one afternoon—a dream day of fishing that Gina and Rick would never forget. As we headed back to the marina, the sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a golden glow over the water. The couple sat side by side, smiling and sharing stories about their unforgettable adventure in Fort Lauderdale.
Trip 2:
John and his group of five buddies were buzzing with excitement as they boarded Happy Day Today and Top Shot Sportfishing Charters for a half-day deep sea fishing adventure in Fort Lauderdale. The weather was perfect, and the anticipation of landing some trophy fish set the tone for a fantastic trip.
As we left the marina, the team eagerly soaked in the salty breeze and scenic views. Within 20 minutes, we had baits in the water, trolling an irresistible spread of live baits designed to attract the pelagic predators that patrol the local Fort Lauderdale reef and coastline. The goal was to intercept one of these powerful fish in their natural habitat.
Working the area, we trolled over sunken structures and anchored ships in 100 feet of water. Suddenly, the downrigger rod bent violently, and the reel screamed as the line peeled off at lightning speed.
John sprang into action, grabbing the rod and settling into the fight. The fish proved to be a formidable opponent, making deep dives and explosive runs, testing John’s strength and patience. After a heart-pounding battle, the fish finally surfaced—a giant smoker King Mackerel shimmering in the sunlight. Kyle, the first mate, expertly gaffed the fish and hoisted it aboard. The team erupted in cheers as the King was weighed in at a whopping 38 pounds. After snapping a few photos, we iced the prized fish and set our sights on the next catch.
With the spread back in the water, we continued trolling, scanning for signs of activity. I spotted baitfish flitting nervously above a productive structure. It didn’t take long before one of the rigger lines exploded with a massive boil and splash. Another fish was on, and it was big.
This fish tore off line like a freight train, and another battle ensued. The similarities in its fight made me suspect we had another Smoker King. Sure enough, as it neared the boat, the gleaming silver torpedo shape confirmed it. Kyle delivered another perfect gaff stroke, and the second King joined the first in the cooler. This one weighed 25 pounds.
John and his crew couldn’t stop grinning as they celebrated their success. With two trophy Kings aboard and the camaraderie of a memorable day on the water, their Fort Lauderdale fishing trip aboard Happy Day Today was nothing short of spectacular.
Trip 3:
Dan and his family were brimming with excitement for a deep-sea fishing adventure off Fort Lauderdale, Florida. With a cooler packed and a mission to reel in some prime fish for a family feast, Dan’s determination was contagious. Departing from Bahia Mar Marina located in Fort Lauderdale, the crew got to work. The first mate prepared rigs for trolling and bottom fishing, ready to seize any opportunity that the Atlantic might present.
Their first destination was a local Fort Lauderdale sunken shipwreck just a few miles offshore. It didn’t take long for the action to start. They sent down a live bait along with a dead bait rig on a long leader. The dead bait struck first. One of the anglers grabbed the light tackle rod, and a thrilling fight ensued. After a spirited battle, an Amberjack broke the surface. Though impressive, the AJ wasn’t on the menu. The crew removed the hook, vented it, and released the fish back into the deep.
The real excitement came moments later when the live bait rod doubled over. Another angler jumped into action, and after a dogged fight, a hefty Black Grouper emerged from the depths. This prized catch was carefully brought aboard and placed on ice, much to Dan’s delight. The crew decided to try for another Grouper, but instead, they reeled in another Amberjack, which was promptly released.
With spirits high, the group set off to another Fort Lauderdale bottom fishing hotspot. During the transit, the first mate deployed a spread of trolling baits. The payoff was quick—two King Mackerels were hooked and expertly brought aboard. These sleek, fast fish added to the day’s growing tally.
Upon arrival at the next fishing area, the focus shifted back to bottom fishing. The family started landing Snappers—beautiful, flavorful fish that are a favorite for home cooking. By the end of the trip, Dan’s mission was a success. The first mate cleaned the Snappers dockside, providing perfectly prepped fillets for the family’s feast.
As Dan and his family disembarked with their bounty, they couldn’t stop smiling. It had been a day full of adventure, teamwork, and unforgettable memories aboard Happy Day Today.
To book your deep-sea fishing adventure, contact Capt. Dave Zsak at 954-439-8106 or visit Topshotfishing.com