Trip 1:
Tim and his wife Sarah joined us aboard the Happy Day Today for two unforgettable half-day fishing charters in Fort Lauderdale. Each with a clear goal in mind. On the first trip, we set out to chase Mahi Mahi, and on the second, we aimed to hook a Sailfish. Luck was on our side, and we accomplished both missions with exciting results.
With rods ready and excitement in the air, we ventured offshore Fort Lauderdale, keeping our eyes peeled for floating debris, weed lines, and circling birds—the telltale signs of Mahi Mahi. Our first Mahi strike came in about 300 feet of water while trolling down the edge. Soon, we spotted a pristine blue-green rip in 250 feet, teeming with baitfish and birds. This was the spot.
Switching tactics, we deployed two kites for live-baiting with lively Goggle Eyes. It didn’t take long for the action to start. The first Mahi came up, took the bait, and peeled off the reel, leaping in spectacular arcs away from the boat. The excitement was palpable as Sarah and Tim each reeled in their fish, their cheers echoing across the waves. By the end of the session, we had landed five beautiful Mahi Mahi, a mix of solid strikes and skillful teamwork. Fishing in Fort Lauderdale offers a wide variety of tactics and opportunities.
The following day, we shifted gears and targeted Sailfish, setting up in 130 feet of water. Patience was key, as this time the bites didn’t come as quickly. With two kites in the air and four baits dancing on the surface below, our mate kept everything perfectly positioned.
The reward for our persistence came in the form of a striking Sailfish—a powerful predator with dazzling speed. The fish took the bait and immediately peeled off on a blistering run, its iconic bill slicing through the water. Tim took the rod and began the fight of a lifetime, his determination evident as the Sailfish leapt and zigzagged in an attempt to escape.
After an incredible battle, we brought the Sailfish alongside the boat. Its vibrant colors shimmered in the sun as we snapped a quick photo before releasing it safely back into the ocean. The joy on Tim and Sarah’s faces said it all—mission accomplished of fun, sun, and deep-sea fishing in Fort Lauderdale aboard Happy Day Today.
Trip 2:
Mark and his sons booked us for a half day deep-sea fishing charter in Fort Lauderdale. With a steady easterly breeze at 15 mph, we decided to try our luck live bait kite fishing—a technique perfect for the day’s conditions.
As soon as we cleared the inlet, the vibrant ocean scene welcomed us: a stark line where the deep, cobalt-blue water met the lighter, clean green water near the reef. We positioned the boat along the edge of this blue transition and set the kites, each carrying lively baits dancing just beneath the surface. All eyes were on the lines as we waited for action.
It didn’t take long. From the depths of the blue water, a Mahi Mahi streaked upward, slamming one of the live baits in an electrifying strike. The reel sang as the fish made its run, and Mark’s youngest son was up first. After a spirited battle, we brought the beautifully colored Mahi aboard, its iridescent hues shimmering in the sun. Fishing in Fort Lauderdale did not disappoint.
The excitement didn’t end there. As we reset the baits, two more Mahi darted in, one after the other, each inhaling the kites' baits. With teamwork and plenty of cheering, both fish joined their companion in the fish box.
Just as we were catching our breath, the line on another reel started screaming. A Blackfin Tuna had taken the bait! The tuna was a determined fighter, putting up a solid battle as it made dive after dive. Mark’s eldest stepped up and skillfully worked the fish closer to the boat. When it was within reach, the first mate leaned over and expertly gaffed the tuna, hoisting it aboard.
The day’s most thrilling moment came as we were reeling in the tuna. From the other kite, a bait suddenly started ripping drag in a burst of speed. The line peeled off at an impressive pace, signaling something big. Mark took the rod, his boys eagerly watching and cheering him on. After an intense fight, the unmistakable silhouette of a Wahoo emerged. The crew brought the fish aboard—a stunning 30-pounder, its sleek body and sharp teeth a testament to its speed and power.
With the boat brimming with excitement and a successful catch, we headed back to the dock in Fort Lauderdale, recounting each moment of the day. Mark and his boys left with unforgettable memories of Fort Lauderdale's world-class fishing and plenty of fresh fish to enjoy.
Trip 3:
Angela, her husband, and her father joined us for a half-day fishing charter in Fort Lauderdale, eager to experience the thrill of South Florida fishing. The weather was perfect for a trip along the reef, so we set our plan: start with some trolling and then transition to live bait fishing over a nearby sunken shipwreck.
We trolled the reef line, admiring the clear waters and the vibrant marine life beneath us. The anticipation built as we approached the wreck—a hotspot for big fish lurking in its shadows. Switching gears, we set up a three-bait spread: one on the downrigger and two on the right and left riggers. The live baits danced enticingly, as we positioned the boat directly over the structure.
As we crossed the wreck, the silence was broken by the unmistakable scream of the reel. The downrigger bait was being taken for a ride! Angela’s husband grabbed the rod, and the fight was on. Whatever was on the line was strong, stripping line and putting up a tough battle.
After a determined effort, the fish came into view—a massive Barracuda, its long, sleek body glinting in the sunlight and its razor-sharp teeth bared in defiance. It was a monster! With skillful maneuvering, the crew brought the fish aboard for a quick photo before safely releasing it back into the water.
For anyone looking to have their own fishing adventure in South Florida, Captain Dave Zsak and the 52' Hatteras "Happy Day Today" team at Top Shot Sportfishing Charters are ready to make it happen. Call 954-439-8106 or visit Topshotfishing.com to book your trip.