January is one of the better months to fish in South Florida, and Pompano Beach gives you a lot of options depending on how you want to do it.
From the Pompano Beach Pier, the action in January typically includes pompano (appropriately), bluefish, kingfish, and the occasional Spanish mackerel. The pier is one of the longer fishing piers on the East Coast of Florida and gives you access to water depth you can’t reach from the beach. Bring your own gear or rent it there.
Offshore, January sees good runs of sailfish and dolphin (mahi) in the Gulf Stream, which runs close to shore off Broward County — sometimes within two to three miles. Charter boats out of Hillsboro Inlet and the marinas along the Intracoastal fill up fast on winter weekends. Book ahead if you want a spot on a six-pack or party boat.
Inshore, the Intracoastal and local canals are holding snook and redfish that have pushed south with the cooler water. Kayak fishing the backwaters near Pompano is a legitimate option and a good way to see parts of the city that most people never reach.
Weather windows in January are hit or miss — a cold front can shut down the bite for a day or two — but when it’s good, it’s very good. Keep an eye on the forecast and be ready to move when the conditions line up.
