When the temperature drops, many anglers assume it’s time to pack away their gear and wait for spring. But winter doesn’t have to mean a break from fishing. In fact, some fisheries are tailored for angling during this time of the year! Our list of top winter fishing destinations is here to prove it.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up 10 fantastic places where the bite – and even the weather in some locations – stay hot. Whether you’re after insgore calm or offshore thrills, these spots combine fishing with unique local experiences that make them worth a visit – rod in hand or not!
Tybee Island, Georgia
Sitting just east of Savannah, Tybee Island is a barrier island known for its relaxed charm, wide beaches, and scenic Atlantic coastline. A mix of beach-town appeal and salt marsh beauty makes it a favorite for both vacationers and anglers seeking a quieter winter retreat.
Fishing during the winter months in this beautiful corner of Georgia means steady action. Cooler temperatures bring Redfish, Black Drum, and Speckled Trout into the shallow waters, creating plenty of opportunities for inshore anglers. Meanwhile, nearby rocky structures attract Sheepshead – the kids’ favorite fish.
When you’re ready to swap your rod for land-based activities, Tybee Island offers plenty to explore. Visit the iconic lighthouse, take a beach walk at sunset, or sample fresh local seafood at a waterfront eatery. Even in the heart of winter, the island keeps its inviting, coastal energy alive.
Morehead City, North Carolina
Just up the shoreline on North Carolina’s “Crystal Coast,” Morehead City boasts a strong fishing heritage and easy access to protected creeks, sounds, bays, and open waters. With deep-seated ties to sportfishing culture, it’s a standout for anglers year-round and an excellent choice for a winter fishing getaway.
Winter brings a unique rhythm to the local fishing scene. Offshore, Bluefin Tuna make their seasonal appearance, offering exciting opportunities for those venturing far out. Closer to shore, Redfish and Speckled Trout can still be found cruising the flats and creeks, making for a productive day even in chillier weather. And inland fisheries will bless you with Crappie, Bluegill, and Bass.
Outside of fishing, Morehead City is all about small-town warmth and coastal charm. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit nearby beaches, or explore the North Carolina Maritime Museum. The winter pace is slower, offering time to enjoy the quieter side of this popular angling destination.
Jacksonville, Florida
Looking for big-city convenience with an abundance of natural waterways? Jacksonville may be the place for you! Situated on Florida’s northeast coast, it offers easy access to river systems, estuaries, and the Atlantic, giving anglers a wide range of fishing environments to choose from.
In winter, cooler conditions push game fish into the deeper channels and flats, keeping the bite alive. Redfish, Black Drum, Sheepshead, and Flounder remain active in the St. Johns River and surrounding areas. And speaking of these areas, expect to cross paths with freshwater legends, such as Bass and Catfish, too. Offshore fisheries, on the other hand, will bless you with speedsters like Wahoo.
When you’re not chasing fish, hit up the sandy beaches, local breweries, historical sites, and even music festivals. In February, Jacksonville hosts the Community First Seawalk Music Festival, featuring everything from great tunes to finger-lickin’ food. Not a bad way to warm up your winter, right?
Fort Myers, Florida
Situated on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Fort Myers is a paradise of mangroves, barrier islands, and backwater channels. Known for its rich biodiversity and warm winter weather, it’s a beloved spot for those looking to fish without bundling up.
During winter, Fort Myers continues to deliver excellent weather and inshore fishing. Redfish and Sheepshead are common targets in the creeks and estuaries, but Snook are the favorite at this time of year. Winter sees clearer water and active fish, making it a great time to explore the shallows.
Off the water, Fort Myers offers a relaxed atmosphere with a dash of adventure. Spend time shelling on nearby Sanibel Island, visit the historic Edison and Ford Winter Estates, or take a nature tour through the local preserves. The city is an ideal winter escape for anglers who want action, warm temperatures, and good downtime.
Mobile, Alabama
Nestled at the top of the Gulf of Mexico, Mobile is a city full of Southern charm. It also boasts access to one of the most diverse aquatic ecosystems in the region, the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, with its labyrinth of rivers and bayous, offering endless possibilities for anglers.
The mix of salt and freshwater environments allows for a wide variety of catches, even during the off-season. But the ultimate catches in winter are Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Sheepshead. The colder months funnel these fish into more predictable areas, making them easier to target.
Mobile isn’t just about fishing, though. Explore historic districts, sample hearty Gulf Coast cuisine, or relax in one of the many nearby parks and nature reserves. The city’s rich cultural history, including the nation’s oldest Mardi Gras celebration, adds another layer to your trip. From January 30 until February 17, Mobile will light up with parades you won’t want to miss out on!
Lafayette, Louisiana
Set in the heart of Cajun Country, Lafayette is surrounded by slow-moving bayous, vast marshlands, and cultural richness. While not on the immediate coast, it’s a launchpad for inshore adventures and offers a flavor of Louisiana that’s as authentic as it gets.
In winter, fishing thrives in this destination. Redfish and Speckled Trout are the stars of the show, and the colder season often means fewer boats and more focused action. Freshwater spots also remain productive, and a guided trip can take you into spots teeming with Crappie, Perch, Catfish, and Bess, even when the temperatures cool.
Beyond fishing, Lafayette comes alive with music, food, and southern hospitality. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of gumbo, taking a swamp tour, or catching a live music show, the city adds a cultural twist to your winter angling trip.
Rockport, Texas
A gem on Texas’s Gulf Coast, Rockport offers a friendly, small-town setting paired with abundant flats, bays, and estuaries. Its protected waters make it an attractive option for year-round fishing, especially in the cooler months.
Winter fishing here is excellent, particularly for Redfish, Black Drum, and Speckled Trout, as the flats stay productive, and the lower angling pressure makes it easy to enjoy peaceful days on the water. Whether wading, kayaking, or hopping aboard a charter, you’re likely to find a bend in your rod.
Rockport also shines on dry land. You can browse local art galleries, visit the Texas Maritime Museum, or explore the nearby Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. The pace is slow, the skies are clear, and the vibe is exactly what a winter escape should feel like.
Tacoma, Washington
Overlooking Puget Sound, Tacoma offers a very different winter fishing experience. So, if you’re up for a change of scenery, visit this Pacific Northwest honey hole. With snowcapped mountains in the distance and evergreen shorelines nearby, it’s considerably colder than Florida, but no less captivating as a destination for anglers who enjoy a bit of ruggedness.
Though the weather is brisk, winter fishing in Tacoma can still be productive. The Sound offers chances to hook into species like Chinook “Blackmouth” Salmon and various bottom fish. Nearby freshwater fisheries won’t disappoint either, rewarding you with Trout, Crappie, and Bass.
Away from the water, Tacoma offers cultural depth and natural beauty. Visit the Museum of Glass, take a scenic drive to Mount Rainier, or enjoy a quiet walk through Point Defiance Park. All in all, Tacoma is a refreshing change of both pace and scenery from the other tropical winter fishing destinations on this list.
Monterey, California
Perched along California’s scenic central coast, Monterey is known for its rich marine environment and coastal charm. The waters of Monterey Bay teem with life year-round, offering opportunities for anglers even in the heart of winter.
The cooler months still provide rewarding fishing. Rockfish and Lingcod remain active offshore, and the bay’s structure and reefs are home to plenty of wintertime targets. The relatively mild climate and stunning surroundings make each trip to sea both productive and picturesque.
Back on land, Monterey has no shortage of things to do. Wander through Cannery Row, take a scenic drive down 17-Mile Drive, or explore the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. It’s a destination where natural beauty and winter fishing pair perfectly.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
We saved the best for last – a place that everyone should visit at least once! At the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas offers year-round sunshine and legendary fishing. With the Sea of Cortez on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, it’s a dream destination for winter travelers looking to combine tropical climate and luxury with adventure.
Cabo’s offshore game is strong in winter. Marlin, Tuna, and Mahi Mahi remain in the area, giving anglers the chance to target big game in warm, blue waters. The conditions are ideal for newcomers and seasoned anglers alike, with plenty of charters ready to take you out on the water.
When fishing is done for the day, Cabo is just getting started. Relax at a beach resort, sip a cocktail while watching the sunset, or dive into the town’s vibrant nightlife. It’s an unbeatable mix of world-class fishing and vacation comfort.
Choose Your Winter Fishing Destination and Go
There’s no need to wait for spring to enjoy your next fishing adventure. These winter fishing destinations prove that the cooler months can still deliver hot action on the water and provide plenty to see and do beyond angling. And some locations, such as Cabo San Lucas, will give you warm weather, tight lines, and trophy catches!
Whether you’re chasing inshore residents in a southern bayou, inland locals, or battling giants along the Pacific coast, each of these places offers its own brand of winter magic. So pick your spot, pack your gear, and make this season one to remember.
If you crave more ideas on where to fish this winter, check out last year’s list of winter fishing destinations.
What winter fishing destination from this list is your pick? Have you ever been fishing there? Do you have a favorite winter hotspot? Hit the button below and share your thoughts with us.
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