Saltwater Fishing at Biscayne National Park

Q: Is the Convoy Point jetty really wheelchair-accessible?

Yes. The jetty bridge at Convoy Point is fully wheelchair-accessible for hook-and-line fishing. Cast netting is prohibited there.

Q: What fish can I actually catch?

Snapper, grouper, tarpon, and bonefish are world-class targets. But Nassau grouper, goliath grouper, queen conch, sawfish, sea turtles, and many shark species are completely banned. Bag limits are stricter than in open Florida waters.

Q: Can I fish from my own boat?

Yes, but lobster fishing is prohibited in the Biscayne Bay/Card Sound Sanctuary and five Coral Reef Protection Areas marked with yellow buoys. Check the FWC Biscayne map before you launch.

Q: Is cast netting allowed?

No, not at Convoy Point jetty or footbridge. Hook-and-line only. Other park areas have different rules—check the FWC map.

Q: Do I need special permits for tarpon or lobster?

Yes. Tarpon requires a separate tag, and spiny lobster has additional permit requirements and is prohibited in most park waters. Check FWC rules before targeting these species.

Type

Fishing

Overview

About This Activity

Biscayne's clear shallow waters are world-class for snapper, grouper, tarpon, and bonefish, and you can fish from the wheelchair-accessible Convoy Point jetty without hiring a guide. You'll need a Florida saltwater license (free for kids under 16) and must obey strict regulations—many species are banned outright (Nassau grouper, goliath grouper, queen conch, sawfish, sea turtles), and catch limits are tighter here than elsewhere in Florida. Plan 4–6 hours and prepare for intense sun exposure on the open jetty.

Highlights

Book If / Skip If

BOOK IF: You want self-guided saltwater fishing access to world-class reef and flats fish without hiring a guide and you're willing to learn strict FWC regulations. SKIP IF: You need equipment rental, guided services, real-time fish reports, or outfitting support—the park provides water access and beautiful habitat, not a full fishing operation.

What Makes It Unique

Wheelchair-accessible world-class saltwater fishing for snapper, grouper, tarpon, and bonefish in a marine sanctuary where ecosystem protections preserve fish populations better than most Florida state waters.

Activity Tips

Bring polarized sunglasses—the shallow water is clear and you'll spot fish far better.
Incoming tide brings bait and increases activity.
Convoy Point jetty is fully exposed with minimal shade; sun reflection off water is intense—hat, SPF 50+, and a light long-sleeve shirt are essential.
Check tide and moon phase before you fish.
Don't leave gear unattended; the jetty attracts other anglers.
Mosquitoes are fierce at dawn and dusk—bring strong insect repellent.

Details

Activity Details

Type: Fishing

Options: Jetty fishing from Convoy Point (wheelchair-accessible), drift fishing in Legare Anchorage, reef fishing from private boat, backcountry flats fishing

Locations: Convoy Point jetty and footbridge (wheelchair-accessible), Legare Anchorage (drift fishing), reef areas (private boat access), Elliott Key maintenance dock, natural and artificial reefs throughout Biscayne Bay

Equipment & Rentals

What to Bring:

• Rod and reel (yours or rented separately; the park doesn't provide equipment). • Florida saltwater fishing license. • Polarized sunglasses. • Hat and sunscreen (SPF 50+). • Light long-sleeve shirt for UV protection. • Insect repellent (mosquitoes are relentless). • Small cooler with ice and water. • Saltwater-resistant tackle (steel and brass corrode quickly in salt spray).

FAQs

Do I need a Florida fishing license?

Yes, unless you're under 16. Saltwater license costs $30–50 depending on residency and duration. Buy it on the FWC website before your trip; NPS rangers check.

Is the Convoy Point jetty really wheelchair-accessible?

What fish can I actually catch?

Can I fish from my own boat?

Is cast netting allowed?

Do I need special permits for tarpon or lobster?

📖 National Park Service — Fishing in Biscayne National Park (official page) (checked 2026-07-14) 📖 National Park Service — Biscayne National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Fishing in Biscayne National Park

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