Pompano Beach sits between Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton, and it’s one of the easiest places in South Florida to get on the fish. Hillsboro Inlet, at the north end of town, opens straight onto the reefs, and the Gulf Stream runs just a few miles offshore. This guide covers Pompano Beach fishing charters and drift boats, what you can catch, the best times to go and nearby options in Broward and Palm Beach counties.
Pricing note: Prices listed in this article were accurate when it was published in October 2026 and may change at any time. Always confirm current rates by calling the charter or checking its website before you book.
Why Fish Pompano Beach?
- Fast access: boats leaving Hillsboro Inlet are over the reef within minutes.
- Deep water close by: the Gulf Stream brings sailfish, kingfish and mahi-mahi within easy reach.
- Year-round fishing: warm water means there’s always something biting.
- Affordable drift trips: walk-on drift boats make it easy for families and first-timers.
Pompano Beach Drift Fishing with Starlight Fleet
The Starlight Fleet (Starlight Fishing Fleet) is Pompano Beach’s walk-on drift fishing boat, and it runs Pompano Beach drift fishing trips three times a day, at 8:30 am, 1:30 pm and 7 pm, from the Hillsboro Inlet Fishing Center on North Riverside Drive. Each trip lasts about four hours, and tickets start at $65. The price includes rod and reel, bait, instruction, fish bags, your fishing license and parking, and fish cleaning is available at the dock for a small fee. The boat has enclosed lounges, a large sun deck and separate restrooms. Starlight is a family-run fleet that has been fishing since 1976, so call ahead to confirm the current season and schedule.
The evening trip is a great choice in summer, when cooler temperatures and active snapper make for a fun night on the water. See our guide to night fishing charters in Florida.
What You Can Catch Off Pompano Beach
| Species | When |
|---|---|
| Yellowtail, mutton, mangrove and lane snapper | Year-round, with great night fishing in summer |
| Grouper | Year-round on deeper reefs, subject to seasonal closures |
| Kingfish | Best in fall, winter and spring |
| Sailfish | Peak season from about November through March |
| Mahi-mahi | Spring and summer |
| Triggerfish, grunts and amberjack | Year-round bonus catches |
Seasons and limits vary by species and time of year, so ask your crew what you can keep. For a month-by-month look, see our Florida fishing calendar.
Pompano Beach Fishing Charter Options
Drift boats
Drift boats are the most popular and affordable way to fish Pompano Beach, and Starlight Fleet is the drift boat sailing from Hillsboro Inlet, with morning, afternoon and evening trips every day. Learn how drift boats work in our guide to drift fishing.
Private sportfishing charters
If you want to troll for sailfish or mahi, a private charter gives your group the whole boat. Prices are per boat, usually for up to six anglers. Read our guide to private vs shared fishing charters to decide which fits your group.
Pier and shore fishing
Pompano Beach also has a public fishing pier and plenty of beach access for anglers who’d rather fish from land.
Pompano Beach and Nearby Fishing Charters
Starlight Fleet is the boat to book in Pompano Beach. If it’s full or you’re staying nearby, these other boats in our directory are a short drive away:
| Boat | Location | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Starlight Fleet | Pompano Beach (Hillsboro Inlet) | 4-hour drift trips at 8:30 am, 1:30 pm and 7 pm; license, bait and tackle included |
| Fishing Headquarters | Fort Lauderdale | Party boat trips morning, afternoon and night, plus shared and private charters |
| Lady Pamela | Hollywood | Day drift trips and Friday and Saturday night snapper trips |
| Family Tradition Sport Fishing | Fort Lauderdale | Private trips for up to 6 anglers |
| Living on Island Time | Boynton Beach area | Morning and afternoon drift trips |
| Sea Mist III | Boynton Beach | Two 4-hour drift trips a day |
For the full picture, read our guide to deep sea fishing in South Florida or browse all Florida party and head boats.
Tips for Fishing Pompano Beach
- Check the wind. A strong east or north wind against the Gulf Stream can make the inlet and offshore waters rough.
- Arrive early to get a good spot on the rail.
- Bring a cooler with ice for your fillets.
- Bring your own snacks and drinks if the boat allows it; Starlight sells sodas and snacks at the ticket office.
- Try the night trip for snapper in summer.
Pompano Beach Fishing FAQ
Where do fishing boats leave from in Pompano Beach?
Starlight Fleet sails from the Hillsboro Inlet Fishing Center on North Riverside Drive, just inside Hillsboro Inlet.
How much is a Pompano Beach fishing charter?
Drift boat tickets start around $65 per person. Private charters cost more and are priced per boat.
What fish can you catch in Pompano Beach?
Snapper, grouper, kingfish, triggerfish and amberjack are common, with sailfish in winter and mahi-mahi in spring and summer.
Is there night fishing in Pompano Beach?
Yes. Starlight runs a 7 pm drift trip that’s popular for snapper.
Do I need a fishing license on a Pompano Beach drift boat?
No. Starlight’s ticket includes your fishing license while you’re on board.
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