The Gulf Stream is a fast, warm ocean current that flows north along the Florida coast. Off Palm Beach it comes closer to shore than almost anywhere in Florida, and that is why our fishing is so good.
- What A warm, fast-moving ocean current flowing north
- Why it matters It carries baitfish, weed and big predators close to shore
- Result Offshore fish within a short run of the inlet
- Best at Edges, color changes and weedlines
What is the Gulf Stream?
The Gulf Stream is a powerful current that carries warm water from the Gulf of Mexico around Florida and up the East Coast. Along southeast Florida it runs north, parallel to the coast. The water is warm, deep blue and rich with life.
Why it comes close to Palm Beach
The continental shelf is narrow along this part of Florida, so deep water is close to land. That means the current runs closer to shore here than in many other places. You do not need a long run to reach blue water and the fish that live in it.
What it brings
- Blue water: clear, warm and full of life.
- Weedlines and debris: floating sargassum and flotsam collect along current edges, and mahi gather under them.
- Baitfish: the current carries and concentrates bait, which draws sailfish, wahoo, tuna and kingfish.
- Temperature breaks: sharp edges where warm and cool water meet are fish magnets.
How we use it
Your captain watches water color, temperature, birds, weed and the electronics to find the edges where the fish are feeding. Each day the current moves, so each day is a new puzzle. See the fish it brings in mahi-mahi, wahoo, sailfish and blackfin tuna.
When the Gulf Stream causes trouble
When strong north wind blows against the north-flowing current, seas can stack up and get steep and rough. That is why we watch the forecast closely. See weather and seas.
Want to fish it? Request a trip and let us put you on the edge of the Stream.
Ready to put this to work? Request a trip with Good Mojo and tell us what you want to catch, or send us a question first.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Gulf Stream?
It is a warm, fast ocean current that flows north along the Florida coast and up the Atlantic.
Why is the Gulf Stream good for fishing?
It concentrates baitfish, weed and warm blue water, which draws mahi, wahoo, sailfish, tuna and kingfish.
How far is the Gulf Stream from Palm Beach?
Not far. Along this part of Florida it runs closer to shore than almost anywhere, so we can reach it with a relatively short run from the inlet.
Why is the water rougher when the wind is from the north?
A strong north wind opposing the north-flowing current can stack up steep, choppy seas.