What Black Point Marina Offers
Black Point Marina sits on the western shore of Biscayne Bay near Miami, about 20 minutes south of downtown. It is a working commercial and recreational marina that gives you direct access to shallow bay waters, mangrove edges, and deeper channels leading to the Atlantic. The marina rents center-console boats and flats boats by the day, sells fuel and tackle, and has a small restaurant. Most anglers use it as a launch point for sight-fishing redfish and permit in the shallows, or for drifting and anchoring in deeper bay water for snapper, grouper, and mackerel.
The marina operates year-round, though summer heat and afternoon thunderstorms make spring and fall the most comfortable seasons. Winter brings cooler weather but also more boat traffic and higher rental prices. The shallow-water fishing peaks in spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate and baitfish move into the bay.
Key Takeaways
- Black Point Marina rents boats daily and sits on Biscayne Bay with access to both shallow flats and deeper channels within minutes of launch.
- Redfish, permit, and tarpon are the main sight-fishing targets in the shallows; snapper, grouper, and mackerel are common in deeper water.
- Spring and fall offer the best combination of comfortable weather and active fish, while winter is busier and more expensive.
- You will need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license and must follow current bag limits and size regulations for each species.
- Fuel, ice, tackle, and food are available at the marina, but bringing your own tackle and a cooler saves money on a full day.
Boat Rental and Access
Black Point Marina rents center-console boats (typically 18 to 25 feet) and shallow-draft flats boats by the day. Rental rates vary by boat size and season; expect to pay more during winter months and weekends. A valid driver's license is required, and the marina may ask about your boating experience. Most rentals include fuel, though some charge extra if you return the boat on empty. Call ahead to reserve, especially on weekends or during peak season.
The marina is located at 24775 South Dixie Highway, Homestead, Florida 33032. It has a paved launch ramp, covered boat slips, and a fuel dock. Parking is available for vehicles and trailers. If you do not own a boat or want to hire a guide, several charter captains operate out of Black Point and can be booked through the marina or directly.
Fishing Seasons and Target Species
Spring (March through May) is prime time for sight-fishing redfish and permit in the shallows. Water clarity improves, temperatures warm, and baitfish concentrate in the bay. Tarpon also move into the area during this window, though they are challenging to hook and land. Snapper and grouper bite well in deeper channels and around structure.
Summer (June through August) brings heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms. Fish often move deeper or into mangrove creeks to escape the heat. Early morning trips are most productive. Fall (September through November) cools the water and brings another strong bite for redfish and permit. Winter (December through February) is busy with visiting anglers and higher boat rental rates, but the weather is pleasant and fish remain active, especially in deeper water.
Redfish are the most reliable target year-round in the shallows. Permit are present but require patience and accurate casting. Tarpon show up in spring and early summer. Snapper, grouper, and Spanish mackerel are consistent in deeper channels and around ledges.
Regulations and Licensing
You must have a valid Florida saltwater fishing license before you fish. Licenses are sold at the marina, online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website, or at most tackle shops. A three-day license costs less than a full-year license if you are visiting briefly. Residents and non-residents have different rates.
Bag limits and minimum size requirements vary by species and change periodically. Redfish have a one-fish daily bag limit with a 18-inch minimum. Permit have a two-fish bag limit with an 24-inch minimum. Tarpon is catch-and-release only in most of Florida. Snapper and grouper have seasonal closures and bag limits that shift each year. Check the current FWC regulations before you fish; the marina staff can point you to the latest rules, but it is your responsibility to follow them.
What to Bring and What to Rent
The marina rents boats with basic equipment: a console, steering, and usually a small cooler. You will need to bring or rent fishing rods, reels, and tackle. The marina sells tackle and rents rods, though rental rods are often heavier and less sensitive than what serious anglers prefer. Bringing your own rods and a tackle box with the flies or lures you trust saves money and gives you better control.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses (essential for sight-fishing), water, and snacks. A personal cooler with ice keeps drinks and lunch cold. Bring a headlamp or flashlight if you plan an early-morning trip. Wet shoes or sandals with good grip are safer than bare feet on a wet deck. The marina has a restaurant, but prices are higher than bringing your own food.
Getting There and Planning Your Trip
Black Point Marina is south of Miami in Homestead, accessible via the Florida Turnpike or US Route 1. From downtown Miami, allow 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is free at the marina. If you are flying in, car rental is common; the marina is about 45 minutes from Miami International Airport.
Book your boat rental at least a few days ahead, especially during winter or on weekends. Arrive early to complete paperwork and get a weather briefing from the marina staff. They can point you toward productive areas based on recent catches and current conditions. If you are new to the bay, hiring a guide for your first trip teaches you the layout and current tactics faster than trial and error.
Nearby Lodging and Services
Homestead has budget and mid-range hotels within 10 to 15 minutes of the marina. Miami offers more variety but adds 30 to 45 minutes of drive time. Several tackle shops are in the Homestead area and stock local lures and flies. The marina itself sells basic tackle, fuel, ice, and snacks. A full-service restaurant is on-site, though many anglers bring coolers to save money.
If you want to fish multiple days, staying in Homestead keeps you close to the marina and other nearby fishing spots like the Everglades backcountry and Card Sound. The area is also home to several other public boat ramps and marinas if you want to explore different water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a guide, or can I fish on my own?
You can fish on your own if you have boating experience and know how to read shallow water. Sight-fishing redfish and permit requires practice spotting fish and making accurate casts. A guide for one or two days teaches you the water and current techniques much faster than learning alone. Many anglers rent a boat and fish solo after their first guided trip.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) offer the best combination of comfortable weather and active fish. Winter is busier and more expensive but still productive. Summer is hot and humid with afternoon storms, though early-morning trips can be good.
Can I keep tarpon?
No. Tarpon is catch-and-release only in Florida. You can fish for them, but they must be released unharmed. Permit and redfish have bag limits and size requirements; check current FWC regulations before you fish.
What if I have never fished saltwater before?
Hire a guide for your first day. They will teach you how to sight-fish, how to cast accurately, and how to handle fish once hooked. After one guided trip, you will have enough knowledge to fish on your own or with friends. The marina can recommend guides and help you book.
Is fuel included in the boat rental?
Most rentals include fuel, but confirm when you book. Some marinas charge extra if you return the boat on empty. Ask about fuel policy and the marina's expectations before you leave the dock.