The southernmost city in the continental United States has a lot to offer. This stunning town is perched right at the meeting point of the Gulf and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s no wonder that deep sea fishing in Key West is a special experience. Nowhere else in the US can you access both of these fisheries so easily.
In this video, we'll take a trip down to Key West, Florida to see why so many people make this town their yearly fishing destination. We'll go over some of the most popular fishing spots, top target species, and the best time to plan your trip. After this video, you'll be ready to hit the Keys and explore one of the most beautiful islands in the world.
Key West marks the southernmost tip of the continental US. Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, it's an essential pit stop for many large migratory fish. This, along with its year round warm climate, makes it one of the most visited fishing spots in the entire country. Whether you're looking to go sight casting for tarpon or deep sea fishing for sailfish, this area holds a wide variety of opportunities for every type of angler.
There's something from everybody, from toddlers all the way to your grandparents. You could fish all sorts of species, all sorts of levels, you can't get no better than this weather in spring.
We have different seasons with different fish, but we never have a dead season like you get in so many places where you just can't fish for months and months.
Key West is one of the most unique places in all the world, as in we have the Atlantic Ocean on our south side, we have the Gulf of Mexico on the north side. It takes an equal amount of time just to run to either one. So depending on the wind conditions, we can run to either ocean.
Flats fishing around Key West is like something out of Fairy Tail, especially in the summertime.
I enjoy flats fishing probably the most. I do. I like it because it's more like hunting as opposed to fishing. You're stalking one fish, you're throwing to that fish. It's more intimate. It's just a guide and maybe two two people on the boat. You actually look and see and find that fish and throw to that particular fish and hook it.
These waters are teeming with Bonefish, Jacks, Tarpon, Snook, Yellowtail Snapper, and many more.
My favorite fish would be the Mutton Snapper all around.
It's the best to eat, best fighting fish, and it sure does put a smile on my customer's face.
Ask any local where the best place to catch Tarpon is, and they'll most likely point you in the direction of the old Bahia Honda Bridge. Tarpon flood the channel underneath the bridge as they migrate north, making it one of the top spots to catch a silver cape. On average, they can weigh anywhere between seventy and one hundred and thirty pounds, although many anglers have pulled in ones much bigger than that. Here, you can also hook into Permit, Mutton Snapper, and Hammerhead Shark.
I love fishing for Permit. They're one of my favorite fish to catch. There's few fish in the ocean that fight like them. And I mean, everything about them is hard. You know, they're, I mean, they're they're elusive. They're extremely strong fighters. And usually when I hook them, they almost pull people off the boat.
There's some great backcountry fishing to be done around Sugarloaf Key Island as well. This island is located about twenty miles east of Key West and easy to reach on day trip. Here, you'll find pristine mangrove cuts, flats, and creeks filled with lots of fish. The waters are calm and quiet while the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. These clear waters are ideal for sight fishing for Snook, Tarpon, and Permit, as well as Jack Crevally. Stock up on pilchards, squid, or pinfish for bait, and you should have no trouble getting multiple bites in one day.
The best part about backcountry fishing in the Keys is that it's great year round.
Just twenty miles west of Key West, you can fish a group of uninhabited mangrove islands known as the Marquesas Keys. These patches of rocky bottom hold a large number of Snapper and Grouper species, making it the perfect spot for bottom fishing.
We recommend our bottom fishing just because we anchor up on the reef and we are creating an unbelievable bite. As in we anchor up and we put a lot of food in the water with our block chum and we get the fish right up behind the boat. So not only are you catching these fish, but you're seeing them behind the boat. So you're feeding the line whether we're using live bait or minnows or chunk bait, and you're drifting it back to the fish that are right behind the boat. It's the water down here is so clear. It's unbelievable how you can see the fish and hook your own fish.
Marquesas is also a great spot to fish year round and is highly recommended for beginners and children because there isn't much waiting time in between catches. Your rod will stay bent and your arms will be put to the test. So bring some extra elbow grease and get ready for a fight. Another great spot you've got to check out is Cudjo Key. This island, about twenty miles east of Key West, is a great place to visit if you want to escape the crowded beaches and enjoy a more laid back experience. This area has a vast network of flats, mangrove islands, and channels that are often shallow and great for sight fishing. Here, you can target Snapper, Bonefish, Permit, Tarpon,Jacks, and many other inshore species.
If you wanna get a nice slice of paradise, I'd recommend going on a sandbar retreat, take you out to one of our outer islands that we go relax on on the weekends, could cast out to different fish on the flats, and really get to enjoy Key West the right way.
It's good down here. You guys should come check it out.
If you wanna go after big pelagic fish, then pick a charter that will take you out to the marathon humps. This fishery is the closest thing to an actual angling paradise, attracting deep sea fanatics and anglers from all over the country, making it a great spot to deep drop for Yellowfin and Blackfin Tuna. You can also target lots of Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, White and Blue Marlin, and Sailfish. Judging by the size and the strength of the fish you'll be targeting, 'll definitely want to use that fighting chair for some extra leverage.
The best trips are the long trips because oftentimes we've got to go miles to find dolphin. So a half day is almost a waste of money in the summertime.
In the winter, a half day is probably all you need because the fishing is very close. It tends to be a little rougher, and four hours can be more than enough.
If you plan on hopping aboard a Key West fishing charter, there's no need to purchase a fishing license. All head boats, party boats, and charters are licensed to cover everyone on board, and they usually provide rods, reels, bait, and tackle. All you need to bring is some sun protection, your own food and drinks, and comfortable clothing.
FishingBooker makes planning your trip extra easy. With hundreds of local guides, verified reviews, and hassle free online bookings, you'll save time and money and experience an exciting day on the water. So go ahead and visit fishingbooker dot com, take a look at some of the charters in the area, and get ready to start planning your adventure today.
Whether you’re up for some reef fishing in the Gulf, or an adrenaline rush in the deep waters of the Atlantic, you’re in the right place. And lying just 90 miles from the coast of Cuba, the Caribbean is so close you can taste it. Read on to find out more about what awaits you if you decide to visit these deep waters.
Top Deep Sea Fish in Key West
While Hemingway might’ve spent his days here going after Marlin, there’s so much more to Key West deep sea fishing. You’ll find these offshore waters hold an abundance of bottom-dwelling creatures, as well as a whole host of pelagic monsters, so let’s dive right in!
Marlin
We need to talk about Marlin. One of the most sought-after game fish in the world, they’re revered for their fighting abilities. Why else would Hemingway dedicate a whole book to them? But seriously, Marlin fishing out of Key West is something you need to try. They’ve been the target of local anglers for centuries, so you’ll get to experience a piece of history.
Typically, you’ll find two members of the Marlin family in the waters around Key West – White and Blue Marlin. White Marlin are the smallest of the family, but they make up for it with the fight they put up. On the other hand, Blue Marlin can reach over 1,000 pounds, making them a force to be reckoned with – and a rare prize if you land one. You’ll go after them in the deep offshore waters by trolling, teasing these elusive creatures to come up and fight.
Tuna
Tuna are another pelagic species famous around the world for their delicious meat and amazing fighting spirit. Key West anglers look forward to these creatures gracing their waters every year. Blackfin Tuna are the most common guests here, but you can run into big Bluefin and Yellowfin as well. The best action is around the humps, big underwater mountains that attract all sorts of bait fish that Tuna love.
Blackfin Tuna are feisty, delicious creatures that start showing up in late fall, reaching their peak in April and May. You’ll go after them by trolling, but you can also cast live baits like mullet and ballyhoo. Fishing around deep wrecks can be especially productive if you’re using live baits and chum. Casting behind shrimp boats is another great way of reeling them in.
Sailfish
Another member of the Billfish family, Sailfish are considered one of the fastest fish in the ocean. This is why they’re a highly sought-after game fish in Key West, and anglers here dream of catching this magnificent creature. The best time to head out in search of a trophy Sailfish is November through January and again in April and early May.
The most common way of targeting them is trolling using live bait like ballyhoo. But if you really want to have fun, try kite fishing. This is a fascinating technique that allows you to see all of the action happening right on the surface.
Mahi Mahi
Looking for an all-around best target to go after? Then Mahi Mahi is your guy. This beauty holds a special place in the hearts of sport fishermen. It’s one of the most strikingly looking species in the world, so you better get ready for a photo op! This fish is also tasty, with delicate meat being one of the top reasons people go after it.
And to top it all off, the Mahi Mahi is a ferocious fighter. You’ll find it swimming in offshore waters, so heading out on a trolling trip will yield some great results. The peak season for Mahi Mahi is May through September, which is when trolling with both live and artificial baits will yield amazing results. Just be ready for a good fight, and you’ll be rewarded in more ways than one. This fish really has it all!
Snapper and Grouper
If you’re looking for a deep sea experience, but don’t want to go too far from shore, you’re in luck! With numerous reefs and wrecks in the waters around Key West, you won’t have to compromise on anything. A wealth of opportunities await if bottom fishing is your kind of adventure, with various Snapper and Grouper species ready to take your bait.
Red Snapper takes the number one spot, with anglers from all over hitting these waters during the open season. Mutton and Yellowtail Snapper are also popular catches, and with stunning reefs very close to shore, you’re in prime position to fill your bags. Black, Red, and Gag Grouper can also be found roaming these waters in search for food.
And that’s not all! Numerous other game fish call the waters around Key West their home. You can head out and cast a line for Swordfish, Cobia, Wahoo, Amberjack, and many more. Keep your options open and you’re bound to have a blast!
Recent Key West Catches
Fresh fishing reports from anglers
How to Go Deep Sea Fishing in Key West
Depending on what you’re looking to catch, there’s a variety of fishing techniques you can try out in Key West. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular ways anglers go deep sea fishing here.
Trolling
If your ambition is to sail out and target some of the pelagic species off the coast of Key West, trolling is probably the best way to do it. Tuna, Marlin, Sailfish, Cobia, Mahi Mahi, and many more species are in the cards if this is your preferred method of fishing.
By trolling, you can cover a lot of ground and follow the fish. You’ll cruise the open waters with multiple lines, enticing the bite of those offshore monsters. What’s more, you can hire a charter boat with a professional local captain who knows these waters. They’ll be able to provide all the help you need to get those game fish onto the boat!
Bottom Fishing
Bottom fishing is a great way to explore the deep sea fishing scene without heading too far out. The Florida Keys are known for their abundance of reefs and wrecks, swarming with numerous bottom-dwelling fish species like Snapper, Grouper, and Amberjack. The reefs in the Florida Keys are the only living coral reefs in the continental US, so exploring them is a special experience.
The Key West reef lies just five miles from shore, so you’ll get there in the blink of an eye. For the best results, use a variety of live baits as well as cut baits to entice the bite of these fish. Bottom fishing is a real feat, as these fish tend to put up a real fight. Eating a freshly caught meal at the end of the day is a great reward after putting in that hard work.
If you’re looking for something new and exciting, try out deep dropping. It’s a technique that’s popular among anglers looking to reel in big Swordfish. Normally you’d go Swordfishing at night when they tend to swim closer to the surface. However, with deep dropping, you can sink your line at over 1,000 feet, making these stunning creatures available in broad daylight.
Where to Go Deep Sea Fishing in Key West
Key West has access to some of the best fishing in the world, so it’s no surprise that there are loads of places with amazing fishing opportunities. Let’s see some of the top deep sea fishing spots in Key West so you can decide on where to take your next adventure.
The Marquesas Keys: These stunning mangrove islands are wild and uninhabited. Just 20 miles west off Key West, this is where you’ll find amazing bottom fishing opportunities. The rocky bottoms in the area are home to a great number of Snapper and Grouper species.
Marathon Humps: The West Hump is a true deep sea fishing paradise, with waters reaching over 500 feet. It’s basically a mountain in the middle of the ocean, meaning you’ll find a lot of pelagic species passing by, as well as some bottom monsters. Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Tilefish… you name it, you’ll find it here!
Dry Tortugas: Located about 75 miles west of Key West, the Dry Tortugas area is home to the most magnificent coral reefs, as well as some world-class game fish. Visit for a bit of history, as well as a chance to land a number of deep sea monsters, including Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, Grouper, Mahi Mahi, and many more.
The Wall: This famous blue water hot spot lies just 20 miles south of Key West, towards the Florida Straits. With depths reaching over 2,000 feet, it’s no wonder anglers flock here to get their share of deep sea fishing adrenaline. This is where you’ll find Marlin in great numbers, so get ready for your own “Old Man and the Sea” adventure!
Deep Sea Fishing Tournaments in Key West
With such an ambitious fishing scene, it’s no surprise that Key West is home to a variety of fishing tournaments you can enter and show off your catch. The most notable one is the Key West Fishing Tournament, a display of sportfishing that lasts for eight months. There are four categories you can compete in, and anyone can enter their weighed and released catches at no charge.
Another important tournament here is, of course, the Key West Marlin Tournament. It’s a yearly competition taking place in the summer, where you can win a big prize for reeling in the biggest Blue and White Marlin, as well as some other species for additional points. There are lots of festivities as well, so it’s a great time to hit the waters and have some fun!
Seasons and Regulations
The Florida Keys are known for amazing weather year-round. This means one thing – there’s always a game fish waiting to take your bait. That being said, some species have strict regulations, like Red Snapper which you can only target for a few months in the summer. The best way to make sure you’re up to date and following all regulations is to book a trip with a seasoned captain.
Hi guys, I’m Mark,
and today we’ll be going over how to get a fishing license in the beautiful state of Florida. There are lots of questions on the internet about who needs a fishing license, whether you need one when you’re hopping on a charter boat, and what are some of the exceptions. So, I’ll try to address some of these questions so hopefully you spend less time looking for answers and more time fishing. Luckily, getting the right type of fishing license in Florida is super easy.
And since you can fish without a license on a charter boat or even on a licensed pier, Florida is probably one of the easiest states to plan a fishing trip in. Since Florida offers such a wide variety of fishing packages, it’s important to know which one is right for you.
The two main types of licenses are saltwater and freshwater licenses. Just some words of advice, if you’ll be fishing in brackish water or anywhere where you might be targeting a mixture of both freshwater and saltwater species, I recommend getting both types of licenses.
The last thing you want to do is hook a fish that you’re not covered to catch and get a fine because of that.
The good news for visitors coming to Florida is that all saltwater fishing charters cover licenses for everyone onboard, so you don’t have to worry about purchasing one on your own. However, if you choose to fish with a guide in freshwater, you will need to purchase your own license. You can fish for most species with a regular saltwater or freshwater fishing license.
However, there
are some species that require additional tags. These include Snook, Tarpon, and Spiny Lobster. Also, be aware of seasonality for certain species, such as Red Snapper in federal waters. These rules can change year-to-year, so just be sure to stay up-to-date with any local regulations and you should be good.
Long story short,
all non-residents over 16 and any resident aged between 16 and 65 will need to purchase a fishing license before heading out. Also, this is very important to know: anyone involved in any type of fishing activities also needs to purchase a fishing license. For example, if you’re helping your friend by baiting their hooks or setting up any of their gear, you will also need to purchase a fishing license. Again, as mentioned earlier, if you’re hopping on a saltwater charter you will not need to buy a fishing license.
You don’t need a license to fish from a licensed pier in Florida as well. Florida residents with severe disabilities can fish for free with a Florida Resident Disabled Person Hunting and Fishing License. Military personnel from Florida can fish for free if they’re visiting home for up to a month. Florida residents receiving benefits or food stamps from the government can do land-based saltwater fishing without a license.
Any Florida resident can get a free shoreline fishing license, which allows you to fish for saltwater species from land or from structures that are attached to land. If you are 65 and over, and are from out of state, you will still need a regular salt or freshwater fishing license. However, senior Florida residents can fish for free but must bring proof of age and address. Anyone who’s eligible to fish without a license should make sure to bring proof that they are qualified to do so in order to show to the Coast Guard.
For instance, children under 16 should bring proof of age with them at all times. If you’re caught fishing without a license and you’re eligible for one, you will have to pay the cost of the license plus an additional fine. The penalty starts usually at $50, so make sure all your paperwork is in order before you head out on the water. The easiest
way to purchase your Florida fishing license is online and you can do so at Gofloridaoutdoors.com
or by visiting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s main website. You can also buy it over the phone. Just call the toll-free number 888-FISH-FLORIDA or 888-347-4356. They’re available at all registered retailers such as Walmart, tax collector’s offices, and registered bait and tackle shops across the state.
Annual fishing licenses in Florida are valid for 12 months from the date that they were issued. The expiration date will be printed on the license itself. Once it expires, you can renew your fishing license at any official retailer. If your fishing license is lost or stolen, you can purchase a replacement for only $2.
For the most part, your license is usually only valid in Florida but there are some interstate waters that border with Georgia where you can fish with your Florida license. These are St. Mary’s River and Lake Seminole.
Now that you have all the information you need, you can finally get out there and test out the waters of the Sunshine State!
For more information, be sure to check out our full blog article that goes into more detail about how to get a Florida Fishing License. Tight lines!
Everyone who’s over 16 and heading out on a fishing trip in Florida needs to have a Florida fishing license. You can find out more about getting yours by taking a look at the video above or follow our simple guide. But if you’re heading out on a fishing charter, the captain will take care of the license for you, so you don’t need to worry about anything but your delicious meal at the end of the day!
Key West Deep Sea Fishing FAQs
How much does it cost to go deep sea fishing in Key West?
Prices vary depending on the charter and trip duration. Deep sea fishing in Key West can cost anywhere from $600 for a half day trip to $4,000 for a full day adventure.
What is the best month to go deep sea fishing in Key West?
There’s no off-season in Florida, so you can go deep sea fishing in Key West year-round. However, the summer months offer the best action, especially for deep sea species like Mahi Mahi and Tuna.
What to wear for deep sea fishing in Key West?
What you pack depends on your charter and trip length, but essentials you should most certainly pack are water, snacks, sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, SPF, and non-slip shoes.
Why Key West? There’s no other place like it!
This one’s easy – Key West is a unique fishing spot, with amazing access to the Gulf and the Atlantic Ocean. This alone is enough to earn its reputation as the most popular fishing town in the world. Add to that the rich history, stunning nature, and picturesque scenery, and it’s a combination that’s hard to come by. Come and experience the deep sea fishing scene of Key West for yourself, and you’re sure to come back time and time again.
Have you ever tried deep sea fishing in Key West? How was it? Tell us all about it in the comments bellow, or ask any questions you might have. We love to hear from you!
Vule is a biologist with a love for the natural world, writing, and technology. As a kid, he used to go camping and fishing with his father, falling in love with the experience of being in the wild. Today, he writes about fishing, and when he’s not writing, you’ll probably find him chilling by a river somewhere.
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Comments (6)
Derek
November 24, 2022
Nov 24, 2022
nice write up! In key west area where is a good place to stay to venture out to good bottom for snappers in a monkey boat.. So like less than 10 miles from protected waters thanks!
Andriana
Replied on
November 24, 2022
Nov 24, 2022
Hi Derek,
Thanks for reading, I’m glad you liked the article. The best place to go after Snappers in Key West, namely Yellowtail Snapper, are the flats. Here, you can find a variety of other species as well, and there’s a good number of Yellowtails at your disposal. If you find some mangroves along the way, you can cast some live bait for Mangrove Snapper.
For bigger specimens, you’ll need to go further from the shore, to the reefs and shipwrecks, which always hold good fish. Give Western Sambo Reef a try for excellent Snapper fishing. For a longer adventure, you can check out Bay Keys (4 miles) and Cayo Agua Keys, some 6 miles away. You can also head to the Harbor Keys, but you’ll have to travel about 9 miles.
I hope this helps Derek, have a great time in Key West.
All the best!
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Tim
July 11, 2022
Jul 11, 2022
Koko Fishing Charters was AWESOME. Captain Chris and 1st mate Cory were great all day. Easy going guys, huge boat, all the fishing gear, experience, and we had a blast over the 4th of July holiday. Highly highly recommend them. Plus, they gave us 2 recommendations where we could takenour fresh catch and have it cooked for us that night. Hogfish Grille & Hirricane Hole weren’t much to look at, but great dining experience, atmosphere, and they know how to cook!!
Lisa
Replied on
July 11, 2022
Jul 11, 2022
Hi Tim,
Thank you for reaching out. We’re so glad you enjoyed your trip! It would be great if you left a review for Capt. Chris and his crew on his listing on FishingBooker. Here’s the link.
Lisa
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Mark solomon
July 4, 2021
Jul 4, 2021
Been several times. My first was a big disappointment as I never got so much as a bite. My second trip erased that. I caught mangrove snappers, mah-mahi, and a seven foot bull shark. My third trip all I caught was a yellow finned snapper. My fourth trip was easily the most exciting as I caught a black grouper and a human being bobbing in ten foot waves five miles off of Key West. Apparently he had to abandon a sinking boat, and all he had was a child life preserver.
Rhys
Replied on
July 5, 2021
Jul 5, 2021
Hi Mark,
Thanks for reading and for sharing your experiences with us. It’s always great to hear fellow anglers’ stories, so keep ’em coming! A bit scary that you had to rescue a person, and I guess it shows us the importance of safety equipment. Anyway, the fishing sounds fantastic (except for the first time – but that happens to the best of us)!
