Getting on a Cedar Key fishing charter will let you experience the “Old Florida.” Here, you’ll get to relive the days before the Sunshine State was all about Disney World. There are no big chain stores here, and it’s not uncommon to find signs hanging in shop windows that read “Gone fishing.” It’s fishing at its purest, hidden away only for those determined to find it!
Inshore, the waters are teeming with exciting targets. Redfish, Speckled Trout, Black Drum, and Sheepshead are just a few of the characters you’ll find cruising around. Add to that a variety of offshore fishing holes where you’ll be fishing for Mackerel, Cobia, Seabass, Grouper, and Mangrove Snapper and you’ll start to get the allure of this place.
Even if you only have half a day, you’ll be able to get to some of the most popular and productive hotspots around. Known fondly as “the other Keys,” this area is one massive grassflat riddled with channels, deep potholes, and a smattering of small keys. If you’re ready to venture beyond the inshore waters, put Seahorse Reef at the top of your list. Perfect for extended and full day trips, this sandbar is the area’s primary offshore structure.
Once you’re here, fishing charters won’t be hard to find. It’s a small town and plenty of its residents are connected to fishing. Many Cedar Key fishing charters head out of the Cedar Key Dock and Marina. It’ll be easy to find – just follow Florida State Road 24 all the way to the end.
Rules & Regulations
All licensed charter boats include a fishing license for customers. If you plan on fishing from the pier, shore, or on your own boat, be sure to purchase a Florida fishing license. Also, consult the FWC website for bag and size limits before wetting your line, especially if fishing on your own.