Florida Keys Fishing Charters

The average price for a private 4 hour Florida Keys fishing trip is US $712, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,186 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Which fishing charters in Florida Keys are good for families?

Fishing charters in Florida Keys that received great reviews from families are:

What are the top fish species I can catch in Florida Keys?

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Florida Keys are:

What are the top fishing techniques in Florida Keys?

The top 3 fishing techniques in Florida Keys are:

What are the top types of fishing in Florida Keys?

The top 3 types of fishing in Florida Keys are:

Do Florida Keys fishing charters provide rods, reels and tackle?

Many fishing charters in Florida Keys provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

Who are the best rated captains in Florida Keys?

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Florida Keys are:

Who are the top awarded captains in Florida Keys?

Who are the top awarded captains in Florida Keys?

What fishing trips are offered by fishing charters in Florida Keys?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Florida Keys are:

3-hour fishing trips – US $592
4-hour fishing trips – US $766
6-hour fishing trips – US $1,068
8-hour fishing trips – US $1,386

Fishing in Florida Keys

A tropical climate, stunning beaches, and amazing wildlife – these are the makings of a premier fishing place. Hop on one of many Florida Keys fishing charters and explore some of the most beautiful natural habitats in the US. Featuring 800 coral cay islands, the Keys are a unique ecosystem that’s sure to leave you breathless.

When it comes to fishing, the Florida Keys can deliver! This is a true year-round fishery where you can target pretty much any saltwater species from this part of the world. Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Sheepshead, and Jacks, are all awaiting inshore. The reefs hold great numbers of Snapper, Grouper, and Amberjack, while heading offshore will see you reeling in Marlin, Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Cobia, and many more.

Depending on what you want to do, there’s a whole host of fishing trips you can choose from. Half day trips are a wonderful way to spend time with your family and introduce your kids to fishing, while full day offshore trips are typically reserved for the more experienced anglers. Don’t hesitate to explore some of the specialized trips on offer, and make your own Florida Keys fishing adventure!

Fishing is a big industry in the Florida Keys, so it’s no surprise that you can find charters dotted along the islands from Key Largo all the way to Key West. In between, you’ll find them in Islamorada, Marathon, and Big Pine Key. Just drive down, and you’ll be spoiled for choice!

Rules & Regulations

Fishing in the Florida Keys is great year-round, but there are specific regulations when it comes to certain species. The best way to go about it is to book a trip with a reputable captain who’ll make sure you’re informed and always fishing within the law.

Florida Keys

4.8 / 5

Based on 28542 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Florida Keys Fishing Seasons

January

Average temperatures in the Keys are around 70°F in January. Bonefish and Permit are biting on the flats so long as a cold front doesn’t scare them off. Offshore, it's time for the annual Key Largo Sailfish Challenge.

February

February is a great time to fish inshore for Redfish, Permit, Sharks, and Barracuda. Offshore, you’ll catch Sailfish and Kingfish. For a mixed bag and some guaranteed success, try hitting a few reefs close to shore.

March

Tourist season is in full swing in the Keys by March. The waters will be just as crowded, with Tarpon making their entrance inshore while Tuna, Wahoo, and Mahi Mahi occupy the deep sea.

April

The backcountry is loaded with Tarpon, Redfish, Cobia, Jack Crevalle, Sharks, and much more at this time of year. Meanwhile, the deep sea is full of Wahoo, Tuna, large Mahi, and Marlin.

May

Flats and backcountry fishing are all the rage, with Tarpon taking center stage. Offshore, anglers are gearing up for the Florida Keys Dolphin Championship, the largest Mahi Mahi fishing tournament in the world.

June

Florida Keys flats fishing is spectacular in June. By now, the Grouper season is open in both Atlantic and Gulf waters, so get ready to fill your freezer! Offshore, you’ll hook into Tuna, Wahoo, and Marlin.

July

July keeps anglers busy with competitions like the Poor Boys Tarpon Fly Tournament and the Bacardi Key West Marlin Tournament. With clear waters and fair weather, this is an ideal time for long runs offshore.

August

Come August, things tend to quiet down in the Keys. Lobster season will be opening soon, and crustacean lovers everywhere are invited to come and celebrate at the Annual Key West Lobsterfest.

September

Fall is one of the best times for flats fishing in the Keys, with Bonefish, Barracuda, Snook, Redfish, and more biting vigorously. The reefs are bustling with Snapper, Grouper, and other bottom fish.

October

Many guides in the Keys take a vacation in October, so be sure to book a charter months ahead if you plan on fishing. Inshore fishing is outstanding in autumn, while winter game fish are arriving offshore.

November

November marks the beginning of The Key West Fishing Tournament, one of the most popular fishing tournaments in the Keys. This event lasts 8 months, open to anglers of any age or skill level.

December

Winter is a great time to set your sights on offshore big game fishing, with Kingfish, Sailfish, and Blackfin Tuna reaching their peak seasons. Or try fishing the flats between cold fronts.

Florida Keys Fishing Calendar

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What anglers said about fishing in Florida Keys

Waters can be a bit choppy in April. For an amazing experience, if there is a slight possibility you may get sea sick, be sure to take something ahead of time.

4.7 / 5

Waters can be a bit choppy in April. For an amazing experience, if there is a slight possibility you may get sea sick, be sure to take something ahead of time.

Mahi Mania Fishing Charters Tampa, Florida

The crew performed on a top notch level, catering to everyones needs based on experience, comfortability and even sea sickness. Cole was an expert when it came to the fishing, and Chase was a work horse ensuring our group had the ultimate experience. Captain Mike handled the rough waters well, and made his boat feel like home. If were ever in the Keys again, wed rent this charted 10 times over.

5.0 / 5

Blind Squirrel Charters Key Wests largest

As long as you listen to your guide you’re going to have a great time and catch a lot of fish

5.0 / 5

As long as you listen to your guide you’re going to have a great time and catch a lot of fish

Bank And Bight Backcountry Charters

Not grouper season which was the only bummer. But certainly had nothing to do with our amazing crew!

5.0 / 5

Not grouper season which was the only bummer. But certainly had nothing to do with our amazing crew!

Second Nature Charters

Yes. Just make sure the boat you’re chartering is size appropriate for the number of people you’re bringing.

5.0 / 5

Yes. Just make sure the boat you’re chartering is size appropriate for the number of people you’re bringing.

Off-Ice Charters

If you're a first time fisher or even experienced, definitely consider going out. Definitely not bobber in the water fishing. Alot of casting and reeling. Would recommend 3/4 so you have plenty of time to be out there.

5.0 / 5

Reel Attack Charters

Listen to your guides instruction. Bring lots of drinks to stay hydrated and plenty of sun protection.

5.0 / 5

Listen to your guides instruction. Bring lots of drinks to stay hydrated and plenty of sun protection.

Flatzlife Charters

Book this trip if you want to experience the thrill of the big tug! The caption was great with my 2 sons and kept them wore out tugging big fish in all day! Highly recommended!

5.0 / 5

Book this trip if you want to experience the thrill of the big tug! The caption was great with my 2 sons and kept them wore out tugging big fish in all day! Highly recommended!

Fishin Mission Offshore Charters

It was our first time in Key Largo and completely different to fishing in England and France... I would definitely recommend trying this to anyone visiting Key Largo for the first time.

5.0 / 5

It was our first time in Key Largo and completely different to fishing in England and France... I would definitely recommend trying this to anyone visiting Key Largo for the first time.

Off Course Charters

Use knowledgeable Captains! 5th Generation Fishing Charters is the one! They go above and beyond to take care of you at any cost.

5.0 / 5

Use knowledgeable Captains! 5th Generation Fishing Charters is the one! They go above and beyond to take care of you at any cost.

5th Generation Fishing

Aim for calm, shallow waters in and around the mangroves. You will find the bite.

5.0 / 5

Aim for calm, shallow waters in and around the mangroves. You will find the bite.

Flatzlife Charters

Try to experience all different types of fishing. For us: Day 1 - 30 yellow tails, Day 2 - 3 Mahi Mahi, day 3 - 2 tarpon on, one landed (6’, 150#). Yes we got lucky but guides were awesome.

5.0 / 5

Try to experience all different types of fishing. For us: Day 1 - 30 yellow tails, Day 2 - 3 Mahi Mahi, day 3 - 2 tarpon on, one landed (6’, 150#). Yes we got lucky but guides were awesome.

Ana Banana Fishing Company – 30' Grady White

Book with Hennessy Sportfishing. He knows where the fish are at and can help you get what you want!

5.0 / 5

Book with Hennessy Sportfishing. He knows where the fish are at and can help you get what you want!

Hennessy Sportfishing Tamarac, Florida

If it's your first time, look for shorter trips on calmer waters. Then you can work your way up towards 4 hour and 8 hour trips! They are all out there and available!

5.0 / 5

If it's your first time, look for shorter trips on calmer waters. Then you can work your way up towards 4 hour and 8 hour trips! They are all out there and available!

ScreamingLines Center Console – 27'

The 2 hour trip was great if you are short on time and want to get in the highlights. It goes by fast when you are having fun, so we did wish we booked the 4 hour once we were out there.

5.0 / 5

The 2 hour trip was great if you are short on time and want to get in the highlights. It goes by fast when you are having fun, so we did wish we booked the 4 hour once we were out there.

Prime Time Charters Pathfinder

Take some seasick pills. lol. Catptain Troy and mate, James are wonderful people and fun to fish with. Enjoy!

5.0 / 5

Take some seasick pills. lol. Catptain Troy and mate, James are wonderful people and fun to fish with. Enjoy!

Miller Time Sportfishing

Check reviews. Let the captain know your expectations and your skill level.

5.0 / 5

Check reviews. Let the captain know your expectations and your skill level.

Singing Reel Charters

Absolutely! Captain is a first rate gentleman and great with kids. We had 2 younger teenagers who’s fishing experience was limited and after 6 hours with him were comfortable with their tackle and were catching fish Great trip for kids with the ability to cast

5.0 / 5

Billy B Charter Services

Absolutely. One of the best fishing spots in the whole world. There's such a diverse ecosystem here. Anglers can fish for any type of fish you could possibly imagine.

5.0 / 5

Absolutely. One of the best fishing spots in the whole world. There's such a diverse ecosystem here. Anglers can fish for any type of fish you could possibly imagine.

Key West Charter Fishing – Shallows

These were great for anglers with little to moderate experience with Gulf fishing, and they’d be good for people with more experience. We caught a wide variety of fish and had fun. The 2 captains were a cool twist as both were very knowledgeable and very helpful. I would highly recommend these guys.

5.0 / 5

Corsair 2 Sportfishing Key West

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Florida Keys?

Captain Jay Charters 2 (Bay Boat)
Fishing charter in Marathon

5.0 / 5

(72 reviews)

My wife is a beginner fisherwoman and I’m a novice. But, I’ve fished offshore in Texas and Los Cabos Mexico. Captain Bryce was super helpful with instructions for us both. Very patient and positive. My wife loved the trip. She’s hooked on fishing now. I liked it too. Bryce made sure either of us had fish on the line as much as possible. Good boat and equipment. We’ll book again and ask for Capt Bryce.

Robert D.

Captain Jay Charters 2 (Bay Boat)
Fishing charter in Marathon

5.0 / 5

(72 reviews)

Captain Kerry was great! Kept my family and I on the fish all morning. He was very helpful and incredibly knowledgeable, was able to answer every question our 12 year old through at him. Would definitely recommend!

Christopher B.

Lower Keys Offshore Adventures
Fishing charter in Little Torch Key

5.0 / 5

(54 reviews)

Group of five Danes had a great day at the reef with lots of fishing action for everyone.

Ulrik G.

Mahi Mania Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Key Largo

5.0 / 5

(141 reviews)

Mahi mania is an understatement! Captain Mark put us on fish right away and we ended up with 8 in the boat. We had a great time and my right forearm is toast from all the reeling. Great guy and even went above and beyond by taking some of our fish home to vacuum seal because he knows we were trying to take some back to Colorado. Book this trip.

Nick H.

Captain Sam Baker
Fishing charter in Islamorada

5.0 / 5

(21 reviews)

Super friendly,and really knows the area and how to fish it. He is the only person I would use on future trips,I would schedule my visits around his availability!

John C.

Islamorada Backcountry & Offshore
Fishing charter in Islamorada

5.0 / 5

(115 reviews)

Jeff is the man! He knew where to go and we caught fish from the first hook in the water. Entertaining, knowledgeable, professional and his boat was in great shape. He clearly takes pride in his work and did a great job.

Mark R.

Chef Charles The Fishing Chef
Fishing charter in Key Largo

5.0 / 5

(100 reviews)

Wonderful day out on the water… knew the right places to take kids for a fun day of fishing. Son said “best day ever” better than going to the marlins bra braves game today” making memories first ocean fishing trip.

Tesia S. United States

Corsair 2 Sportfishing Key West
Fishing charter in Key West

4.7 / 5

(340 reviews)

Capt Jeff and his mate were awesome. The put us on fish right away and kept it up through the afternoon despite deteriorating conditions.

Mark P.

Captain Pete Jacobsen
Fishing charter in Key Largo

5.0 / 5

(254 reviews)

Our family booked the full day Mahi fishing trip and we were not disappointed. We had one of those days that you hope for but do not expect. Captain Pete got us on the fish and deckhand Chuck had everything set up for success. They worked as a team and their experience and knowledge showed. From questions before booking to the referral to Sharkey's to cook us a meal with our catch after the charter, Captain Pete exceeded expectations.

Chase N.

Cowboy Charters – Cowboy Since 1965
Fishing charter in Key West

5.0 / 5

(332 reviews)

After several hours of deep trolling with no bites and uncooperative seas, Cap’n Cole changed to shallower trolling for mutton snapper. Everyone caught at least one fish though the groupers had to go back because they weren’t in season. The catch included a 29” 14.8lb snapper which more than made up for the earlier dry spell! Highly recommend!

Lisa C.

Singing Reel Charters
Fishing charter in Islamorada

5.0 / 5

(331 reviews)

Unfortunately, our fishing excursion didn’t quite go to plan with 4 of us getting sea sick, so we had to cut it short, but Captain Tony and his first mate Travis were awesome. They really tried to help us manage the situation and we were still able to catch 5 delicious snapper fish before we called it a day and headed home. Next time we’ll be more prepared with Dramamine & maybe not go out on a windy day!!! Lesson learned! Thanks again to Tony & Travis!

Sally F.

Jolly Roger II
Fishing charter in Key West

5.0 / 5

(520 reviews)

Joe and Brian were great! It was our first time deep sea fishing and had a really fun time! We caught lots of fish and despite it being windy that day, we still had so much fun!

Emma H.

Reel Attack Charters
Fishing charter in Islamorada

5.0 / 5

(175 reviews)

Had a great time, caught lunch. Captain Jon recommended a great restaurant to take it too, and it did not disappoint. It was a little windy, but captain Jon was amazing and put us on fish right way.

Burke L.

Key West Charter Fishing
Fishing charter in Key West

5.0 / 5

(4 reviews)

The captain was great , he truly loves what he does . I recommend if you are beginning or even an experienced. Great conversation and great boat . Very clean . We come to Florida at least twice per year and we will definitely book him again

Angela D.

Two Trolls Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Islamorada

5.0 / 5

(20 reviews)

Great guys - knowledgeable and make the trip fun! Worked hard so we could catch fish on a day with tough winds and tides

W C. M.

Second Nature Charters
Fishing charter in Key West

5.0 / 5

(29 reviews)

We had two elderly parents with us and someone who had never fished before. Natalie and Zane were so patient with our group and helped our parents get around the boat. We caught a lot of fish, even a shark!

Ellen S.

Southern Sons Charters
Fishing charter in Marathon

5.0 / 5

(10 reviews)

Capt Josh took us out on the water today and it was an amazing experience. We caught a nice Skipjack Tuna and some yellow tails later on the reef. The boat and equipment were top notch. I would absolutely fish with Josh again in the future. Highly recommend.

Craig C.

Hennessy Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Marathon

5.0 / 5

(16 reviews)

This was an excellent family trip with a beautiful safe boat and plenty of fish. The captain was patient and kind with 4 young kids. I would highly recommend this trip!

Daniel A.

Gettin' Tight Charters
Fishing charter in Big Pine Key

5.0 / 5

(14 reviews)

Todd had us on fish on the first cast. Brought home a ton of good eating fish: Mackerel, Yellowtail Snapper and Yellow Jack. Also hooked some Mangrove Grouper, Blue Runners, a few big Barracuda bites and sightings, and lastly a nice Grunt. Way more fun and fish than we expected. Todd is an excellent captain!! After fishing we sat at his home bar in the back while he cleaned the fish. What a perfect trip!

Alan K.

Captain Pete Jacobsen
Fishing charter in Key Largo

5.0 / 5

(254 reviews)

Captain Pete put me on the fish quick and early in the trip. 14 fish total caught. 6 mahi, 3 tuna, and 5 snapper. In my opinion it was a steller day for my first deep sea charter. Capt. Pete is the man when you want the best chance to catch and not just fish.