Cudjoe Key
Instant Confirmation
Trips from
US $200
Captain
Craig Clopper
Cudjoe Key, United States
Veteran owned
50+ reviews
Captain Craig Clopper has been fishing his entire life and has a passion for the outdoors. He always dreamed of fishing the Florida Keys and sharing his passion with others. Now he lives in The Keys and shares the dream with clients from around the globe. If you don't find him on the flats you may find him in Alaska guiding the rivers of Alaska. Come join him!
Charter
Rating
4.8
94 reviews
4.8
Boat & Equipment
4.8
Captain & Crew
4.7
Fishing Experience
Anglers' gallery (66)
What anglers say
94%
Good experience
100%
Friendly captain
93%
Recommend this charter
89%
Appropriate for children
100%
Satisfied with the boat
92%
Caught fish
All reviews (94)
Showing 1 – 5 of 94 reviews
Justin Thawley5.0VerifiedBest part of our Keys trip – amazing with kids!
Wham bam, thank you, Captain Craig • 3 adults • 1 childWe booked Goliath Charters and Tours while visiting the Keys, and it ended up being the highlight of our trip. Captain Bryce was absolutely amazing – so kind, patient, and genuinely great with our 6‑year‑old daughter. He took extra time to help her bait the hook, showed her how to reel in her fish, and celebrated every little catch with her like it was the biggest one of the day. As parents, we really appreciated how calm and reassuring he was, making sure she felt safe, included, and never rushed. He balanced helping her with still giving the adults plenty of time to fish and enjoy the day. The boat was clean and comfortable, the spots he took us was beautiful, and we caught enough fish to keep everyone excited. We left so happy with, great photos, and memories we’ll be talking about for a long time. We would 100% book with Goliath Charters again and especially recommend Captain Bryce for any family with young children.
Reported catch:
Patrik Holtari5.0VerifiedWhat an experience early in the morning!
Wham bam, thank you, Captain Craig • 2 adultsFirst fishing trip with my 13yr old son and what a morning it was! Captain Bryce was super pro and helping out with everything making it a truly memorable experience. We caught three king fish, one of them quite a monster. My son was so happy reeling in those bad boys. Perfect sunny morning and amazingly calm waters on Sunday, well worth 5am wake up call. Perfect father&son experience, highly recommended!
Abigail AlibozekRepeat angler5.0VerifiedOperation Big & Spicy; Success!
Bastardized sightfishing the flats • 2 adultsCaptain asked if there was anything specific we would like to fish for. We said anything big and spicy (aggressive). Caught a variety of fish at a few different locations and finnished the trip with a large lemon shark. Captain was great to talk with during the trip. Definately would book again with this charter!
William Butler5.0Verifiedworth the 3+ hour drive
Wham bam, thank you, Captain Craig • 2 adultsOur fishing trip started at 6 AM. We left Fort Lauderdale at 2 AM that morning. The time and money was well spent. The l Captain was awesome, professional, on time, and onows his profession. o highly recommend him to everyone. looking forward to our next trip and the 3+ drive each way.
David Scheffler5.0VerifiedCapt Craig was absolutely perfect!!!
Be the first one on the Tarpon • 2 adultsWas ready, very helpful, explained everything, I fished my entire life on Lake Michigan, I am 55 , have 3 boats i fish from and Craig taught me so much today. He was very helpful teaching my wife also, who does not fish very much... just a great person and captain. He also does fishing guides in Alaska!!
Real catches shared by our community
- Goliath Charters SummerlandCudjoe Key, FL
- Goliath Charters SummerlandCudjoe Key, FL
- Goliath Charters SummerlandCudjoe Key, FL
- Goliath Charters SummerlandCudjoe Key, FL
- Goliath Charters SummerlandCudjoe Key, FL
- Goliath Charters SummerlandCudjoe Key, FL
- Goliath Charters SummerlandCudjoe Key, FL
- Goliath Charters SummerlandCudjoe Key, FL
- Goliath Charters SummerlandCudjoe Key, FL
- Goliath Charters SummerlandCudjoe Key, FL
What's biting with Goliath Charters Summerland in Cudjoe Key
In the latter months of fall, the reefs provide anglers the best action around. Plentiful baitfish that are now present in the area are making Mutton Snapper, Yellowtail Snapper, and various Grouper very active. This is a great time to catch some prime table fare.
Top catches for October
Fishing reports
What an amazing June it has been!
Jun 13, 2024 • Cudjoe Key
Unfortunately, most of the month of June has been unseasonably windy, forcing me to run my charters closer to shore and for a shorter time frame. The 2 to 4-hour charters have been a hit, allowing me to get people on fish quickly and back to the dock before another thunderstorm rolls in. For folks who would like to experience the best tug to be had, ask about a two-hour goliath grouper trip; that’s generally all I need to get everyone on the boat, exhausted from reeling up their biggest fish ever caught. Another good option for customers is to book a low tide paddle boarding charter.
For these charters, I paddle deep into mangroves that are too shallow for either of my boats but deep enough for a paddleboard and target fish that are stuck in deep holes during our low tides. This produces by far the largest numbers of caught tarpon, redfish, and Snook.
Inshore Fishing: June in Key West brings calm winds and hot temperatures, perfect for inshore fishing. Anglers can expect to have great success targeting species such as Bonefish. It’s also a good time to chase after Snook and Redfish around the mangroves in shallow waters.
Reef Fishing: As the summer heat intensifies, the reef fishing around Key West is sizzling. Anglers can expect to hook into a variety of species including Yellowtail Snapper, Grouper, and Mutton Snapper. The clear, warm waters are ideal for targeting these fish, especially on the patch reefs and deeper ledges.
Offshore Fishing: Offshore, the waters are teeming with life. Ahi-Mahi and tuna fishing is in full swing, providing thrilling action and table fare for anglers. The mutton snapper fishing is fantastic on the wrecks now, you might also encounter a few red snapper in the mix, which is a delicious treat. The summer pattern is setting in, so expect stable weather with the occasional tropical system stirring up the waters briefly.
Captain’s Tip: Keep an eye on the weather forecasts as June marks the start of the Atlantic hurricane season. While most days will be perfect for fishing, it’s always best to be prepared for any sudden changes. Come Aboard Goliath Charters: Join Captain Craig Clopper for an unforgettable fishing adventure in the waters of Key West. With his expert knowledge and passion for fishing, every trip promises to be filled with excitement and memorable catches. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a family looking for fun, Goliath Charters is ready to make your fishing dreams a reality.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard and providing an exceptional fishing experience in the beautiful waters of Key West. Tight lines and sunny skies await at Goliath Charters Key West!
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April fishing report
Apr 2, 2024 • Cudjoe Key
Inshore Fishing:
Tarpon: The silver kings are in town, with the tarpon Gulf migration in full force. These magnificent fish are the largest and heaviest of the year, offering anglers thrilling battles and unforgettable catches. Consider booking a charter starting 5 AM or 6pm for 3 hours or so, when they are actually biting.
Permit: You can still find them on the flats, but throughout the month of April, it will be easier to find them on the wrecks and reef.
Snook: The backcountry is alive with snook action. Great success with these smart fighters, especially tight around the mangroves. Tons of fun with the paddleboard at low tide. Give me a call about this. It’s tons of fun!
Redfish: Schools of redfish are providing consistent action, with many anglers enjoying the light-tackle challenge they offer. It’s good, but honestly not nearly as good as it was last year.
Bonefish: Honestly, I’m not your guide for bonefish. They’re small, hard to see, and they bore me. Hire another guide if bonefish gives you a rise in your Levi’s. I’ll do it, but not happily…
Sharks: They are killing my tarpon... Let's get them! try to book a sunset charter!
Offshore Fishing:
Sailfish: The sailfish bite is strong, with many reports of successful catches. These acrobatic beauties are a favorite for sportfishers seeking high-speed thrills. I like using lighter line than most captains. You’re going to get way more bites, and it’s better for the fish, so what if we don't always get a grip-n-grin.
Dolphin (Mahi-Mahi): The Gulf Stream is bringing in schools of bait, and with them, hungry dolphin fish. April is the month to catch your biggest dolphin!
Tuna: Holy crap, March was an awesome month for tuna. I had some of my best tuna experiences this year. I hope it continues!
Snapper and Grouper: Bottom fishing is yielding good numbers of snapper and grouper, with some impressive sizes being hauled up from the depths. We’re even catching some monster red snapper! I caught one yesterday above 16 pounds and 33 inches!
Why Book with Goliath Charters?
Expertise: Captain Craig’s knowledge of both inshore and offshore waters means you’re always in the prime spot for action.
Choice of Vessels: Whether it’s shallow water adventures on the Maverick poling skiff or deep-sea quests on the offshore Seavee, we have the perfect boat for your fishing needs.
Memorable Experiences: Our charters are about more than just fishing; they’re about creating stories and memories that last a lifetime.
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Forget the poor weather, the bite is sti
Dec 7, 2023 • Cudjoe Key
? Fishing Report: Goliath Charters Key West ?
Calling all anglers! Goliath Charters Key West invites you to an extraordinary fishing experience. Our nearshore wreaks are buzzing with action, targeting the impressive King Mackerel and formidable Cobia.
Key West's waters have become a haven for angling enthusiasts. The abundance of King Mackerel provides an exhilarating challenge, showcasing their speed and power. Prepare for heart-racing battles as you hook these remarkable fighters.
But that's not all—Cobia have also emerged as a sought-after prize. Their strength and endurance make for an unforgettable angling adventure. Engage in an epic struggle as you reel in these majestic predators, leaving you with cherished memories.
Our experienced captains and crew at Goliath Charters Key West are dedicated to providing an exceptional fishing charter. With state-of-the-art equipment and extensive knowledge, we'll guide you to the prime spots where King Mackerel and Cobia thrive. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a curious novice, we'll ensure an unforgettable fishing experience tailored to your needs.
Seize this opportunity and book your charter with Goliath Charters Key West today. Embark on a thrilling nearshore fishing expedition, battling King Mackerel and Cobia against the backdrop of Key West's stunning marine scenery. Contact us now to secure your spot and create lasting memories on the water.
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November is the finest month to fish the
Nov 8, 2023 • Cudjoe Key
November fishing in Key West is off the charts! I would say it’s quite possibly my favorite month overall! I have given up Whitetail hunting to do this for the rest of my life, and that’s saying a lot! The flats are teeming with delicious pilchards, and my trusty cast net will scoop them up by the hundreds - the ultimate bait for attracting big game like snook, tarpon, redfish, and goliath grouper. But the action doesn't stop inshore. In the offshore waters, these baitfish drive fish absolutely batshit crazy!
The magnificent backcountry, a paradise teeming with a diverse array of fish such as redfish, snook, tarpon, goliath grouper, and sharks. Its intricate network of channels, mangrove-lined shores, and tidal creeks serve as a natural nursery for young marine life and a prime feeding ground for the older ones. If you're up for the ultimate fishing challenge and want to reel in some impressive catches, the backcountry is the perfect destination for you. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as I silently navigate you through the crystal clear waters in my 17-foot Maverick poling skiff, specially designed for shallow water fishing. Another great option is my 14 foot Live Paddleboard to venture deep back in the mangrove channels for some fish that are always willing to bite.
Now, I know that finding big tarpon may be a bit trickier during this season, they are still around just not nearly the same numbers as the spring migration. Don't worry because there are still some impressive catches waiting for you. Those little guys, the juvenile tarpon, are hiding out in almost every mangrove and they're not picky - they'll chow down on any fly or lure that comes their way. Enjoy their nonstop acrobatic show that the big girls don’t hold a candle to! If you're feeling up for a challenge, take a shot at the elusive bonefish and permit on the flats. It takes patience and precision, but if you're up for it, you just might hook into one of those lightning-fast creatures.
Step aboard our brand new Seavee and join us on an unforgettable November voyage to the reef and wrecks. I guarantee you won't want to miss out on the exciting blackfin tuna sunset bite. And here's the secret to our success: the pilchards, known as fish crack. These shimmering little creatures are the key to stirring up those tuna and getting them ready for a fierce battle. Our chumming and live bait skills are next level, so prepare yourself for an adrenaline-pumping experience as we take on these feisty and agile fish like never before.
Our reef trips also offer an up-close and personal experience with the majestic sailfish. Watch in awe as they strike with lightning speed and perform breathtaking acrobatics as they feed and slash through schools of ballyhoo.
For the thrill-seekers, we also target wahoo, king, and cero mackerel. These toothy predators with their sharp teeth and lightning-fast strikes will put your skills and tackle to the test.
And for a more laid-back yet equally rewarding adventure, we have yellowtail snapper fishing. Using our expert chum slick technique, we entice these delicious reef dwellers to the surface for an exciting catch. You never know, we might even snag a smorgasbord of other tasty reef fish along the way. Plus, I'll recommend a few restaurants to cook up these tasty morsels for dinner!
November in the Florida Keys is a quiet, serene paradise for those lucky enough to charter a boat. And the best part? You won't have to deal with the usual hoards of tourists that flood the area in the following months. This means more room to fish and less competition for those prized catches. Plus, hotel prices are wallet-friendly during this time - a real bonus for any angler looking to save some cash. So why wait? Book your charter in November and experience the true beauty of the Keys without the crowds and stress.
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What an awesome first month of the year!
Jan 26, 2023 • Cudjoe Key
This January has offered some awesome fishing in the back country. With mild weather and sunny days The water temperature was often reading above 80°. Weather like this has the potential for producing a grand slam kind of day.
Today, we are getting over a bit of a cold snap chilling the keys to the 60s. Due to that cooler weather I recommend my customers to book a trip in the evening. Sunset fishing has been best, it seems a full Day of sunshine brings our water temperatures up 3° or 4° higher than it was in the morning and that can really make a difference for fish biting. When things slow down due to cooler temperatures I often use smaller Baits in slightly deeper water. As the temperature begins to rise I start looking for dark muddy bottom or turtle grass on the south facing sides of mangroves that get the most sunlight.
The night fishing has been phenomenal, as always. I’ve been successful with fishing resort dock lights and bridges as the current flowing rather fast, best at the top of falling tide. On night trips, with decent weather and tide conditions it’s almost guaranteed that everyone catches a tarpon. Fly fisherman are also able to spank a few with a black tarpon toad!
Don’t let these windy days get you down. I find that we catch the biggest and most fish in dirty water when the wind is cranking beyond 15 mph. The dirty water allows me to use heavier tackle without spooking the fish.
When that wind isn’t blowing so hard I like to hit our patch reefs and nearshore wreaks catching mutton snapper, yellow jacks, cero and king Mackerel. It’s a great way to catch dinner
What Great news it is to see that our Snook population here in the Florida Keys is skyrocketing! It’s great to see our efforts in conservation are being rewarded with big, often Beyond 30” Snook… Everywhere!
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The best winter fishing!
Dec 13, 2022 • Cudjoe Key
Hey Guys and Gals!
The early December Snook, Redfish and Tarpon fishing have been the best I have seen in quite a while. Nearly every guest has been able to catch many of each species on every outing out of the Lower Keys, specifically Cudjoe Key. We’ve had unseasonably high water temperatures that have created enhanced and unusual opportunities for Bonefish and Permit in our area.
Like to get in on the action? Come fish with Goliath Charters, you will not be disappointed.
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