What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Key West, Florida for the first time?

I highly recommend fishing the Keys once in your life as I have been fishing it many times throughout my life. There so many opportunities to catch species of fish, along with the weather being great the majority of the year.

Definitely pay attention to the wind speed and direction the wind is coming from. Be open minded and just enjoy the ride. The ocean is a beautiful and terrifying place, so what you can to take it in.

Do a little research, everything is about social media nowadays. I've fished different spots in the states, and have not hesitated to use Fishing Booker, especially if I wasn't familiar with the area. They have yet to disappoint! Go catch some fish!

There's great party boat fishing in Key West, as well as a large amounts of charters for big bucks, I fish on the Gulfstream VI most days I'm here but I also treat myself to a big buck charter occasionally, and I'm so glad I was referred to Reef Runner and their crew.

Look up local fishing reports on fishing booker and other sources to figure out what you want to target based on what is happening at the time. Get a plan together in advance to see whats biting and always remember its called fishing not catching its not always going to be a slam dunk but having a knowledgeable Captain will make or break the day.

Pay very close attention to weather, any storms in prior months because they affect the bait and consequently, the targeted fish. The state of Florida would have you believe your fishing in a aquarium if you read some of their literature we spotted only couple of fish per day that might been catchable.

Take Dramamine one hour prior to departure if winds are high and/or predicted waves are 4' plus. Take some of your catch to one of the wonderful restaurants and let them prepare a feast for you. You will not regret it! Fish with a knowledgeable charter, such as Cowboy Charters. Tip the mate generously, as he works very hard to keep the lines running, bring the fish in and clean and fillet your catch for you.

It was an awesome trip but weather was not nice. Bad weather but we still caught great eating fish. Awesome Captain and Mate. Just bad weather when we went. No fault of crew. They even went out of their way to make sure we caught fish. AWESOME

The best thing to do is find out how the fishing has been. We probably didn’t go at the best time, but with it being our first, it worked out well. We know more now and will prepare better the next time.

Watch the weather. We had just gotten through a cold front, and, not unexpectedly, it took a little hunting to get on the fish. An experienced Captain is a must. Sean O'Keefe at Key West Backwater Fishing knows where to find the fish and how to catch them.

Be ready to catch some fish. By hiring a guide, you have everything you need at your fingertips.... Bait, tackle, water and a nice boat to get you onto the water. Morning fishing is probably the best, as the afternoons can be extra steamy and fish may be sluggish.

Make sure you get the captain that is advertised. Make sure the equipment does not break. Make sure you get the beverages advertised. If new at this make sure the captain understands what you want.

Triple check your booking with the charter and if possible, speak to someone over the phone or in person. I even showed up to the dock and found out when to arrive the next day to be sure. Disaster still occurred.

Book with the Coolcast for a great fishing experience. They are experienced and provided a fun and enjoyable trip. We were able to hook a shark and a Blue Marlin (which was highly unusual for the FL Keys area). Had a great time.

Be prepared for changes in weather and conditions to dictate which type of fish you can target. Offshore winds can make fishing for mahi, marlin, etc more difficult. The benefit of Key West is thast you can switch fishing type on the fly and stay inshore where there is less wind, yet still target great fish like snapper, barracuda, tarpon, jacks, etc.

Check the charters for what you want to do. There are many very experienced captains and crews waiting to make your day.

End of the year for a bit cooler weather, a little breeze definitely helped keep cool. Lots of water and sunscreen applied

Make sure to bring a hat, sun glasses and some water/Gatorade. Consider motion sickness pills if you have never been out on the water. Bring sun screen. Relax, have fun and enjoy your experience!

You are in good hands with the Capt. and Mate on the Corsair II. They were awesome and made the entire experience enjoyable.

Do a half day and get to understand the ropes. Then if you get what you expect go do more. Just do it!

April is a great time to go fish Key West. Message your captain. They know how to cater to your wants and needs

Mahi Mahi is one of the most beautiful fish to catch and incredibly great eating!! Look up Capt. Anthony Del Valle of the Sea Rebel. Great down to earth, knowledgeable captain!!

Always get a captain that is very knowledgeable with the fishing conditions and puts the clients first.

I recommend confirming your boat directly, because when using Fishing Booker, I was pawned off to another vessel the night before.

Be prepared for high winds - let you captain know if you prefer flatter water or are good with some rollers.

It's very exciting and challenging. If you are a fisherman you know what I mean? ?

I have been fishing the lower Florida keys for over 20 years an Key West is my favorite

Anglers should check with various charters and pick who fits their fishing style best.

See what the bite is like and if the weather isn’t great get a charter with someone who can bring you to the shallower sections to have a better shot at some fish.

Spring for a bigger boat with more amenities like AC in a closed in cabin, a head, and a captain's chair.