Get ready to experience the best of both worlds with our full-day fishing charter in Key West, FL. Whether you're itching to battle big game in the deep blue or prefer the action-packed waters closer to shore, this trip's got you covered. We'll spend 8 hours on the water, giving you plenty of time to try your hand at different fishing styles and target a variety of species. Our seasoned captain knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you're in for a day of non-stop fishing action.
As soon as we leave the dock, you'll feel the excitement building. We'll start by deciding whether to head offshore for the big boys like Sailfish and Mahi, or stick to the inshore waters for some fast-paced action with Barracuda and Mackerel. The beauty of this full-day trip is the flexibility – if one spot isn't producing, we'll move on to greener pastures. You'll get to experience different fishing techniques, from trolling with lures to bottom fishing with live bait. And don't worry about bringing any gear – we've got top-notch rods, reels, and tackle all ready to go. Just remember to pack some grub and your favorite drinks to keep you fueled throughout the day.
Offshore, we'll be using heavy-duty gear to handle the big pelagics. We might spend some time trolling with spreader bars and ballyhoo to entice Mahi and Tuna, or deploy kites to present live baits to cruising Sailfish. If we're working the reef lines, we'll switch to lighter tackle and drop live pilchards or chunks of cut bait to the bottom for Snapper and Grouper. Inshore, it's all about versatility. We might cast plugs for Barracuda one minute, then switch to live bait fishing for sharks the next. Our captain will read the conditions and adjust our tactics to put you on the fish. It's a great chance to learn new techniques and sharpen your skills, no matter your experience level.
"Captain Todd and Grey Beard were teriffic! We caught and released more sharks than I could have imagined for a 4 hr trip. Grey Bush had us cracking up, making sure we had bait in the water and tackled all those sharks. He provided us a fantastic gift to remember the outing. Captain Todd even did me a solid the following day. To end the trip, my daughter got to reel in a large nurse shark as an exclamation! I don't normally leave reviews, but these guys deserve it. Well done!" - Mike
Mahi Mahi, or as the locals call 'em, Dorado, are the acrobats of the offshore world. These vibrant green and gold fish are known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked. They're fast-growing and can reach sizes over 30 pounds in our waters. Mahi are most abundant during the warmer months, from spring through fall. Anglers love targeting them not just for the fight, but also for their delicious, firm white meat.
Blacktip Sharks are the speed demons of the shark world. These sleek predators are often seen chasing bait fish near the surface, and they put on quite a show when hooked. They typically range from 4 to 6 feet long and can be found year-round in our waters. Blacktips are known for their powerful runs and occasional jumps, making them a favorite among sport fishermen looking for an adrenaline rush.
Yellowfin Tuna are the prize fighters of the deep. These torpedo-shaped powerhouses can grow to over 200 pounds, though most we catch are in the 30 to 80-pound range. They're known for their blistering runs and deep dives that'll test both your gear and your stamina. Yellowfin are most common in our waters during the spring and fall migrations. Anglers target them not just for the epic battles, but also for their prized sushi-grade meat.
Mutton Snapper are the clever bottom-dwellers that'll keep you on your toes. These beautiful red and pink fish are masters of stealing bait, so finesse and patience are key. They average 5 to 15 pounds but can grow much larger. Muttons are available year-round but are especially active during their spawning season in late spring and early summer. Anglers prize them for their tasty fillets and the challenge they present when fishing around structure.
Atlantic Sailfish are the crown jewels of Key West sportfishing. These majestic billfish are known for their striking sail-like dorsal fin and their incredible acrobatics when hooked. They can reach lengths of over 7 feet and speeds up to 68 mph. While we can catch them year-round, the peak season is from November to March. Hooking into a Sailfish is often the highlight of an angler's trip, with their spectacular jumps and tail-walking displays making for unforgettable memories.
Our full-day charter isn't just a fishing trip – it's a chance to experience the best of what Key West waters have to offer. You'll get to try different fishing styles, target a variety of species, and maybe even set a personal best. Our experienced captain knows all the hotspots and will work tirelessly to put you on the fish. Plus, with the flexibility to move between offshore and inshore waters, you're almost guaranteed action throughout the day. It's perfect for families, groups of friends, or serious anglers looking to maximize their time on the water. And let's not forget the bragging rights you'll earn back at the dock!
If you're ready for a full day of non-stop fishing action in one of Florida's top fishing destinations, this is the trip for you. With all gear provided and the flexibility to target multiple species, it's the perfect way to experience the best of Key West fishing. Whether you're dreaming of battling a big Sailfish offshore or reeling in a toothy Barracuda inshore, we've got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Grab your sunscreen, pack some snacks, and get ready for a fishing adventure you'll be talking about for years to come. Book now and let's make some waves!
March 31, 2023
Atlantic sailfish are spectacular gamefish, known for their giant sail-like dorsal fin and acrobatic leaps. They average 6-8 feet long and 30-50 pounds. You'll find them in blue water from 100-300 feet deep, often following bait schools. Winter and early spring are prime sailfish seasons off the Keys. Anglers target them for the thrilling visual experience and incredible fights. To catch one, slow-troll rigged ballyhoo or live bait like blue runners. A local trick is to tease them up with hookless baits, then pitch a hooked bait when you see one in the spread. Once hooked, sailfish put on an aerial show like no other fish. Be ready for blistering runs and spectacular jumps. Landing one of these majestic billfish is an unforgettable experience.
Blacktip sharks are quick, agile predators averaging 4-5 feet long. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, often near sandbars or drop-offs. They're most active in warmer months but can be caught year-round in the Keys. Blacktips are known for their explosive runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Anglers target them for the sporty fight and the thrill of landing a shark. To catch one, use a heavy braided line with a wire leader. Chum the water with oily fish like mackerel or herring. A local tip: try fishing around artificial reefs where they hunt for baitfish. Be ready for sudden, powerful runs when a blacktip takes the bait. Keep your drag set loose at first to prevent break-offs. These sharks can be timid, so patience and stealth are key.
Mahi Mahi are colorful, fast-growing fish that put up an awesome fight. They average 15-30 pounds but can reach over 80. You'll find them near floating debris and weedlines offshore, usually within the top 100 feet of water. Spring and summer are prime seasons, as they follow warm currents. Anglers love Mahi for their acrobatic leaps and delicious meat. To catch one, troll with ballyhoo or squid near structure, or cast live bait around floating objects. A local trick is to look for frigate birds - they'll lead you right to the fish. Once you hook up, keep the boat moving to prevent others from eating your bait. Mahi travel in schools, so where there's one, there's usually more. Get ready for some fast action when these fish start biting.
Mutton snappers are hard-fighting reef fish that average 5-15 pounds but can reach over 30. You'll find them near coral reefs, rocky bottoms, and wrecks in 30-300 feet of water. Spring and early summer are prime for catching big spawning muttons. Anglers love their tenacious fight and excellent table fare. To catch one, use live bait like pilchards or cut bait on a circle hook. A local tip is to fish the tide changes, when muttons feed most actively. Chumming can really get them fired up. Once hooked, muttons will try to dive back into structure, so be ready to put on the pressure. Their pinkish color as they near the surface is a dead giveaway you've got a nice one on the line. These tasty snappers are always a welcome catch.
Yellowfin tuna are powerful, torpedo-shaped fish that can top 400 pounds, though 60-100 pounders are more common here. They roam the open ocean, usually in the upper 300 feet of water. Fall and winter are peak seasons off Key West. Anglers prize yellowfin for their lightning-fast runs and delicious sushi-grade meat. To catch one, troll with skirted lures or rig ballyhoo. When you spot birds working bait schools, that's a good sign tuna are below. A local trick is chunking - toss cut bait in a trail to draw them to the boat. Once hooked, be ready for long, screaming runs. Yellowfin fight hard to the very end, so make sure your drag is smooth. Nothing beats the thrill of battling one of these iconic gamefish.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Caterpillar
Maximum Cruising Speed: 13
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 350
Captain Todd and Grey Beard were teriffic! We caught and released more sharks than I could have imagined for a 4 hr trip. Grey Bush had us cracking up, making sure we had bait in the water and tackled all those sharks. He provided us a fantastic gift to remember the outing. Captain Todd even did me a solid the following day. To end the trip, my daughter got to reel in a large nurse shark as an exclamation! I don't normally leave reviews, but these guys deserve it. Well done!