Key West Fishing Charters 2025: Deep Sea, Flats & Backcountry Fishing Guide
Key West sits where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Gulf of Mexico, creating one of the most diverse fishing grounds in North America. World-record tarpon, massive mahi-mahi, hard-fighting sailfish, and elusive bonefish all swim these waters—often within sight of each other.
Whether you're a seasoned angler chasing your bucket-list catch or a first-timer wanting to feel that rod bend, Key West delivers. Here's everything you need to know about fishing charters in the Florida Keys.
Types of Key West Fishing Charters
Deep Sea / Offshore Fishing
Venture 15-50 miles offshore into blue water for the big game: mahi-mahi (dolphin), tuna, wahoo, sailfish, and marlin. Full-day trips (8 hours) reach the best grounds. Half-days work for mahi in summer when they're closer.
Reef & Wreck Fishing
Target snappers, grouper, and kingfish around the reef line 5-15 miles out. More affordable than offshore, with steady action and excellent eating fish. Great for families and beginners.
Flats Fishing
Sight-fish for tarpon, bonefish, and permit in the shallow backcountry flats. This is technical, challenging fishing—stalking fish in knee-deep water with light tackle. Highly addictive for experienced anglers.
Backcountry / Inshore
Explore mangrove channels and flats for snook, redfish, tarpon, and shark. Calm water, scenic surroundings, and great for beginners or anyone wanting sheltered conditions.
What Fish Can You Catch?
| Species | Best Season | Charter Type |
|---|---|---|
| Tarpon | April - July | Flats, Backcountry |
| Mahi-Mahi | March - August | Offshore |
| Sailfish | November - March | Offshore |
| Bonefish | Year-round (best Mar-Jul) | Flats |
| Permit | March - June | Flats |
| Yellowtail Snapper | Year-round | Reef |
| Grouper | May - December | Reef, Wreck |
| Wahoo | November - February | Offshore |
Featured Fishing Charters
Half-Day Backcountry Fishing
Explore the calm mangrove channels targeting tarpon, snook, and redfish. Perfect for beginners and experienced anglers alike. All tackle and bait included.
From $550 • 4 hours • Up to 4 anglers
View Fishing Charters →Full-Day Offshore Deep Sea
Chase mahi-mahi, tuna, and sailfish in the deep blue. Experienced captain, quality tackle, and all bait included. Fish cleaning available.
From $1,400 • 8 hours • Up to 6 anglers
View Fishing Charters →🎣 Key West Fishing Pro Tips
- Book with a specialist: Offshore captains and flats guides are different skill sets. Match your target species to the right captain.
- Morning bites best: Fish are most active early. Book departures at first light for best results.
- Bring Dramamine: Offshore trips hit open water. Even experienced boaters get seasick sometimes. Take it 30 min before departure.
- Tip your crew: 15-20% is standard for fishing charters. Great service deserves recognition.
- Get your license: Florida requires fishing licenses, but charter boats typically include this. Confirm when booking.
How Much Do Fishing Charters Cost?
Key West fishing charter prices vary by duration, boat size, and trip type:
- Half-day backcountry (4 hrs): $450-700
- Half-day reef fishing (4 hrs): $500-800
- Full-day reef/offshore (8 hrs): $1,200-1,800
- Full-day flats (8 hrs): $700-1,000
- Shared/party boat (4 hrs): $85-150 per person
Private charters split among 4-6 anglers become comparable to party boat prices while offering far better experience.
What to Bring Fishing
- Sunscreen (reef-safe) and hat
- Polarized sunglasses (essential for flats fishing)
- Light layers—it's cooler on the water
- Non-marking shoes (required on most boats)
- Cooler with drinks and lunch (some charters provide)
- Camera for your trophy shots
- Cash for tip
Note: Charters provide all rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Just bring yourself and the items above.
Ready to Bend a Rod?
Browse 70+ fishing charters from Key West's most experienced captains.
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