Damn Good Flats Fishing Charters In Big Pine Key

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Recently Booked Flats Fishing Charters In Big Pine Key, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Big Pine Key

Big Pine Key Fly Or Light Tackle - Skiff

100% (1)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Big Pine Key

Big Pine Fly Or Light Tackle - 25'

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $850
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Big Pine Key

Summerland Key Flats Fishing

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17 ft 1 - 2 People From $550
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Big Pine Key

Private 4 Hour Lobster Snorkeling Trip

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $900
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Big Pine Key

Summerland Key Flats Action

100% (8)
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $400
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Big Pine Key

FL Keys Inshore/Backcountry Fishing

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22 ft 1 - 2 People From $500

Top Types of Flats Trips in Big Pine Key

Top Species for Flats Fishing in Big Pine Key

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Target Species in Big Pine Key

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More Flats Fishing Charters In Big Pine Key, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Big Pine Key

Key West Tarpon - 24’ Yellowfin

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Big Pine Key

Night Time Lobster Bully Netting

100% (7)
16 ft 1 - 3 People From $795
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Big Pine Key

3/4 Day Inshore Trip

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Flats Fishing Charter near Big Pine Key

Full Day (8hr)

100% (1)
27 ft 1 - 8 People From $1,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Big Pine Key

Morning 1/2 Day

NEW
25 ft 1 - 8 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Big Pine Key

Big Pine Key Action

100% (1)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $500
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Everything to Know About Booking a Big Pine Key flats fishing charter

What are the best flats fishing charters in Big Pine Key?

Why should I book a flats fishing charter in Big Pine Key with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 38 flats trips in Big Pine Key, and the most popular trips in the area are Big Pine Key Fly or Light Tackle - Skiff guided by , Big Pine Fly or Light Tackle - 25' guided by , and Summerland Key Flats Fishing guided by .

Our guides in Big Pine Key are rated a 4.98 out of 5 based on 4377 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly flats guides / fishing lessons in Big Pine Key? Check out our beginner and family friendly flats guides in Big Pine Key.

What types of flats fishing charters are common in Big Pine Key?

The most commonly sought after species for flats fishing are: 1. jack crevalle, 2. goliath grouper, 3. cobia, 4. lane snapper, and 5. mutton snapper.

The most common fishing techniques in Big Pine Key are light tackle fishing, artificial lure fishing, and live bait fishing but bottom fishing and fly fishing are popular as well.

How much do Big Pine Key flats fishing charters cost?

Prices for flats fishing in Big Pine Key can range anywhere from about $600 to $2,600, but the average price for a half day trip for flats fishing in Big Pine Key is $1,115. The average price for a full day trip for flats fishing in Big Pine Key is $1,669.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for flats fishing in Big Pine Key?

The most popular season for flats fishing in Big Pine Key is spring, and most anglers book their trips 26 days in advance.

Do I need a Big Pine Key fishing license and what are the bag limits in Big Pine Key?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Big Pine Key, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Big Pine Key. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Big Pine Key.

What is flats fishing in Big Pine Key all about?

Flats fishing in Big Pine Key, Florida, is an exceptional experience for anglers looking to target some of the most prized inshore species in the world. The shallow, clear waters of the flats around Big Pine Key provide a perfect habitat for species like bonefish, tarpon, and permit. These species are known for their challenging nature, often requiring precise casting and stealthy approaches due to their keen senses and skittish behavior. Anglers typically use light spinning tackle or fly rods to target these fish, making for an exhilarating combination of skill, strategy, and excitement.

Bonefish are one of the most sought-after species on the flats of Big Pine Key. Known for their speed and elusive nature, bonefish are often found cruising the flats in small schools, searching for crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. Spotting bonefish can be challenging due to their silver bodies blending with the sandy bottom, but the thrill of the chase and their explosive runs make them a favorite among many anglers. Fly fishing with small shrimp or crab imitations is particularly popular, though using live shrimp or other small bait on light spinning tackle can also be effective.

Big Pine Key is also an excellent location for targeting tarpon, especially during their migration in the spring and early summer months. These "silver kings" are known for their acrobatic leaps and powerful runs, providing one of the most exciting fights an angler can experience. Sight fishing for tarpon on the flats often involves spotting them rolling on the surface or cruising along the edges of the flats, and then presenting a well-placed fly or lure in their path. Permit, another prized game fish, can also be found on the flats around Big Pine Key. These fish are notoriously wary and often require a perfectly presented crab fly or live bait to coax a bite. With its diverse species and challenging fishing, Big Pine Key offers a premier flats fishing experience for anglers looking to test their skills in a beautiful and productive environment.

What are the most popular months to go flats fishing in Big Pine Key?

Flats fishing in Big Pine Key is a year-round activity, but the best seasons vary depending on the target species. Spring and early summer are considered prime time for flats fishing, particularly for tarpon. During these months, large schools of tarpon migrate through the area, providing anglers with some of the most thrilling fishing opportunities of the year. This period, roughly from April to June, is ideal for sight fishing, as the water is often clear, and the weather is generally stable, allowing anglers to spot tarpon rolling or cruising on the flats.

The summer months, from June to September, continue to offer excellent flats fishing opportunities, particularly for bonefish and permit. As the water temperatures rise, these species become more active, feeding aggressively in the shallow waters. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most productive times, as fish are more likely to be found on the flats when the sun is lower and the water is cooler. For bonefish, late summer is a great time to find larger specimens, while permit can be targeted consistently throughout the season.

Fall and winter bring cooler temperatures and different conditions to the flats around Big Pine Key, but fishing remains productive. During the fall, bonefish and permit continue to be active, and the cooler water temperatures can also bring more redfish and sea trout onto the flats. Winter months, from December to February, are typically less crowded and can offer excellent fishing on calmer days. Bonefish are still present, though they may be found in slightly deeper water during colder snaps. Permit remain a target for anglers year-round, while winter can also provide opportunities for targeting species like barracuda and jack crevalle that frequent the flats in cooler weather. Each season brings its unique challenges and rewards, making flats fishing in Big Pine Key an exciting experience any time of year.

What techniques are popular for flats fishing in Big Pine Key?

Flats fishing in Big Pine Key offers a range of techniques to suit different species and conditions, providing anglers with various methods to explore these shallow waters. One of the most popular techniques is sight fishing, where anglers use polarized sunglasses to spot fish like bonefish, permit, and tarpon cruising or feeding in the clear, shallow water. This method requires patience and keen observation, often combined with stealthy approaches and accurate casting to avoid spooking the fish. Fly fishing is particularly effective for sight fishing, as it allows for delicate presentations with flies that mimic small crabs, shrimp, or baitfish, which are the primary food sources for these species.

Spin fishing is another common approach on the flats of Big Pine Key, especially for those who prefer using light tackle. Anglers often use soft plastics, jigs, or topwater lures to target a range of species, including redfish, sea trout, and snook, in addition to the more traditional targets like bonefish and tarpon. Light spinning rods with braided line provide the sensitivity and casting distance needed to reach fish without spooking them, while the choice of lure or bait can be tailored to match the conditions and target species. Live bait, such as shrimp or small crabs, is also an effective option, particularly when targeting permit or bonefish.

A more specialized technique used in Big Pine Key is wade fishing, where anglers walk the flats, allowing for a more intimate and stealthy approach. Wade fishing is often done in shallower waters where fish can be spotted more easily without the noise of a boat engine. This method is highly effective for targeting fish close to the shore or in hard-to-reach areas where boats cannot go. It also allows for a slower, more deliberate presentation, which can be essential when fish are particularly wary or conditions are calm and clear. Each technique provides its unique challenges and rewards, catering to different fishing styles and preferences, making flats fishing in Big Pine Key an adaptable and engaging pursuit for all types of anglers.

What species are popular for flats fishing in Big Pine Key?

When flats fishing in Big Pine Key, anglers can look forward to targeting some of the most prized and challenging inshore species in saltwater fishing. Bonefish are perhaps the most iconic species to pursue on the flats here, known for their elusive nature and incredible speed. Often called "ghosts of the flats," bonefish are usually found in shallow, sandy, or grassy areas where they forage for shrimp, crabs, and small baitfish. Spotting them can be a challenge, but once hooked, they provide a lightning-fast run that tests both angler skill and tackle, making them a favorite target among flats fishermen.

Permit are another highly coveted species that roam the flats around Big Pine Key. Recognized by their distinctive black tails and large, powerful bodies, permit are notorious for their cautious nature, which makes them a thrilling challenge to catch. They tend to feed in slightly deeper flats or areas with strong tidal currents, searching for crabs and other crustaceans. Anglers often use live crabs or crab-imitating flies and lures to entice these finicky fish. Landing a permit requires a precise presentation and a bit of luck, as their sharp eyesight and wariness make them one of the most challenging flats species to catch.

Tarpon, known as the "silver king," is another popular target on the flats of Big Pine Key, particularly during their migration from April to June. These powerful fish can grow to impressive sizes and are famous for their spectacular jumps and relentless fights. Tarpon are often seen rolling on the surface or cruising just beneath the water, providing opportunities for sight fishing with both fly rods and spinning tackle. Whether using flies that imitate small baitfish or shrimp or larger lures and live bait, tarpon fishing offers a heart-pounding experience that draws anglers from around the world. Other species, such as redfish, snook, and barracuda, also frequent the flats, providing a diverse range of fishing opportunities and challenges.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Justin was great! Lots of fish and a fun time. We will definitely be back!

    Louann H. | April 1, 2025

    Trip: The Florida Keys Inshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Very professional and knowledgeable!

    Slate F. | March 26, 2025

    Trip: Summerland Key Flats Action

  • ★★★★★
    Really good time. Even tho the fishing was a little slow, captain didn’t give up really did his best to put me on fish and it ended up paying off with a few good ones at the end. Also had a few big ones break off. But hey that’s fishing.

    Riley R. | March 25, 2025

    Trip: Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip with Zach. He really knows the waters around the Keys! We had a blast and would highly recommend!

    Taylor T. | March 13, 2025

    Trip: Big Pine Key Fly or Light Tackle - Skiff

  • ★★★★★
    My wife and I had a wonderful day of fishing with Capt.Chris. The bite was a little slow but Chris never gave up on finding fish and it turned into a good day of catching! Made for a great day on the water.

    John G. | March 12, 2025

    Trip: Half day (4hr)

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time with Tyler. He was a lot of fun to hang out with. Caught a bunch of different species of fish. Good time!

    Taylor T. | March 10, 2025

    Trip: Marquesas Key Run

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome and very knowledgeable guide. Highly recommended!

    Matthew D. | March 7, 2025

    Trip: Keys Flats and Back Country Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Alex and mate Brooks were terrific!! We were on the fish for the entire trip. Caught tarpon, jack fish, barracuda, grouper and red snapper. I would highly recommend these guys!!

    Gary S. | March 7, 2025

    Trip: Backcountry - 24’ Shearwater

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great trip out with Alex! He took us to various spots to fish and see what was biting. He made sure the likes always had fresh bait, gave tips on how to use the equipment, identified the fish we saw in the water (and some sharks too!) and what we were catching. He was informative about the area, fishing there, etc. He recommended a great little place where we could take our catch to have it cooked immediately after- was very good!! We had a great experience!

    Kelly T. | March 4, 2025

    Trip: Backcountry - 24’ Shearwater

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time fishing with Spencer. He is a great guy and knows his stuff with putting you on the fish! We caught all kinds or species. It was a great trip !

    Jeff F. | March 4, 2025

    Trip: Edge of the Map Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Tyler was great. We caught lots of fish. Tyler really helped each person catch fish. We would use him again.

    Robert S. | February 8, 2025

    Trip: Stock Island Flats and Backwater

  • ★★★★★
    Unbelievable trip! Tarpon, cobia, jacks and sea trout! Captain Alex was great! Can’t say enough about the entire experience!

    Ron R. | February 7, 2025

    Trip: Backcountry - 24’ Shearwater

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic trip, caught 8 different species of fish and many of them

    Richard E. | February 6, 2025

    Trip: Edge of the Map Trip

  • ★★★★★
    We had a wonderful afternoon. Our guide was very knowledgeable and professional.

    Geoff C. | January 7, 2025

    Trip: Private Patch Reef & Flats Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Tony was awesome! Got us our limit in half a day. Very personable and would highly recommend. Thanks Tony!

    Charles J. | January 3, 2025

    Trip: Lobstering Trip

  • ★★★★★
    This Captain delivers! We caught at least 30 fish in 4 hours including a variety of Snappers, Groupers and a 5 foot Lemon Shark. You won’t be disappointed!

    Mark L. | December 29, 2024

    Trip: The Florida Keys Inshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Had an all day adventure with Capt Tyler today and it did not disappoint! Started off the day with a big Jack and I lost a tarpon too. Caught fish all day long and capped it off with 5 bonefish to finish up. I will book with Tyler again! Added bonus, he's pretty dang funny!

    Mischelle R. | November 26, 2024

    Trip: Targeting Tarpon in Key West

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great experience with Captain Antonio. Would definitely use him again. If you are in Key West it would be a great way to spend time on the water. Catch some fish, catch some lobster, he can do it all.

    Bryant P. | October 12, 2024

    Trip: Lobstering Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Jamie explained how, then coached me thru how to target Tarpon quite well. Followed by using his knowledge to get me on fish right away. Thank you for teaching this old dog new tricks!

    Scott N. | October 3, 2024

    Trip: Key West on Light Tackle & Flies

  • ★★★★★
    Absolutely amazing!!! It was our first time catching lobsters, Antonio made it easy for us. We caught all the lobster we could eat. Snorkeled an amazing reef and got up close with some dolphins!!! One of the best charters we have ever been on.

    Aaron P. | September 21, 2024

    Trip: Lobstering Trip

Other Types of Fishing in Big Pine Key

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