Damn Good Islamorada Fishing Charters

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Islamorada, Fl

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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Bay, Reef, Or Inshore Fishing Charter

94% (18)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Upper Keys Inshore Classic

100% (2)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Reef, Wreck, And Patch Reef Trip

100% (17)
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $875
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Islamorada Classic Trip

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $800
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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

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Ultimate Offshore Thrills

94% (17)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Reef Thrill

94% (17)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $950

Top Types of Trips in Islamorada

Top Species for Fishing in Islamorada

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Target Species in Islamorada

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More Fishing Charters In Islamorada, Fl

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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

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Offshore Thrills

94% (17)
40 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,100
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Islamorada Tarpon On The Fly

100% (5)
18 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 in Islamorada

Back Country Bonanza

100% (4)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Chasing Tarpon

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Flats Fishing

100% (5)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $575
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Bank And Bight Backcountry

100% (3)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $550
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Islamorada

What are the best fishing charters in Islamorada?

Why should I book a fishing charter in Islamorada with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 160 trips in Islamorada, and the most popular trips in the area are Bay, Reef, or Inshore Fishing Charter guided by , Reef, Wreck, and Patch Reef Trip guided by , and Upper Keys Inshore Classic guided by .

Our guides in Islamorada are rated a 4.92 out of 5 based on 4162 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 charters / fishing lessons in Islamorada? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Islamorada.

What types of fishing charters are common in Islamorada?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Islamorada as well as inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and flats fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Islamorada are: 1. mangrove snapper, 2. tarpon, 3. snook, 4. redfish, and 5. mahi mahi.

The most common fishing techniques in Islamorada are live bait fishing, artificial lure fishing, and light tackle fishing but bottom fishing and heavy tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much do Islamorada fishing charters cost?

Prices in Islamorada can range anywhere from about $700 to $2,400, but the average price for a half day trip in Islamorada is $1,050. The average price for a full day trip in Islamorada is $1,543.

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 fishing in Islamorada?

The most popular season for fishing in Islamorada is spring, and most anglers book their trips 35 days in advance.

Do I need a Islamorada fishing license and what are the bag limits in Islamorada?

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

Islamorada Fishing Charter Overview

Islamorada, known as the ""Sportfishing Capital of the World,"" offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. With access to gin-clear flats, untouched backcountry, and open ocean, the town boasts a variety of fish species, including Bonefish, Tarpon, Permit, Snook, Redfish, Snappers, Groupers, Hogfish, Amberjack, Barracuda, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Sailfish, Marlin, and Swordfish.

Inshore charters provide the chance to sight cast for Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit on the flats or cast baits and flies for Snook and Redfish in the backcountry. Bottom fishing for Snappers, Groupers, Hogfish, and more is also available on the reefs. Offshore charters offer the opportunity to troll over deep sea ledges and underwater humps for Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, and Billfish.

Fishing licenses are included on all saltwater charters in Florida, and it's important to note that certain species can only be caught at certain times of the year. Anglers should consult with their captain for the most up-to-date information on closed seasons and limits. Additionally, Islamorada hosts several tournaments throughout the year, including the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament and Cheeca Lodge Tarpon Tournament, providing both serious competition and family-friendly events.

Islamorada Inshore Fishing Charters

As far as inshore fishing is concerned, you'd be hard pressed to find a find a better destination. The little slice of inshore heaven situated between the tip of Florida and the island has some of the best backcountry fishing on the planet. Islands, sandbars and flats divide countless basins and bays.

The backcountry bite is on year round. The weather here rarely gets below 60 degrees, which means plenty of inshore gamefish spend their winters feeding in the warm waters. In addition to your classic inshore denizens like Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Snook, these waters hold bucket list species like few places on earth. Sight fishing for Bonefish and Permit in the flats is the experience of a lifetime, especially on the fly.

Islamorada is a major stop on the Tarpon migration down the east coast and around the gulf. They pretty much hang out here year round. You would be hard pressed to find a better place to catch The Silver King. From late February through early November, schools of Tarpon make the backcountry bays and basins their feeding grounds. While not ideal, they can still be caught in the winter months - just imagine what it's like when the water's warm.

Islamorada Fly Fishing

For the fly angler, it just doesn't get better than Islamorada. There's no question why fly anglers from all over the world flock here every year. With an army of world-class fly guides at the helm, catching that grand slam on the fly is within reach. While going after Bonefish, Permit, and Tarpon, there's always the option to go after a hard fighting Redfish or Snook just around the corner.

Islamorada Deep Sea Fishing Charters

The action doesn't stop when the water gets deeper. Nearshore, bountiful reefs hold Snapper and Grouper variants year round, with shots at exotics like African Pompano and Hogfish. Red snapper fishing season in Islamorada typically opens in early June and runs through mid-August. The exact dates of the season may vary from year to year and are subject to change based on federal regulations and fishing quotas. Stay up to date on the 2023 red snapper season here. Filling up the freezer with delicious fish fillets has never been easier.

Further offshore, flybridge sportfishers and center consoles troll, deep trop, and kite fish for everything under the sun. The deepwater swordfish fishing is excellent here, arguably the best in the world. Bluewater pelagics like Mahi-Mahi, Sailfish, Blue Marlin, and Wahoo are always biting on the longer offshore trips.

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Popular Types of Fishing In Islamorada

Islamorada fishing charters offer a variety of options for anglers of all levels. The most common types of fishing charters in Islamorada include offshore, backcountry, and reef fishing.

Offshore fishing charters take you out to the deep waters of the Gulf Stream, where you can catch big game fish like sailfish, marlin, and tuna. Backcountry fishing charters take you to the shallow waters of the Florida Bay, where you can catch snook, redfish, and tarpon. Reef fishing charters take you to the coral reefs off the coast of Islamorada, where you can catch snapper, grouper, and hogfish.

Some of the most common fish to catch in Islamorada include mahi-mahi, wahoo, kingfish, and yellowtail snapper. Depending on the type of fishing charter you choose, you may also have the opportunity to catch bonefish, permit, and barracuda.

Islamorada fishing charters often depart from landmarks like Bud N' Mary's Marina and Robbie's Marina. These marinas are located in the heart of Islamorada and offer easy access to some of the best fishing spots in the area.

The Best Places To Fish In Islamorada

Islamorada, Florida is known as the ""Sportfishing Capital of the World"" and for good reason. With its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, it's no wonder that anglers from all over the world flock to this tropical paradise. Here are some of the best places to fish in Islamorada, Florida, whether you're going on a fishing charter or casting from shore:

1. The Islamorada Humps - These underwater mountains are a popular spot for fishing charters, as they attract a variety of game fish such as tuna, mahi-mahi, and sailfish.

2. The Florida Bay - This shallow bay is home to a variety of fish species, including bonefish, tarpon, and redfish. It's a great spot for both fly fishing and spin fishing.

3. The Backcountry - This area of the Florida Keys is a maze of mangrove islands, shallow flats, and winding channels. It's a prime spot for fishing charters, as it's home to a variety of game fish such as snook, redfish, and trout.

4. The Gulf of Mexico - This vast body of water is home to a variety of fish species, including grouper, snapper, and kingfish. It's a great spot for fishing charters, as the waters are calm and the fishing is excellent.

5. The Atlantic Ocean - The waters off the coast of Islamorada are teeming with game fish such as marlin, sailfish, and wahoo. It's a prime spot for fishing charters, as the deep waters are home to some of the biggest fish in the world.

Other Things To Do In Islamorada

While Islamorada fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this Florida city. Take a trip to Theater of the Sea, where you can swim with dolphins and sea lions, or visit the History of Diving Museum to learn about the evolution of underwater exploration. For a more active adventure, rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys. If you're looking for a relaxing day, head to Anne's Beach, a secluded spot with calm waters and soft sand. And don't forget to indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Despite the unfortunate windy weather, Captain Joel and first mate Todd made for a great day. They worked hard to get us on fish, and we had. Great day! We ended up catching 10 different species (mostly snapper) had plenty to eat I would highly recommend this charter to anyone!

    Andy T. | March 19, 2025

    Trip: Marathon Offshore - 30’ Boca Grande

  • ★★★★★
    Jason is extremely knowledgeable, very friendly, he knows the terrain very well and his vessels extremely well. I would another excursion with him in a heart beat. Not to worry you are in good hands with him and will have a great time!

    Andrew M. | March 17, 2025

    Trip: Epic Biscayne Bay Trip

  • ★★★★★
    This was honestly one of the most disappointing charters I’ve had. I’ve booked numerous charters all over and in the keys. I realize fishing is fishing but we were greeted by a captain other than Dan, great guy but not what I expected honestly. Our vessel wasn’t prepared and ready to go so we waited longer than was expected and it pushed other plans back even further. We caught one 12.5 inch yellow that was big enough to keep. On other charters the boat is quite well prepared and ready to change course quickly to get you on the fish, not the case, granted it was a shorter booking I’ve still had much better equipped captains and vessels. So to spend the day bobbing for non existent apples was not at all ideal. It was so boring my wife and son chose to nap. So just be aware that if you choose this charter it may not go at all to plan. Sadly it was a waste of precious vacation time. I typically hate reading negative reviews and have never personally left one, but this seemed appropriate given the outcome. Good luck.

    Darren H. | March 14, 2025

    Trip: Deep Sea, Wreck and Reef

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip, Captain Eric got us on many good fish and has a great knowledge of the local water.

    Charlie M. | March 10, 2025

    Trip: Back Country Bonanza

  • ★★★★★
    Great time with Captain Don. He put us on the fish and it didn’t stop. Got back to the dock and other fisherman were admiring the size of our yellowtail. Definitely going back for a full day.

    Christopher C. | March 10, 2025

    Trip: Ocean Thrills with Captain Don

  • ★★★★★
    Great fishing hide! Great choose of location, nice boat, nice talk and good fishing!

    Peter M. | March 9, 2025

    Trip: Key Largo Flats Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time with Captain Joe and first mate Micah! Wonderful afternoon and great time fishing. Thank you for making great memories with us.

    Megan M. | March 3, 2025

    Trip: 3 Hour Trip – Shark

  • ★★★★★
    I had a great experience. Joshua made a trip I was already excited about even better. He made sure we were in the best spots possible and was very helpful with sharing how to hit the "money" spots with casting. He shared information about the locations we were fishing, not just the fish but the homes when going through and the channels. Absolutely recommend him for you trip and will definitely book with him when we come back to the area.

    Kimberly S. | March 1, 2025

    Trip: Upper Keys Inshore Classic

  • ★★★★★
    Nick was an excellent guide and took us to several beautiful fishing spots. He was really knowledgeable about the fish species and behaviors in Florida. I’d absolutely recommend chartering with him!

    Julia T. | February 28, 2025

    Trip: Flats fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had an excellent time ! Great weather too. Christy and Capt Pete were excellent hosts. Thank you for a great day.

    Amanda W. | February 27, 2025

    Trip: Islamorada Fishing with Capt Pete

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Joel did a fantastic job under adverse conditions! Put us on fish, and we caught our bucket list barracuda! Todd is by far one of the best mates I have fished with in 40 years! Good bedside manner. Thanks a million! Paul T

    Paul T. | February 26, 2025

    Trip: Marathon Offshore - 30’ Boca Grande

  • ★★★★★
    Very knowledgeable and great experience. Highly recommend using Chris.

    Howard L. | February 22, 2025

    Trip: Reef, Wreck, and Patch Reef Trip

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time with Captain Joey. We are a family of 4 withlittle to no experience fishing. He was so great at helping our kids and teaching them to cast and reel. He was super patient which was so appreciated. He was very knowledgeable about the Everglades area and the fish that we could catch. I would highly recommend him for anyone interested in a fishing adventure in the area. You will definitely enjoy the adventure!

    Christine B. | February 21, 2025

    Trip: Fish Everglades National Park

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great morning fishing with Captain Wayne. We caught a variety of fish and enjoyed our time with Wayne. Would definitely recommend and book again.

    James G. | February 20, 2025

    Trip: Backcountry Trip - 25' Custom

  • ★★★★★
    Paul and his first mate were awesome! We came to catch a sailfish and they made it happen!

    Bill B. | February 13, 2025

    Trip: Ultimate Offshore Thrills

  • ★★★★★
    Great guide, friendly, helpful and an excellent fisherman. I came looking for bone and permit and caught both. A number 1; could not have asked for more.

    William R. | February 13, 2025

    Trip: Tavernier Backcountry Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent day fishing with Captain Ron. Boated 10 snook and lots of hook ups. Caught others too but snook was the target. Great boat, comfortable ride and east to fish from.

    Don W. | February 12, 2025

    Trip: Epic Islamorada Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Joey’s the Man! We got on tons of fish and was able to see the entire national park! Not to mention he is super fun, and personable!

    Brent K. | February 8, 2025

    Trip: Fish Everglades National Park

  • ★★★★★
    Great guide, great fishing, great time!

    Bruce C. | February 6, 2025

    Trip: Epic Islamorada Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    I have fished with numerous guides and have over fifty years of fishing experience myself with over 120 days per year for the past 20 years. Andrew has extensive knowledge of the areas we fished and is a very skilled fisherman as well as an excellent guide. His boat is both comfortable and clean as is the fishing gear. I have no hesitation in recommending him to anyone interested in fishing the Key Largo area. And yes, we caught fish.

    Warren H. | February 3, 2025

    Trip: Key Largo Silver Kings

Top Fishing Techniques in Islamorada

Top Types of Fishing in Islamorada

How are fishing conditions in Islamorada?

View Islamorada Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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