Damn Good Flats Fishing Charters In Islamorada

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Recently Booked Flats Fishing Charters In Islamorada, Fl

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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Back Country Bonanza

100% (3)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Epic Islamorada Inshore

100% (8)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Everglades Inshore Trip

100% (10)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
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
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Flats Fishing

100% (4)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $575
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Flats Backcountry Quest

94% (16)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $650

Top Types of Flats Trips in Islamorada

Top Species for Flats Fishing in Islamorada

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Target Species in Islamorada

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More Flats Fishing Charters In Islamorada, Fl

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, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Islamorada Flats And Backcountry

100% (5)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
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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 Islamorada

Inshore Tarpon Trip

94% (16)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $650
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
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

3 Hour Family Trip

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

FL Keys Flats Fishing

100% (5)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
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Everything to Know About Booking an Islamorada flats fishing charter

What are the best flats fishing charters in Islamorada?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 50 flats trips in Islamorada, and the most popular trips in the area are Bank and Bight Backcountry guided by Jon-Paul, Flats fishing guided by Nick, and Epic Islamorada Inshore guided by Ron.

Our guides in Islamorada are rated a 4.96 out of 5 based on 3784 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 Islamorada? Check out our beginner and family friendly flats guides in Islamorada.

What types of flats fishing charters are common in Islamorada?

The most commonly sought after species for flats fishing are: 1. tarpon, 2. snook, 3. redfish, 4. speckled trout, and 5. permit.

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

How much do Islamorada flats fishing charters cost?

Prices for flats fishing in Islamorada can range anywhere from about $650 to $1,700, but the average price for a half day trip for flats fishing in Islamorada is $868. The average price for a full day trip for flats fishing in Islamorada is $1,114.

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 Islamorada?

The most popular season for flats fishing in Islamorada is spring, and most anglers book their trips 31 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.

What is flats fishing in Islamorada all about?

Islamorada, Florida, is renowned among anglers as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World," and for good reason. Its shallow flats, abundant with seagrass beds and mangrove islands, provide an ideal habitat for a variety of game fish species. Flats fishing in Islamorada offers anglers the thrilling opportunity to sight-fish for bonefish, permit, and tarpon in crystal-clear waters. Whether wading through the shallows or poling a skiff, anglers can experience the adrenaline rush of stalking elusive fish in their natural environment.

One of the distinct appeals of flats fishing in Islamorada is the diversity of species that inhabit its waters. In addition to the prized trio of bonefish, permit, and tarpon, anglers can target species such as redfish, snook, and barracuda. Each presents its own unique challenge and excitement, adding to the allure of fishing these productive flats. Whether a seasoned angler or a novice, there's always something new to learn and experience while flats fishing in Islamorada.

Beyond the thrill of the catch, flats fishing in Islamorada offers anglers the chance to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of the Florida Keys. With its stunning vistas and abundant wildlife, the flats of Islamorada provide a serene backdrop for a day on the water. Whether it's the tranquility of a quiet morning sunrise or the exhilaration of a tailing bonefish, each moment spent fishing in Islamorada is sure to create lasting memories for anglers of all skill levels.

What are the most popular months to go flats fishing in Islamorada?

Flats fishing in Islamorada, Florida, offers anglers an exciting year-round opportunity, with each season bringing its own unique challenges and rewards. Winter months typically see an influx of migratory species such as tarpon and bonefish, drawn to the warmer waters of the Florida Keys. This makes it an excellent time for anglers to target these iconic game fish as they cruise the shallow flats in search of prey. Spring brings with it the annual tarpon migration, a spectacle that draws anglers from around the world to test their skills against these powerful silver kings.

As temperatures rise in the summer months, flats fishing in Islamorada remains productive, with opportunities to target species such as permit and bonefish. While the heat may be intense, anglers can find refuge in the early mornings and late evenings when the fish are most active. Summer also brings the opportunity for anglers to explore the deeper channels and wrecks offshore in search of species like mahi-mahi and sailfish. Fall marks the transition period in Islamorada, with cooler temperatures signaling the return of baitfish and an increase in predatory activity on the flats. This makes it an excellent time for anglers to target a variety of species, including bonefish, permit, and redfish, before the winter migration begins anew.

What techniques are popular for flats fishing in Islamorada?

Flats fishing in Islamorada, Florida, encompasses a variety of techniques and methods tailored to the diverse species that inhabit its waters. One popular approach is sight-fishing, where anglers use polarized sunglasses to spot fish cruising the shallow flats. This technique requires stealth and precision casting to present bait or lures accurately to wary fish such as bonefish and permit. Another common method is fly fishing, which offers anglers the challenge of presenting artificial flies to their target species. Whether wading or from a skiff, fly fishing in Islamorada requires delicate presentations and keen observation to entice strikes from elusive game fish.

For anglers targeting larger species like tarpon, live bait fishing is a preferred technique in Islamorada. This involves using live baitfish such as mullet or pilchards rigged on circle hooks and presented either under a float or free-lined. Tarpon are known for their acrobatic leaps and powerful runs, making them a prized catch for anglers seeking an adrenaline rush on the flats. Additionally, bottom fishing with live or cut bait can be productive for species like snook and redfish, particularly around mangrove islands and structure-rich areas.

Poling a skiff is another essential technique for flats fishing in Islamorada, allowing anglers to silently maneuver through shallow waters without disturbing the fish. Skiff captains use push poles to propel the boat while standing on a platform, providing an elevated vantage point for spotting fish. This method is especially effective for stalking wary species like bonefish and permit in the clear, shallow flats of Islamorada. Whether casting from the bow of a skiff or wading waist-deep in the water, flats fishing in Islamorada offers anglers a diverse range of techniques to pursue their favorite game fish.

What species are popular for flats fishing in Islamorada?

When flats fishing in Islamorada, Florida, anglers have the opportunity to target a wide variety of species, each offering its own unique challenges and excitement. Among the most sought-after species are bonefish, renowned for their speed and elusive nature. These silver ghosts of the flats require stealthy approaches and precise presentations to entice them to take the bait or fly. Anglers often find success sight-fishing for bonefish in the shallow waters, where they can be seen tailing or cruising the flats in search of prey.

Another prized species for flats fishing enthusiasts in Islamorada is the permit. Known for their hard-fighting nature and selective feeding habits, permit present a challenge that tests even the most experienced anglers. Targeting permit often involves sight-fishing in shallow flats and presenting small crustacean imitations with delicate accuracy. Landing one of these prized fish is a true accomplishment and a highlight of any flats fishing excursion in Islamorada.

For anglers seeking the ultimate trophy catch, tarpon are a prime target in the waters of Islamorada. These powerful silver kings are famous for their aerial displays and blistering runs, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience for those lucky enough to hook into one. Tarpon can be found cruising the flats and channels throughout the year, with peak seasons occurring during the spring and early summer months. Whether targeting bonefish, permit, tarpon, or any of the other species that inhabit the flats of Islamorada, anglers are sure to find an exhilarating fishing experience in this renowned destination.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome day of fishing, thanks Sal!

    Clint T. | November 27, 2024

    Trip: 3 Hour Family Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Andrew. Aka drew. What can i say. From the very start he communicated with us he wanted to make sure we had time to cast net some great bait and he did. Hardest working guide ive ever seen. And im 60 so seen quite a few. Andrew put us on fish all day long. Incredibly knowledgea le about the entire area and fishing area. My wrist and right arm are a bit sore from catching so many fish. The big target today for me was Snook. He put us on them. I lost 2 in slot snook in the mangrove roots probably 28 to 30. But caught at leat 5 in the 24to 27 inch range and another 8 in the 14 to 22 or so. Always busy always catchin and fi ding them. We also caught some big jack cravele big ones. Make your arm hurt. Lol. Plenty of mangrove snapper a couple barracuda and a bull shark. All day. Fun day. Now im tired. Took my wife to just hang out. She loved it. Great fishing trip with this man. Mike and Tami. Jacksonville florida.

    Michaeel F. | November 15, 2024

    Trip: Key Largo Backcountry

  • ★★★★★
    Eric was great we were catching fish the entire time. I wanted to catch a tarpon and in 10 minutes we had landed one. Exceptional trip tarpon snook and grouper. I would recommend to anyone who wants to catch fish

    Walter L. | October 21, 2024

    Trip: Back Country Bonanza

  • ★★★★★
    Patrick is a very knowledgeable and hard-working guide we’re from South Louisiana and fish all the time. It was great to learn some different techniques down here in Florida. We will definitely book with him again great time. Excellent service!

    Tom L. | October 16, 2024

    Trip: Classic Keys Inshore Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Hey Anglers, Born and raised here in Florida I feel like i know quite a bit about fishing, but our fishing guide Andrew was as good as they come. Hands down the best guide I have ever been out on the water with down here in the Keys. We pulled off a Keys slam... Tarpon, Snook, and Redfish. What a great day on the water. Thank Andrew for treating us to an amazing day. Tight lines, Frank

    Frank R. | September 28, 2024

    Trip: Key Largo Silver Kings

  • ★★★★★
    Super guide. Knows the waters and area. Had a great time.

    David G. | September 12, 2024

    Trip: Flats fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Tyler was awesome! Super nice guy who is incredibly knowledgeable about fishing the Everglades. We hooked multiple tarpon and Tyler cleaned our mangrove snapper which made for some great fish tacos that night. Highly recommend him to anyone looking for a unique Everglades experience!

    Michael S. | September 9, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing trip! Lots of laughs and tons of fish! We even got our target fish which was tarpon. Captain mark is great and we will definitely use him again.

    Angela F. | September 6, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip, would recommend without hesitation!

    Steven B. | August 31, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Live Action Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    What a Great Trip, Ben was a Great Guide, We laughed and caught fish and had fun.

    Richard H. | August 3, 2024

    Trip: Tavernier Backcountry Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip, Captain Andrew is super knowledgeable. He put us on fish quickly and accommodated all our requests, including a 100 lb shark for my daughter.

    Eliot R. | July 3, 2024

    Trip: Key Largo Backcountry

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time with Captain Chris today. Caught a lot of fish and had a lot of laughs. Had an unforeseen technical issue but Captains Mike and Chris took care of it with grace and humor. We’ll be back.

    Jesse S. | June 25, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Live Action Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Randy comes highly recommended. This was a retirement trip for my brother and it was truly amazing!! Captain Randy went above and beyond to make sure our 2 day trip was full of action, and adventure. His love for The Florida Keys is contagious. He will put you on the fish! If you seriously love fishing, he’s your guy! Captan Experiences made booking and paying our Captain so much easier than doing it over the phone. Everything was seamless and I look forward to booking with them and Captain Randy again.

    Dave A. | June 24, 2024

    Trip: FL Keys Flats Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic guide! Friendly and helpful. Had a great time.

    John K. | June 13, 2024

    Trip: Flats Backcountry Quest

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Andrew, put us on fish right away! He knowledgeable about all things Key Largo. He is professional, organized, and enthusiastic about what he does. We highly recommend captain andrew to anyone, and when we come back we will book with him again. Highlight of the trip was landing the nurse shark!

    Jaime P. | June 5, 2024

    Trip: Key Largo Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Randy was kind, very knowledgeable of the area as well as where to find the giant Tarpon. We had a wonderful time talking about everything, getting to know one another and We appreciated his extensive knowledge of fishing the Islamorada waters. His equipment is new and tackle is spot on and we enjoyed every moment of our trip.

    Dave A. | May 24, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Tarpon on the Fly

  • ★★★★★
    Great day out with Captain Billy B that I strongly recommend. When I said I wanted to catch trout, I was not expecting to catch over 50 on a 6 hour trip. Not only does Captain Billy know his fishing spots in the Everglades but he will also take the time to teach you how to improve your techniques. How to catch a fish at almost every cast. am sure he is great with kids. If you are looking for a monthly rental, or even buying a house in the area, he is also your man.

    Cornelissen M. | May 20, 2024

    Trip: Chasing Tarpon

  • ★★★★★
    Incredible fishing! I’ve never had the experience where I cast my line and within 5 seconds I get a strike. Over and over, it was constant cast and strike. Caught 20 fish in the first hour. Not only an expert guide for fishing, but Patrick is a really nice person to hang out with. Super chill to talk sports and fishing, but was cool and professional. He also recommended an awesome place for lunch where they grilled our catch! Top notch, highest recommendation possible!

    Robert B. | May 19, 2024

    Trip: Classic Keys Inshore Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Some times you are fortunate to meet people that leave a deep impression an impregnation on you. Captain Mark is one of these rare persons. I was fortunate to go fishing with him today and we had a blast. He is so kind, so full of knowledge, that I do recommend going fishing with him. His repeated actions around the wounded warrior project are a tribute to his care about his peers and good people in general.

    Cornelissen M. | May 19, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent guide. Worked hard to get us into the fish. Caught over 40 fish. Having snapper and trout for dinner!

    Unknown U. | May 18, 2024

    Trip: Epic Islamorada Inshore

Other Types of Fishing in Islamorada

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