Damn Good Permit Fishing Charters In Islamorada

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Islamorada permit fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

Choose a Date
4.98/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Permit Fishing Charters In Islamorada, Fl

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
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, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Epic Islamorada Inshore

100% (8)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Damn Good
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

Flats Backcountry Quest

94% (16)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Damn Good
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
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Islamorada Angling Excursion

100% (10)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $850

Top Types of Permit Trips in Islamorada

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Target Species in Islamorada

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

More Permit Fishing Charters In Islamorada, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Islamorada Live Action Fishing

100% (10)
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $750
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
Damn Good
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

Big Shark Trip

100% (10)
24 ft 1 - 12 People From $650
Damn Good
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

Flats Fury With Captain Eric

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 Fishing Adventure

NEW
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $700
Damn Good
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 Inshore Fishing Fun!

100% (5)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
See All Permit Trips in Islamorada

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking an Islamorada permit fishing charter

What are the best permit fishing charters in Islamorada?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 36 permit trips in Islamorada, and the most popular trips in the area are Flats fishing guided by Nick, Flats Backcountry Quest guided by Eric, and Epic Islamorada Inshore guided by Ron.

Our guides in Islamorada are rated a 4.98 out of 5 based on 3716 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 permit guides / fishing lessons in Islamorada? Check out our beginner and family friendly permit guides in Islamorada.

What types of permit fishing charters are common in Islamorada?

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

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 permit fishing charters cost?

Prices for permit in Islamorada can range anywhere from about $650 to $1,800, but the average price for a half day trip for permit in Islamorada is $899. The average price for a full day trip for permit in Islamorada is $1,140.

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 permit fishing in Islamorada?

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

Do I need a Islamorada fishing license for permit and what are the bag limits for permit 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 permit fishing in Islamorada all about?

Permit, scientifically known as Trachinotus falcatus, is a prized saltwater game fish found in the warm waters surrounding Isla Morada. Known for their incredible strength and speed, permit are highly sought after by anglers for their challenging fight and impressive size. These fish are commonly found near coral reefs, wrecks, and other structure-rich areas, making Isla Morada an ideal destination for permit fishing enthusiasts.

In Isla Morada, permit fishing is popular year-round, but the peak seasons typically coincide with the spring and summer months. During this time, the waters are warmer, and permit are more active, providing anglers with better opportunities for successful catches. However, permit can be found in these waters throughout the year, offering anglers the chance to target them regardless of the season.

When it comes to permit fishing techniques in Isla Morada, anglers often employ a variety of methods, including sight fishing on the flats, casting around structure, and using live bait or artificial lures. Sight fishing for permit in shallow flats is a common practice, where anglers use polarized sunglasses to spot the fish cruising in the clear waters. Once spotted, anglers carefully cast their bait or lure ahead of the fish, enticing them to strike. Patience, accuracy, and stealth are crucial when targeting permit, as these fish are known for their skittish behavior and selective feeding habits.

What are the most popular months to fish for permit fishing in Islamorada?

In Isla Morada, permit fishing can be pursued year-round, but certain seasons offer better conditions and higher chances of success. Generally, the peak seasons for permit fishing in Isla Morada align with the warmer months of spring and summer. During this time, the water temperatures rise, leading to increased activity among permit populations. Warmer waters also stimulate baitfish activity, attracting permit to feeding areas near flats, reefs, and other structure-rich environments.

Spring and summer months, typically from March to September, are considered prime seasons for permit fishing in Isla Morada. During these months, anglers can expect more favorable weather conditions, calmer seas, and clearer waters, enhancing the overall fishing experience. Additionally, permit tend to migrate closer to the shore during these seasons, providing anglers with better opportunities for sight fishing on the flats and targeting these elusive game fish in shallow waters.

While spring and summer are peak seasons for permit fishing in Isla Morada, these prized game fish can be targeted year-round. Even during the offseason, dedicated anglers can still encounter permit in the waters surrounding Isla Morada, albeit with slightly different fishing strategies. With the diverse marine habitats and favorable climate conditions in Isla Morada, anglers have the flexibility to enjoy permit fishing adventures throughout the year, making it a premier destination for anglers seeking the thrill of pursuing these challenging and highly prized fish.

What techniques are popular for catching permit in Islamorada?

In Isla Morada, permit fishing is an exhilarating pursuit that requires skill, patience, and the right techniques. Anglers employ various methods to target permit in these waters, taking advantage of the fish's behavior and habitat preferences. One popular technique is sight fishing on the flats, where anglers scan the shallow waters for cruising permit. Polarized sunglasses are essential for spotting these elusive fish, which often blend in with their surroundings. Once a permit is sighted, anglers carefully cast their bait or lure ahead of the fish, aiming to entice a strike. Accuracy, stealth, and precise presentation are crucial for success when sight fishing for permit in Isla Morada.

Another effective technique for permit fishing in Isla Morada is casting around structure-rich areas such as coral reefs, wrecks, and channels. Permit are known to frequent these locations in search of food and shelter, making them prime spots for anglers to target. Anglers can use live bait or artificial lures to entice permit in these areas, employing techniques such as drift fishing, jigging, or bottom fishing. Patience and persistence are key when fishing around structure, as permit may require some coaxing before striking. Anglers should be prepared to adjust their tactics based on the conditions and the behavior of the fish.

In addition to sight fishing and casting around structure, anglers in Isla Morada often use live bait to target permit. Crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish are popular choices for bait, as permit are opportunistic feeders that will readily devour a variety of prey. Anglers can present live bait using a variety of rigs, such as a Carolina rig or a freelined setup, depending on the conditions and the preferences of the fish. The key is to present the bait in a natural and enticing manner, mimicking the movements of the fish's natural prey. With the right techniques and a bit of luck, anglers can enjoy thrilling encounters with permit in the waters of Isla Morada.

What other species are popular in Islamorada?

In addition to permit, Isla Morada offers anglers a diverse array of fish species to target, ensuring an exciting and rewarding fishing experience. One popular species to catch in these waters is the tarpon, known for its impressive size and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Tarpon can be found in both nearshore and offshore waters, particularly during their annual migration along the coast. Anglers often target tarpon using live bait, such as mullet or pinfish, or by casting artificial lures such as plugs or flies. Fishing for tarpon in Isla Morada is a thrilling pursuit that requires skill, patience, and a bit of luck.

Another sought-after species in Isla Morada is the bonefish, prized for its speed, strength, and challenging behavior. Bonefish are commonly found on the flats and shallow waters around the island, where they feed on small crustaceans and baitfish. Anglers often sight fish for bonefish, scanning the flats for signs of movement and casting their bait or lure ahead of the fish. Fly fishing is a popular technique for targeting bonefish, with anglers using lightweight flies that mimic the fish's natural prey. Successfully hooking and landing a bonefish requires precision casting, stealthy approach, and quick reflexes, making it a rewarding challenge for experienced anglers.

In addition to tarpon and bonefish, Isla Morada offers opportunities to catch a variety of other species, including snook, redfish, snapper, and grouper. These fish can be found in a range of habitats, from mangrove-lined shorelines to offshore reefs and wrecks. Anglers can use a variety of techniques to target these species, including live bait fishing, casting artificial lures, and bottom fishing with cut bait or jigs. Whether fishing from shore, a boat, or a kayak, anglers in Isla Morada have ample opportunities to reel in a diverse and exciting mix of fish species.

Recent Reviews

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

    David G. | September 12, 2024

    Trip: Flats fishing

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Jason is an exceptional fisherman and superb steward of the wildlife surrounding the Keys! We caught tons of fish and had a great time with him! We would recommend taking a charter out with him!!

    Jessica P. | August 31, 2024

    Trip: Epic Biscayne Bay Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Jay was an experienced captain who took us on an incredible fishing excursion. We were a group mixed fishing experience, caught tons of fish, and took plenty home with us for dinner! 10/10. We will be back!

    Paige H. | August 17, 2024

    Trip: Epic Biscayne Bay Trip

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Great day! Despite the weather captain jason put us on the fish!!

    Winslow W. | June 22, 2024

    Trip: Epic Biscayne Bay Trip

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

    John K. | June 13, 2024

    Trip: Flats Backcountry Quest

  • ★★★★★
    Great day- will book with Jay again 100%.

    Mckenzie K. | June 8, 2024

    Trip: Epic Biscayne Bay Trip

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Jason was lively and knowledgeable. He definitely knows the area and loves fishing. He put us on a few good spots and we had fun. I will definitely choose him again!

    Dennis R. | May 13, 2024

    Trip: Epic Biscayne Bay Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great guy, great trip

    Doug K. | May 4, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Angling Excursion

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic trip! We had a wonderful time!

    Diane S. | May 3, 2024

    Trip: Bank and Bight Backcountry

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great day on the water. Caught a variety of fish, some bigger some smaller. Captain Jason proved to be a real people person, in firm control of his craft. Great conversationalist. Definitely would go out with him again.

    John U. | April 26, 2024

    Trip: Epic Biscayne Bay Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Fishing with Captain Randy was a blast caught plenty of bonefish and some sharks Randy is a cool dude really enjoyed my trip

    Rick B. | April 13, 2024

    Trip: FL Keys Flats Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    If you want to be inspired to be a better person, laugh, and catch the most fish out of the Islamorada marina Captain Mark is the way to go. Thanks Mark for a great day. Also thank you for your service to our country and continued surrport of disabled veterans!

    Brian S. | April 6, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

What's biting in Islamorada?

View Permit Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Permit Trips in Islamorada