Damn Good Sailfish Fishing Charters In Islamorada

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Recently Booked Sailfish Fishing Charters In Islamorada, Fl

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Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Offshore Thrills

94% (16)
40 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,100
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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
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Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Ultimate Offshore Thrills

94% (16)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Deep Sea Trophy Hunt

NEW
45 ft 1 - 6 People From $950
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Best Islamorada Sportfishing

NEW
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,100
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Islamorada Offshore Experience

100% (3)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Full Day Trip

100% (5)
44 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,700

Top Types of Sailfish Trips in Islamorada

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Target Species in Islamorada

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More Sailfish Fishing Charters In Islamorada, Fl

Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Reef To Offshore: Fishing Frenzy

NEW
1 - 6 People From $1,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

3/4 Day Trip

100% (5)
44 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Offshore Islamorada Trip

67% (3)
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Hot Pursuit In The Gulf Stream

NEW
1 - 6 People From $1,600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Afternoon Half

100% (5)
44 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Islamorada Full Spectrum Trip

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,295
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Everything to Know About Booking an Islamorada sailfish fishing charter

What are the best sailfish fishing charters in Islamorada?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 40 sailfish trips in Islamorada, and the most popular trips in the area are Ultimate Offshore Thrills guided by Paul, Offshore Thrills guided by Paul, and Deep Sea Trophy Hunt guided by Ken.

Our guides in Islamorada are rated a 4.78 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 sailfish guides / fishing lessons in Islamorada? Check out our beginner and family friendly sailfish guides in Islamorada.

What types of sailfish fishing charters are common in Islamorada?

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

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

How much do Islamorada sailfish fishing charters cost?

Prices for sailfish in Islamorada can range anywhere from about $930 to $2,800, but the average price for a half day trip for sailfish in Islamorada is $1,061. The average price for a full day trip for sailfish in Islamorada is $1,855.

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 sailfish fishing in Islamorada?

The most popular season for sailfish fishing in Islamorada is spring, and most anglers book their trips 32 days in advance.

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

In Islamorada, sailfish are among the most sought-after game fish, drawing anglers from around the world to the renowned waters of the Florida Keys. Sailfish are known for their remarkable size, speed, and acrobatic displays, making them a thrilling catch for both novice and experienced anglers alike. These majestic fish migrate through the offshore waters of Islamorada during the winter months, offering anglers prime opportunities for unforgettable fishing experiences. Sailfish are prized for their challenging fights, often testing anglers' skills and equipment to the limit.

Anglers targeting sailfish in Islamorada typically employ trolling techniques, using rigged baits or artificial lures trailed behind the boat to entice strikes. Anglers cruise along the edge of the Gulf Stream and offshore reefs, covering a large area of water in search of feeding sailfish. Once a sailfish is hooked, it puts on a spectacular display of leaps, tail walks, and high-speed runs, thrilling anglers with its acrobatics. Sailfish are highly prized among sport fishermen for their challenging fights and are considered one of the most prestigious game fish to catch in Islamorada.

In addition to trolling, live bait fishing is another effective technique for targeting sailfish in Islamorada. Anglers deploy live baits such as pilchards, ballyhoo, or threadfin herring near surface-feeding fish or structure-rich areas where sailfish are known to congregate. This method allows anglers to present natural baits in a way that mimics the behavior of natural prey, increasing the chances of enticing strikes from sailfish. With their impressive size, speed, and aerial displays, sailfish offer anglers in Islamorada thrilling opportunities for memorable fishing adventures in the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys.

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

In Islamorada, the sailfish season typically aligns with their migration patterns, which coincide with the winter months in the Florida Keys. Sailfish begin their annual migration southward from late fall to early winter, following the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. During this time, anglers in Islamorada have prime opportunities to target sailfish as they pass through the offshore waters of the Florida Keys. The sailfish season in Islamorada is characterized by consistent action, with peak fishing occurring from December to February when sailfish numbers are at their highest.

Winter marks the peak of the sailfish season in Islamorada, offering anglers the best chances for successful outings targeting these majestic game fish. As sailfish migrate southward along the edge of the Gulf Stream, they pass through the offshore waters of Islamorada, providing anglers with thrilling opportunities for catch-and-release fishing. Anglers can expect frequent encounters with sailfish during this time, with multiple hookups possible in a single day of fishing. The sailfish season in Islamorada coincides with favorable weather conditions, with calm seas and mild temperatures enhancing the overall fishing experience.

While the winter months are prime for sailfish fishing in Islamorada, sailfish can also be caught during other times of the year, particularly during transitional periods when water temperatures are moderate. In addition to the winter season, spring and early summer can also offer productive fishing for sailfish in Islamorada. During these months, anglers may encounter sailfish feeding in shallower waters closer to shore, providing opportunities for exciting nearshore fishing experiences. Overall, the sailfish season in Islamorada spans from late fall to early summer, offering anglers a wide window of opportunity to target these prized game fish in the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys.

What techniques are popular for catching sailfish in Islamorada?

In Islamorada, anglers employ various effective techniques to target sailfish, capitalizing on their migratory patterns and feeding behavior in the offshore waters of the Florida Keys. One of the most common methods for sailfish fishing in Islamorada is trolling. Anglers troll with rigged baits or artificial lures behind their boats, covering a large area of water along the edge of the Gulf Stream and offshore reefs where sailfish are known to congregate. Trolling allows anglers to present baits or lures at varying depths and speeds, increasing the likelihood of enticing strikes from sailfish. This method is particularly effective during the winter months when sailfish migrate through the waters of Islamorada in search of prey.

Live bait fishing is another popular technique for targeting sailfish in Islamorada. Anglers deploy live baits such as pilchards, ballyhoo, or threadfin herring near surface-feeding fish or structure-rich areas where sailfish are known to hunt. This method allows anglers to present natural baits in a way that mimics the behavior of natural prey, increasing the chances of enticing strikes from sailfish. Live bait fishing can be highly productive, especially when targeting sailfish that are actively feeding near the surface or in shallower waters.

Another effective technique for targeting sailfish in Islamorada is kite fishing. Anglers deploy a kite from their boat, suspending live baits from the kite lines to simulate the behavior of struggling baitfish near the surface. This method allows anglers to present baits in a natural and enticing manner, enticing strikes from sailfish that are cruising near the surface or hunting in the vicinity. Kite fishing is particularly effective in calm conditions and allows anglers to cover a large area of water while keeping baits in the strike zone for extended periods. With their impressive size, speed, and acrobatic displays, sailfish offer anglers in Islamorada thrilling opportunities for memorable fishing adventures throughout the year.

What other species are popular in Islamorada?

In addition to targeting sailfish, anglers visiting Islamorada have an abundance of other species to pursue, ensuring a diverse and exciting fishing experience. One popular species among anglers is the mahi-mahi, also known as dolphin or dorado. These colorful and acrobatic fish inhabit the offshore waters surrounding Islamorada, particularly near weed lines, floating debris, and offshore structures. Mahi-mahi are prized for their delicious flesh and are known for their aggressive strikes and aerial displays, making them a favorite among anglers. Anglers can target mahi-mahi using a variety of techniques, including trolling with artificial lures or natural baits, as well as casting to schools of fish found around floating objects.

Another sought-after species in Islamorada is the yellowtail snapper, prized for its delicate flavor and challenging fights. Yellowtail snapper inhabit the shallow reefs and wrecks surrounding Islamorada, where they can be targeted using light tackle and live or cut bait. These colorful fish are known for their stealthy behavior and keen eyesight, providing anglers with a rewarding challenge. Yellowtail snapper fishing in Islamorada is particularly productive during the spring and summer months when these fish are abundant in the warm waters of the Florida Keys.

In addition to mahi-mahi and yellowtail snapper, anglers in Islamorada can pursue a variety of other species, including wahoo, tuna, marlin, grouper, snapper, and tarpon, among others. Wahoo are fast-swimming predators found in the offshore waters of Islamorada, offering anglers exciting opportunities for high-speed trolling. Tuna are also abundant in the offshore waters, with blackfin and yellowfin tuna being the most commonly targeted species. Marlin, including blue marlin and white marlin, are prized game fish known for their size and strength, providing anglers with thrilling battles offshore. Inshore, anglers can target species such as tarpon, snook, bonefish, permit, and mangrove snapper, offering a diverse range of fishing experiences in the rich and bountiful waters of Islamorada.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Dan and Ryan were fantastic. The ocean was pretty rough that day but they helped us have a great time and pull in quite a few fish. We’ll be back again next year and will definitely look to hire them again!

    Moira V. | November 8, 2024

    Trip: Deep Sea, Wreck and Reef

  • ★★★★★
    Great time with Capt. Daniel . Over 25 years of experience and it shows. Good guy that went the extra mile to make us feel welcomed.

    Brandon &. | September 13, 2024

    Trip: Deep Sea, Wreck and Reef

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time! They catered to all the fishing levels and interest! As one of my bridesmaid’s said… what a perfect activity we fished, we chilled on the boat, we talked, drank, napped, and sunned at our own liking.

    Madison T. | July 30, 2024

    Trip: Full Day Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic trip with Capt. Joel and Darren. Got us on some great Mahi Mahi, and kept at it for the whole trip. Highly recommended.

    David L. | July 8, 2024

    Trip: Marathon Offshore - 30’ Grady White

  • ★★★★★
    We had an amazing time on a tough fishing day, would definitely book again when I am in the area. Andrew is great with the kids, and super patient with the beginners. He did everything he could to put us on fish. He also pointed out the abundance of wildlife, including sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, and a manatee. Everything we could hope for with my son's first saltwater fishing adventure.

    William S. | May 21, 2024

    Trip: Key Largo Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    We booked a 3/4 day after speaking with the captain the (plan) was made to shoot out deep and if we were not hitting them we would come in on the 3/4 day booking rather than a full day. Captain troy and his first mate worked as hard as I have ever seen to get fish on the boat. Not sure but at one time I think he had a deep running plug in one marlin plug and 4 top water trolling plugs so it looked like they were shooting for many different depths. We finally got into the mahi-mahi it was on. The first mate and captain maneuvered through 4 men as quick as humanly possible pulling fish off the lines and baiting hooks and handing them back. The only true way to explain it would be controlled chaos. These guys are GREAT at what they do and both the first mate and the captain seem to be fantastic people in there own right. So if your looking for a hard working boat stop here at Miller Time....

    Vance T. | May 21, 2024

    Trip: 3/4 Day Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great fishing. Captain Paul delivered and put us on plenty of Mahi-Mahi. 5 star experience.

    Gary A. | May 19, 2024

    Trip: Offshore Thrills

  • ★★★★★
    We had a rough weather day but Capt Joe Joe put us on a lot of Mahi off shore and Yellowtail closer in. Outstanding day for our group and great boat handling skills from our captain and first mate. Will definitely book with them again.

    Arthur D. | May 5, 2024

    Trip: Marathon Offshore Slam- 50’ Bertram

  • ★★★★★
    Very good inshore trip - caught plenty of fish and numerous species. Planning to book again next year,

    David S. | April 26, 2024

    Trip: Marathon Offshore - 30’ Grady White

  • ★★★★★
    I have been fishing the keys for 10 years but learned a ton fishing with Captain Troy and first mate James. We caught a 2 man limit of nice sized yellow tail in 1.5 h. Very friendly folks made for a great day ! Highly recommend!

    Thomas J. | March 20, 2024

    Trip: Morning Half

  • ★★★★★
    We had a blast fishing with Captain Troy and his crew! They did everything possible to provide us an exciting adventure during our vacation. We caught a variety of fish and enjoyed grilling them up that evening. We highly recommend Captain Troy for your Florida Keys fishing adventure.

    Patrick G. | March 13, 2024

    Trip: Afternoon Half

  • ★★★★★
    Great charter. Awesome Captain and First Mate

    Robert P. | March 11, 2024

    Trip: Marathon Offshore - 30’ Boca Grande

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome day. Great Capt. and 1st mate.

    Thomas E. | January 1, 2024

    Trip: Full day fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time! Captain Paul was great and John worked his butt off to get is on fish. Highly recommend.

    Mike H. | December 23, 2023

    Trip: Offshore Thrills

  • ★★★★★
    I went on my 1st trip out of Islemorada with my son. The action was unbelievable! Capt Paul and his mate John put us on the fish early and often. It was our best fishing trip ever! It definitely won’t be our last. Thanks again Capt. Paul!

    Joe H. | November 24, 2023

    Trip: Offshore Thrills

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Paul and John were excellent today. We had so much fun and were treated very well. Highly recommend him to anyone.

    Robert S. | October 10, 2023

    Trip: Offshore Thrills

  • ★★★★★
    Had an amazing trip with Captain Paul and excellent deck hand John. We would recommend Paul and John to all looking to book an offshore trip.

    Scott B. | September 15, 2023

    Trip: Offshore Thrills

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time with Joel & his crew. Caught a ton of fish, & enjoyed our time offshore :) We’ll be back to do it again!

    Casie B. | September 10, 2023

    Trip: Marathon Offshore - 30’ Boca Grande

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Paul and First Mate John were awesome. Captain Paul found fish quickly and after a school of Mahi would pass, he was able to find another quickly. John worked his butt off hooking up bait for the next school and changing lines as needed. Definitely a great time with knowledgeable fishermen. Wouldn’t hesitate to book another trip.

    Dan H. | September 10, 2023

    Trip: Offshore Thrills

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome fishing trip with captain Paul and John! Knowledgeable and very helpful! Got a lot of fish on and came back with some mahi! Cleaned out fish and filleted. Got recommendations on where to take our fish to eat and who to see to send our fish back home!

    Ashley B. | September 9, 2023

    Trip: Offshore Thrills

What's biting in Islamorada?

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