Damn Good Blackfin Tuna Fishing Charters In Key West

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Recently Booked Blackfin Tuna Fishing Charters In Key West, Fl

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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Mixed Bag Trip

100% (8)
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $950
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Legendary Fishing In Key West

100% (8)
55 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,100
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Offshore Or Inshore

100% (23)
27 ft 1 - 12 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Afternoon 1/2 Day Fishing

88% (8)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $800
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Key West

Ultimate Action Fishing In Key West

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 12 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Wreck & Reef Fishing - 29’ Sea Vee

100% (3)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $900

Top Types of Blackfin Tuna Trips in Key West

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Target Species in Key West

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  • Get it while it's HOT!
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  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
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More Blackfin Tuna Fishing Charters In Key West, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Southernmost Mahi Offshore Fishing

100% (3)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Fishing Slam

94% (18)
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,050
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Dawn To Dusk Key West Fishing Trip

100% (8)
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,000
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Offshore Action

89% (9)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Sport Fishing Experience

NEW
30 ft 1 - 12 People From $900
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Fishing in Destin
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Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Pulley Ridge

89% (9)
37 ft 1 - 6 People From $5,500
See All Blackfin Tuna Trips in Key West

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Everything to Know About Booking a Key West blackfin tuna fishing charter

What are the best blackfin tuna fishing charters in Key West?

Why should I book a blackfin tuna fishing charter in Key West with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 46 blackfin tuna trips in Key West, and the most popular trips in the area are Key West Offshore or Inshore guided by Antonio, Key West Mixed Bag Trip guided by Brad, and Legendary Fishing in Key West guided by Chuck.

Our guides in Key West are rated a 4.9 out of 5 based on 3809 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 blackfin tuna guides / fishing lessons in Key West? Check out our beginner and family friendly blackfin tuna guides in Key West.

What types of blackfin tuna fishing charters are common in Key West?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for blackfin tuna in Key West as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and jetty fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Key West are trolling, light tackle fishing, and bottom fishing but heavy tackle fishing and jigging are popular as well.

How much do Key West blackfin tuna fishing charters cost?

Prices for blackfin tuna in Key West can range anywhere from about $1,070 to $3,300, but the average price for a half day trip for blackfin tuna in Key West is $1,597. The average price for a full day trip for blackfin tuna in Key West is $2,396.

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 blackfin tuna fishing in Key West?

The most popular season for blackfin tuna fishing in Key West is summer, and most anglers book their trips 21 days in advance.

Do I need a Key West fishing license for blackfin tuna and what are the bag limits for blackfin tuna in Key West?

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

What is blackfin tuna fishing in Key West all about?

Blackfin tuna, a highly prized and fast-swimming species, is a popular target for anglers in Key West, Florida. These sleek and powerful fish are found in offshore waters around the city, often congregating near weed lines, floating debris, and offshore structures. Blackfin tuna are known for their acrobatic leaps and powerful runs, making them a favorite among sport fishermen seeking an exhilarating challenge.

Fishing for blackfin tuna in Key West often involves trolling techniques, where anglers use small lures or rigged baits dragged behind the boat to entice strikes from these speedy predators. Anglers may also deploy live bait such as pilchards, herring, or small fish to attract blackfin tuna. Another effective method is casting or jigging with vertical jigs or metal lures, imitating the small baitfish that blackfin tuna prey upon. This technique allows anglers to target tuna actively feeding near the surface or mid-water column.

Blackfin tuna fishing in Key West is productive year-round, but peak seasons typically occur during the warmer months when these fish are more abundant and actively feeding. The thrill of hooking into a blackfin tuna and experiencing its powerful runs and aerial displays adds an exciting dimension to offshore angling in Key West. Whether fishing from a private boat, charter vessel, or participating in offshore tournaments, anglers can enjoy the challenge and excitement of pursuing blackfin tuna against the stunning backdrop of the city's coastal waters.

What are the most popular months to fish for blackfin tuna in Key West?

In Key West, Florida, blackfin tuna can be found in the area's offshore waters throughout the year, but certain seasons offer more favorable conditions for targeting these prized game fish. The best time to encounter blackfin tuna in Key West is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. During this time, blackfin tuna are more abundant and actively feeding, making them more accessible to anglers.

Spring marks the beginning of the blackfin tuna season in Key West, as warming water temperatures stimulate the movement and feeding behavior of these fast-swimming fish. As the weather warms, blackfin tuna become more active and can be found feeding near the surface or mid-water column in offshore waters. Anglers targeting blackfin tuna during spring often find success using trolling techniques with small lures or rigged baits, as well as casting or jigging with vertical jigs or metal lures.

Fall sees another peak season for blackfin tuna fishing in Key West, as cooling water temperatures trigger increased activity among these highly prized fish. During this time, blackfin tuna can be found feeding aggressively around offshore structures, weed lines, and floating debris, providing anglers with ample opportunities to target them. Whether fishing from a private boat, charter vessel, or participating in offshore tournaments, anglers in Key West can enjoy the challenge and excitement of pursuing blackfin tuna against the backdrop of the city's stunning coastal scenery.

What techniques are popular for catching blackfin tuna in Key West?

Fishing for blackfin tuna in Key West, Florida, requires anglers to employ a variety of techniques to entice strikes from these fast-swimming and elusive fish. One effective method is trolling offshore waters with small lures or rigged baits dragged behind the boat. Anglers often use trolling spreads with a mix of artificial lures and natural baits to cover different depths and distances, increasing their chances of encountering blackfin tuna. Trolling allows anglers to cover a large area of water and locate schools of tuna actively feeding near the surface or mid-water column.

Another successful technique for targeting blackfin tuna in Key West is casting or jigging with vertical jigs or metal lures. Anglers deploy these lures to mimic the movement of small baitfish that blackfin tuna prey upon. This method is particularly effective when fishing near offshore structures, weed lines, or floating debris, where blackfin tuna are known to congregate. Anglers can vary their retrieval speed and presentation to find what works best for enticing strikes from these fast-moving predators.

Blackfin tuna fishing in Key West can also be productive using live bait such as pilchards, herring, or small fish. Anglers deploy live bait using a variety of techniques, including drifting or slow trolling with baits rigged on circle hooks to attract strikes from blackfin tuna cruising near the surface. Whether trolling, casting, or using live bait, anglers in Key West can enjoy the thrill and excitement of targeting blackfin tuna against the backdrop of the city's stunning coastal scenery.

What other species are popular in Key West?

Key West, Florida, offers anglers a diverse range of species to target aside from blackfin tuna, providing a variety of fishing opportunities in its rich and vibrant waters. One popular catch is the sailfish, known for its impressive speed and acrobatic leaps when hooked. Sailfish can be found in the offshore waters of the Gulf Stream, particularly during the winter months when they migrate through the area in search of prey. Anglers targeting sailfish often use trolling techniques with artificial lures or rigged baits, as well as live bait such as ballyhoo or mullet, to entice strikes from these majestic game fish.

Another sought-after species in Key West's waters is the mahi-mahi, also known as dolphin fish or dorado. Mahi-mahi are prized for their vibrant colors, delicious taste, and acrobatic fights. These fish are commonly found in offshore waters near floating debris, weed lines, and temperature breaks, where they feed on small fish and crustaceans. Anglers targeting mahi-mahi often use trolling techniques with brightly colored lures or rigged baits, as well as live bait such as pilchards or squid, to attract strikes from these highly prized and visually stunning fish.

In addition to sailfish and mahi-mahi, Key West offers opportunities to target a variety of other species, including wahoo, king mackerel, and yellowfin tuna. Whether fishing from a private boat or charter vessel, anglers can enjoy thrilling angling experiences while exploring the city's scenic coastal landscapes. With its diverse marine ecosystem and abundance of fishing opportunities, Key West provides anglers with endless possibilities for memorable fishing outings and unforgettable catches.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Tony was a fantastic guide who knew the right places to fish. His knowledge of the local waters and species was incredible and we caught 30 fish including a prized huge Mutton! So much fun and we will definitely go with Captain Tony with screaming lines again!!

    Stephen B. | December 24, 2024

    Trip: Key West Offshore or Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Our trip with Tony was amazing! Our family had such a good time catching all sorts of different species. After catching fish pretty consistently for about four hours, Tony was nice enough to clean our fish for us. We were able to take our filets to the restaurant next to where he picked us up where they cooked them for us. Overall it was a great day and we highly recommend Tony and his services!

    Tyler L. | December 22, 2024

    Trip: Key West Offshore or Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    We had a blast with Joe and Captain Chuck. Will definitely return!

    Yohannes H. | October 28, 2024

    Trip: Legendary Fishing in Key West

  • ★★★★★
    We had such a great time and our guide was fun, knowledgeable, and put us on the fish all trip! We will be going back for sure.

    Rae S. | October 6, 2024

    Trip: Key West Offshore Action

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent guide and first mate. Both were great. Stayed over our time to be sure all the kids caught something. Highly recommend!!!

    Graham S. | September 16, 2024

    Trip: Key West Fishing Slam

  • ★★★★★
    Chris & Will were great. Knowledgeable, professional, engaging and put us on the fish. Would highly recommend this charter.

    Doug B. | September 11, 2024

    Trip: Key West Sportfish Trip

  • ★★★★★
    We had an amazing time! We had a special interest in Mahi and captain brad and his first mate made it happen. It was great, they made us feel super comfortable and confident. We were able to score Mackerel, Yellowtail and we latched on 3 Mahi’s at the very very last second! Super lucky. Brad and his first mate made it happen! We were able to leave with 2 mackerels and 2 Mahi Mahi’s! Thank you! You won’t regret booking with them. Special experience.

    María A. | September 2, 2024

    Trip: Key West Mixed Bag Trip

  • ★★★★★
    My families trip with Captain John was awesome. John is a humble, hardworking, easy going, chill, dude and fit right in with our families vibe. He was great with our 5 year old son and answered all of his many fishing questions. John made it clear that between the time of year and conditions that day we would have to really work at it to get anything. That’s exactly what we did and we ended up catching a good amount of fish. Most importantly our 5 year old son, who is obsessed with fishing, had the time of his life and caught fish he’s never seen before. 5 stars, highly recommend. If you have a small group this is the charter to go on!

    Jacob D. | August 25, 2024

    Trip: Full Day Private Fishing Charter

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Brad and his first mate were amazing. It was my first time fishing off of a boat and I'm glad it was with them! They were both very patient, helpful, and made it an unforgettable experience. We caught snapper and grouper and even hooked an eel! Thanks to both of you for a fantastic time on the water. Highly recommend

    Karen E. | August 19, 2024

    Trip: Key West Mixed Bag Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Steve and woody were absolutely a load of fun although the fish were not biting they continued to try !! Very enjoyable time !

    Marcie R. | August 17, 2024

    Trip: Key West Fishing Slam

  • ★★★★★
    Great day on the water, Captain Mark and mate Will were awesome. They put me on fish and stayed out until the last minute. I would definitely recommend.

    Nicholas W. | August 8, 2024

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

  • ★★★★★
    Our charter with Captain John was incredible! He was very professional but also personable! We enjoyed everything about the fishing trip! We had a beautiful day & caught several large dolphins! Will definitely rebook with Capt. John the next time we are in Key West!

    Deanna H. | July 31, 2024

    Trip: Morning 1/2 Day Fishing Charter

  • ★★★★★
    Guys were awesome !! They were all ready to go when I got to the boat Tony and Tony Sr absolute gentlemen and worked very hard and got me mahi, tuna, and barracudas definitely go out with again

    Paul M. | July 22, 2024

    Trip: Key West Offshore or Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    We had an absolutely amazing time deep sea fishing with Captain Anthony! He is a fun and knowledgeable fisherman with LOTS of experience and great stories (ask him about how he’d dive for lobsters to impress his dates). He does all the work but lets you learn and participate as much or as little as you want. We knew we had an expert when we heard the radio chatter of all the other guides complaining that nothing was biting, while we pulled in six (only four mahi in pic). The other two were a small tuna and a ~32” barracuda). We highly recommend Kilo Whiskey Charter & Captain Anthony!

    Dan W. | July 18, 2024

    Trip: Ultimate Action Fishing in Key West

  • ★★★★★
    Absolutely the highlight of our trip. Mike and his crew were fantastic teachers, patient and focused on helping all of us catch terrific fish. They are great with kids of all ages - 5 years to 16 years. Everyone had a great time and we caught a lot of fish.

    Vicki L. | July 16, 2024

    Trip: Key West Nearshore/Offshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Was a great trip, got on some nice fish. Got surprised by a large school of smaller mahi mahi but had fun with the instant hook up and seemed to last a good bit. Captain was great, very knowledgeable and supplied drinks if we needed any. The boat was clean and spacious for the both of us and had plenty of rods in the water.

    Tony P. | July 12, 2024

    Trip: Full Day Offshore - 30' Seahunter

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Tony was great. We'd definitely book again.

    Houston H. | July 9, 2024

    Trip: Key West Offshore or Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time Captain Steve and First mate Jeff was very professional.

    David R. | July 5, 2024

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Fishing (Private)

  • ★★★★★
    Great Captain, great Mate, great boat and great time! Captain Steve got us on the Mahi and slayed em! Full limit on Mahi and a couple of barracuda. We had one sailfish come look but not for lack of trying! Jeff knows his stuff and never stopped working and made sure we were fishing the entire time. We completed our limit by landing all three of a triple set. I have fished my whole life and this was a fantastic trip. Highly recommend the Sea-clusion and Captain Steve.

    Arik G. | July 5, 2024

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Fishing (Private)

  • ★★★★★
    Capt John was top notch!! Our planned morning trip hit a snag due to bad weather…But John was honest and informative suggesting that we should hold off a few hours…so we did. Our afternoon ended up being an awesome fishing encounter. We would highly recommend…thank you Capt John!!!

    Kelly L. | July 1, 2024

    Trip: Morning 1/2 Day Fishing Charter

What's biting in Key West?

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