Bonito Fishing Charters In Key West

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Recently Booked Bonito Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Legendary Fishing In Key West

100% (5)
55 ft 1 - 6 People From $183 / person

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Mixed Bag Trip

100% (3)
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $142 / person
Damn Good

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Corsair Sportfishing Key West

NEW
50 ft 1 - 6 People From $158 / person

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

Offshore, Inshore , Sandbar, And Sunset

NEW
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $117 / person

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Exotic Reef Fishing

NEW
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $167 / person

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

4 Hour Nearshore Fishing Trip

NEW
34 ft 1 - 4 People From $450 / person

Most Popular Types of Bonito Trips in Key West

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

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More Bonito Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Hop on board with Captain Brad and prepare for a stunning adventure to the waters of Dry Tortugas! His 34' Yellowfin will take up to 4 anglers on this exciting 68-mile trip. The remote Dry Tortuga National Park comes with once-in-a-lifetime views. Home to seven islands and even the massive coastal fortress that is Fort Jefferson, it's a sight to be seen for sure. Fishing in the Dry Tortugas yields many species of fish including all kinds of Snapper, Grouper, Cobia, Amberjack, Kingfish and many more. On this 8-hour trip, Captain Brad will take you on a 68-mile trip from Key West to these remote islands. You'll be using light tackle, bottom fishing and jigging to catch any of these picture-worthy species. Captain Brad is happy to demonstrate proper fundamentals for all techniques. He grew up fishing in the Keys and is sure to put you where the fish are biting! Captain Brad fishes aboard a 34’ Yellowfin center console with a capacity for 4 people. Powered by 2 300 HP Suzuki engines, this well-outfitted vessel is sure to comfortably get you where you need to be in no time. It has a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Outriggers, Ice Box and even a bathroom! Captain Brad will provide all rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is any food or drinks you might want, and a camera is recommended. Climb aboard and go on an adventure! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

4 Hour Nearshore Fishing Trip

NEW
34 ft 1 - 4 People From $450 / person

Captain Brad is just the right guy you’re looking for if you’re trying to go fishing in Key West. With a lifetime of experience fishing these waters, Captain Brad knows just where the fish bite! On these 4, 6, and 8-hour trips, you’ll be targeting a variety of species, including Goliath Grouper, King Mackerel / Kingfish, Red Snapper (depending on the season), and Yellowtail Snapper. You’ll be fishing aboard Captain Brad’s 34-foot center console equipped with two 300 HP engines. She also boasts a toilet, GPS, fishfinder, live bait well, outriggers, and an ice box. Captain Brad welcomes six anglers aboard, so make sure you bring some good company! Capt Brad recommends that you bring food and drinks of your choice (preferably no glass), a hat, and sunscreen. They will provide all licenses, rods, reels, lures, and tackle. You can also purchase live bait for an additional fee. Captain Brad welcomes you to an unforgettable day on the water! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Exotic Reef Fishing

NEW
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $167 / person

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

Offshore, Inshore , Sandbar, And Sunset

NEW
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $117 / person
Damn Good

If you’re looking for some of the best charter fishing that money can buy out of Key West, Florida, you can’t go wrong with Corsair 2 Sportfishing. With over 3 decades of local fishing experience under his belt, Captain Russ McKinley is your man if you want to get the best out of these deep blue waters. Our boat is a 50’ Hatteras saltwater fishing boat that can take up to 6 anglers deep sea fishing at the same time. Powered by twin 550 HP Detroit Diesel‎ engines, this fishing machine is unstoppable on the water. The vessel comes rigged with state-of-the-art navigational electronics and safety equipment, outriggers, a fighting chair, a live bait tank, and ice-boxes. It’s also very comfortable and features 2 private restrooms, a kitchen, a flybridge, beds, and AC. This beauty can take you for some amazing deep sea and reef fishing up to 25 miles offshore on full day trips. These trips will also provide higher chances of catching Marlin! If you book a half day trip, you’ll be fishing in a 2–12 mile range. Depending on the package and the bite, your target list will include Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Sailfish, Marlin, Snapper, Grouper, and many other attractive species. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Corsair Sportfishing Key West

NEW
50 ft 1 - 6 People From $158 / person

Join Captain Brad on an exciting fishing adventure in Key West, Florida. Captain Brad is extremely friendly and courteous, and wants to help you reel in your personal best! On these 4, 6, and 8-hour adventures, Captain Brad will help you catch a variety of species, including Mahi Mahi / Dorado, Black Grouper, Goliath Grouper, Red Grouper, King Mackerel / Kingfish, Sailfish, Red Snapper (depending on the season), Yellowtail Snapper, and Wahoo. You’ll be fishing aboard Capt. Brad’s 43-foot sportfisher which is equipped with a large fishing cockpit, a functioning Tuna Tower, and an extra-large live well capacity. On this trip, Captain Brad emphasizes light tackle but is more than happy to accommodate for live bait slow trolling, reef & wreck, dead bait trolling, kite fishing, and blue water fly fishing. Captain Brad will provide Penn, Shimano, and Daiwa rods, reels, tackle, and lures. They will also provide live bait, drinks, fly fishing equipment, and fish cleaning/filleting at no extra cost. A first mate will be on board to help you at all times. Make sure you bring a hat, sunscreen, and some food/snacks for the day! The crew is excited to give you a great fishing trip – it doesn’t matter if you’ve fished a hundred times or whether this is your first time taking the family fishing – there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Mixed Bag Trip

100% (3)
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $142 / person

Head out for a fun-filled action-packed charter with Captain Chuck aboard his Ocean Yacht for an epic Key West fishing experience! For most trips, you will be trolling the nearshore and close offshore waters for Bonito, Mackerel, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, and whatever else emerges from the beautiful waters off the southernmost point of the United States! The longer the trip, the more species you can expect to catch (and the bigger the fish!) Captain Chuck fishes aboard a well-maintained 55 foot Ocean Sport Fisher. She is fully equipped to fish, outfitted with a Furuno electronics package and all the tackle you will need for your Key West Fishing Adventure. With dual 725 horse power Detroit Diesel engines powering this vessel, you can get from the dock to prime fishing spots quick to allow you to begin fishing faster! You're welcome to be as involved as you'd like as well, for those who just want to cool off and watch the action from inside the air-conditioned cabin, we have a luxurious space for them to relax until the next big fish gets on the hook. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Legendary Fishing In Key West

100% (5)
55 ft 1 - 6 People From $183 / person
See All Bonito Trips in Key West

Everything to Know About Booking a Key West bonito fishing charter

What are the best bonito fishing charters in Key West?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 6 bonito trips in Key West, and the most popular trips in the area are Legendary Fishing in Key West guided by Chuck, Key West Mixed Bag Trip guided by Brad, and Corsair Sportfishing Key West guided by Russ.

Our guides in Key West are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 2406 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and 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 bonito guides in Key West? Check out our beginner and family friendly bonito guides in Key West.

What types of bonito fishing charters are common in Key West?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular for bonito in Key West as well as nearshore fishing, jetty fishing, and inshore fishing.

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

How much do Key West bonito fishing charters cost?

for bonito in Key West prices can range anywhere from an affordable $700 to $1,800, but the average price for a half day trip for bonito in Key West is $920. The average price for a full day trip for bonito in Key West is $1,380.

What month is best for bonito fishing in Key West?

The most popular season for bonito fishing in Key West is spring, and most anglers book their trips 56 days in advance.

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

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in Key West don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. See here for more information on bag limits and fishing season regulations in Key West.

What is bonito fishing in Key West all about?

Bonito, also known as false albacore, are a prized sportfish found in the waters around Key West. These fast-swimming pelagic fish are known for their strength and agility, providing anglers with exciting battles when hooked. Bonito are often found in schools, particularly around offshore reefs, wrecks, and ledges, where they feed on small baitfish and squid. Anglers targeting bonito in Key West can expect thrilling action as these powerful fish make blistering runs and display impressive acrobatics when hooked.

In Key West, bonito can be targeted year-round, with peak seasons typically occurring in the spring and fall when these fish migrate along the Florida coast. During these times, anglers have the best chance of encountering large schools of bonito, providing ample opportunities for exciting fishing adventures. However, bonito can be caught throughout the year, especially in deeper waters offshore and around areas of structure where baitfish congregate. Whether fishing from a boat or casting from shore, anglers in Key West have the chance to hook into these hard-fighting fish regardless of the season.

When targeting bonito in Key West, anglers often use a variety of techniques to entice these speedy predators. Trolling with artificial lures or rigged baits is a popular method for covering large areas of water and locating feeding schools of bonito. Anglers may also cast or jig with metal spoons, jigs, or brightly colored flies to mimic the baitfish that bonito prey upon. Additionally, chumming with live baitfish or chunks of cut bait can help attract bonito to the area and stimulate their feeding response. With the right techniques and equipment, anglers can enjoy thrilling bonito fishing action in the waters surrounding Key West.

What are the most popular months to fish for bonito fishing in Key West?

In Key West, bonito, also known as false albacore, can be found year-round, but their abundance and activity levels vary depending on the season. Generally, the peak seasons for bonito fishing in Key West occur during the spring and fall months. During these times, these pelagic fish migrate along the Florida coast, often in large schools, making them more accessible to anglers. Spring, particularly from March to May, and fall, from September to November, are considered prime times to target bonito due to the increased presence of baitfish and favorable water temperatures.

During the spring season, which typically begins in March and extends into May, bonito migrate northward along the Atlantic coast, passing through the waters of Key West. This migration pattern coincides with the movement of baitfish, such as mullet and herring, which serve as the primary food source for bonito. As the waters warm up during spring, bonito become more active and aggressive, making them more responsive to lures and bait presentations. Anglers targeting bonito during this time can expect thrilling battles as these fast-swimming fish put their strength and agility to the test.

Similarly, the fall season, spanning from September to November, sees another peak in bonito activity in Key West. As the water temperatures begin to cool down after the hot summer months, bonito once again migrate southward along the Florida coast, following the movements of baitfish and other prey species. During this time, anglers can encounter large schools of bonito feeding voraciously on baitfish near offshore reefs, wrecks, and ledges. Fall is an excellent time for anglers to target bonito in Key West, as they are often more abundant and aggressive, providing exciting fishing opportunities for both seasoned anglers and beginners alike.

What techniques are popular for catching bonito in Key West?

In Key West, anglers employ various techniques to target bonito, also known as false albacore, which are known for their strength, speed, and agility. One popular method for catching bonito is trolling with artificial lures or rigged baits. Anglers typically troll along the edges of reefs, channels, and drop-offs where bonito often congregate in search of baitfish. Effective trolling lures for bonito include small spoons, feather jigs, and diving plugs designed to mimic the movement of small baitfish. Anglers can adjust trolling speeds to match the preferred swimming speed of bonito, which can vary depending on factors such as water temperature and current.

Another productive technique for targeting bonito in Key West is casting and retrieving lures or flies. Anglers often use light spinning or fly fishing tackle to cast lures or flies into areas where bonito are feeding near the surface. Surface poppers, metal jigs, and streamer flies are popular choices for enticing bonito to strike. The key to success with this technique is to mimic the movement of fleeing baitfish, as bonito are attracted to the erratic action of lures or flies skittering across the water's surface. Anglers should be prepared for fast-paced action when targeting bonito using casting and retrieving techniques, as these fish are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic leaps out of the water.

For anglers seeking a more hands-on approach, live bait fishing can be highly effective for catching bonito in Key West. Live bait options include small fish such as pilchards, mullet, or ballyhoo, which can be rigged on a hook and presented to bonito near reefs, wrecks, and other productive areas. Anglers can use a variety of rigs, including free-lining or bottom fishing rigs, depending on the preferred depth and feeding behavior of bonito. Live bait fishing allows anglers to target bonito with natural presentations that closely resemble their natural prey, increasing the likelihood of enticing strikes. Patience and attention to detail are essential when live bait fishing for bonito, as these fish can be selective feeders and may require finesse to hook successfully.

What other species are popular in Key West?

In addition to bonito, Key West offers anglers a diverse range of species to target, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. One prized species commonly pursued in the waters around Key West is the mahi-mahi, also known as dolphin fish or dorado. These colorful and acrobatic fish are known for their fast growth rates and aggressive feeding behavior, making them a favorite among anglers. Mahi-mahi are often found near floating debris, weed lines, and offshore structures, where they prey on baitfish and squid. Anglers can target mahi-mahi using a variety of techniques, including trolling with rigged baits or lures, casting and retrieving surface plugs or flies, and live bait fishing with pilchards or ballyhoo.

Another popular species to catch in Key West is the yellowtail snapper, prized for its delicious flavor and challenging fight. Yellowtail snapper inhabit shallow reefs, wrecks, and rocky ledges, where they feed on crustaceans, small fish, and shrimp. Anglers can target yellowtail snapper using light spinning or baitcasting tackle, typically with small hooks baited with shrimp, squid, or pilchards. Chumming is often employed to attract yellowtail snapper to the fishing area, creating a feeding frenzy that increases the likelihood of success. Anglers should employ stealthy tactics and precise presentations when targeting yellowtail snapper, as these fish can be wary and easily spooked.

For those seeking a true angling challenge, Key West offers opportunities to target powerful and elusive species such as tarpon and permit. Tarpon, known for their large size, aerial acrobatics, and blistering runs, are often targeted in the shallow flats and channels around Key West, particularly during the spring and summer months. Anglers use live bait such as mullet, pilchards, or crabs, as well as artificial lures and flies, to entice tarpon to strike. Permit, on the other hand, are known for their wariness and selective feeding habits, making them a challenging quarry for anglers. Permit are often found on shallow flats and around wrecks, where they feed on crustaceans and small fish. Anglers use live crabs, shrimp, or small baitfish, as well as artificial crab imitations and flies, to target permit in the waters around Key West.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Had a fantastic trip with Captain John in July of 2023. Went for a morning trip on our honeymoon, caught tons of fish, had a lot of fun. John and his first mate were very competent, personable, and provided an excellent experience. The boat was well outfitted, John knew several spots with lots of fish, and gave us more time than we'd paid for. Great experience, will absolutely book again next time we're in the keys.

    Clare D. with John G. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Hunter was great , knowledgeable, and well disciplined. Weather did not permit a full day so we will plan another trip with Captain Hunter. Thanks John

    John G. with Hunter L. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great time

    Leo M. with Antonio E. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Kyle was a fantastic guide for us! One of the best fishing trips I have been on and I have fished on a lot of guided trips. Everything was handled great by Captain Experiences on the booking and communication side and Kyle was top notch on the fishing trip. We will definitely use you all again.

    Will B. with Kyle K. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent trip with John. Good guys, on fish all day and had a great time. Definitely would book again!

    Kevin V. with John G. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great fishing trip, memorable experience, would refer John and partner to anyone interested charting fishing trip in KeyWest!

    Rob R. with John G. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Our guide Nick is top notch, he is friendly, knowledgeable and certainly knows great spots to fish. We caught fish all day, brought home three very large mutton’s, some other mutton’s and good size yellow tail. We caught and released fish all day, hogfish, large groupers and other assorted fishes. Thanks Nick .

    Chris B. with Paul H. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a fantastic time with captain Brad. We tried different techniques and despite being a rough choppy day we still have out with a lot of fish. We all enjoyed it and highly recommend him to anyone!

    Shai K. with Brad S. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great day! Our captain Hunter was very knowledgeable, and on top of where the fish were and how to catch them. Highly recommend him.

    Michael D. with Hunter L. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time with captain Hunter on are charter, very professional and friendly. Caught some nice fish and enjoyed his company

    Michael D. with Hunter L. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We really enjoyed our fishing charter with captain Hunter, he knows where the fish are and is very knowledgeable of the industry. I would definitely recommend an excursion with him.

    Michael D. with Hunter L. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain David Larson was nice, professional and best of all, he put us on the fish! I did the 4 hour charter and we caught barracuda, massive bull shark, trigger fish, grouper, and blue fish. By the end of the 4 hours I was happy and exhausted. Captain David was experienced, helpful and a genuine good guy.

    Blake L. with John J. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Thanks for a great time on the water!

    Brad K. with Kyle K. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great fishing trip! Captain Mike and first mate Woody did a solid job of getting us into tuna, mahi, and our day was capped off when my son brought in a large sailfish. Lots of fun and recommend them for an awesome day on the water

    Jason M. with Justin F. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Chris and will were so much fun, they made it fun, comfortable and plain amazing let us catch live bait, and they let us reeel in the fish. The best fishing charter I have been on.

    Jerry H. with Mark B. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great Experience. Worked hard to find fish and make an enjoyable experience for everyone. Successful day fishing! Particularly was good with the children and getting them educated on safety. Highly recommended by us. He’s also a great person to be around and cracks some good jokes.

    Stan R. with Hunter L. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Did not love the trip. We would ask questions and get one word answers. Lots of smoking, and some chewing of tobacco. not enjoyable.

    Linda F. with Chuck T. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had the best time ever! It was my first time to go deep sea fishing and my husband and I both caught a Wahoo and plenty of other fish! mark and Nell’s were amazing! We had a local restaurant cook our fish for us that evening. Great trip!!

    Lynda B. with Mark B. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time out , Mark and crew did all they could to get on the fish.Thanks

    Dan C. with Mark B. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    My daughters and I had so much. We made a lot of fun memories. Garrett is fantastic!! Would definitely recommend !!!

    Susan K. with Garrett F. of Key West, Florida

What's biting in Key West?

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