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Cobia Fishing Charters In Key West

Easily find a Key West fishing guide that fits your needs. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Cobia Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Offshore Action

86% (7)
33 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Legendary Fishing In Key West

100% (5)
55 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Mixed Bag Trip

100% (3)
43 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Key West

Flats, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Silver Kings And More

100% (2)
25 ft 1 - 4 People $
Fishing in Key West

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Edge Of The Map Trip

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People $$
Damn Good
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Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Ultimate Action Fishing In Key West

100% (1)
33 ft 1 - 4 People $$$

Most Popular Types of Cobia 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

More Cobia Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Laid Back Key West in Key West

Captain Eric, specializes in providing a customized private charter to fit your needs. Instead of having to choose one type of activity (such as fishing or snorkeling), he allows you to create your own Key West water activities package so you can do exactly what you want, without having to rush due to time restrictions. We want to give you and your family an experience to remember for a lifetime. Even if you and your group just want to relax on a sandbar for a few hours! We know that every customer has different needs and ideas for what they want to do while they are on the water in Key West. Whether you want to go fishing, snorkeling, diving, island hopping, or simply watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico, or perhaps just a little of each, Captain Eric can help you achieve your ideal aquatic day. Captain Eric will provide everything you need for your trip whether that's fishing gear, snorkeling gear, or even his portable grill setup for your so just let beach dining pleasure! This trip is built for your vacationing pleasure and is an unforgettable addition to any Key West vacation! Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Laid Back Key West

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Offshore Fishing,Reef & Wreck and Sunset in Key West

Climb aboard with Captain Antonio "Tony" for an epic 4 to 8-hour experience up to 17 miles off the coast of the beautiful Florida Keys. Whether you want to troll the open waters or post up and do some bottom fishing, this luxurious 35' Egg Harbor sportfisher will have you covered! Trolling the open waters can produce hard fighting species like Amberjacks, Sailfish and Mahi. Trolling trips are great because the boat and the knowledge of your captain take care of half the work for you. You get to sit back, relax, enjoy the sweet sea breeze, and rest your arms while you wait for the reel to start screaming and your work to begin. Bottom fishing changes the target species to an entirely different set of fish. You can expect delicious and hard-fighting reef species like Snapper, Grouper, Cobia, Kingfish, and even Sharks! The experienced crew will provide all the fishing gear you need, and they'll even serve up some delicious sandwiches on the 6 and 8 hour trips. All that’s left to do is bring some drinks and sunscreen, and cast off with Captain Tony! Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Offshore Fishing,Reef & Wreck And Sunset

NEW
35 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West

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

Offshore, Inshore , Sandbar, And Sunset

100% (1)
27 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West Wreck Fishing in Key West

Wreck fishing is a fantastic way to bend your rod on some big fish, and there's no better way to enjoy it than this trip with Captain Billy! He's been on the water his whole life, working as a first mate before he opened his own charter business down in Key West. On this trip, you'll start off at the reef to catch some delicious eating fish for dinner, then head to deeper water and more sunken structure to hunt for something big. On the reef, you'll be targeting tough, hard-fighting species such as Amberjack (known as "reef donkeys" for their stubbornness), Barracuda, Mutton Snapper, and Black Grouper. Snapper and Grouper are especially prized as eating fish for their flaky white filets! On the day of the trip, you'll set out aboard Captain Billy's 26' Renaissance Prowler—a perfect vessel for fishing the Florida Keys. It's equipped with everything you could possibly need for a successful and comfortable trip, including GPS, Fishfinder, live well, and an ice box for your catches. Captain Billy will provide everything, including top-of-the-line rods, reels, bait, and tackle, so that all you have to do is cast out, hook up, and then hold on for the fight of your life! To maximize your time on the water, make sure to bring proper clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera! A trip with Captain Billy is sure to be picture-worthy. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Wreck Fishing

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People $$
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West Exotic Reef Fishing in Key West

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 $$
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Long-Range Key West Trip in Key West

Climb aboard with Captain John and experience an action-packed day of fishing in Key West, Florida. If you have never been to Key West before, you’re missing out! And if you’re looking for a knowledgeable charter captain to take you out, Captain John is a great choice. As a 5th generation fisherman in Key West, Captain John knows exactly where the fish bite. Test your casting accuracy as you target Amberjack, Cobia, Goliath Grouper, African Pompano, Sailfish, Bull SharkYellowtail Snapper, Swordfish, Blackfin Tuna, and many more species. You’ll be fishing aboard Captain John’s 33-foot center console equipped with two 300 HP engines. She also has a GPS, fishfinder, flybridge, live bait well, outriggers, and tuna tubes. Captain John will provide Spearfishing Equipment and Snorkeling equipment free of charge if you’re interested. He welcomes 6 anglers on these 4, 6, and 8-hour adventures. Make sure you bring food and drinks for the day (preferably no glass) as well as a hat and sunscreen. Captain John will provide all licenses, rods, reels, lures, and tackle. He will also prepare live bait before the trip, although you can catch the bait during the trip if you’d like. For the 6-and 8-hour trips, a first mate will be on board to help you at all times. They will help you clean and fillet your fish at the end of the trip. Whatever your skill level, there is a fish out here with your name on it. Come and join Captain John for an exciting day of fishing! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Long-Range Key West Trip

100% (1)
33 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
See All Cobia Trips in Key West

Everything to Know About Booking a Key West cobia fishing charter

What are the best cobia fishing charters in Key West?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 20 cobia trips in Key West, and the most popular trips in the area are Key West Offshore Action guided by John, Legendary Fishing in Key West guided by Chuck, and Key West Mixed Bag Trip guided by Brad.

Our guides in Key West are rated a 4.86 out of 5 based on 2565 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.

Another popular city nearby for booking a Cobia charter is Stock Island.

Looking for kid friendly cobia guides / fishing lessons in Key West? Check out our beginner and family friendly cobia guides in Key West.

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

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

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

How much do Key West cobia fishing charters cost?

for cobia in Key West prices can range anywhere from about $830 to $2,470, but the average price for a half day trip for cobia in Key West is $1,103. The average price for a full day trip for cobia in Key West is $1,730.

What month is best for cobia fishing in Key West?

The most popular season for cobia fishing in Key West is spring, and most anglers book their trips 37 days in advance.

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

Cobia, also known as ling or lemonfish, are a prized catch among anglers in Key West for their impressive size, fighting ability, and delicious flesh. These powerful and predatory fish can be found in the nearshore and offshore waters around Key West, particularly around wrecks, reefs, and other structures where they prey on baitfish and crustaceans. Cobia are known for their distinctive appearance, with a broad, flattened head, elongated body, and dark lateral stripe running along their sides.

Fishing for cobia in Key West typically involves targeting them around wrecks, reefs, or other offshore structures where they are known to congregate. Anglers often use live bait such as crabs, pinfish, or mullet rigged on heavy tackle to entice strikes from cobia. Additionally, trolling with large lures or jigs in areas where cobia are likely to be found can also be effective for enticing strikes. Cobia are known for their powerful runs and stubborn fights once hooked, providing anglers with thrilling battles that make for memorable fishing experiences.

While cobia can be encountered year-round in Key West, they are most abundant during the warmer months, from spring through fall. During this time, cobia are more active and readily feed in the nearshore and offshore waters, making them easier to locate and catch for anglers. Whether targeting cobia for their impressive fights or their delicious flesh, Key West offers anglers a thrilling and rewarding fishing experience in pursuit of these formidable game fish.

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

In Key West, cobia can be found throughout the year, but their abundance and behavior can vary depending on the season. Generally, the prime seasons for targeting cobia in Key West occur during the warmer months, spanning from late spring through early fall. During these months, cobia are more active and readily feed in the nearshore and offshore waters around Key West, making them easier to locate and catch for anglers.

Spring and summer are particularly favorable seasons for cobia fishing in Key West due to the warmer water temperatures and increased prey availability. These months coincide with the spawning and migration patterns of cobia, leading to higher concentrations of these predators in the area. Anglers can expect to encounter cobia around wrecks, reefs, and other offshore structures, where they congregate to feed on baitfish and crustaceans, providing ample opportunities for successful fishing trips.

While cobia can be caught year-round in Key West, they may be less abundant or more scattered during the cooler months of fall and winter. However, with their migratory patterns and the influence of ocean currents, cobia can still be found in nearshore waters throughout the year, providing anglers with opportunities for thrilling catches. Whether targeting cobia for their impressive fights or their delicious flesh, Key West offers anglers a variety of techniques and seasons to pursue these formidable game fish.

What techniques are popular for catching cobia in Key West?

Fishing for cobia in Key West requires employing various techniques tailored to the behavior and habitat of these powerful predators. One effective method for targeting cobia is sight fishing, which involves scanning the surface of the water for cobia cruising nearshore or around structures such as wrecks, buoys, or channel markers. Anglers often use polarized sunglasses to enhance visibility and spot cobia, then cast live bait such as crabs, pinfish, or mullet towards the fish to entice strikes. This technique requires patience, keen observation, and precise casting to effectively present the bait to the cobia.

Another popular technique for cobia fishing in Key West is bottom fishing, which involves anchoring or drifting near wrecks, reefs, or other offshore structures where cobia are known to congregate. Anglers use heavy tackle with live or cut bait such as crabs, squid, or fish to target cobia near the bottom. Deploying baits at varying depths can help anglers target cobia at different water levels, increasing their chances of enticing strikes. Additionally, chumming the water with baitfish or oily substances can attract cobia to the area and encourage feeding activity.

Trolling is also an effective technique for targeting cobia in Key West, particularly in offshore waters where cobia may be found patrolling along reef edges, drop-offs, or areas with baitfish concentrations. Anglers troll with large lures or rigged baits at varying speeds and depths to cover a wide area and locate feeding cobia. Using downriggers or planers can help anglers present their baits at different depths and increase their chances of attracting strikes. Whether sight fishing, bottom fishing, or trolling, Key West offers anglers a variety of techniques to target cobia and enjoy thrilling angling experiences in pursuit of these formidable game fish.

What other species are popular in Key West?

Aside from cobia, Key West offers anglers a diverse array of species to target, ensuring exciting fishing opportunities year-round. One popular catch in Key West's waters is the tarpon, often referred to as the "silver king" for its impressive size, acrobatic leaps, and powerful fights. Tarpon can be found in the shallow flats, channels, and backcountry waters around Key West, particularly during the warmer months. Anglers targeting tarpon often use live bait such as mullet or crabs, as well as artificial lures such as swimbaits or topwater plugs, to entice strikes from these formidable game fish.

Another prized species in Key West's waters is the mahi-mahi, known for its vibrant colors, delicious flesh, and aggressive strikes. Mahi-mahi, also known as dorado or dolphin fish, are often found around floating debris, weed lines, or offshore structures where they feed on small fish and crustaceans. Anglers targeting mahi-mahi typically use trolling techniques with brightly colored lures or natural baits such as ballyhoo or squid, as well as casting with artificial lures or live bait fishing with offerings such as pilchards or small jigs, to entice strikes from these acrobatic game fish.

Additionally, Key West offers opportunities to target a variety of other species, including grouper, snapper, sailfish, and more. Whether fishing from a private boat, charter vessel, or the shoreline, anglers can enjoy thrilling angling experiences while exploring the city's scenic coastal waters. 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 of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Mike and Cole were fantastic. We had four small kids with us, and they handled them perfectly. We caught lots of yellowtail snapper and a nurse shark! 10/10, would book again (and plan to).

    Daniel K. with Mike W. of Stock Island, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience with Captain Mike. Enjoyed our time on the water and caught an amazing meal of Yellowtail! Thank you Blind Squirrel and crew!

    Matthew P. with Mike W. of Stock Island, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    My husband and son had nothing but great things to say about their trip! “Best trip ever” per my son. They were able to catch a 40+ lb grouper! They loved every minute and said Spencer was super knowledgeable! Worth every penny for the experience!

    Michelle P. with Spencer C. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Great time

    Leo M. with Antonio E. 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

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Eric was the best! Very personable and fun. We will do this again.

    Teri H. with Eric G. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Fabulous fun and great experience with the crew!!!

    David H. with Chuck T. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great day with Captain Spencer. He put us on the fish and even a nice shark! He was very professional and easy going. He went above and beyond for the four of us on our dad-cation. Not only did he put us in the fish he put us in to some great local Cuban sandwiches. If I head back to the keys with my friend or my family I will definitely book Captain Spencer again!

    Walter S. with Spencer C. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Nice boat even good in rough sea. Worked hard to find fish.

    Steve G. with Eric G. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great time on the water! Very nice boat with plenty of room. Captain and deck hand were great!

    Jason M. with Brad S. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent captain who was extremely knowledgeable of his area and worked hard to keep us in fish. Lots of rod bending hard fighting fish species inshore in the keys that I was not aware of! Thanks!

    Dennis H. with Anthony S. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great crew, they worked very hard, but the fish just wasn’t there, we’ll book with them again

    Ted M. with Chuck T. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic trip for the whole group! The crew was diligent and fun to be with. Can't recommend this charter enough!

    William H. with Mike W. of Stock Island, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Jake was great! We caught out limit of Mahi and a great time.

    Gregory S. with John G. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Our guide Spencer was wonderful. He asked what we wanted to catch, we made a game plan . We have a wonderful time!!! Best Guide!!

    Carlos B. with Spencer C. of Key West, Florida

What's biting in Key West?

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