Damn Good Hammerhead Shark Fishing Charters In Key West

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Recently Booked Hammerhead Shark Fishing Charters In Key West, Fl

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
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
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Key West

Marquesas Key "Hidden Gem" Trip

100% (12)
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $1,200
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, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

94% (18)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Shark Trips - 29’ Sea Vee

100% (3)
29 ft 1 - 5 People From $1,500
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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
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Second Generation Bay Boat

100% (2)
25 ft 1 - 6 People From $800

Top Types of Hammerhead Shark Trips in Key West

“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.”

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Target Species in Key West

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  • Get it while it's HOT!
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More Hammerhead Shark Fishing Charters In Key West, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

100% (12)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Offshore Excitement!

100% (12)
30 ft 1 - 4 People From $900
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Shark Fishing Trip

NEW
34 ft 1 - 2 People From $900
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Fishing in Destin
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Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Key West

Morning 1/2 Day

NEW
25 ft 1 - 8 People From $800
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter near Key West

Shark Fishing

100% (2)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $950
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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
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Key West

Shark Fishing Islamorada

94% (16)
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Other Trips in Key West

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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.
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Dry Tortugas Trip

100% (7)
35 ft 1 - 12 People From $3,750
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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
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Tarpon Fishing (seasonally)

100% (22)
27 ft 1 - 12 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West On Light Tackle & Flies

100% (2)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
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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
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Fishing Adventure

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 8 People From $800
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Wreck Fishing

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25 ft 1 - 4 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Sportfishing Adventure

100% (2)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,050
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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
Fishing in Destin
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Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Offshore Fishing Expedition

100% (7)
35 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,300
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Marquesas Atoll Light Tackle

100% (3)
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $950
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

8 Hour Private Fishing

NEW
28 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Dusk Till Dawn - 18’ Xplor

100% (3)
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $1,500
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
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, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Marquesas Key Fishing Adventure

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,600

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Everything to Know About Booking a Key West hammerhead shark fishing charter

What are the best hammerhead shark fishing charters in Key West?

Why should I book a hammerhead shark fishing charter in Key West with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 9 hammerhead shark trips in Key West, and the most popular trips in the area are Southernmost Mahi Offshore Fishing guided by Garrett, Wreck & Reef Fishing - 29’ Sea Vee guided by Garrett, and Marquesas Key "Hidden Gem" Trip guided by John.

Our guides in Key West are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3806 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 hammerhead shark guides / fishing lessons in Key West? Check out our beginner and family friendly hammerhead shark guides in Key West.

What types of hammerhead shark fishing charters are common in Key West?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for hammerhead shark 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 heavy tackle fishing but jigging and drift fishing are popular as well.

How much do Key West hammerhead shark fishing charters cost?

Prices for hammerhead shark in Key West can range anywhere from about $800 to $1,940, but the average price for a half day trip for hammerhead shark in Key West is $1,187. The average price for a full day trip for hammerhead shark in Key West is $1,516.

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 hammerhead shark fishing in Key West?

The most popular season for hammerhead shark fishing in Key West is summer, and most anglers book their trips 25 days in advance.

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

Hammerhead sharks are among the fascinating marine species that inhabit the waters surrounding Key West, adding an element of excitement for anglers seeking thrilling fishing experiences. These sharks are easily recognizable by their distinctive hammer-shaped heads, known as cephalofoils, which help them detect prey more effectively. While encountering hammerhead sharks is not uncommon in the waters off Key West, deliberately targeting them for fishing purposes requires careful consideration due to their protected status and conservation concerns.

In Key West, hammerhead sharks can be found in various habitats, including nearshore waters, offshore reefs, and deep-sea environments. They are known to frequent areas with abundant prey, such as schools of fish, squid, and crustaceans. Anglers interested in targeting hammerhead sharks should be mindful of regulations and guidelines set forth by local authorities and conservation organizations to ensure sustainable fishing practices and the protection of these iconic marine predators.

When fishing for hammerhead sharks in Key West, anglers typically use heavy-duty tackle, strong lines, and sturdy hooks to handle these powerful creatures safely. Live or dead baitfish, such as bonito, mullet, or mackerel, are commonly used to attract hammerhead sharks, while chumming the water with fish oils or blood can help draw them closer to the fishing vessel. It's essential for anglers targeting hammerhead sharks to exercise caution, respect wildlife regulations, and prioritize the well-being of the sharks and the marine ecosystem in which they thrive.

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

In Key West, hammerhead shark sightings can occur throughout the year, but their presence may vary depending on seasonal factors and migratory patterns. While hammerhead sharks are known to inhabit the waters off Key West year-round, they may be more abundant during certain seasons, particularly in the warmer months of spring and summer. During this time, higher water temperatures and increased prey availability may attract hammerhead sharks to nearshore and offshore waters around Key West.

Spring and summer are often considered prime seasons for encountering hammerhead sharks in Key West due to the influx of baitfish and other prey species migrating to the area. Hammerhead sharks are known to follow their prey, such as schools of fish or squid, which may concentrate in specific areas, making them more accessible to anglers. Additionally, warmer water temperatures during these seasons may stimulate increased activity among hammerhead sharks, leading to more frequent sightings and potential fishing opportunities.

While hammerhead sharks may be present in Key West waters year-round, their abundance and behavior can be influenced by factors such as water temperature, prey availability, and ocean currents. Anglers interested in targeting hammerhead sharks should be mindful of local regulations and guidelines regarding shark fishing and conservation measures to ensure sustainable practices and the protection of these iconic marine predators.

What techniques are popular for catching hammerhead shark in Key West?

Fishing for hammerhead sharks in Key West requires specialized techniques and careful consideration of safety and conservation practices. Anglers targeting hammerheads typically use heavy-duty tackle, including sturdy rods, reels, and lines capable of handling the strength and size of these powerful predators. Circle hooks are often preferred to minimize injury to the sharks and increase the likelihood of a successful hook-up.

One common technique for hammerhead shark fishing in Key West is drift fishing, where anglers deploy large baits such as bonito, mackerel, or barracuda at various depths while drifting along currents or over known shark feeding areas. Chumming the water with fish oils or chunks of bait can attract hammerhead sharks to the vicinity of the fishing vessel, increasing the chances of a successful encounter. Once a shark takes the bait, anglers must exercise patience and skill to effectively land and release the shark safely.

Another popular method for targeting hammerhead sharks in Key West is kite fishing, where baits are suspended from a kite flown above the water's surface. This technique allows anglers to present baits in a natural manner, simulating the movement of prey fish struggling near the surface. Kite fishing can be particularly effective in areas with strong currents or where hammerhead sharks are known to feed near the surface. Regardless of the technique used, anglers must adhere to local regulations and guidelines for shark fishing and prioritize the well-being of the sharks and the marine ecosystem.

What other species are popular in Key West?

Key West offers a rich diversity of marine life beyond hammerhead sharks, providing anglers with a wide range of species to target throughout the year. One popular catch among anglers in Key West is the tarpon, a majestic and powerful game fish known for its acrobatic leaps and challenging fights. Tarpon can be found in the flats, channels, and backcountry waters surrounding Key West, particularly during the warmer months. Anglers targeting tarpon often use live bait such as mullet or crabs, as well as artificial lures like swimbaits or topwater plugs, to entice strikes from these formidable adversaries.

Another prized species in Key West's waters is the mahi-mahi, also known as dorado or dolphin fish, renowned for its vibrant colors, delicious flesh, and aggressive strikes. Mahi-mahi are commonly found around floating debris, weed lines, or offshore structures where they feed on small fish and crustaceans. Anglers targeting mahi-mahi typically employ 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.

In addition to tarpon and mahi-mahi, 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

  • ★★★★★
    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

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time, went with captain David Larson, caught some snapper and a shark. Would 100% go out and do it again. I am not knowledgeable of fishing but the captain helped, taught very well, and was very professional.

    Trey H. | July 29, 2024

    Trip: Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Second Generation fisherman Rob was absolutely the best. He knew where to go close to the Harbor to put us on the fish. Highly recommended.

    Robert H. | May 21, 2024

    Trip: Second Generation Bay Boat

  • ★★★★★
    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. | March 8, 2024

    Trip: Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    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. | January 22, 2024

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

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

    Dan C. | January 8, 2024

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

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

    Susan K. | January 7, 2024

    Trip: Key West Shark Trips - 29’ Sea Vee

  • ★★★★★
    David made it fun and kept me busy. I plan to use him again!

    Jonathan T. | December 15, 2023

    Trip: Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip! Capt Zac was awesome to fish with. Highly recommend 👍👍👍

    Scott C. | October 10, 2023

    Trip: Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Garrett is AWESOME!!!! He communicates very clearly and concise. He is considerate of his customer's desired catch and works hard to maintain maximum time with lines in the water.

    Guy A. | April 24, 2023

    Trip: Wreck & Reef Fishing - 29’ Sea Vee

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent job by Capt Garrett More fish than we could handle Even in choppy seas we had great day

    David M. | April 23, 2023

    Trip: Southernmost Mahi Offshore Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    This wasn't our first fishing trip in Key West but it was one of the best, Zack was a great captain, we had an awesome time. While other boats in the vicinity had limited luck Zack had us on fish all day. I can highly recommend Captain Experiences you will not regret it, five stars all the way, thanks again from the Charleston, SC. foursome.

    Darris S. | April 18, 2023

    Trip: Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great trip with a few friends. Trolling for the fish we initially wanted to catch was limited due to seaweed, but the captains were knowledgeable and adjusted for the conditions, and did their best to put us on some nice fish. It was clear they wanted us to catch fish and did everything they could to make our trip fun.

    Brian A. | March 20, 2023

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

  • ★★★★★
    We had a fantastic trip with captain David. He was patient with 2 beginners. We caught our limit with snapper and finished the day with a 20lbs Cobia

    Jim H. | February 19, 2023

    Trip: Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    My sister Tracy and I went out fishing on the Sanctuary. The captain, Mark and his mate, Niles we spectacular. We had a fabulous day, caught yellowtail snapper, mackerel and mutton snapper, Niles and Mark were patient and kind, played great music and put us on the fish! We caught 12 in all, had to throw the groupers back (not in season). Then Niles cleaned the fish and we took 1/3 to a restaurant which cooked them for us, yummy. The rest were share with Captain Mark and Niles. I would highly recommend this team. Thank you guys.

    Jennifer W. | February 7, 2023

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

  • ★★★★★
    Had a good time only thing wrong with the trip was the wind. had to hide in the mangroves but caught some fish

    Danny S. | April 12, 2022

    Trip: Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

What's biting in Key West?

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