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Lionfish Fishing Charters In Key West

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Recently Booked Lionfish Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

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Fishing in Key West

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Lionfish Spearfishing Fury

NEW
30 ft 1 - 4 People $$

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Other Trips in Key West

Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West on Light Tackle & Flies in Key West

There is something about a flats boat in the keys that just feels right. Being poled around the endless maze of gin clear flats and mangrove riddled backcountry, stalking up on unsuspecting Bonefish, Permit, and Redfish, hooking into monster Tarpon in the summertime are what Florida Key's inshore fishing is all about! So head out to explore the beautiful tropical waters the Florida Keys are known for with Captain Jamie down in Key West to catch the bug! You'll chase bonefish and permit on the flats, and redfish, trout, jacks, and snapper back in the backcountry. Either way, Captain Jamie will be there to lend expert advice as he quietly poles you into schools of fish. Possible Species: Snook, Jack Crevalle, Tarpon, Spotted Sea Trout, Bonefish, Permit, Sharks, Ladyfish, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Redfish, Goliath Grouper, Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and others Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West On Light Tackle & Flies

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 2 People $$
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Dry Tortugas Trip in Key West

Come experience the Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas National Park on this incredible adventure with Captain Justin! The Keys are a world-renowned fishing destination, and there's no better way to enjoy all that they have to offer than a trip aboard his 35' Carolina Classic. There options are endless, whether you want to enjoy a full day, an over night, or even a two-day trip! Captain Justin specializes in calm water, light tackle “good times” fishing. This is ideal for beginner to intermediate anglers who are looking to bend some rods and hear the drag scream. Target species include Maho, Snapper, Grouper, Tarpon, Barracuda, and Shark. These will vary by season and weather, but rest assured—Captain Justin will put you on some awesome fish! You'll be fishing aboard his 35' Carolina Classic sportfisher, which was tested in the rough waters off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina and is built for speed and comfort. She features room for up to six, an air-conditioned cabin, and a nice bathroom. Beyond the comforts are the electronics. She is outfitted with top of the line RayMarine chart plotter, thru-hull sonar, and HD color radar. This modern-day electronic set-up is the ultimate “fish finder”. Finally, the JL audio-stereo with subwoofers brings your music to another level. Once the fish are found, our tackle is nothing short of top tier. For light tackle such as snapper, and pitch baits; we use all Esky custom rods. Once you use an Esky, all other rods seems sub-par. For the heavyweights out there we supply a variety of combinations from TLD 20w to 80w Tiagras, Deep Drop reels include 2-speeds, and 12-volt electric reels. Captain Justin will provide everything you need for a successful day out on the water, from rods, reels, and tackle, to ice, water, and fishing licenses. All he recommends you bring are any snacks and drinks and he'll take care of the rest! Dont miss this amazing fishing experience. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Dry Tortugas Trip

NEW
35 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
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Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Tarpon Fishing (seasonally) in Key West

Come out with us to catch a trophy tarpon during their annual migration through the keys. We get the most bites sunrise/sunset and use live baits in the channels around Key West. These fish have incredible strength fighting for an hour at times jumping and shaking to get the hook out. Fish range in size from 30-100+ lbs and making quite a memorable experience, along with see either sunrise/sunset from the water is truly amazing. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Tarpon Fishing (seasonally)

NEW
27 ft 1 - 6 People $
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West Fishing Adventure in Key West

Come experience the Florida Keys on this incredible fishing adventure with Captain Justin! The Keys are a world-renowned fishing destination, and there's no better way to enjoy all that they have to offer than a trip aboard his 24' Sailfish. Captain Justin specializes in calm water, light tackle, “good times” fishing. This is ideal for beginner to intermediate anglers who are looking to bend some rods and hear the drag scream. Target species include Snappers, Groupers, Barracuda, and Shark. These will vary by season and weather, but rest assured—Captain Justin will put you on some awesome fish! You'll be fishing aboard his 24' Sailfish center console, a fast and manueverable boat ideal for fishing nearshore areas. Features include an enclosed head (restroom), large live well, freshwater shower/saltwater rinse down, comfortable seating, T-top for shade, and a JL Audio stereo system with subwoofers. The Sailfish has a variable deadrise hull that offers an incredibly smooth and comfortable ride, powered by a Suzuki 300HP engine with a maximum speed of 45mph. This is the only boat in the fleet that is equipped with LED lighting and offers night fishing and star gazing trips. Being a 24' single mono-hulled center console makes for the perfect fishing & diving platform. The Sailfish is the biggest boat in the shallow back country, and is more than capable of getting to the reef and beyond. Captain Justin will provide everything you need for a successful day out on the water, from rods, reels, and tackle, to ice, water, and fishing licenses. All he recommends you bring are any snacks and drinks and he'll take care of the rest! Dont miss this amazing fishing experience. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Fishing Adventure

100% (2)
24 ft 1 - 4 People $$
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West Sportfishing Adventure in Key West

If you're looking for world-class sportfishing in one of America's most beautiful locations, then this trip just might be your ticket. This trip will allow you to chase a variety of prized sportfish species, from the ultimate heavyweight, the Goliath Grouper, to lightning-fast fish such as Mahi Mahi, King Mackerel, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, Sailfish and others. The species will vary depending on the length of your trip; if you're interested in Sailfish and Wahoo, opt for the longer trip so that you can get out into deeper waters. Nearshore, there's also opportunities to hook up Blacktip Sharks! When these aggressive fish grab the hook, get ready for the fight of your life! You'll be in experienced and professional hands aboard Captain Gil's 34' Crusader sportfisher. This boat is a perfect balance of speed, performance, and comfort that's ideal for offshore fishing. With a 375 HP Caterpillar engine, you won't have to cruise for long before you reach the prime fishing grounds and start haulin' 'em in. On the way, watch the trolling lines for bites from Mahi. Your Captain will be prepared with everything you need for a blue-ribbon day, including top-of-the line rods, reels, bait, tackle, and most importantly, his years of experience hunting champion pelagic predators. To make the most of your experience on the water, make sure to bring polarized sunglasses, proper clothing, hat, and sunscreen. Get ready to have a blast! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Sportfishing Adventure

NEW
34 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West Fishing Expedition in Key West

Come experience the Florida Keys on this incredible adventure with Captain Justin! The Keys are a world-renowned fishing destination, and there's no better way to enjoy all that they have to offer than a trip aboard his 35' Carolina Classic. There options are endless, whether you want to enjoy a half-day, a 3/-4 day, or a full-day trip! Captain Justin specializes in calm water, light tackle “good times” fishing. This is ideal for beginner to intermediate anglers who are looking to bend some rods and hear the drag scream. Target species include Maho, Snapper, Grouper, Tarpon, Barracuda, and Shark. These will vary by season and weather, but rest assured—Captain Justin will put you on some awesome fish! You'll be fishing aboard his 35' Carolina Classic sportfisher, which was tested in the rough waters off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina and is built for speed and comfort. She features room for up to six, an air-conditioned cabin, and a nice bathroom. Beyond the comforts are the electronics. She is outfitted with top of the line RayMarine chart plotter, thru-hull sonar, and HD color radar. This modern-day electronic set-up is the ultimate “fish finder”. Finally, the JL audio-stereo with subwoofers brings your music to another level. Once the fish are found, our tackle is nothing short of top tier. For light tackle such as snapper, and pitch baits; we use all Esky custom rods. Once you use an Esky, all other rods seems sub-par. For the heavyweights out there we supply a variety of combinations from TLD 20w to 80w Tiagras, Deep Drop reels include 2-speeds, and 12-volt electric reels. Captain Justin will provide everything you need for a successful day out on the water, from rods, reels, and tackle, to ice, water, and fishing licenses. All he recommends you bring are any snacks and drinks and he'll take care of the rest! Dont miss this amazing fishing experience. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Fishing Expedition

100% (2)
35 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 Dusk till Dawn - 18’ Xplor in Key West

This trip includes an entire 12-hour day of fishing. When booking this trip, you'll have a number of options regarding activities you can do. From limits on Trout and Snapper, to chasing the Inshore GrandSlam (Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit, Snook) to offshore trolling for Mahi and Tuna. Definitely call the captain in the days leading up to the trip to go over a game plan. Captain Chandler is more than happy to customize a trip around your goals and ya'll can discuss the best way to spend your day! As always, he'll supply you with all the gear you'll need and even lunch and snacks! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Dusk Till Dawn - 18’ Xplor

NEW
18 ft 1 - 3 People $$$
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Marquesas Atoll Light Tackle in Key West

The Marquesas Keys are legendary as a world class light tackle fishing destination. Located approximately 30 miles west of Key West just beyond the Boca Grande Channel, the Marquesas Keys are 36 miles east of the Dry Tortugas, which is the farthest key traveling west, in the entire Florida Keys chain. This atoll is hard to get to and gets a lot less fishing pressure. The sublime nature is a fantastic habitat for all types of inshore and flats dwelling species like Tarpon in the summer months, Baracuda in the winter months, Grouper in Bonefish and Permit year round! There are tons of other species as well, and you could easily see Jacks, SSharks, Snapper, Cobia, Ladyfish, Bluefish, and Redfish. Given the remoteness of the island, weather can play a huge roll in whether or not it is safe to make the voyage. So watch the radar, and if seas do not permit the journey, Captain Chandler will be more than happy to chase the fish with you inshore around Key West! The Captain will bring everything you need for this trip from gear to lunch! So all you need to bring with you is a tip for your guide and Captain Chandler will take great care of you. Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Marquesas Atoll Light Tackle

NEW
18 ft 1 - 3 People $$
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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 $$
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 Key West Party Boat Fishing in Key West

Embark on an unparalleled deep-sea fishing experience with Gulfstream Fishing, aboard the expansive 56ft DMR Party Boat in the vibrant waters of Key West, Florida. These seasoned captains invites you to join them for an exceptional angling adventure, targeting a variety of prized species that thrive in the rich marine ecosystem. Key West Fishing Trips offer enthusiasts the chance to pursue sought-after catches, including Snapper, Grouper, and porgies, & mackerel against the backdrop of Key West's breathtaking coastal scenery. With the captains expert guidance and the top-notch amenities aboard the spacious DMR ensure a memorable and successful fishing expedition for anglers of all skill levels. For those seeking Florida Keys Fishing Trips, Gulfstream Fishing provides an ideal opportunity to explore the abundant waters of the region. Whether you're an individual angler or planning a Big Group Fishing Trip, the Gulfstream IV accommodates large groups comfortably, making it the perfect choice for friends, family, or corporate outings. Consider elevating your next fishing experience with Company Fishing Trips Key West, as Captain Jamie combines a passion for angling with a commitment to customer satisfaction. Book your adventure today and discover the thrill of deep-sea fishing in the renowned waters of Key West, FL, where every cast is an opportunity for an exciting catch and unforgettable memories. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Party Boat Fishing

NEW
56 ft 1 - 45 People $$$
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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 Key West Sportfishing Trip in Key West

Captain Mark will guide you on a thrilling adventure through the waters of Key West, Florida! You’ll be fishing aboard Captain Mark’s “Cowboy,” a 45 sportfisher is a spectacular boat equipped with two 1100 HP engines that will get you out to your destination quickly and seamlessly. This boat will answer all of your sport fishing goals and interests. She features a large deck and a recently restored, comfortable interior. This boat is also fully air-conditioned, boasts performance-grade tackle, and has a fighting chair on the deck. She can accommodate up to 6 adventurous anglers and has a GPS, fishfinder, live bait well, and ice box. On this 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12-hour trip, you’ll be targeting a wide variety of species, including Billfish, like White Marlin and Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Mutton Snapper, and Amberjack. You might also catch a few sharks. Prepare yourself to feel the intense power of this apex predator as you reel it in. The longer you go, the farther out you can travel, and the farther out you travel, the bigger the fish get! Don’t forget to bring a cooler to take home your day’s catch, food and drinks for the day (no glass), sunscreen, and a hat. Captain Mark will provide all rods, reels, tackle, and fishing licenses. Let go of your daily responsibilities and have some fun fishing with Captain Mark! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Sportfishing Trip

NEW
45 ft 1 - 6 People $$$

Everything to Know About Booking a Key West lionfish fishing charter

What are the best lionfish fishing charters in Key West?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 1 lionfish trip in Key West: Lionfish Spearfishing Fury guided by Hunter.

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 lionfish guides / fishing lessons in Key West? Check out our beginner and family friendly lionfish guides in Key West.

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

Nearshore fishing is the most popular for lionfish in Key West.

The most common fishing technique in Key West is spearfishing.

How much do Key West lionfish fishing charters cost?

for lionfish in Key West prices can range anywhere from about $900 to $1,340, but the average price for a half day trip for lionfish in Key West is $850. The average price for a full day trip for lionfish in Key West is $1,250.

What month is best for lionfish fishing in Key West?

The most popular season for lionfish fishing in Key West is spring, and most anglers book their trips 64 days in advance.

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

Lionfish, an invasive species in the waters around Key West, have become a significant concern for the local ecosystem. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, lionfish were likely introduced to the Atlantic Ocean through the aquarium trade and have since established themselves as a formidable predator, preying on native fish populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Recognizable by their distinctive stripes and venomous spines, lionfish are voracious predators known to outcompete native species for food and habitat.

Due to their rapid reproduction rates and lack of natural predators in the Atlantic, lionfish populations have exploded in recent years, posing a serious threat to the health of coral reefs and other marine habitats in Key West and beyond. Efforts to control lionfish populations in the region include targeted removal by divers, spearfishing tournaments, and public awareness campaigns encouraging the consumption of lionfish as a sustainable seafood option. Despite these efforts, managing lionfish populations remains an ongoing challenge for marine conservationists and local authorities in Key West.

For anglers and divers visiting Key West, targeting lionfish can be both a recreational activity and a conservation effort. Spearfishing lionfish is permitted in Florida waters, and many dive operators in Key West organize lionfish hunting excursions for tourists and locals alike. While handling lionfish requires caution due to their venomous spines, their flaky white flesh is considered a delicacy and can be cooked in a variety of ways, including frying, grilling, or ceviche. By actively participating in the removal and consumption of lionfish, anglers and divers can play a role in protecting the delicate marine ecosystems of Key West and promoting the sustainability of local fisheries.

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

In Key West, lionfish can be found year-round due to their established presence in the region's waters. Unlike many native species that exhibit seasonal migrations or spawning patterns, lionfish are non-native invaders that have adapted to the local environment and thrive in a variety of conditions. As such, there is no specific "lionfish season" in Key West, and these predatory fish can be encountered by divers and anglers at any time of the year.

The absence of a defined lionfish season underscores the urgency of ongoing efforts to control their population and mitigate their impact on native marine ecosystems. Without natural predators to regulate their numbers, lionfish populations in Key West and surrounding areas remain a persistent threat to coral reefs, seagrass beds, and other critical habitats. As a result, conservation organizations, dive operators, and government agencies maintain year-round initiatives aimed at monitoring, managing, and removing lionfish from local waters.

Despite the lack of a seasonal pattern, lionfish populations may fluctuate in response to environmental factors such as water temperature, currents, and prey availability. During warmer months, lionfish may be more active and abundant, while colder temperatures could potentially impact their behavior and distribution. Regardless of seasonal variations, the importance of ongoing lionfish control efforts remains constant, emphasizing the need for sustained collaboration and vigilance in combating this invasive species in Key West and beyond.

What techniques are popular for catching lionfish in Key West?

Fishing for lionfish in Key West typically involves a combination of spearfishing and hand-netting techniques, as these methods are effective in targeting lionfish while minimizing damage to the surrounding marine environment. Spearfishing is a popular method among divers, where a specially designed pole spear or Hawaiian sling is used to accurately target lionfish. Divers must exercise caution and precision to avoid harming themselves or the reef while spearing lionfish.

Another common method for capturing lionfish in Key West is using handheld nets or lionfish containment devices. These devices are equipped with long handles and a mesh bag to safely trap lionfish without harming the diver or surrounding marine life. Divers can carefully maneuver the net around lionfish hiding in crevices or swimming near the reef and quickly secure them for removal.

Given the venomous spines of lionfish, it's essential for fishermen and divers in Key West to handle captured lionfish with care. Specialized gloves or puncture-resistant gloves are recommended to protect against accidental stings. Once captured, lionfish can be safely transported to designated collection points or disposed of properly, following guidelines established by local authorities and conservation organizations. Through responsible fishing practices and ongoing education efforts, the Key West community continues to work towards reducing the impact of lionfish on native marine ecosystems.

What other species are popular in Key West?

In addition to lionfish, Key West offers a diverse range of fish species for anglers to target, making it a prime destination for recreational and sport fishing. One popular catch among anglers is the mighty tarpon, known for its impressive size and acrobatic leaps when hooked. Tarpon fishing in Key West is especially thrilling during the annual migration season, typically from April to June, when these silver giants gather in large numbers along the coast.

Another prized species found in the waters of Key West is the permit, a highly sought-after game fish known for its powerful fights and challenging behavior. Permit fishing enthusiasts often target shallow flats and channels, where these elusive fish feed on crustaceans and other prey. Key West offers excellent opportunities for sight fishing for permit, requiring anglers to cast accurately and present their bait or fly with precision to entice a strike.

For those seeking a taste of delicious seafood, Key West offers abundant opportunities for catching species like snapper and grouper. Yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, and mangrove snapper are commonly found around reefs and wrecks, providing both recreational and culinary enjoyment for anglers. Meanwhile, grouper species such as red grouper, gag grouper, and black grouper inhabit deeper waters and rocky ledges, offering a rewarding challenge for anglers targeting larger game fish. Whether fishing from shore, boat, or charter, Key West's diverse ecosystem ensures there's always something exciting to reel in for anglers of all skill levels.

What's biting in Key West?

View Lionfish Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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