Permit Fishing Charters In Key West

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Recently Booked Permit Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

100% (6)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $163 / person

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Backcountry Classic - 28’ Blue Wave

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $175 / person

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

Key West Silver Kings And More

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $138 / person

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Inshore Trip - 18’ Xplor Flats Boat

NEW
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $183 / person

Flats, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Edge Of The Map Trip

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $163 / person

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West On Light Tackle & Flies

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $300 / person

Most Popular Types of Permit 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

Choose your trip by skill level

More Permit Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Damn Good

Wake up and go fishing! A 4-hour fishing trip is a great way to fish and explore the local waters surrounding Key West. Our half-day trips usually leave the dock around 7:30 a.m. and return around 11:30 a.m. However, this may change depending on the conditions, time of year, and customer preference. Captain John's mission is always to provide the best fishing experience possible with the conditions at hand. His vessel, a 28' center console (built by Latitude Tournament Boats), is a true "hybrid" fishing machine. This means that on a nice day, you can comfortably fish offshore reefs, wrecks, and Gulfstream currents. You also have the option to fish backcountry channels, inshore wrecks, and nearshore patch reefs if the wind picks up. On a full day, we might have the opportunity to target multiple species both in the deep and the shallow. Captain John specializes in light tackle fishing. This means he'll match the rod and reel outfit to the size fish you're targeting to make for the best overall angling experience. If you would like to fly fish, the captain can accommodate you. However, you must bring your own fly fishing equipment. Expect to target Amberjack, Barracuda, Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Grouper, and more, depending on the length of your trip. Evening Tarpon trips are also offered. Live bait makes a big difference. Pilchards, pinfish, herring, ballyhoo, and blue crabs are some of the varieties you are likely to find in the livewell. Catching bait is part of the charter, and while it may take some extra time, your captain knows it makes the difference between a fantastic fishing trip and one that's just okay. Your fishing license is included. Bring sunblock (non-spray), sunglasses, a hat, snacks, and drinks. Book your trip and hit the water with Captain John! Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Morning 1/2 Day Fishing Charter

67% (3)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $200 / person

What sounds better than a quiet chain of islands in the beautiful Florida Keys with world class fishing? With Captain John, you can visit exactly that place. Spend the day exploring the beautiful flats around the Marquesas Keys as you chase down groupers, sharks, snappers and more. A couple dozen miles West of Key West, the Marquesas Keys are a hidden treasure when it comes to Florida fishing. Surrounded by flats, wrecks and reef features, these remote islands are home to some of the best fishing in the world. The journey starts aboard Captain John's 24' Yellowfin in Key West. Expect a bit of a trip to get to these islands, but it is well worth the wait! No detail will be left out or question unanswered in order to make your trip exciting, educational, and memorable. Be sure to bring any beverages or snacks you might need, and Captain John will provide everything else. Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Marquesas Key "Hidden Gem" Trip

NEW
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $240 / person

This fishing adventure with Captain Spencer out of Key West provides you with endless opportunities! Whether it's fishing the backcountry of the Gulf of Mexico, chasing fish in Key West Harbor, or fishing the reefs on the Atlantic side, Captain Spencer is ready to do it all. Captain Spencer prides himself on customizing his trips to his client's goals so let him know what your ideal day looks like in the days leading up to the trip and he will plan it out! The beauty of the Florida Keys, and especially Key West, is that there is such a variety of fish to catch. You can explore the backcountry for Redfish, Snook, Bonefish, and Mangrove Snapper; anchor-up on a channel in Key West Harbor to target Sharks, Cudas, Jacks, and Tarpon; or hit it out to the reefs for a myriad of grouper and snapper species, permit and even target Sails under the right conditions! Captain Spencers 25' Pathfinder is extremely versatile in this regard shallow enough to maneuver the backcountry and local grass flats, and sturdy enough to handle the light chop of the open ocean. This vessel can accommodate 6 guests, however, Captain Spencer prefers to fish with 4 or less. Captain Spencer can also make accommodations to pick you up from many places around Key West. If you are staying somewhere with water access let us know and Captain Spencer will try to accommodate picking you up from your location. Read More

Flats, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Reefs, Bays, Or Backcountry

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $200 / person
Damn Good

Catch More fish! A full day allows us more time to go further, try more techniques, target more species, and ultimately catch more fish. A full day usually leaves the dock around 7:30 a.m. and returns around 3:30 p.m. However, these times may vary depending on the time of year, conditions, and customer preference. His vessel, a 28' center console (built by Latitude Tournament Boats), is a true "hybrid" fishing machine. This means that on a nice day, you can comfortably fish offshore reefs, wrecks, and Gulfstream currents. You also have the option to fish backcountry channels, inshore wrecks, and nearshore patch reefs if the wind picks up. On a full day, we might have the opportunity to target multiple species both in the deep and the shallow. Captain John specializes in light tackle fishing. This means he'll match the rod and reel outfit to the size fish you're targeting to make for the best overall angling experience. If you would like to fly fish, the captain can accommodate you. However, you must bring your own fly fishing equipment. Expect to target Amberjack, Barracuda, Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Grouper, and more, depending on the length of your trip. Evening Tarpon trips are also offered. Live bait makes a big difference. Pilchards, pinfish, herring, ballyhoo, and blue crabs are some of the varieties you are likely to find in the livewell. Catching bait is part of the charter, and while it may take some extra time, your captain knows it makes the difference between a fantastic fishing trip and one that's just okay. Your fishing license is included. Bring sunblock (non-spray), sunglasses, a hat, snacks, and drinks. Book your trip and hit the water today! Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Full Day Private Fishing Charter

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $300 / person

Have you ever wanted to catch that once-in-a-lifetime fish, capture that awe-inspiring sunset, or enjoy an unforgettable day with your family on the water? With Captain John, you can do just that. Spend your half, 3/4, full or extended day trip exploring the beautiful flats around Key West as you chase down tarpon, permit, barracuda, sharks, snappers and more. This back country/flats charter is a popular choice for both longtime anglers and families because of its wide range of fishing opportunities. Hop on the 24' Yellowtail and the highly-rated Captain John will take you where you need to be. Your adventure will begin at the dock as Captain John explains what you can expect on your trip. No detail will be left out or question unanswered in order to make your trip exciting, educational, and memorable. Be sure to bring any beverages or snacks you might need, and Captain John will provide everything else. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Offshore Excitement!

NEW
30 ft 1 - 4 People From $225 / person

Anthony specializes in Back Country fishing, depending on time of year, he keeps his focus on Sport Fish such as, Tarpon, Permit, Bonefish, Baracudas, and Sharks. He also, frequently fills the cooler with Cobia, Snappers and a variety of other delicious fish. The beautiful Back Country the Florida Key's are known for is compiled of shallow wrecks, breathtaking flats, sandbars and mangrove islands. It is home to a diverse group of fish and lots of other sea life. Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Beautiful Backcountry Fishing

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $200 / person
See All Permit Trips in Key West

Everything to Know About Booking a Key West permit fishing charter

What are the best permit fishing charters in Key West?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 23 permit trips in Key West, and the most popular trips in the area are Key West "Flex" Sportfishing guided by John, Backcountry Classic - 28’ Blue Wave guided by Alex, and Key West Silver Kings and More guided by Spencer.

Our guides in Key West are rated a 4.86 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.

Other popular cities nearby for booking a Permit charter include Cudjoe Key and Summerland Key.

Looking for kid friendly permit guides in Key West? Check out our beginner and family friendly permit guides in Key West.

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

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

The most common fishing techniques in Key West are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and artificial lure fishing but bottom fishing and sight casting are popular as well.

How much do Key West permit fishing charters cost?

for permit in Key West prices can range anywhere from an affordable $400 to $1,700, but the average price for a half day trip for permit in Key West is $665. The average price for a full day trip for permit in Key West is $953.

What month is best for permit fishing in Key West?

The most popular season for permit fishing in Key West is spring, and most anglers book their trips 26 days in advance.

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

Permit fishing in Key West is an exhilarating experience for anglers seeking a challenge. These prized gamefish are known for their strength, speed, and finicky behavior, making them a coveted catch among sport fishermen. Key West's shallow flats and nearshore waters provide prime habitat for permit, where they can be found tailing and feeding on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. Anglers often sight fish for permit, scanning the flats for signs of their distinctive tails breaking the water's surface.

Successful permit fishing in Key West requires patience, stealth, and precise presentation. Light tackle or fly fishing gear is typically used to target these wary fish, allowing anglers to make delicate casts to feeding or cruising permit without spooking them. Effective flies and lures mimic the natural prey of permit, such as crab or shrimp patterns tied with realistic movements and colors. Anglers must also be prepared for long battles once hooked, as permit are notorious for their powerful runs and tendency to seek refuge in nearby structure.

While permit can be caught year-round in Key West, certain times of the year offer better fishing opportunities. Spring and early summer are prime seasons for permit fishing in the area, as warming water temperatures trigger increased feeding activity and migration patterns. During these months, permit can be found in shallower waters, making them more accessible to fly fishermen and sight anglers. However, permit fishing can be productive throughout the year, with opportunities for anglers to target these challenging gamefish in a variety of habitats and conditions.

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

In Key West, permit fishing can be pursued year-round, offering anglers ample opportunities to target these prized gamefish. However, certain seasons present more favorable conditions for permit fishing, aligning with their natural behavior and migration patterns. Spring and early summer are considered prime seasons for permit fishing in Key West, typically spanning from March to June. During these months, warming water temperatures trigger increased feeding activity among permit, making them more responsive to anglers' presentations. Additionally, springtime sees the arrival of migrating permit schools, providing anglers with more opportunities to encounter these elusive fish.

Fall is another productive season for permit fishing in Key West, particularly from September to November. As the summer heat begins to wane, permit become more active and move into shallower waters to feed. During this time, anglers can find permit cruising the flats and nearshore areas, making them accessible to sight fishermen and fly anglers. The cooler temperatures and calmer winds of fall create ideal conditions for stalking permit on the flats, where their tails and dorsal fins often give away their presence. Anglers can capitalize on this season to target permit using a variety of techniques, including sight fishing with flies or light tackle.

While spring and fall are considered peak seasons for permit fishing in Key West, permit can be caught throughout the year, with varying degrees of success depending on weather conditions and water temperatures. Winter months may see fewer permit on the flats, but they can still be found in deeper channels and around wrecks and reefs. Similarly, summer months offer opportunities to target permit in deeper waters and along offshore structures. Overall, Key West's diverse ecosystem and favorable climate make it a premier destination for permit fishing, providing anglers with year-round excitement and challenges.

What techniques are popular for catching permit in Key West?

Permit fishing in Key West demands skillful techniques and a keen understanding of the fish's behavior. One of the most popular methods for targeting permit is sight fishing on the flats, where anglers meticulously scan the shallow waters for signs of feeding permit. This technique requires patience, keen observation, and precise casting to present flies or lures accurately to the fish. Anglers often use lightweight spinning or fly fishing tackle to make delicate presentations and entice permit to strike.

When sight fishing isn't feasible, anglers can target permit around structure such as wrecks, reefs, and channels. Permit are known to frequent these areas in search of crustaceans and other prey, presenting anglers with opportunities to target them using bottom fishing techniques. Fishing with live bait such as crabs or shrimp, either on the bottom or suspended beneath a float, can be effective for enticing permit to bite. Anglers may also use artificial lures like jigs or soft plastics to mimic the movement of natural prey and attract strikes from permit.

Another effective technique for permit fishing in Key West is chumming. Anglers use a mixture of crushed crabs, shrimp, and other baitfish to create a scent trail that attracts permit to the area. Once the fish are drawn in, anglers can present baits or lures to entice them to strike. Chumming can be particularly effective when targeting permit around wrecks and reefs, where the fish congregate in search of food. Regardless of the technique employed, permit fishing in Key West requires persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to experiment with different approaches to find success.

What other species are popular in Key West?

Key West offers anglers a diverse range of species to target aside from permit. One popular target species is the tarpon, known for its acrobatic jumps and powerful runs. Tarpon can be found in the waters around Key West year-round, with peak seasons typically occurring in the spring and summer months. Anglers often target tarpon in channels, flats, and around bridges using live bait such as mullet or crabs, as well as artificial lures like plugs and soft plastics.

Another sought-after species in Key West is the bonefish, prized for its speed and challenging nature. Bonefish are commonly found on the flats and shallow waters of the Lower Florida Keys, where they feed on crustaceans and small baitfish. Sight fishing is a popular technique for targeting bonefish, with anglers using lightweight spinning or fly fishing tackle to present small flies or lures to the fish. Patience, stealth, and accurate casting are essential for success when pursuing these elusive fish.

Key West also offers excellent opportunities for anglers to target a variety of reef fish species, including snapper and grouper. Yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, and red grouper are just a few of the species that can be found on the reefs and wrecks surrounding Key West. Bottom fishing with live or cut bait is a common technique for targeting these species, although anglers may also use jigging and trolling techniques to entice strikes. Whether targeting permit, tarpon, bonefish, or reef fish, Key West provides anglers with an abundance of opportunities to test their skills and reel in trophy catches.

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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