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Damn Good Redfish Fishing Charters In Key West

Check real-time availability on Key West redfish fishing trips. Online booking | 4.94 / 5 stars | Guides from $630

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Recently Booked Redfish Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Fishing in Key West

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Backcountry Classic - 28’ Blue Wave

100% (5)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Family Fun Fishing

100% (18)
30 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in Key West

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Inshore Trip - 18’ Xplor Flats Boat

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $550
Fishing in Key West

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Inshore Fishing + Lobstering

75% (4)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $900
Fishing in Key West

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Dusk Till Dawn - 18’ Xplor

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $1,500
Bucket List
Captain Experiences staff chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Key West

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Marquesas Atoll Light Tackle

100% (2)
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $950

Most Popular Types of Redfish 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 Redfish Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Fishing in Cudjoe Key
Fishing in Cudjoe Key
Fishing in Cudjoe Key
trip description for Big Pine Key Action in Cudjoe Key

Down in the Lower Florida Keys there is a lot to see more than just fishing! The wildlife is plentiful and interesting with a wide variety of birds, turtles, stingrays, and dolphins. Every time Captain Robert has a trip or a charter, people seem to be captured by the scenery there in the lower keys backcountry as well as having a successful fishing trip with Captain Robert! Light tackle fishing on the flats gives you better opportunities with sight fishing Permit, Bonefish, Tarpon, and Redfish. Light tackle fishing makes itself the most common and versatile type of fishing with just about anything you can think of catching. Light tackle makes a great day out on the water in producing numbers of fish like Mangrove Snapper and Jack Crevalle which is great for the kids. Another possible great opportunity for kids is Bonefish believe it or not. For light tackle fishing Captain Robert provides all rods and reels for the trip. If you have a fishing rod that you would like to bring you are more than welcome to. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Key West

Big Pine Key Action

100% (1)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Homestead
Fishing in Homestead
Fishing in Homestead
trip description for Sportfishing the Everglades in Homestead

If you are looking for a charter boat fishing specialist or a qualified wildlife guide, Captain Ariel can help. With over 25 years of experience exploring the everglades, he knows the area and has fished in all types of conditions in these South Florida waters. Fish for a full or half-day in his 22' Hell's Bay boat, which is equipped to handle all possible fishing challenges in the area. The unparalleled maneuverability and shallow draft of this vessel allow our charters to access areas that are off-limits to other watercraft. **Types of Trips** *Flamingo Flats:* Premier destination for world-class fishing. *Whitewater Bay Backcountry:* Remote and underfished locale. *Biscayne National Park Flats & Oceanside:* Close to Miami, Key Largo, and Fort Lauderdale. *North Biscayne Bay:* Close to downtown Miami and Key Biscayne. *Everglades Water Conservation Areas and Miami:* Adjacent to Big Cypress National Preserve. Safety is your Captain's main concern aboard the boat, and his boat is equipped with the latest communications gear, from VHF radios to mobile satellite phones. Tackle, bait, and other equipment are also provided. Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Key West

Sportfishing The Everglades

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 3 People From $650
Fishing in Homestead
Fishing in Homestead
Fishing in Homestead
trip description for Bay Fishing - 22' Pathfinder in Homestead

Head out with Captain Alex for an action-packed day of fly fishing in the Florida Everglades! The grass-ridden Everglades have great year-round fishing and are home to many of the prized fish that Florida is known for. On this 4 to 8-hour trip, Captain Alex will take you into the beautiful Islamorada backcountry flats where you'll be fishing for sought-after fish including Bonefish, Jack Crevalle, Lemon Shark, Mangrove Snapper, Permit, Redfish, Snook, Speckled Trout, and Tarpon. You'll be fishing with light or heavy tackle and choosing from a selection of live bait or artificial lures. Just let Captain Alex know whatever fish you want to catch and he'll get you set up with what the fish are biting! You'll be aboard a 22' Pathfinder bay boat with capacity for 4 anglers. This reliable vessel will have no problem getting you to where the fish are biting. On board you'll find name-brand rods and reels from Daiwa, Penn, Hardy, Shimano, and Winston. She comes equipped with GPS, a VHF Radio and an Ice Box to store your catches. Captain Alex will even clean any keepers you catch to take home for a tasty meal! Captain Alex will provide all rods, reels, tackle and fishing licenses. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, and any food or drinks you might need. Come aboard with Captain Alex and get ready to show off your skills! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Key West

Bay Fishing - 22' Pathfinder

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $900
Fishing in Homestead
Fishing in Homestead
Fishing in Homestead
trip description for Flats Fishing - 17' Maverick in Homestead

Head out with Captain Alex for an action-packed day of fly fishing in the Florida Everglades! The grass-ridden Everglades have great year-round fishing and are home to many of the prized fish that Florida is known for. On this 4 to 8-hour trip, Captain Alex will take you on a scenic trip to the inshore flats around the Flamingo Marina at the tip of the Everglades, where you'll be fly fishing for sought-after fish including Bonefish, Permit, Redfish, Snook, and Tarpon. Part of what makes fly fishing for these species so exciting is the challenge of getting such elusive fish to bite. Accurate casts are almost always required, and the windy conditions of the Florida Keys only add to the challenge. While Captain Alex is happy to give you helpful instruction to accommodate your skill level, this trip is recommended for experienced fly fishers who go out on the water more than a few times a year. Captain Alex has a listing for this same trip with traditional rods and tackle that we recommend for those who aren't quite expert casters, and we guarantee it's just as much fun! For those experienced anglers who feel comfortable enough with their fly casting, Captain Alex outlines the skills you should have down with in his "About Your Guide" section. He also requests that anglers do some research on the aspects of fly fishing for Tarpon, Bonefish and Permit prior to this trip. Captain Alex is highly skilled and even the most experienced anglers will benefit from his instruction. It may take a bit of practice, but as Alex will tell you there's nothing more rewarding than landing one of these fish! You'll be aboard a 17' Maverick HPX-V with capacity for 2 anglers. Powered by a 115 HP Mercury engine, this maneuverable boat will have no problem letting you creep up and sight-cast on some fish even in hard-to-reach waters. It comes equipped with GPS, a Wireless Trolling Motor, and an Ice Box to store your catches. Captain Alex will even clean any keepers you catch to take home for a tasty meal. Captain Alex will provide all rods, reels, tackle and fishing licenses. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, and any food or drinks you might need. Come aboard with Captain Alex and get ready to show off your skills! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Key West

Flats Fishing - 17' Maverick

100% (1)
1 - 2 People From $700
Fishing in Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
trip description for Deep Sea and Barrier Reef Fishing in Islamorada

On this 6 hr excursion, you'll be able to get out on to Islamorada Barrier Reef where you can target a wide variety of top-notch gamefish, including Cobia, Jack Crevalle, Snapper, Wahoo, Tuna , and more! These fish offer something for every angler–great eating, hard fighting, and tons of bites. Captain Sal runs a couple different boats under his operation down there in Islamorada, but these trips are usually run on his 25’ SeaHunter center console, equipped with a 350 Mercury outboard. It’s the perfect size boat to zip out to the reef comfortably, has plenty of space to spread your group out and fish, and has all the necessary fish boxes to keep your catch cold on your way back to the dock. Sal will provide everything for the trips, including fishing licenses, waters, ice, and cooler space if you’d like to bring your own snacks and drinks! Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore Fishing Charter near Key West

Deep Sea And Barrier Reef Fishing

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,000
Fishing in Marathon
Fishing in Marathon
Fishing in Marathon
trip description for Marathon Backcountry Flats in Marathon

Head out aboard Captain Larry's 20' SeaFox for a Florida Keys expedition unlike any other! On your trip, Captain Larry will take you to explore the bountiful waters around Marathon, from the abundant grass flats all the way to the maze of backcountry mangroves in the Everglades! Captain Larry is more than happy to cater your trip to your goals, so if there is a specific species you're looking to chase that day, let him know and he can make it happen. Possible species in the area include Redfish, Trout, Mangrove Snapper, Jacks, Snook, Tarpon, Bonefish, and even Permit! So whatever species you choose to chase you're sure to have a blast fighting them! Captain Larry will provide all of the bait, tackle, fishing licenses, ice, water, and fish cleaning. He will even vacuum seal your fillets for you for superior storage and preservation. Captain Larry focuses on the little things to ensure you have the best possible experience aboard his boat from start to finish. All you need to bring are your favorite snacks and drinks, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a camera if you'd like, and Captain Larry will make sure you're well taken care of. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Key West

Marathon Backcountry Flats

NEW
20 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
See All Redfish Trips in Key West

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Everything to Know About Booking a Key West redfish fishing charter

What are the best redfish fishing charters in Key West?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 8 redfish trips in Key West, and the most popular trips in the area are Backcountry Classic - 28’ Blue Wave guided by Alex, Key West Family Fun Fishing guided by Hunter, and Inshore Trip - 18’ Xplor Flats Boat guided by Chandler.

Our guides in Key West are rated a 4.94 out of 5 based on 3311 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

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

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

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for redfish 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, artificial lure fishing, and live bait fishing but fly fishing and drift fishing are popular as well.

How much do Key West redfish fishing charters cost?

Prices for redfish in Key West can range anywhere from about $630 to $1,270, but the average price for a half day trip for redfish in Key West is $740. The average price for a full day trip for redfish in Key West is $1,019.

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 redfish fishing in Key West?

The most popular season for redfish fishing in Key West is spring, and most anglers book their trips 21 days in advance.

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

While redfish are not as prevalent in Key West as in some other areas of Florida, they are still a sought-after species among anglers visiting the region. Redfish, also known as red drum, can be found in various habitats around Key West, including flats, mangrove shorelines, and channels. These resilient fish are known for their bronze-colored scales and distinctive black spot near the base of their tails, making them easily recognizable to anglers seeking their prized catch.

Fishing for redfish in Key West typically involves targeting shallow waters, where these fish forage for crabs, shrimp, and small fish among the mangroves and grass flats. Anglers often use a variety of techniques to entice strikes from redfish, including casting artificial lures such as soft plastic baits, spoons, or topwater plugs. Live bait such as shrimp, mullet, or pinfish can also be effective for attracting redfish in Key West's diverse coastal habitats.

While redfish may not be as abundant in Key West as in other parts of the state, they still offer anglers a thrilling challenge and a chance to experience the excitement of hooking into these hard-fighting fish. Whether fishing from a boat, kayak, or the shoreline, anglers in Key West can enjoy the thrill of pursuing redfish against the backdrop of the city's stunning coastal scenery. With its diverse marine ecosystem and abundance of fishing opportunities, Key West provides anglers with endless possibilities for memorable fishing outings and unforgettable catches.

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

In Key West, the seasons for targeting redfish can vary throughout the year, influenced by factors such as water temperature, weather patterns, and spawning behavior. Generally, redfish can be found in the waters around Key West year-round, with certain times of the year offering more favorable conditions for successful fishing.

Spring and fall are considered prime seasons for redfish fishing in Key West. During these transitional periods, warming or cooling water temperatures stimulate increased activity among redfish, prompting them to move into shallower waters to feed and spawn. Anglers can expect to encounter larger concentrations of redfish during these seasons, making it an excellent time to target these prized game fish.

While redfish can be caught in Key West's waters throughout the year, anglers may find that their activity levels vary depending on the season. During the warmer summer months, redfish may retreat to deeper waters or seek refuge in cooler, shaded areas. In contrast, during the cooler winter months, redfish may become more sluggish and less active. However, with its diverse marine ecosystem and abundance of fishing opportunities, Key West provides anglers with ample chances to pursue redfish and enjoy the thrill of hooking into these hard-fighting and highly prized game fish.

What techniques are popular for catching redfish in Key West?

Fishing for redfish in Key West involves employing a variety of techniques to entice strikes from these prized game fish. One effective method is sight fishing in shallow waters, particularly on the flats and around mangrove shorelines. Anglers often use polarized sunglasses to spot cruising redfish, then carefully cast lures or bait in their path. Soft plastic baits, such as paddle tails or jerk shads, rigged weedless on a weighted hook, can be effective for enticing strikes from wary redfish in shallow water environments.

Another popular technique for targeting redfish in Key West is fishing around structure-rich areas such as docks, bridges, or mangrove edges. Redfish often seek shelter and forage for prey near these structures, making them prime spots for anglers to target. Using live bait such as shrimp, mullet, or pinfish, rigged on a jighead or hook, can be effective for enticing strikes from redfish in these areas. Anglers may also opt to fish with artificial lures such as spoons, jigs, or crankbaits, casting them near structure and retrieving them with erratic movements to mimic fleeing prey.

Trolling is another effective technique for targeting redfish in Key West, particularly in deeper channels or along the edges of flats. Anglers troll with a variety of lures or rigged baits behind a moving boat, covering a large area of water to locate schools of redfish. Flashy lures, such as spoons or diving plugs, can be effective for enticing strikes from redfish while trolling. Whether sight fishing, fishing around structure, or trolling, anglers in Key West can enjoy the thrill of pursuing redfish against the backdrop of the city's stunning coastal scenery.

What other species are popular in Key West?

In addition to redfish, Key West offers anglers a diverse array of species to target, ensuring an exciting fishing experience for all enthusiasts. One popular catch is the tarpon, known for its acrobatic jumps and powerful runs. Tarpon can be found in both nearshore and offshore waters, where they inhabit channels, flats, and around bridges. Anglers targeting tarpon often use live bait such as mullet, crabs, or pinfish, as well as artificial lures such as swimbaits or topwater plugs, to entice strikes from these impressive game fish.

Another sought-after species in Key West's waters is the bonefish, prized for its speed and challenging fights. Bonefish are commonly found in shallow flats, channels, and sandy bottoms, where they feed on small crustaceans and baitfish. Anglers targeting bonefish often use fly fishing techniques, presenting specialized flies to these wary fish with precision casts. Light tackle spinning gear can also be effective when fishing for bonefish, allowing anglers to cast small lures or live bait to entice strikes from these elusive and highly prized game fish.

In addition to tarpon and bonefish, Key West offers opportunities to target a variety of other species, including permit, snapper, and grouper. Whether fishing from a private boat, charter vessel, or the shoreline, anglers can enjoy thrilling angling experiences while exploring the city's scenic coastal landscapes. 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

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great Trip with Phil. I took my kids on a family Lobster trip. Phil helped teach my kids and we all had a great experience!

    Chad L. with Phil P. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Alex, was great! Very personable and friendly. Fishing was tough, but it can be when it’s hot. He got us on some fish and got my wife a shark! That was all she asked for on her birthday! Thanks Alex!

    Matthew S. with Alex H. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time with Captain Chris today. Caught a lot of fish and had a lot of laughs. Had an unforeseen technical issue but Captains Mike and Chris took care of it with grace and humor. We’ll be back.

    Jesse S. with Mike P. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience! Alex is the best!

    Jason M. with Alex H. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent experience! Our Captain Alex was the best!

    Jason M. with Alex H. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great Guide and Great Trip. Enjoyed the Day

    Kevin J. with Hunter L. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great guy, great trip

    Doug K. with Mike P. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a fantastic trip with Robert, he got us into plenty of action including an 80lb Tarpon with a couple other hook ups. We then poled an area and caught some juvenile Tarpon that was a blast. And last but not least, Robert put us on some screaming bonefish, my buddy and I each landed a pair of bones. Thanks for an Awesome trip Robert. Tight lines👍

    Thomas M. with Robert H. of Cudjoe Key, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Tough day lots if wind. Still found fish, had a blast Chandler is an excellent guide coming back for more Tarpon

    Paul G. with Chandler W. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great work Captain Phil. Had a good time on the boat and caught fish all through the 8 hour day. Even when the bite slowed down captain phil ran all over to get back on the bite. We had our trout limit within the first hour of the fishing. He showed me allot of tips for casting under mangroves. Looking forward to another trip soon.

    Shaun T. with Mike P. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Outstanding day on the water with several species caught. Hunter is TOP SHELF!!! It was the first blue water fishing trip for my wife and she can't wait to go again!!!

    Donald ". with Hunter L. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent service! Will definitely use again. Very knowledgeable about the area and put us in the fish. Loved every minute of it and highly recommended to anyone who wants to go fishing!

    Jonathan L. with Brandon S. of Summerland Key, 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

  • ★★★★★
    This was our second time fishing with this guide and we will definitely be back. Great time out on the water with these guys.

    Tony S. with Mike P. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great day fishing with Captain Brandon. We caught a lot of fish, including barracuda, snapper, nurse and lemon shark. Brandon kept moving around to ensure that we stayed on the fish. We've fished with a number of guides over the years and Brandon was one of the best!

    Michael B. with Brandon S. of Summerland Key, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Brandon was fantastic. We went out on the coldest day of January, 2024 and we still caught fish. Brandon is extremely knowledgeable of the area and how to fish it, informative and extremely patient, especially with a beginning like me. I couldn’t have been happier the way the day turned out. I caught some beautiful Snapper for dinner and then some Barracuda and Sharks for sport. I highly recommend his services and he would be my first choice on a return trip to the Keys. Thank you, Mark Maynard

    Mark M. with Brandon S. of Summerland Key, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip today. Weather turned out perfectly. Capt. Phil did a great job getting us into the mangroves for some beautiful snapper. A bonus is having our fresh snapper for lunch cooked to perfection in Robbie’s restaurant. Capt Phil recommended the Thai style for the snapper. Extra Primo Good. All in all a wonderful trip. Highly recommended.

    Edward T. with Mike P. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    What a great time! My son and I enjoyed our trip. Fishing the flats and mangroves was a great new experience it and I can’t wait to do it again. We caught a very large barracuda and found many tarpon. The boat was great for flats fishing. Our captain was good guide and very personable. We do it again for sure. Thank you

    Howard H. with George G. of Layton, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Brandon was fantastic! We had a great day on the water. Started catching fish immediately and the fun never stopped. Highly recommend him.

    Robert Z. with Brandon S. of Summerland Key, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Hunter truly made our fishing trip unforgettable! His expertise and passion for fishing were evident throughout the day. He knew all the best spots, provided top-notch equipment, and his guidance ensured we had a successful and thrilling experience. Highly recommend Captain Hunter for an amazing fishing adventure!

    Kailey N. with Hunter L. of Key West, Florida

What's biting in Key West?

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See All Redfish Trips in Key West