Spanish Mackerel Fishing Charters In Key West

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Recently Booked Spanish Mackerel Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Sportfish Trip

100% (1)
37 ft 1 - 6 People From $192 / person

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Exotic Reef Fishing

NEW
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $167 / person

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

4 Hour Nearshore Fishing Trip

NEW
34 ft 1 - 4 People From $450 / person
Damn Good

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Corsair Reef Fishing

NEW
50 ft 1 - 6 People From $158 / person

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Big Pine Key

Offshore Reef Trip

NEW
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $250 / person

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Big Pine Key

Shallow Water Drift / Patch Reef / Jig Fishing / Gulf Kings

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $225 / person

Most Popular Types of Spanish Mackerel 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

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More Spanish Mackerel Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Join Captain Mark for a Florida Keys fishing adventure! You'll be able to explore the backcountry waters and hard-bottom flats, both prime habitats for a bunch of iconic sportfish species. Captain Mark will set you up to catch a variety of shallow-water sportfish including Sea Trout, Snappers, etc., If weather permits, he can also take you to explore the nearshore waters for Snappers, Grouper, Small Sharks, etc., on the patch reef & reef! While you're welcome to bring your own tackle, Captain Mark will provide high-quality gear from Penn, Shimano, and other top brands, as well as bait and ice. All you'll need to bring are a hat, sunscreen, non-marking shoes, drinks, food, and a good pair of sunglasses. Please note that Captain Mark asks you to refrain from bringing spray sunblock. Captain Mark's goal is to make your day on the water as enjoyable as possible. Let him know which species you'd like to target and he will do his best to make it happen. Get out there and set some hooks! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Big Pine Key

Shallow Water Drift / Patch Reef / Jig Fishing / Gulf Kings

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $225 / person

Head out of Big Pine Key to explore the Offshore waters and Reefs with Captain Mark. He will help you target a variety of Jacks, Dolphin (Mahi), just to name a few! He will provide all the finest gear from Penn and Shimano but also encourages you to bring your own gear if you'd like to land a big one on your own supply. All you'll need to bring is hat, Sunscreen, non-marking shoes, and a good pair of sunglasses … (Captain Mark asks that you please Do Not bring Spray Sunblock) You'll be heading out aboard his 21ft Mako which is a super fun boat to explore the open water in. These trips can however be dependent on the weather. If there is some serious chop, he may recommend staying closer to shore to target Snapper, Grouper, and others! Some days the weather is not ideal for the scheduled trip, but good for another type of fishing. Captain Marks goal is to provide the most enjoyable day on the water possible. Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Big Pine Key

Offshore Reef Trip

NEW
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $250 / person
Damn Good

If you’re looking for some of the best charter fishing that money can buy out of Key West, Florida, you can’t go wrong with Corsair 2 Sportfishing. With over 3 decades of local fishing experience under his belt, Captain Russ McKinley is your man if you want to get the best out of these deep blue waters. Our boat is a 50’ Hatteras saltwater fishing boat that can take up to 6 anglers deep sea fishing at the same time. Powered by twin 550 HP Detroit Diesel‎ engines, this fishing machine is unstoppable on the water. The vessel comes rigged with state-of-the-art navigational electronics and safety equipment, outriggers, a fighting chair, a live bait tank, and ice-boxes. It’s also very comfortable and features 2 private restrooms, a kitchen, a flybridge, beds, and AC. This beauty can take you for some amazing reef fishing up to 10 miles offshore . These trips will also provide higher chances of catching Snapper and Grouper! If you book a trip, you’ll be fishing in a 2–10 mile range. Depending on the package and the bite, your target list will include Snapper, Grouper, Mackerel, Barracuda, and Jacks and many other attractive species. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Corsair Reef Fishing

NEW
50 ft 1 - 6 People From $158 / person

Hop on board with Captain Brad and prepare for a stunning adventure to the waters of Dry Tortugas! His 34' Yellowfin will take up to 4 anglers on this exciting 68-mile trip. The remote Dry Tortuga National Park comes with once-in-a-lifetime views. Home to seven islands and even the massive coastal fortress that is Fort Jefferson, it's a sight to be seen for sure. Fishing in the Dry Tortugas yields many species of fish including all kinds of Snapper, Grouper, Cobia, Amberjack, Kingfish and many more. On this 8-hour trip, Captain Brad will take you on a 68-mile trip from Key West to these remote islands. You'll be using light tackle, bottom fishing and jigging to catch any of these picture-worthy species. Captain Brad is happy to demonstrate proper fundamentals for all techniques. He grew up fishing in the Keys and is sure to put you where the fish are biting! Captain Brad fishes aboard a 34’ Yellowfin center console with a capacity for 4 people. Powered by 2 300 HP Suzuki engines, this well-outfitted vessel is sure to comfortably get you where you need to be in no time. It has a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Outriggers, Ice Box and even a bathroom! Captain Brad will provide all rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is any food or drinks you might want, and a camera is recommended. Climb aboard and go on an adventure! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

4 Hour Nearshore Fishing Trip

NEW
34 ft 1 - 4 People From $450 / person

Captain Brad is just the right guy you’re looking for if you’re trying to go fishing in Key West. With a lifetime of experience fishing these waters, Captain Brad knows just where the fish bite! On these 4, 6, and 8-hour trips, you’ll be targeting a variety of species, including Goliath Grouper, King Mackerel / Kingfish, Red Snapper (depending on the season), and Yellowtail Snapper. You’ll be fishing aboard Captain Brad’s 34-foot center console equipped with two 300 HP engines. She also boasts a toilet, GPS, fishfinder, live bait well, outriggers, and an ice box. Captain Brad welcomes six anglers aboard, so make sure you bring some good company! Capt Brad recommends that you bring food and drinks of your choice (preferably no glass), a hat, and sunscreen. They will provide all licenses, rods, reels, lures, and tackle. You can also purchase live bait for an additional fee. Captain Brad welcomes you to an unforgettable day on the water! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Exotic Reef Fishing

NEW
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $167 / person

Captain Mark will guide you on an action-packed adventure through the waters of Key West, Florida! You’ll be fishing aboard Captain Mark’s 37-foot Contender side console powered by two 250 HP Yamaha engines. She comes with outriggers, downriggers, and a live bait well. She also boasts air conditioning, a multimedia system, TV, refrigerator, and an ice-box. On this trip, you’ll be targeting a wide variety of species, including Black Grouper, Blackfin Tuna, Blue Marlin, Dorado (Mahi Mahi), Yellowtail, Wahoo, and many more. 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

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Sportfish Trip

100% (1)
37 ft 1 - 6 People From $192 / person
See All Spanish Mackerel Trips in Key West

Everything to Know About Booking a Key West spanish mackerel fishing charter

What are the best spanish mackerel fishing charters in Key West?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 7 spanish mackerel trips in Key West, and the most popular trips in the area are Key West Sportfish Trip guided by Mark, Key West Exotic Reef Fishing guided by Brad, and Corsair Reef Fishing guided by Russ.

Our guides in Key West are rated a 5 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 Spanish Mackerel charter include Big Pine Key and Summerland Key.

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

What types of spanish mackerel fishing charters are common in Key West?

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

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

How much do Key West spanish mackerel fishing charters cost?

for spanish mackerel in Key West prices can range anywhere from an affordable $375 to $2,150, but the average price for a half day trip for spanish mackerel in Key West is $738. The average price for a full day trip for spanish mackerel in Key West is $1,282.

What month is best for spanish mackerel fishing in Key West?

The most popular season for spanish mackerel fishing in Key West is winter, and most anglers book their trips 41 days in advance.

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

Spanish mackerel fishing in Key West offers anglers an exciting and rewarding experience. These fast-swimming fish are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic leaps when hooked, making them a favorite among both novice and experienced anglers. Spanish mackerel can be found in abundance around reefs, wrecks, and channels, particularly during the cooler months when they migrate to warmer waters. Anglers often target Spanish mackerel using light spinning tackle and a variety of lures, including spoons, jigs, and small plugs, which mimic the baitfish they feed on.

The best seasons for Spanish mackerel fishing in Key West typically coincide with their migration patterns, which vary throughout the year. In the spring and fall, Spanish mackerel can be found in large numbers as they move along the coastline, making these seasons prime times for anglers to target them. During the summer months, Spanish mackerel can still be caught in shallower waters, particularly early in the morning or late in the evening when they are most active. In the winter, Spanish mackerel may move to deeper waters, but they can still be targeted by anglers fishing around structures such as bridges, jetties, and piers.

When fishing for Spanish mackerel in Key West, anglers often employ a variety of techniques to maximize their success. Trolling with small lures or live bait behind a boat is a popular method for covering a large area and enticing strikes from actively feeding fish. Additionally, casting and retrieving lures such as spoons or jigs near structure or along current lines can be effective, especially when Spanish mackerel are feeding near the surface. Anglers may also use chum to attract Spanish mackerel to their location, creating a feeding frenzy that increases the likelihood of a successful catch. Overall, Spanish mackerel fishing in Key West offers anglers an exhilarating experience and the chance to reel in these prized game fish while enjoying the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys.

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

In Key West, Spanish mackerel seasons fluctuate throughout the year, influenced by the fish's migratory patterns and environmental factors. Generally, Spanish mackerel are abundant in the waters around Key West during the spring and fall months. These seasons coincide with their migration along the coastline, as they move in search of warmer waters and abundant food sources. During these times, anglers have excellent opportunities to target Spanish mackerel in various locations, including nearshore reefs, channels, and along the edges of flats.

Summer also offers productive Spanish mackerel fishing opportunities in Key West, although the fish may move to deeper waters to escape the heat. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the most productive times to target Spanish mackerel during the summer months when they are more active. Anglers can find Spanish mackerel feeding near structure such as bridges, jetties, and piers, as well as around baitfish schools in deeper waters. While the numbers may not be as high as during the spring and fall, anglers can still have success catching Spanish mackerel throughout the summer season.

In the winter, Spanish mackerel in Key West may move to deeper waters, making them less accessible to anglers targeting them from shore. However, Spanish mackerel can still be caught by boat anglers fishing around structures such as wrecks, artificial reefs, and ledges. Additionally, Spanish mackerel may remain in shallower waters if conditions are favorable, such as during periods of mild weather. Overall, while Spanish mackerel seasons in Key West may vary throughout the year, anglers can enjoy productive fishing opportunities for these prized game fish with proper timing and technique.

What techniques are popular for catching spanish mackerel in Key West?

Spanish mackerel fishing in Key West can be an exciting and rewarding experience, especially when employing effective techniques. Anglers often use light to medium spinning tackle paired with fluorocarbon leaders to target these fast and agile fish. One popular technique is trolling, where anglers tow small spoons, plugs, or feather jigs behind a boat at varying speeds to mimic the movement of baitfish. Trolling allows anglers to cover a large area of water and locate schools of Spanish mackerel, particularly in deeper offshore waters or along channels and reefs.

Another productive technique for catching Spanish mackerel in Key West is casting and retrieving lures. Anglers can use flashy lures such as spoons, jigs, or flashy soft plastics to mimic the appearance of small baitfish. By casting these lures into areas where Spanish mackerel are known to feed, such as around structure, flats, or bait schools, and retrieving them at a moderate to fast pace, anglers can entice strikes from these aggressive predators. It's essential to vary the retrieval speed and presentation to determine what triggers the most bites on any given day.

Live bait fishing is also a popular method for targeting Spanish mackerel in Key West. Anglers can use live baitfish such as pilchards, threadfin herring, or small mullet to entice strikes from hungry mackerel. This technique is particularly effective when fishing near structure such as reefs, wrecks, or drop-offs, where Spanish mackerel often congregate to ambush prey. Using a variety of live baits and adjusting the depth and presentation based on water conditions and fish behavior can increase the likelihood of success when targeting Spanish mackerel in Key West. Overall, employing a combination of trolling, casting, and live bait fishing techniques can help anglers maximize their chances of landing these prized game fish in the waters around Key West.

What other species are popular in Key West?

Aside from Spanish mackerel, Key West offers a diverse range of fish species that provide anglers with exciting opportunities for both inshore and offshore fishing. One popular target species is the tarpon, known for its acrobatic leaps and powerful runs. Key West is renowned for its tarpon fishing, especially during the annual tarpon migration from April to July. Anglers often target tarpon in channels, flats, and around bridges using live bait, artificial lures, or fly fishing techniques. These iconic silver kings can provide anglers with thrilling battles and memorable fishing experiences.

Another prized species in Key West is the permit, a challenging and elusive fish known for its strength and speed. Permit are often found on shallow flats and around wrecks and reefs, where they feed on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. Anglers typically sight fish for permit using live crabs or shrimp, as well as artificial flies or lures that mimic their natural prey. Landing a permit can be a rewarding accomplishment for anglers due to their wary nature and the technical skills required to entice a bite.

In addition to tarpon and permit, Key West offers excellent opportunities for catching a variety of other species, including snapper, grouper, jacks, and barracuda. These fish can be found in both nearshore and offshore waters, inhabiting reefs, wrecks, channels, and flats. Anglers can target them using a variety of techniques, including bottom fishing with live or cut bait, jigging, casting artificial lures, and fly fishing. Whether fishing from a boat, kayak, or shore, Key West provides anglers with a wealth of options for pursuing a diverse range of fish species in its rich and productive waters.

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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