Damn Good White Marlin Fishing Charters In Key West

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Recently Booked White Marlin Fishing Charters In Key West, Fl

Fishing in Destin
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Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Legendary Fishing In Key West

100% (8)
55 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,100
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

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

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Dawn To Dusk Key West Fishing Trip

100% (8)
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Sport Fishing Experience

NEW
30 ft 1 - 12 People From $900
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Key West

Ultimate Angler's Paradise

100% (10)
40 ft 1 - 12 People From $2,200

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Target Species in Key West

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Other Trips in Key West

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100% (7)
35 ft 1 - 12 People From $3,750
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100% (22)
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Key West On Light Tackle & Flies

100% (2)
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Key West Fishing Adventure

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Key West Wreck Fishing

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Key West Sportfishing Adventure

100% (2)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,050
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Offshore Fishing Expedition

100% (7)
35 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,300
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Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Marquesas Atoll Light Tackle

100% (3)
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $950
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Fishing in Destin
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Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

8 Hour Private Fishing

NEW
28 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Dusk Till Dawn - 18’ Xplor

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

Marquesas Key Fishing Adventure

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

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28 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000

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Everything to Know About Booking a Key West white marlin fishing charter

What are the best white marlin fishing charters in Key West?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 4 white marlin trips in Key West, and the most popular trips in the area are Legendary Fishing in Key West guided by Chuck, Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs guided by Mark, and Dawn to Dusk Key West Fishing Trip guided by Brad.

Our guides in Key West are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3806 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

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

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

What types of white marlin fishing charters are common in Key West?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for white marlin in Key West as well as inshore fishing and nearshore fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Key West are heavy tackle fishing, bottom fishing, and trolling but light tackle fishing and kite fishing are popular as well.

How much do Key West white marlin fishing charters cost?

Prices for white marlin in Key West can range anywhere from about $1,350 to $4,400, but the average price for a half day trip for white marlin in Key West is $1,600. The average price for a full day trip for white marlin in Key West is $2,739.

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 white marlin fishing in Key West?

The most popular season for white marlin fishing in Key West is summer, and most anglers book their trips 34 days in advance.

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

White marlin, esteemed among anglers for its speed, agility, and striking appearance, is a prized catch in the waters surrounding Key West, Florida. These magnificent fish, known for their distinct blue and white coloration and elongated dorsal fin, are found in the offshore waters of the Gulf Stream, particularly during the warmer months. Anglers often target white marlin while trolling offshore, using a variety of artificial lures and rigged baits to entice strikes from these elusive predators.

Fishing for white marlin in Key West requires skill, patience, and a bit of luck. Anglers typically venture offshore to depths ranging from 100 to 500 feet, where white marlin are known to inhabit the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Trolling with artificial lures such as squid chains, feathered trolling lures, or rigged ballyhoo is a common technique used to attract the attention of white marlin. Anglers may also use live bait such as bonito or small tuna, deployed with a spread of outriggers to cover more water and increase their chances of encountering these prized game fish.

While white marlin can be found in the waters off Key West year-round, peak seasons for targeting these fish typically occur during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. During this time, white marlin migrate through the area in search of food, making them more accessible to anglers. Whether fishing from a private boat or charter vessel, anglers in Key West can experience the thrill of hooking into a white marlin while enjoying the scenic beauty of the open ocean.

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

In Key West, Florida, white marlin fishing seasons typically align with the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. During this time, white marlin migrate through the offshore waters of the Gulf Stream in search of prey, making them more accessible to anglers. The peak season for white marlin fishing in Key West usually occurs from June to September, when water temperatures are warmer and the fish are more actively feeding.

Spring marks the beginning of the white marlin season in Key West, as warming water temperatures trigger the migration of these majestic fish into the area. As the weather warms, white marlin become more abundant in the offshore waters, offering anglers ample opportunities to target them. During this time, anglers often venture offshore to depths ranging from 100 to 500 feet, where white marlin are known to roam in search of baitfish.

Fall sees another peak season for white marlin fishing in Key West, as the fish continue their migration through the area. While white marlin can be found in the waters off Key West year-round, the fall months offer particularly favorable conditions for targeting these prized game fish. Anglers can enjoy thrilling offshore adventures while trolling with artificial lures or live bait, hoping to hook into one of these powerful and elusive predators against the backdrop of the open ocean.

What techniques are popular for catching white marlin in Key West?

Fishing for white marlin in Key West, Florida, requires employing specialized techniques tailored to the behavior and habitat of these elusive game fish. One effective method is trolling offshore waters with a spread of artificial lures designed to mimic the movement of baitfish. Anglers typically use a combination of squid chains, feathered trolling lures, or rigged ballyhoo, strategically positioned at varying depths and distances behind the boat to entice strikes from white marlin. Trolling allows anglers to cover a large area of water and increase their chances of encountering these swift and elusive predators.

Another successful technique for targeting white marlin in Key West is using live bait, such as bonito or small tuna, deployed with a spread of outriggers to cover more water. Live bait can be rigged to swim naturally and attractively, enticing strikes from hungry white marlin cruising the offshore waters. Anglers often deploy a combination of live bait and artificial lures to maximize their chances of success while trolling offshore for white marlin.

White marlin fishing in Key West can also be productive by targeting specific areas of structure or current breaks where these fish are known to congregate. Anglers may focus their efforts around offshore reefs, seamounts, or temperature breaks in the Gulf Stream, where white marlin are likely to be found feeding. Whether trolling offshore with artificial lures or live bait, or targeting specific areas of structure, anglers in Key West can enjoy the challenge and excitement of pursuing white marlin against the backdrop of the city's stunning coastal scenery.

What other species are popular in Key West?

Aside from white marlin, Key West, Florida offers anglers a diverse range of species to target in its rich and vibrant waters. One popular catch is the sailfish, known for its impressive speed and acrobatic leaps when hooked. Sailfish can be found in the offshore waters of the Gulf Stream, particularly during the winter months when they migrate through the area in search of prey. Anglers targeting sailfish often use trolling techniques with artificial lures or rigged baits, as well as live bait such as ballyhoo or mullet, to entice strikes from these magnificent game fish.

Another sought-after species in Key West's waters is the mahi-mahi, prized for its vibrant colors and delicious taste. Mahi-mahi, also known as dolphin fish or dorado, can be found in offshore waters near floating debris, weed lines, and temperature breaks, where they feed on small fish and crustaceans. Anglers targeting mahi-mahi often use trolling techniques with brightly colored lures or rigged baits, as well as live bait such as pilchards or squid, to attract strikes from these highly prized fish.

In addition to sailfish and mahi-mahi, Key West offers opportunities to target a variety of other species, including tuna, wahoo, and king mackerel. Whether fishing from a private boat or charter vessel, 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

  • ★★★★★
    We had a blast with Joe and Captain Chuck. Will definitely return!

    Yohannes H. | October 28, 2024

    Trip: Legendary Fishing in Key West

  • ★★★★★
    Great day on the water, Captain Mark and mate Will were awesome. They put me on fish and stayed out until the last minute. I would definitely recommend.

    Nicholas W. | August 8, 2024

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome experience. Captain chuck and Joe Joe were great. Nice boat, good times

    Stephen M. | June 22, 2024

    Trip: Legendary Fishing in Key West

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time today Caught a lot of fish. Thoroughly enjoyed our charter. Will return.

    Jorge E. | May 9, 2024

    Trip: Legendary Fishing in Key West

  • ★★★★★
    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. | February 4, 2024

    Trip: Legendary Fishing in Key West

  • ★★★★★
    We had the best time ever! It was my first time to go deep sea fishing and my husband and I both caught a Wahoo and plenty of other fish! mark and Nell’s were amazing! We had a local restaurant cook our fish for us that evening. Great trip!!

    Lynda B. | January 22, 2024

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

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

    Dan C. | January 8, 2024

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

  • ★★★★★
    Fabulous fun and great experience with the crew!!!

    David H. | December 4, 2023

    Trip: Legendary Fishing in Key West

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip !! Capt and Mate both great boat and equipment well maintained. We landed 2 sails 4 of 5 tuna and a variety of other fish including grouper and snapper.

    Jeremiah W. | November 27, 2023

    Trip: Dawn to Dusk Key West Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great crew, they worked very hard, but the fish just wasn’t there, we’ll book with them again

    Ted M. | October 13, 2023

    Trip: Legendary Fishing in Key West

  • ★★★★★
    Brad and miles are the best! Great trip. They know what they are doing. Thank you!

    William C. | August 16, 2023

    Trip: Ultimate Angler's Paradise

  • ★★★★★
    Great day on the water. We all caught fish. Joe was a great guide.

    Karen D. | July 14, 2023

    Trip: Legendary Fishing in Key West

  • ★★★★★
    Fishing was tough but Brad went above and beyond to find us some.

    Will J. | June 21, 2023

    Trip: Ultimate Angler's Paradise

  • ★★★★★
    Doug, my best friend, and I had a great fishing experience with Captain Brad. Captain Brad and First Mate Jameson are very professional and enjoyable to fish with. The had rigs and bait ready when we arrived. The Southpaw was clean and ready to go. We left on time and had a fantastic "Dawn to Dusk" trip. We started with a quick stop at a buoy to catch some live bait, which was fun. Next we travelled to the first trolling spot. At 8:45 we had a bite on the left outrigger. 45 minutes, and many jumps and runs, later, we had a beautiful blue marlin beside the boat. We have little deep sea fishing experience. The fish was caught on 30 pound test line. Captain Brad and First Mate Jameson did an amazing job ensuring we caught and released the fish. We then continued trolling and around 11 Captain Brad found Mahi Mahi. We made several circles by the weed line they were under and caught 15. We continued trolling and along the way we boated a barracuda and a king mackerel. We did a deep drop and caught some rose fish. We fished a wreck and Doug had something big on the line but could never get it off the bottom. We trolled some more until it was time to return to port. Captain Brad worked all day long. He never lost focus. He truly loves to do what he does. Jameson was on point all day as well. He is relatively new as a first mate and has learned quickly and always was focused and energetic. Captain Brad has spent a lifetime doing what he does and is still passionate about giving people a great time on the water. He designed his vessel to be a great deep sea fishing vessel, and the Southpaw is. I will recommend Captain Brad to anyone. Fishing is a game of chance. All you can ask for is a captain who is knowledgeable and passionate, a great vessel, and a competent first mate. We had that experience. Thank you Captain Brad.

    Thomas T. | May 25, 2023

    Trip: Dawn to Dusk Key West Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    This trip was definitely our highlight of the whole vacation. The captain was knowledgeable, experienced, friendly and highly accommodating. This made the trip so enjoyable. His first mate, Josh, was so efficient and explained everything he was doing so we could learn and stay safe. Both of them were so easy to have conversations with and really made for the best time at sea. We ended up reeling in 16 fish and throwing back 7 due to size. Fun-ish little story, one of the Mahi Mahi we reeled in came into the boat as half a fish because a shark bit at it as we were fighting it in. It was clear to see the bite marks. So we finished the day with 8 Mahi and 1 Wahoo, but even without the incredible luck we had on the sea, this trip would have been amazing. Josh filleted everything we caught and we gave away a bunch, and even the local restaurants will prepared it for you if needed. I highly recommend this excursion.

    Kelly S. | April 18, 2023

    Trip: Legendary Fishing in Key West

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

    Brian A. | March 20, 2023

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

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

    Jennifer W. | February 7, 2023

    Trip: Key West Deep Sea Run - 40' Luhrs

What's biting in Key West?

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