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Damn Good Key West Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Key West fishing trips. Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore, Flats, and Jetty trips available.

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Key West, Fl

Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Wreck & Reef Fishing - 29’ Sea Vee

100% (3)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $900
Fishing in Key West

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

Key West Silver Kings And More

100% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Fishing Slam

94% (18)
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,050
Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Southernmost Mahi Offshore Fishing

100% (3)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Tarpon Hunt

100% (12)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Mixed Bag Trip

100% (8)
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $850

Top Types of Trips in Key West

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Target Species in Key West

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

Deep Sea Fishing Charters In Key West, Fl

Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

4 Hour Private Fishing

NEW
28 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Dry Tortugas Trip

100% (7)
35 ft 1 - 12 People From $3,750
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Sport Fishing Experience

NEW
30 ft 1 - 12 People From $900
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West

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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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Marquesas Key Fishing Adventure

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,600
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

8 Hour Private Fishing

NEW
28 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600

Inshore Fishing Charters In Key West, Fl

Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Wreck Fishing

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $750
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West On Light Tackle & Flies

100% (2)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

8 Hour Private Fishing

NEW
28 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600
Bucket List
The Captain Experiences team 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
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Fishing Adventure

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 8 People From $800
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Tarpon Fishing (seasonally)

100% (20)
27 ft 1 - 12 People From $350

Nearshore Fishing Charters In Key West, Fl

Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Fishing Adventure

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 8 People From $800
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Sport Fishing Experience

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

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

8 Hour Private Fishing

NEW
28 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Tarpon Fishing (seasonally)

100% (20)
27 ft 1 - 12 People From $350
Fishing in Key West

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Sportfishing Adventure

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

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Wreck Fishing

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $750

More Fishing Charters In Key West, Fl

Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West Offshore Excitement! in Key West

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!

100% (12)
30 ft 1 - 4 People From $900
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West "Flex" Sportfishing in Key West

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

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

100% (12)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Lobstering Trip in Key West

Lobstering is a great experience for kids and adults and very rewarding to eat if caught. I like to make it as simple as possible for you I’ll be helping you step by step so you can succeed in catching them in shallow waters around Key West. The first couple of days it’s best to leave as early so no one gets to the spots before we do, but don’t worry I have lots of secret spots and usually limit out on every trip. I’ll have all the gear you need nets, sticks, mask, fins, gloves and bags to put your catch in while you keep looking. It’s best to bring a pair of socks and a snack for after you swim and I’ll have ice water in the cooler. Read More

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Key West

Lobstering Trip

100% (20)
27 ft 1 - 12 People From $350
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Tarpon Fishing (seasonally) in Key West

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

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Tarpon Fishing (seasonally)

100% (20)
27 ft 1 - 12 People From $350
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Legendary Fishing in Key West in Key West

Head out for a fun-filled action-packed charter with Captain Chuck aboard his Ocean Yacht for an epic Key West fishing experience! For most trips, you will be trolling the nearshore and close offshore waters for Bonito, Mackerel, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, and whatever else emerges from the beautiful waters off the southernmost point of the United States! The longer the trip, the more species you can expect to catch (and the bigger the fish!) Captain Chuck fishes aboard a well-maintained 55 foot Ocean Sport Fisher. She is fully equipped to fish, outfitted with a Furuno electronics package and all the tackle you will need for your Key West Fishing Adventure. With dual 725 horse power Detroit Diesel engines powering this vessel, you can get from the dock to prime fishing spots quick to allow you to begin fishing faster! You're welcome to be as involved as you'd like as well, for those who just want to cool off and watch the action from inside the air-conditioned cabin, we have a luxurious space for them to relax until the next big fish gets on the hook. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Legendary Fishing In Key West

100% (7)
55 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,100
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing, Hunting in Key West
Fishing, Hunting in Key West
Fishing, Hunting in Key West
trip description for Fishing-Private Full Day Charter in Key West

8 hours on the beautiful waters of the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico. We can fish for a variety of species based on the time of year and what is in season. We start the day catching live bait, depending on what we are planning to fish for it can be anything from casting for Pinfish, Thread Fins, Ballyhoo Etc to throwing the cast net for some Pilchards, or Mahua. You can keep your edible catch or simply catch and release. We can talk and customize your trip based on your preferences. Read More

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing, Hunting Charter in Key West

Fishing-Private Full Day Charter

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,200
See All Trips in Key West

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Key West

What are the best fishing charters in Key West?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 118 trips in Key West, and the most popular trips in the area are Key West Tarpon Hunt guided by John, Southernmost Mahi Offshore Fishing guided by Garrett, and Lobstering Trip guided by Antonio.

Our guides in Key West are rated a 4.93 out of 5 based on 3571 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 charters / fishing lessons in Key West? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Key West.

What types of fishing charters are common in Key West?

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

The most commonly sought after species in Key West are: 1. yellowtail snapper, 2. mutton snapper, 3. mahi mahi, 4. mangrove snapper, and 5. blackfin tuna.

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

How much do Key West fishing charters cost?

Prices in Key West can range anywhere from about $700 to $2,990, but the average price for a half day trip in Key West is $1,174. The average price for a full day trip in Key West is $2,011.

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 fishing in Key West?

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

Do I need a Key West fishing license and what are the bag limits 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.

Key West Fishing Charter Overview

Key West, located in Florida, is a prime destination for sportfishing enthusiasts. Positioned between the Gulf and the Atlantic, Key West offers a diverse range of fish species, making it a tropical paradise for anglers of all ages and experience levels.

The flats and mangroves of Key West are home to popular fly fishing species such as Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit. These fish can be found from spring through fall, along with Mangrove Snapper. Half-day trips are available for those seeking a quick fishing excursion, while full-day trips offer the opportunity to target all three species for an Inshore Grand Slam.

For those seeking tasty fish, the reefs of Key West are a must-visit. Bottom fish for year-round residents like Snappers and Groupers, as well as Cobia and King Mackerel in winter and spring. Even beginners can fill their coolers on these trips, making them particularly popular on Key West party boats.

For a more challenging experience, offshore trolling for Tuna and Mahi Mahi, as well as Blue Marlin in summer or Sailfish in winter, is available. These trips require a full day and advanced skills to maximize the experience.

For competitive anglers, the Del Brown Permit Tournament and Key West Marlin Tournament take place in July. However, Key West offers great weather and a variety of fish species year-round.

Fishing licenses are included on all saltwater charters in Florida, both private trips and party boats. It is important to note that most Groupers are protected from January to April, and Permit are catch-and-release only from April through July. It is recommended to ask the captain for the most up-to-date information on seasons and limits.

Key West Inshore Fishing Charters

Inshore fishing in Key West is one of the main reasons people visit the island. Just pull up a map of Key West to see the endless bays, basins, islands, flats, and backcountry fishing Key West offers. Legendary Key West flats fishing charters target some of the most coveted inshore species in the world (and if you want a change of pace, another hidden gem of an activity is Key West lobster charter snorkeling and spearfishing trips).

The "Grey Ghost", or Bonefish, can be found cruising these flats in pursuit of crabs and other tasty morsels. The best season to catch these elusive creatures is from April to October, but Bonefish fishing can also be great in warmer periods between cold fronts in the winter.

Tarpon, or "The Silver King", make their yearly migratory stop in Key West as the water warms up in late spring. Of course other inshore species inhabit these waters as well, like Redfish, Snook, Mangrove Snapper, Permit, Jacks, and Speckled Trout. You can expect to cast for these species in the backwater channels, flats or bays around Key West.

Key West Fly Fishing Guides

For the fly fisherman, there is no better place to sight fish for your bucket list species than Key West. Our Damn Good Key West fishing guides have the local knowledge required to catch the Key West Slam - Tarpon, Bonefish, and Permit - all in a single day.

Key West Deep Sea and Offshore Fishing

In Key West, the quality of fishing doesn't end when you head further out to sea. Deep sea fishing Key West offers ample reefs, wrecks and other seafloor structure for a lifetime of fishing.

Offshore trips can expect to take a center console boat out 10+ miles to catch Mahi-Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, and Kingfish. Shark fishing near Key West is also fantastic and can be a blast on nearshore and deep sea trips.

Key West has plenty of fishing charters for the deep sea angler: equipped with all the amenities needed for a half day or more on the water, large Key West sport fishing boats are the bread and butter of Key West deep sea fishing charters.

Prized sport fish like Marlin, Sailfish, and other elusive pelagic species like Swordfish are often caught on these trips. They are generally found from the Gulfstream to the east and south to Dry Tortugas. Increase your odds at sizing up the fish of a lifetime with an overnight night fishing trip out of Key West.

Whether you want to bounce around reefs and wrecks to fill up the freezer with delicious meat like red snapper, or go marlin fishing to hook into a Grander that will drag the boat like Hemingway in The Old Man and the Sea, our Key West offshore and deep sea charters have you covered!

View All Key West Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Popular Types of Fishing In Key West, FL

The most common types of Key West fishing charters are deep sea fishing, flats fishing, and reef fishing. Deep sea fishing is perfect for those looking to catch big game fish like marlin, sailfish, and tuna. Flats fishing is ideal for those who want to catch bonefish, tarpon, and permit in shallow waters. Reef fishing is great for those who want to catch snapper, grouper, and other reef fish.

Some of the most common fish to catch in Key West include mahi-mahi, wahoo, yellowtail snapper, and kingfish. Key West fishing charters often visit landmarks like the Dry Tortugas National Park and the Marquesas Keys for some of the best fishing spots in the area. So, whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, there's a Key West fishing charter that's perfect for you.

The Best Places To Fish In Key West, FL

Key West, Florida is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, it's no wonder that it's a top destination for fishing charters. Here are some of the best places to fish in Key West:

1. The Marquesas Keys: This remote chain of islands is a prime spot for fishing charters, with its shallow flats and abundant tarpon, bonefish, and permit.

2. The Gulf of Mexico: The Gulf of Mexico is home to a variety of fish species, including grouper, snapper, and kingfish. Fishing charters in this area often target wrecks and reefs for the best catch.

3. The Backcountry: The Backcountry is a maze of mangrove islands and shallow flats that are perfect for fly fishing. It's also a great spot for catching tarpon, bonefish, and permit.

4. The Atlantic Ocean: The Atlantic Ocean is a deep-sea fishing paradise, with opportunities to catch sailfish, marlin, and tuna. Fishing charters in this area often venture out to the Gulf Stream for the best catch.

5. The Key West Harbor: The Key West Harbor is a great spot for fishing charters, with its abundance of tarpon, snook, and redfish. It's also a convenient location for those who want to stay close to shore.

Other Things To Do In Key West, FL

While Key West fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this vibrant city. Take a stroll down Duval Street and explore the unique shops and restaurants, or visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to learn about the famous author's life. For a taste of history, check out the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum. If you're looking for adventure, take a jet ski tour or go parasailing. For a more relaxed experience, head to the beach and soak up the sun at Smathers Beach or Higgs Beach. Don't forget to catch a sunset at Mallory Square and watch street performers put on a show. With so much to do, Key West is the perfect destination for any traveler.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Jamie explained how, then coached me thru how to target Tarpon quite well. Followed by using his knowledge to get me on fish right away. Thank you for teaching this old dog new tricks!

    Scott N. | October 3, 2024

    Trip: Key West on Light Tackle & Flies

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Steve and mate Stan are the best they put us on the fish and we will definitely be back

    Jason R. | September 25, 2024

    Trip: Key West Sportfishing Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience with Captain Allen. He took the time to get in the water with us and show us where and how to find lobster. Very informative and went out of his way to assure we had a successful trip.

    Wendy H. | September 24, 2024

    Trip: Catch Your Own Tasty Lobster!

  • ★★★★★
    Absolutely amazing!!! It was our first time catching lobsters, Antonio made it easy for us. We caught all the lobster we could eat. Snorkeled an amazing reef and got up close with some dolphins!!! One of the best charters we have ever been on.

    Aaron P. | September 21, 2024

    Trip: Lobstering Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Fun trip, knowledgeable about the water, sport and species. Tony will put you on the best places to get a catch. Hospitality and communication was great. Well done and fruitful!

    Matthew S. | September 21, 2024

    Trip: Lobstering Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent guide and first mate. Both were great. Stayed over our time to be sure all the kids caught something. Highly recommend!!!

    Graham S. | September 16, 2024

    Trip: Key West Fishing Slam

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience. Allen went above and beyond to ensure we hd a great tine. This was our first time lobstering, and Allen patiently taught us everything we need to know and helped us every step of the way. Could not have asked for more, as Allen made this trip exceed our expectations!

    Stephen R. | September 15, 2024

    Trip: Catch Your Own Tasty Lobster!

  • ★★★★★
    Chris & Will were great. Knowledgeable, professional, engaging and put us on the fish. Would highly recommend this charter.

    Doug B. | September 11, 2024

    Trip: Key West Sportfish Trip

  • ★★★★★
    David Larson was a great captain and worked his ass off. we caught our limit of four different species of fish. Good day !

    Dennis W. | September 9, 2024

    Trip: Key West Lobstering - 24’ Yellowfin

  • ★★★★★
    Captain David did an amazing job I asked for an out of season Tarpon trip . He got hooked up after a few spots. Then we went to deep water and caught a nice Mutton Snapper.

    Larry F. | September 3, 2024

    Trip: Key West Tarpon Hunt

  • ★★★★★
    We had an amazing time! We had a special interest in Mahi and captain brad and his first mate made it happen. It was great, they made us feel super comfortable and confident. We were able to score Mackerel, Yellowtail and we latched on 3 Mahi’s at the very very last second! Super lucky. Brad and his first mate made it happen! We were able to leave with 2 mackerels and 2 Mahi Mahi’s! Thank you! You won’t regret booking with them. Special experience.

    María A. | September 2, 2024