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Damn Good Dry Tortugas Fishing Charters

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Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West To Dry Tortugas Charter

100% (2)
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Dry Tortugas Expedition

100% (17)
30 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,200
Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Runnin' The Dry Tortugas

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,800
Fishing in Key West

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Dry Tortugas Trip

100% (7)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,750
Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Dry Tortugas Smash

88% (8)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,400

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Other Trips in Dry Tortugas

Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Dry Tortugas Expedition in Key West

Almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West lies remote Dry Tortugas National Park. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life, and a vast assortment of bird life! This area is also know for its incredible fishing grounds, which are home to tons of reef fish as well as nearshore species such as Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Kingfish, and more! On this epic Dry Tortugas trip, you'll be in experienced and professional hands aboard Captain Hunter's 30' Seahunter Floridian. This boat is a perfect balance of speed, performance, and comfort that's ideal for offshore fishing. With twin 300HP Yamaha engines, you won't have to cruise for long before you reach the prime fishing grounds and start haulin' 'em in. On the way, watch the trolling lines for sudden bites! Your captain will be prepared with everything you need for a blue-ribbon day, including top-of-the line rods, reels, bait, tackle, and most importantly, his years of experience hunting champion pelagic predators. To make the most of your experience on the water, make sure to bring polarized sunglasses, proper clothing, hat, and sunscreen. Get ready to have a blast! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Dry Tortugas Expedition

100% (17)
30 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,200
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Runnin' the Dry Tortugas in Key West

Embark on the ultimate angling adventure with Captain Eric aboard his 33ft Center Console, charting a course for the legendary Dry Tortugas. Set sail from Key West and prepare for a day of unparalleled fishing in the pristine waters of the Gulf of Mexico. As the sun rises over the horizon, anticipation builds as anglers gear up to target an array of prized species inhabiting these rich waters. From the thrilling pursuit of trophy-sized grouper and snapper to the electrifying battle with acrobatic kingfish and powerful amberjack, every cast promises the chance of a lifetime catch. With Captain Eric's expert guidance and local knowledge, anglers of all skill levels are poised for success, whether seasoned veterans or first-time fishermen. As the day unfolds, tales of epic battles and triumphant catches mingle with the salty sea breeze, creating memories to last a lifetime. Amidst the turquoise expanse of the Gulf, the tranquility of the open ocean provides the perfect backdrop for camaraderie and adventure. So, come aboard Captain Eric's vessel and immerse yourself in the thrill of the hunt on this unforgettable 10-hour fishing expedition to the fabled Dry Tortugas. Captain Eric will provide everything you need for your trip whether that's fishing gear, snorkeling gear, or even his portable grill setup for your so just let beach dining pleasure! This trip is built for your vacationing pleasure and is an unforgettable addition to any Key West vacation! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Runnin' The Dry Tortugas

100% (3)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,800
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Dry Tortugas Smash in Key West

Embark on the ultimate fishing adventure with Captain John's 33ft Center Console to the pristine waters of the Dry Tortugas. Set out on a 10-hour journey filled with excitement, as you navigate through the turquoise blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. With Captain John at the helm, seasoned anglers and novices alike will have the opportunity to reel in a variety of prized catches. Cast your line in search of the elusive and powerful Tarpon, known for their acrobatic leaps and challenging fights. Test your skills against the cunning and elusive Permit, as you strive to land one of these prized trophies. As you cruise through the remote and picturesque Dry Tortugas, keep your eyes peeled for the iconic sight of a majestic sailfish slicing through the waves. Feel the thrill of the chase as you pursue these magnificent creatures, known for their lightning-fast speeds and spectacular aerial displays. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking for your next big catch or a newcomer eager to experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing, Captain John's 33ft Center Console promises an unforgettable adventure in one of the most beautiful and bountiful fishing destinations in the world. Join us for a day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and memories that will last a lifetime. You’ll be fishing aboard Captain John’s 33-foot center console equipped with two 300 HP engines. She also has a GPS, fishfinder, flybridge, live bait well, outriggers, and tuna tubes. We will provide Spearfishing Equipment and Snorkeling equipment free of charge if you’re interested. Captain John welcomes 6 anglers on these 4, 6, and 8-hour adventures. The longer your trip, the farther out you can fish. And the farther out you can fish, the bigger the fish get! Make sure you bring food and drinks for the day (preferably no glass) as well as a hat and sunscreen. Captain John will provide all licenses, rods, reels, lures, and tackle. They will also prepare live bait before the trip, although you can catch the bait during the trip if you’d like. For the 6-and 8-hour trips, a first mate will be on board to help you at all times. They will help you clean and fillet your fish at the end of the trip. Whatever your skill level, there is a fish out here with your name on it. Come and join Captain John for an exciting day of fishing! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Dry Tortugas Smash

88% (8)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,400

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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Dry Tortugas

What are the best fishing charters in Dry Tortugas?

Why should I book a fishing charter in Dry Tortugas with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 5 trips in Dry Tortugas, and the most popular trips in the area are Key West to Dry Tortugas Charter guided by Rob, Dry Tortugas Expedition guided by Hunter, and Dry Tortugas Trip guided by Justin.

Our guides in Dry Tortugas are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3298 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 charters / fishing lessons in Dry Tortugas? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Dry Tortugas.

What types of fishing charters are common in Dry Tortugas?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Dry Tortugas as well as nearshore fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Dry Tortugas are: 1. wahoo, 2. yellowtail snapper, 3. mutton snapper, 4. mahi mahi, and 5. cobia.

The most common fishing techniques in Dry Tortugas are trolling, bottom fishing, and light tackle fishing but heavy tackle fishing and live bait fishing are popular as well.

How much do Dry Tortugas fishing charters cost?

Prices in Dry Tortugas can range anywhere from about $1,880 to $3,300, but the average price for a half day trip in Dry Tortugas is $1,400. The average price for a full day trip in Dry Tortugas is $2,792.

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 Dry Tortugas?

The most popular season for fishing in Dry Tortugas is spring, and most anglers book their trips 27 days in advance.

Do I need a Dry Tortugas fishing license and what are the bag limits in Dry Tortugas?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Dry Tortugas, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Dry Tortugas. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Dry Tortugas.

What is fishing in Dry Tortugas all about?

Fishing in Dry Tortugas, a remote group of islands located approximately 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, offers anglers a unique and exciting opportunity to explore some of the most pristine and untouched waters in the Gulf of Mexico. The area is renowned for its abundant marine life, including a variety of game fish species that attract anglers from around the world. One of the main draws for anglers visiting Dry Tortugas is the chance to target trophy-sized fish such as grouper, snapper, and amberjack. These prized game fish inhabit the reefs and wrecks surrounding the islands, providing anglers with thrilling battles and the opportunity to land some impressive catches.

In addition to bottom fishing for grouper and snapper, Dry Tortugas offers excellent opportunities for offshore fishing. Anglers can venture further offshore in search of pelagic species such as tuna, mahi-mahi, and billfish. The deep blue waters surrounding the islands provide a fertile fishing ground for these fast and powerful fish, with anglers often encountering schools of tuna feeding near the surface or chasing baitfish. Whether trolling with artificial lures or live bait, or casting with spinning or fly fishing gear, anglers can enjoy an adrenaline-pumping fishing adventure in the open waters of Dry Tortugas.

Furthermore, Dry Tortugas provides anglers with the chance to experience some of the most spectacular and unspoiled natural scenery in the Florida Keys. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, the islands offer anglers a truly immersive and unforgettable fishing experience. Whether fishing from a private boat, a charter vessel, or simply casting a line from the shore, anglers can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Dry Tortugas while pursuing their passion for fishing. With its rich marine biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes, Dry Tortugas is a must-visit destination for any angler seeking an unforgettable fishing adventure in the Gulf of Mexico.

What are the most popular months to fish in Dry Tortugas?

Fishing in Dry Tortugas, located off the coast of Florida in the Gulf of Mexico, offers anglers a unique seasonal experience influenced by the area's subtropical climate and diverse marine ecosystems. Spring marks the beginning of the prime fishing season in Dry Tortugas, as warmer temperatures bring an influx of baitfish and predatory species into the area. Anglers can expect to target a variety of species such as grouper, snapper, king mackerel, and tuna as they migrate closer to the islands in search of food. With the waters teeming with life, spring fishing in Dry Tortugas promises plenty of action and the chance to reel in some impressive catches.

Summer in Dry Tortugas offers anglers excellent opportunities to target a wide range of offshore species, including mahi-mahi, sailfish, and wahoo. With the Gulf Stream currents bringing nutrient-rich waters close to the islands, pelagic species become more abundant, providing anglers with thrilling offshore fishing adventures. Trolling with lures or live bait is a popular method for targeting these fast-moving species, while bottom fishing around the numerous reefs and wrecks can yield catches of grouper and snapper. Whether fishing from a private boat or joining a charter, summer fishing in Dry Tortugas offers anglers the chance to hook into some impressive gamefish.

Fall brings cooler temperatures to Dry Tortugas, signaling changes in fish behavior and feeding patterns. While some offshore species may begin to migrate southward with the changing seasons, the area remains productive for bottom fishing enthusiasts targeting species such as grouper and snapper. Additionally, fall is an excellent time to target pelagic species like king mackerel and blackfin tuna, which can be found patrolling the waters around the islands. With its pristine coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant fish populations, fall fishing in Dry Tortugas offers anglers a rewarding and memorable experience on the water.

What types of fishing are popular in Dry Tortugas?

Fishing in Dry Tortugas, a remote and pristine archipelago in the Gulf of Mexico, offers anglers a diverse range of fishing opportunities in its crystal-clear waters. One popular method of fishing in Dry Tortugas is bottom fishing, particularly for species like grouper and snapper. Anglers target these prized game fish by dropping baited rigs or jigs down to the reefs and wrecks that surround the islands. With the abundance of structure and marine life in these waters, anglers can expect thrilling battles and the chance to reel in trophy-sized catches while bottom fishing in Dry Tortugas.

Offshore fishing is another exciting option for anglers exploring the waters of Dry Tortugas. Venturing further offshore provides opportunities to target pelagic species such as tuna, mahi-mahi, and billfish. Anglers often troll with artificial lures or live bait, covering vast expanses of open water in search of feeding schools or active fish. The deep blue waters surrounding the islands are teeming with life, offering anglers the chance to hook into powerful and fast-swimming game fish while offshore fishing in Dry Tortugas.

Fly fishing enthusiasts will also find plenty of opportunities to pursue their passion in Dry Tortugas. Whether casting from a skiff or wading in the shallows, anglers can target a variety of species including bonefish, permit, and tarpon. The flats and mangrove-lined channels around the islands provide ideal habitat for these elusive and challenging game fish. With the stunning natural beauty and abundant marine life of Dry Tortugas as their backdrop, fly anglers can enjoy a truly immersive and rewarding fishing experience in these pristine waters.

What species are popular in Dry Tortugas?

In Dry Tortugas, anglers have the opportunity to target a diverse range of fish species, making it a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. One of the most sought-after catches in these waters is the grouper. Various species of grouper, including gag grouper, red grouper, and black grouper, inhabit the reefs and wrecks surrounding Dry Tortugas. Anglers can use live bait, such as pinfish or pilchards, as well as artificial lures, to entice these bottom-dwelling predators. With their powerful strikes and impressive size, grouper provide anglers with an exhilarating challenge and a delicious reward.

Snapper are another prized species that anglers can target in Dry Tortugas. Mangrove snapper, yellowtail snapper, and mutton snapper are all commonly found in the area's crystal-clear waters. These fish can be found hiding among the coral reefs, rock piles, and wrecks, where they feed on smaller fish and crustaceans. Anglers often use live bait, such as shrimp or squid, as well as small jigs and cut bait, to catch snapper. Known for their delicious taste and strong fighting ability, snapper provide anglers with an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.

For anglers looking for fast-paced action, pelagic species like king mackerel and mahi-mahi are abundant in the waters around Dry Tortugas. These fish can be found patrolling the open waters, particularly around weed lines, floating debris, and offshore structures. Anglers commonly use trolling techniques with lures or live bait to target these fast-moving predators. With their impressive speed and acrobatic jumps, king mackerel and mahi-mahi offer anglers an adrenaline-pumping challenge and the chance to reel in some impressive catches.

Does Dry Tortugas have good fishing?

Dry Tortugas, a remote group of islands about 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities. These islands are part of Dry Tortugas National Park, and the surrounding waters are teeming with a diverse array of marine life. Anglers visiting Dry Tortugas can expect to catch a variety of species, including snapper, grouper, amberjack, and kingfish. The clear, deep waters and the coral reefs that surround the islands create ideal conditions for both reef and deep-sea fishing, making it a prime destination for serious fishermen.

One of the key attractions of fishing in Dry Tortugas is the relative isolation and limited fishing pressure compared to more accessible locations. The park's remote location means fewer boats and anglers, which translates to healthier fish populations and a better overall fishing experience. The underwater habitats around the islands, including coral reefs, shipwrecks, and seagrass beds, provide abundant food and shelter for fish, ensuring that anglers have a high chance of a successful catch. Additionally, the picturesque setting of the Dry Tortugas, with its clear blue waters and historic Fort Jefferson, adds to the appeal.

However, fishing in Dry Tortugas requires careful planning and preparation due to its remote location. Anglers need to arrange transportation, often via charter boats or seaplanes, and bring all necessary supplies, as there are no facilities on the islands. It's also important to be aware of the fishing regulations within Dry Tortugas National Park, which are in place to protect the area's fragile marine ecosystems. Despite these logistical considerations, the rewards of fishing in Dry Tortugas are well worth the effort, offering a unique and fruitful experience in one of the most pristine and beautiful environments in the Florida Keys.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Mason was phenomenal. Easy to talk to, engaging, great at teaching, and fun to be with… we got Mahi-Mahi and an exotic. We had a blast and will go fishing with Mason again soon!!!

    Patrick . with Rob D. of Key West, Florida

Top Types of Fishing in Dry Tortugas

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