Damn Good Deep Sea Fishing Charters In Duck Key

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Recently Booked Deep Sea Fishing Charters In Duck Key

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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Islamorada

Ocean Thrills With Captain Don

100% (16)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea Fishing in Islamorada

Islamorada Fishing With Capt Pete

94% (16)
37 ft 1 - 6 People From $850
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Islamorada

Deep Sea Trophy Hunt

NEW
45 ft 1 - 6 People From $950
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore in Islamorada

Islamorada Trolling / Wreck Fishing

94% (16)
37 ft 1 - 6 People From $850
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Islamorada

Blue Water Freedive Spearfishing

100% (5)
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,100
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Marathon

Marathon Premier Fishing

100% (10)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $950

Top Types of Deep Sea Trips in Duck Key

Top Species for Deep Sea Fishing in Duck Key

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More Deep Sea Fishing Charters In Duck Key

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Islamorada

Islamorada Swordfish Big Game Hunt

100% (3)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Tavernier

Epic Offshore Quick Trips

NEW
27 ft 1 - 4 People From $800
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Islamorada

Offshore Deep Dropping

NEW
37 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Key Largo

Swordfish Slam

100% (3)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Islamorada

Islamorada Offshore Experience

100% (3)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Islamorada

Reef Thrill

94% (16)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $950
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Everything to Know About Booking a Duck Key deep sea fishing charter

What are the best deep sea fishing charters in Duck Key?

Why should I book a deep sea fishing charter in Duck Key with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 52 deep sea trips in Duck Key, and the most popular trips in the area are Ocean Thrills with Captain Don guided by Don, Deep Sea Trophy Hunt guided by Ken, and Islamorada Fishing with Capt Pete guided by Pete.

Our guides in Duck Key are rated a 4.8 out of 5 based on 3784 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 deep sea guides / fishing lessons in Duck Key? Check out our beginner and family friendly deep sea guides in Duck Key.

What types of deep sea fishing charters are common in Duck Key?

The most commonly sought after species for deep sea fishing are: 1. mahi mahi, 2. sailfish, 3. blackfin tuna, 4. wahoo, and 5. kingfish.

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

How much do Duck Key deep sea fishing charters cost?

Prices for deep sea fishing in Duck Key can range anywhere from about $900 to $2,286, but the average price for a half day trip for deep sea fishing in Duck Key is $999. The average price for a full day trip for deep sea fishing in Duck Key is $1,813.

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 deep sea fishing in Duck Key?

The most popular season for deep sea fishing in Duck Key is spring, and most anglers book their trips 50 days in advance.

Do I need a Duck Key fishing license and what are the bag limits in Duck Key?

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

What is deep sea fishing in Duck Key all about?

Deep sea fishing in Duck Key, located in the Florida Keys, offers a premier angling experience in a picturesque tropical setting. Nestled in the heart of the Keys, Duck Key provides anglers with quick access to the abundant waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream. One popular technique here is trolling, where baited lines or lures are trailed behind a moving boat to attract pelagic species such as sailfish, marlin, and mahi-mahi. The warm, clear waters around Duck Key are ideal for these game fish, making trolling an exciting and productive way to engage with some of the ocean’s most sought-after species.

Another favored approach in Duck Key is bottom fishing, which targets species that live closer to the ocean floor. Anglers use heavy tackle and baited rigs to drop lines to depths where fish like grouper, snapper, and amberjack are abundant. The underwater structure around Duck Key, including reefs and wrecks, provides excellent habitats for these bottom-dwelling fish. With the aid of fish finders and sonar equipment, anglers can pinpoint productive areas and enjoy a successful bottom fishing experience. The variety of species available ensures that bottom fishing in Duck Key can be both challenging and rewarding.

For a distinctive fishing experience, Duck Key also offers opportunities for fly fishing, particularly in the shallow waters and mangrove areas surrounding the island. Fly fishing is especially effective for targeting species like bonefish, permit, and tarpon, which thrive in the clear, shallow flats. The visual aspect of spotting and casting to these fish adds a unique and exciting dimension to the fishing experience. Whether trolling, bottom fishing, or fly fishing, deep sea fishing in Duck Key provides a diverse and memorable adventure in one of the most beautiful and fish-rich locations in the Florida Keys.

What are the most popular months to go deep sea fishing in Duck Key?

Duck Key, located in the Florida Keys, is a prime destination for deep sea fishing enthusiasts year-round. From late winter to early spring, typically from February to April, the waters around Duck Key are especially good for targeting species such as sailfish and blackfin tuna. The cooler temperatures bring these game fish closer to the area, creating exciting opportunities for anglers. This period is also favorable for catching wahoo and mahi-mahi as they follow the abundant baitfish in the region.

As spring turns into summer, from May through August, Duck Key continues to offer excellent deep sea fishing opportunities. The warmer waters during this time attract a variety of pelagic species, including marlin, mahi-mahi, and wahoo. The summer months are particularly good for targeting blue marlin, which are more prevalent as they migrate through the Gulf Stream currents that flow near Duck Key. The calm seas and sunny weather during this period make for enjoyable fishing conditions and increase the chances of a successful catch.

In the fall and winter months, from September through January, Duck Key remains a vibrant fishing destination. This season is ideal for bottom fishing, with species such as grouper and snapper becoming more active around the reefs and wrecks. The cooler waters also provide good opportunities for catching species like amberjack and cobia. The fall and winter months offer a quieter fishing experience with fewer crowds and a more serene atmosphere, making it a great time for both relaxation and challenging fishing adventures.

What techniques are popular for deep seafishing in Duck Key?

Deep sea fishing in Duck Key, located in the Florida Keys, provides anglers with a variety of techniques suited to the rich marine environment of the region. One of the most popular methods is trolling, where lures or baited hooks are trailed behind a moving boat to attract pelagic species such as marlin, sailfish, and mahi-mahi. The warm, clear waters around Duck Key create an ideal setting for trolling, with these exciting game fish abundant in the area. This technique allows anglers to cover large areas and increases the chances of hooking into some of the ocean's most sought-after species.

Another widely used technique in Duck Key is bottom fishing. This method involves dropping baited hooks to the ocean floor to target bottom-dwelling species like grouper, snapper, and amberjack. The underwater landscape around Duck Key, including coral reefs and wrecks, provides excellent habitats for these fish. Anglers often use heavy tackle to manage the strong currents and powerful fish found in deeper waters. Bottom fishing in this area can yield substantial catches and offers a rewarding experience, highlighting the diverse marine life that thrives in the Florida Keys.

For a more dynamic approach, many anglers in Duck Key also enjoy drift fishing. This technique involves allowing the boat to drift with the current while baited lines are cast into the water. Drift fishing is especially effective for targeting species such as tuna and kingfish, particularly during their seasonal migrations. By drifting with the natural flow of the water and using live or cut bait, anglers can cover more ground and increase their chances of encountering schools of fish. Drift fishing provides an engaging and productive fishing experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking variety and excitement in their deep sea fishing adventures in Duck Key.

What species are popular for deep sea fishing in Duck Key?

Deep sea fishing in Duck Key provides anglers with a range of exciting species to target in the pristine waters of the Florida Keys. One of the top catches in this area is the sailfish. Known for their impressive size and spectacular jumps, sailfish are a prized game fish. They are typically found in the deeper waters offshore from Duck Key, especially during the peak season from late fall through early spring. Their aggressive strikes and thrilling fights make them a favorite among sport fishermen.

Another notable species in Duck Key is the mahi-mahi, or dolphinfish. These colorful fish are known for their vibrant appearance and energetic battles. Mahi-mahi are often found around floating debris or weed lines and are most abundant from spring through early fall. Their firm, flavorful meat and dynamic fighting style make them a sought-after catch for both recreational and professional anglers.

Additionally, Duck Key offers excellent opportunities for catching various species of tuna, including blackfin and yellowfin tuna. Blackfin tuna are available year-round and are known for their speed and endurance, providing a rewarding challenge for anglers. Yellowfin tuna, on the other hand, are more common during the summer months and are prized for their size and strength. The diversity of species, from sailfish to mahi-mahi and tuna, ensures that deep sea fishing in Duck Key offers an exciting and varied experience for fishing enthusiasts.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Great Experience!! Super knowledgeable Captain, learned alot from him and had a blast catching snapper.

    Jessica L. | September 7, 2024

    Trip: Ocean Thrills with Captain Don

  • ★★★★★
    Very good trip…Caught the limit on snapper and grouper. Fun guy to hang out with for the day! Highly recommend!

    Craig W. | July 31, 2024

    Trip: Ocean Thrills with Captain Don

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time! They catered to all the fishing levels and interest! As one of my bridesmaid’s said… what a perfect activity we fished, we chilled on the boat, we talked, drank, napped, and sunned at our own liking.

    Madison T. | July 30, 2024

    Trip: Full Day Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic trip with Capt. Joel and Darren. Got us on some great Mahi Mahi, and kept at it for the whole trip. Highly recommended.

    David L. | July 8, 2024

    Trip: Marathon Offshore - 30’ Grady White

  • ★★★★★
    My wife and I did a mix of reef fishing and offshore fishing to make an 8 hour trip. The bite was spotty at times, but we found a few schools of mahi mahi and were able to catch several of them throughout the day! We only had one keeper size, but it was very exciting to get into them and watch them hit our baits. Captain Steve and first mate Mike worked nonstop to get us into more fish. They can’t control if the fish will bite, but they certainly gave it their best effort. They also had great hospitality and offered plenty of fun stories and advice. We took our fresh catch to Lazy Days that evening and had an incredible dinner.

    Cooper S. | June 27, 2024

    Trip: Marathon Key Nearshore Run

  • ★★★★★
    On behalf of Warren Herndon, Wayne Hall and myself (Dexter Hudson), I would like to report that we had an outstanding time on our fishing excursion with Captain Don. Captain Don was very enjoyable to talk and visit with and he also patiently answered all of our questions, explaining what he was doing. And he worked like a Trojan baiting and putting new hooks and leaders on our poles after sharks robbed us of our catch when we reeled in too slowly. We did manage to reel in 22 good-sized Yellow Tail snapper and were able to return home as conquering heroes with meat for the table. Don not only cleaned the fish but provided several tasty recipes. The gentlemen did the cooking, the wives joined us in devouring the meal and we all had big smiles on our faces.. Thanks Captain Don! If or when we get back, you'll be the man we call!

    Dexter D. | June 25, 2024

    Trip: Ocean Thrills with Captain Don

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time with Captain Don. He was very friendly, knowledgeable, and we caught a lot of fish.

    Shon M. | June 17, 2024

    Trip: Ocean Thrills with Captain Don

  • ★★★★★
    Pete and Kristy were absolutely awesome! We had an excellent time with the Louisiana/Texas combo ;) Captain Pete was patient about explaining the estuary of the Keys and species. We caught 6 different species and 3 sharks! Great time- see ya’ll next year🦈🎣😃

    Andrew W. | June 5, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Fishing with Capt Pete

  • ★★★★★
    Our team of 6 went inshore fishing and got plenty of mangrove snappers! The captain Chris was very informative and friendly. He took us to different spots to catch fish and get a nice breezy ride with amazing scenery of Florida keys.

    Iryna B. | June 3, 2024

    Trip: Keys Offshore Fishing Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    We booked a 3/4 day after speaking with the captain the (plan) was made to shoot out deep and if we were not hitting them we would come in on the 3/4 day booking rather than a full day. Captain troy and his first mate worked as hard as I have ever seen to get fish on the boat. Not sure but at one time I think he had a deep running plug in one marlin plug and 4 top water trolling plugs so it looked like they were shooting for many different depths. We finally got into the mahi-mahi it was on. The first mate and captain maneuvered through 4 men as quick as humanly possible pulling fish off the lines and baiting hooks and handing them back. The only true way to explain it would be controlled chaos. These guys are GREAT at what they do and both the first mate and the captain seem to be fantastic people in there own right. So if your looking for a hard working boat stop here at Miller Time....

    Vance T. | May 21, 2024

    Trip: 3/4 Day Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great Trip. Would schedule another.

    David T. | May 9, 2024

    Trip: Reef Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had a rough weather day but Capt Joe Joe put us on a lot of Mahi off shore and Yellowtail closer in. Outstanding day for our group and great boat handling skills from our captain and first mate. Will definitely book with them again.

    Arthur D. | May 5, 2024

    Trip: Marathon Offshore Slam- 50’ Bertram

  • ★★★★★
    The best charter captain we have found and we have been on charters all over Fl.

    Theresa L. | May 5, 2024

    Trip: Reef Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Very good inshore trip - caught plenty of fish and numerous species. Planning to book again next year,

    David S. | April 26, 2024

    Trip: Marathon Offshore - 30’ Grady White

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Allen was absolutely amazing! We have 3 children and he was so awesome with them and very accommodating! He took us out and showed us a wonderful time and we came back with a ton of fish!

    Sarah L. | April 25, 2024

    Trip: Reef Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had a terrific day with Pete!

    Kipp H. | April 12, 2024

    Trip: Trolling and/or Wreck Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Had a most excellent time. We were scheduled for an offshore trip but wind and waves caused us to cancel this trip. However, we rescheduled for later in the day for a tarpon fishing excursion. This was a blast ! We saw sharks up close and landed several yellow jacks which gave us a good fight before being returned to the water. After trying and trying (never give up) we snagged a good sized tarpon. After a good fight which included multiple boat maneuvers it was brought to the side of the boat before being cut loose to fight another day. We thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with the captain and first mate. Both were very attentive to us, making sure that our hooks were still baited and that we had all the help required for landing and documenting our catches before returning them to the water. A great time was had by all! The boat was immaculate and we had no issues if any sort.

    Lynn E. | April 9, 2024

    Trip: Marathon Key Offshore - 32’ Morgan

  • ★★★★★
    What an amazing day of fishing and boating. Captain Pete and his mate Christy were great with my three boys. They really made the experience "The Best Day Ever!"

    Roy G. | April 6, 2024

    Trip: Trolling and/or Wreck Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    I have been fishing the keys for 10 years but learned a ton fishing with Captain Troy and first mate James. We caught a 2 man limit of nice sized yellow tail in 1.5 h. Very friendly folks made for a great day ! Highly recommend!

    Thomas J. | March 20, 2024

    Trip: Morning Half

  • ★★★★★
    We had a blast fishing with Captain Troy and his crew! They did everything possible to provide us an exciting adventure during our vacation. We caught a variety of fish and enjoyed grilling them up that evening. We highly recommend Captain Troy for your Florida Keys fishing adventure.

    Patrick G. | March 13, 2024

    Trip: Afternoon Half

Other Types of Fishing in Duck Key

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The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

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