Fishing Charters in key west, FL

Compare 7 verified charter captains in key west. Trips start from $499. Average captain rating: 4.9 stars. Book instantly with the lowest fees in the industry.

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4.9

Avg Rating

$499

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Fishing in key west, Florida

Key West is the southernmost point in the continental U.S. and one of the most storied fishing destinations in the world. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Florida Straits, the island offers an extraordinary range of fishing from shallow backcountry flats to blue-water action in the Gulf Stream. Key West is considered the sport fishing capital of the world for tarpon.

Top Species

TarponPermitBonefishMahi-MahiYellowtail SnapperSailfish

Fishing Types

Flats FishingBackcountryOffshoreReef FishingWreck Fishing

Best Season

Year-round, with the legendary tarpon run peaking from April through June

Top-Rated Captains in key west

ScreamingLines Center Console – 27'

From $292Up to 4

Center console boats · 27'

Reef Runner Charters Key West

From $584Up to 6

Yachts · 34'

Kilo Whiskey Charters

From $584Up to 6

Center console boats · 33'

RideOut Charters

From $511Up to 6

Center console boats · 30'

Easy Does It

From $511Up to 4

Center console boats · 25'

Always Somethin' Charters – Key West

From $284Up to 3

Skiffs and flats boats · 18'

Fishing Charter FAQ for key west

What fish can I catch in Key West?
Key West offers incredible diversity. The flats and backcountry produce tarpon, permit, bonefish, barracuda, and snook. Reef fishing yields yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, grouper, and hogfish. Offshore trips target mahi-mahi, sailfish, wahoo, tuna, and marlin. The famed 'Grand Slam' (tarpon, permit, and bonefish in one day) is a realistic possibility here.
When is the best time to go fishing in Key West?
Key West is a true year-round destination. The iconic tarpon season runs from April through June, drawing anglers worldwide. Winter (November-March) offers excellent sailfish, wahoo, and yellowtail snapper fishing. Summer brings mahi-mahi, permit, and great reef fishing. Fall is less crowded with reliable backcountry action.
How much does a fishing charter cost in Key West?
Backcountry and flats charters in Key West typically run $600-$900 for a half day and $900-$1,200 for a full day. Offshore trips range from $1,200-$1,800 for a half day to $1,800-$2,800 for a full day. Reef fishing trips fall in between at $800-$1,200 for a half day. Shared or party boat trips start around $75-$100 per person.
Do I need a fishing license for a charter in Key West, FL?
No. In Florida, passengers aboard a licensed charter vessel are covered by the captain's license and do not need individual fishing licenses. This applies to all Key West charter types including flats, backcountry, reef, and offshore trips.

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