The Florida Keys’ fishing capital delivers outstanding value with its diverse selection of boat tours. The most rewarding options combine half-day excursions with expert local captains who know exactly where to find the big catches. I especially love the backcountry tours – they’re perfect for beginners and offer a more relaxed pace away from the crowds. For serious anglers, the deep-sea charters targeting mahi-mahi and tuna are simply incredible. Marathon’s combo tours deserve special mention, cleverly mixing fishing with snorkeling stops.
Let’s explore the absolute best fishing charters in Key West.
Key Points
- Key West offers a variety of fishing charters, including half-day and deep sea options, catering to diverse skill levels and group sizes.
- Specialized fishing experiences, such as Marathon Florida Keys and pelagic species fishing, provide personalized and targeted excursions.
- Private and customized charters, like the options from Ramrod Key and Marathon, offer exclusive access and tailored experiences.
- Unique fishing and recreational activities, including tarpon fishing and sandbar fishing/snorkel/paddleboard tours, provide diverse and memorable experiences.
- Across the various fishing tours, essential amenities are provided, and reviews indicate high customer satisfaction.
Key West Half-Day Fishing Charter
The Key West Half-Day Fishing Charter offers an exciting opportunity to explore the waters surrounding this vibrant Florida destination.
With a maximum group size of 49 travelers, this 4.5-star activity boasts an impressive 90% recommendation rate based on 284 reviews. Priced from $95 per person, the charter includes bait, filleting, and fishing licenses, making it an accessible and convenient choice.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable and friendly crew, who ensure a seamless experience catering to anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner, this charter promises a memorable outing with the chance to enjoy fresh catches at local restaurants.
Read our full review: Key West Half-Day Fishing Charter Review
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Key West Deep Sea Fishing Charter With Experienced Captains
Exploring the depths of the ocean surrounding Key West, the Key West Deep Sea Fishing Charter offers an unforgettable experience for anglers of all skill levels.
Boasting a comfortable vessel that can accommodate up to 60 passengers, the charter targets a variety of fish, including snapper, grouper, mackerel, and shark.
With an experienced crew and all necessary equipment provided, the 5-hour trip is perfect for beginners and seasoned fishermen alike.
Conveniently located with free parking and easy access to public transportation, the charter’s reasonable $85 per person fee and flexible cancellation policy make it a top choice for those seeking a memorable day on the water in Key West.
Read our full review: Key West Deep Sea Fishing Charter With Experienced Captains Review
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Marathon Florida Keys Fishing Experience
Situated within the picturesque Captain Hooks Marina, the Marathon Florida Keys Fishing Experience invites adventurous anglers to embark on a thrilling journey through the serene waterways of the Florida Keys.
Led by experienced guides, this excursion accommodates groups of up to four travelers, offering a personalized and intimate encounter with the region’s abundant marine life.
For $795 per group, participants receive all necessary equipment, bait, and fishing licenses, as well as bottled water.
Though gratuities aren’t included, the overwhelmingly positive reviews from past guests suggest an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, this fishing tour promises a memorable day on the water.
Read our full review: Marathon Florida Keys Fishing Experience Review
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Private Fishing Charter From Ramrod Key
Anglers seeking a private and personalized fishing experience can embark on a charter from Ramrod Key in the Florida Keys.
The private fishing charter is recommended by 100% of travelers, who’ve caught a variety of species like tarpon, bonefish, and snapper in depths of two to eight feet.
The exclusive tour ensures the guide’s undivided attention, and the fishing depths provide a unique visual experience.
While the charter includes a fishing license, equipment, bait, and water, guests can bring their own food and drinks.
However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
Read our full review: Private Fishing Charter From Ramrod Key Review
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Private Extreme Fun Filled Deep Sea Charter Fishing Activity in Marathon, FL.
For anglers seeking an exhilarating deep-sea fishing experience in Marathon, Florida, the private charter fishing activity offers an unparalleled adventure.
Helmed by a USCG-licensed captain, the 36′ Yellowfin boat ventures to reefs and shipwrecks, providing opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. The charter includes all necessary amenities, such as bait, tackle, rods, and a fishing license.
With a capacity of up to 6 anglers, the excursion caters to groups, making it an ideal choice for bachelor parties. While not wheelchair accessible, the activity is suitable for most travelers, excluding pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable captain and the impressive array of fish caught.
Read our full review: Private Extreme Fun Filled Deep Sea Charter Fishing Activity in Marathon, FL. Review
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Swan Charters: Ultimate Action Fishing in Key West
Swan Charters offers the ultimate action fishing experience in the waters around Key West.
As a private tour, customers can enjoy fishing with their group exclusively. The tour departs from and returns to a meeting point in Key West, conveniently located near public transportation.
With a 5-star rating based on 9 reviews, Swan Charters provides all the necessary fishing equipment, live bait, and licenses.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Customers receive confirmation upon booking and can look forward to an unforgettable day of deep-sea fishing in the beautiful Florida Keys.
Read our full review: Swan Charters: Ultimate Action Fishing in Key West Review
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KeyWest Half-Day Inshore Fishing Private Charter
The KeyWest Half-Day Inshore Fishing Private Charter offers a chance to experience the thrill of fishing in the waters around Key West. Priced from $800 for up to 4 people, this highly rated charter (5.0 out of 5 stars) provides all the necessary equipment and a knowledgeable captain to help you reel in a variety of fish, including sharks.
While it’s not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, and the charter’s flexibility allows for free cancellation and reschedule up to 24 hours before the start.
Customers praise the captains’ expertise and the opportunity to prepare meals with the caught fish, though some note occasional equipment issues. This private charter promises an enjoyable and memorable fishing adventure.
Read our full review: KeyWest Half-Day Inshore Fishing Private Charter Review
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Marathon Inshore Fishing Charter
This Marathon Inshore Fishing Charter takes anglers on an exciting fishing adventure in the waters around Marathon, located in the heart of the Florida Keys.
Guests can target a variety of species, including yellowtail, snapper, tarpon, grouper, barracuda, and sharks, from an open, fishing-style boat.
The charter includes a professional guide, all necessary fishing equipment, licenses, and bottled water.
The tour meets at 3502 Gulfview Ave in Marathon and returns to the same location.
This charter is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and most travelers can participate, though infants must sit on laps.
Priced at €698.14 per group (up to 2 people), the charter offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Marathon Inshore Fishing Charter Review
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Marathon Offshore Fishing Charter
Anglers seeking a more thrilling offshore fishing experience can opt for the Marathon Offshore Fishing Charter.
Based in Key West, USA, this charter offers a professional guide, boat, and all necessary fishing and safety equipment, including licenses.
The tour includes bottled water and access to local bathroom and marina facilities, though food and drinks aren’t provided.
The 7 AM start time and return to the 3502 Gulfview Ave meeting point make for a convenient full-day adventure.
The charter accommodates up to 5 participants and is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infants welcome.
Priced at €1,444.45 per group, it provides a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation policy.
Read our full review: Marathon Offshore Fishing Charter Review
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Marathon Reef Fishing Charters
For anglers seeking a more immersive reef fishing adventure, the Marathon Reef Fishing Charters provide a premier opportunity.
Nestled in Key West, this private tour offers a hands-on experience for up to 4 guests. At $1,100 per group, the charter includes a professional captain, all necessary equipment, and fishing licenses.
Guests can enjoy bottled water and local facilities, though food and drinks aren’t provided.
With wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as no heart condition restrictions, this tour caters to most travelers.
Customers appreciate the flexibility, with free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours prior.
Whether novice or experienced, anglers can reel in the thrill of reef fishing with Marathon Reef Fishing Charters.
Read our full review: Marathon Reef Fishing Charters Review
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6 Hour Offshore Fishing in Lower Key
Venturing beyond the reef, the 6 Hour Offshore Fishing in Lower Key provides anglers an unparalleled opportunity to reel in a diverse array of pelagic species in the deep waters off the Florida Keys.
Fully equipped with top-notch fishing gear, tackle, and bait, as well as essential amenities like coolers, water, and snacks, this private tour offers a comprehensive fishing experience.
Conveniently departing from Big Pine Key, the tour takes guests to the prime offshore fishing grounds, where they can pursue sought-after species like sailfish, marlin, and tuna.
With a knowledgeable captain at the helm, anglers can look forward to a thrilling day on the water, returning to the meeting point at the end of the 6-hour excursion.
Read our full review: 6 Hour Offshore Fishing in Lower Key Review
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Marathon Tarpon Fishing Charter
The Marathon Tarpon Fishing Charter provides anglers a chance to target the legendary silver king in the waters off Marathon, Florida.
This private tour offers a professional captain and boat, along with all necessary fishing and safety equipment. Clients will enjoy bottled water, local bathroom facilities, and the option to bring their own food and drinks.
While the boat has a sun-protective T-top, it doesn’t have onboard restrooms. Reviews indicate some issues with the guide not showing up, but the company resolved the situation.
Read our full review: Marathon Tarpon Fishing Charter Review
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Key West Sandbar Fishing Snorkel Paddleboard Excursions
Adventurers seeking an unforgettable day in Key West can embark on the Key West Sandbar Fishing Snorkel Paddleboard Excursions. Priced from $695 for up to 6 people, this highly-rated tour (5.0 on Viator and Tripadvisor) offers a diverse array of activities.
Participants can enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing, all while taking in the stunning scenery. The tour includes essential gear like snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and fishing gear, as well as amenities like bottled water, towels, and a mini-fridge.
The tour departs and returns to the City Marina at Garrison Bight, with ample parking available. Most travelers can participate, though infants must sit on laps.
With exceptional reviews praising the boat, staff, and tailored experience, this excursion promises an unforgettable day in Key West.
Read our full review: Key West Sandbar Fishing Snorkel Paddleboard Excursions Review
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Marathon Backcountry Fishing Charter
Nestled in the heart of Key West, the Marathon Backcountry Fishing Charter offers an unparalleled opportunity for anglers to explore the region’s tranquil waterways.
Cruise through mangrove forests and brackish waters, ideal for those prone to seasickness or nervous about open ocean fishing. The private tour format ensures an intimate experience, catering to kids and families alike.
With professional guides, top-notch equipment, and licenses provided, participants can target prized species like bonefish and tarpon.
Wheelchair accessibility, service animal allowance, and flexible booking options make this charter an inclusive and convenient choice for fishing enthusiasts of all abilities.
Priced from $667 per group, this adventure promises an unforgettable day on the water.
Read our full review: Marathon Backcountry Fishing Charter Review
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Recap
Key West and the Florida Keys offer a wide range of fishing experiences, from half-day charters to deep sea and backcountry adventures. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours led by experienced captains, allowing them to reel in a diverse catch. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there’s a fishing tour to suit your interests and skill level in this premier fishing destination.