Fishing

From backcountry flats to the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf, the Florida Keys are an angler’s dream. Cast for bonefish, tarpon, and permit in skinny water, or chase sailfish, mahi, and tuna offshore—the variety is unmatched. Local captains and charters know where the action is, whether you’re after a record catch or dinner for the grill. With easy access from every island, fishing here is less about luck and more about adventure. Rods ready? The Keys are always biting.

Fishing Information

All the details you need: licenses, regulations, videos, styles, and tips to make your Florida Keys fishing excursion a keeper.

Diver holding a lobster underwater, wearing snorkel and flippers.

Florida Keys Lobster Season

Every year, thousands of locals and visitors dive into spiny lobster season, a favorite Florida Keys tradition. The Florida Fish and Wildlife...

Silhouetted fishers on a boat during a vibrant orange sunset.

Florida Keys Fishing Tournaments

The Florida Keys is a famous for fishing tournaments. Check our list highlighting some of the many tournaments taking place throughout the year.

Fishing boats docked at a harbor, black-and-white photograph.

Sportfishing History in The Florida Keys

Renowned worldwide as a legendary angling destination, The Florida Keys helped pioneer backcountry sportfishing, saltwater fly fishing and light-tackle angling. Celebrated captains such as Jimmie Albright, Cecil Keith, Billy Knowles and Richard Stanczyk Sr. shaped the sport, while famous anglers including Ted Williams, Ernest Hemingway, Zane Grey and Presidents Herbert Hoover, Harry S. Truman and George H.W. Bush added to the island chain’s enduring fishing legacy.

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Islamorada

Headshaker Sportfishing

Headshaker Sportfishing — expert inshore and near-shore charter fishing in Islamorada, Florida Keys.

Key West

Salt Creek Fishing Charters

Salt Creek Fishing Charters — inshore, flats & near‑shore fishing trips in Key West where Captain Alex Harmon guides you to tarpon, bonefish, permit & snapper in a fully‑equipped bay boat.

Marathon

Crazy Banana Charter

Premier private fishing charters and scenic sunset cruises in Marathon and the Florida Keys — target mahi, tuna, wahoo and more with expert captains.

Islamorada

Enigma Fishing Charters

Enigma Fishing Charters — expert private fishing trips in Islamorada, Florida Keys guided by Capt. Shannon Attales. With over 20 years of professional fishing experience across Florida and beyond, Capt. Shannon delivers bespoke charters from Islamorada to match every angler’s goals. All gear, licenses and local insights are included to ensure your day on the water is as seamless as it is memorable.

Keys Season Deals

Marathon

Ladies, Let's Go Fishing

Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing! Keys University & Fishing Fever — women’s fishing seminar & tournament in the Upper Keys, where learning, charters & friendly competition meet.

Islamorada

Capt Rick Stanczyk

Islamorada Tarpon Fishing — expert tarpon-focused fishing charters based in Islamorada, Florida Keys.

The Lower Keys

Mile Marker 27 Fishing Charters

Mile Marker 27 Fishing Charters offers personalized backcountry and inshore fishing trips in the lower Florida Keys. Captain Jim Loftus, with over 30 years of experience, provides a tailored experience for anglers of all ages and skill levels. All necessary gear, licenses, and fish cleaning services are included.