One of the world’s most popular fishing destinations, Islamorada offers a huge number of fishing charters for both novice and veteran anglers.
(Photo: Fishingbooker.com)
Often referred to as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, Islamorada encompasses six of the Florida Keys and is renowned for the numerous breath-taking coral reefs that can be found nearby. For most visitors, it is merely a pass-through on the way to vibrant Key West, but for fishing enthusiasts it is the ultimate destination. If you’re seeking a memorable angling adventure in Florida, we’ve picked out five of the best fishing charters currently available in Islamorada.
Full-Day Offshore Trip
Specialising in offshore adventures, Fish Dauntless are one of Islamorada’s most renowned fishing charter companies thanks to the flexibility of their itineraries and the experience and conviviality of your captain Jim, who will adapt each trip to your skills and interests. Their all-day offshore tour starts early morning aboard the “Dauntless”, a 27’ Conch center console with room for up to four guests. During the day you’ll go deep sea fishing in search of numerous big game fish species including Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and more, offering a true sportfishing experience you’re certain to remember forever. From $999 (four guests max)
Full-Day Reef Trip
(Photo: Fishingbooker.com)
Visit the local reefs and wrecks, where you’ll get to target Snapper, Grouper, Hogfish, Mackerel, Sailfish, and Barracuda, on this full-day adventure. Ideal for the more inexperienced angler, Captain Jon will teach you all you need to know and leave you with long-lasting memories from your time aboard his 2016 Ranger bay boat, equipped with all the latest technology for hunting down fish, as well as the capacity to keep your catch fresh until you’re back on terra firma. All fishing gear, including live bait and light tackle, are included. Tours start at 7am. From $698 (two guests max; $36 for each additional guest)
Half-Day Morning Trip
If you’ve only got time for a quick fishing trip, this could be the perfect tour for you. You’ll head out to fish the productive reefs around Isla Morada, about a 20-minute boat ride away, where you can expect to target Yellowtail Snapper and many various Groupers. Helmed by Captain Regine Teixeira, the 24’ Robalo bay boat was built in 2017 and can reach cruising speeds of 35 knots. Even better, the vessel’s design allows for easy movement when chasing fish, so no risk of tangled lines. The price is inclusive of all of the required equipment. From $599 (four guests max)
8 Hour – Ultimate Experience
(Photo: Fishingbooker.com)
For the ultimate backcountry experience, this private full-day charter is just the ticket. Departing early morning, you and your select group of up to four friends will set off aboard an 18-foot Kenner/Nitro flats boat, capable of cruising at 30 knots, to explore as deep as you can go into the Everglades. Ideal for guests keen to maximise both their catch variety and quality, the trip may also include a pitstop on the island of Flamingo – also famous for its in-shore fishing. However, please note that this tour is not suitable for children under the age of 10. From $849 (four guests max).
Private Evening Shark Trip
Hunt for sharks during this magical evening adventure hosted by Captain Eric Scoble, who commandeers an 18’ Hewes vessel that can accommodate up to two anglers, and was custom built for shallow water fishing. Staying close to the shore, you’ll target a variety of shark species including the Lemon Shark, Blacktip Shark, Bull Shark, and more. Prepare yourselves, these fish are large and put up a tough fight. As an added bonus, you’ll even get to see the sunset for the ultimate Florida Keys experience. From $498 (two guests max; $49 for each additional guest)