Florida Keys Offshore Fishing
What to expect on your Marathon Florida Keys Offshore Fishing Charter Boat- prices, Florida Keys offshore species, what's included, and more.
It's the thrill of the unknown that entices anglers to leave the shallow waters behind and venture out to the dark blue depths of the Atlantic.
It's the anticipation that somewhere in the vastness a blue marlin of immeasurable greatness swims just below the surface- ready to slam a bait without moment's notice.
It's the prose of Ernest Hemingway and the epic battle of the old man and his fish.
It's the close proximity to the Gulfstream waters where hard-fighting and high-flying pelagic gamefish swim in search of their next meal.
It's a sailfish dancing across a wave; a dolphin charging a ballyhoo; and the taste of fresh tuna eaten right at the dock.
It's offshore fishing in the Florida Keys!
HOW IT'S DONE: Most offshore fishing is done by either trolling dead baits or lures, drifting live baits (kite fishing), or sight fishing (pitching live baits). Offshore fishing can also include jigging, or bottom fishing in deep water such as at the "humps".
WHERE YOU'LL FISH: Offshore trips will generally take you anywhere from 5 to 30 miles (or more) out into the Atlantic Ocean. Florida Keys offshore fishing charter boats are available for Marathon, Key West, Islamorada, Key Largo and the Lower Florida Keys.
WHAT YOU'LL CATCH: Marlin, Dolphin (Mahi Mahi), Sailfish, Tuna, Amberjack, Wahoo, Shark, and more (see our Florida Keys Species Guide and Calendar for what you can expect to catch).
THE BOAT(S): Offshore fishing can be accomplished on a variety of different types of vessels depending on the weather conditions. Most offshore charter boats are large, spacious sport-fishing vessels that come equipped with a fly bridge and tuna tower (to help captains spot fish or birds) - and feature air-conditioned cabins and "heads".
Large offshore center-console charter boats are also common throughout the Keys. (If you have a
preference on which type of offshore boat you would like to fish, please specify in your Charter Request).
NUMBER OF ANGLERS: Most offshore vessels can accommodate up to 6 anglers. Center-console boats may only be able to fish 4 anglers or less.
PRICE: Offshore fishing trips can cost anywhere from $450- $1200 depending on the length of trip and total number of anglers.
