Expert-Led Islamorada Offshore Fishing Adventure

Published Date: July 16, 2025
Fishing

Islamorada
$1,000 - $1,400 price range
Updated Date: October 6, 2025

Summary

Join us for a day of offshore fishing in Islamorada, the sportfishing capital of the Florida Keys. Our private charters take you to prime spots where big game fish lurk. You'll have a shot at hooking impressive catches like marlin, sailfish, and mahi-mahi. The reefs and open ocean around Islamorada offer diverse fishing grounds, and our experienced captains know just where to find the action. We provide all the gear you need, so you can focus on reeling in the big ones. Whether you're an experienced angler or trying offshore fishing for the first time, our crew will make sure you have a great day on the water. With room for up to 6 guests, it's perfect for a group of friends or family looking for some Florida Keys fishing adventure.

Expert-Led Islamorada Offshore Fishing Adventure

Big Catches of the Day

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Premier Islamoda Fishing Charters!

Wahoo Fishing Thrills In Islamorada!

Reel in the Big One: Islamorada Offshore Fishing

Get ready to chase some serious pelagics in the sportfishing capital of the world. Our Islamorada offshore charter takes you straight to where the big boys play - we're talking blue marlin, sailfish, and mahi that'll make your arms ache (in the best way). With room for 6 anglers, top-notch gear, and a crew that knows these waters like the back of their hand, you're in for a day of drag-screaming action you won't soon forget.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll cruise out past the reef line into that gorgeous Islamorada blue water. Once we hit our honey holes, it's time to deploy the spread. We'll be running a mix of trolling techniques - from surface baits to deep divers. Keep your eyes peeled for birds working or that telltale blue marlin fin slicing through the waves. When that reel starts singing, be ready to jump into action. Our mate will be right there coaching you through the fight of your life. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time offshore, we'll make sure you're hooked up and having a blast.

Trolling Tactics & Top Gear

Offshore fishing is all about covering water and presenting a buffet that big predators can't resist. We'll be running a spread of ballyhoo, lures, and maybe even some live bait if the conditions are right. Our center console is rigged with top-of-the-line Penn reels and custom rods that can handle anything from a feisty mahi to a 500-pound blue marlin. We use a mix of 30 and 50-wide setups, so you've got the muscle when you need it. Don't worry if you're new to this style of fishing - we'll walk you through everything from setting the drag to that picture-perfect release.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

"We had a shared charter with Capt. Paul. We tried going for mahi, but unsuccessful...no fault of Capt. Paul...he and the first mate tried everything, but they were not biting...that why it's called fishing. We stopped on the way in and caught 4 King Mackerel (3 that were between 15-20 pound range) and some sharks. We stopped on the way out to catch bait fish, only a thirty minute stop, enjoyed catching on sabikl rig and watching the mate use the throw net. All in all great experience, Capt is very knowledgeable and friendly. Would use him again in a heartbeat. Thanks Capt Paul and Cody for making our Florida Keys fishing trip a wonderful experience." - Hannah

"after being diagnosed with a terminal illness the top of my list was to return to the keys and take a deep sea fishing trip , Cpt Paul was the charter I chose and I was truly not disappointed" - Steven

"Caught 11 mahi and 1 barracuda. And to top it off. WE GOT A 350 PLUS POUND BLUE MARLIN. Couldn't have asked for a better time. They know how to put you on the fish. Thanks to captain Steve and Mate Evan." - Garrett

Species You'll Want to Hook

King Mackerel: These speedsters are a blast on light tackle. Known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics, kings typically range from 10-30 pounds but can top 50. We target them year-round, but fall is prime time when they're fattening up for winter. Smoked king is a local delicacy, so be sure to keep a few for the grill.

Blue Marlin: The pinnacle of offshore fishing, hooking into a blue marlin is an experience you'll never forget. These apex predators can reach over 1,000 pounds and put on a show like no other fish. We see them most often in the summer months when the water warms up. Even if you're catch-and-release, the photo op with a bill boat-side is worth the price of admission.

Mahi Mahi: Also known as dorado or dolphinfish, these neon-colored speedsters are a favorite for both their fight and their flavor. We find them around floating debris and weed lines, often in schools. They're here year-round but really fire up in the summer. A 20-pounder will give you a run for your money, and there's nothing better than fresh mahi tacos at the dock.

Wahoo: If you want to see your reel smoke, hope for a wahoo. These streamlined torpedoes are one of the fastest fish in the sea, capable of short bursts over 60 mph. We target them around structure and dropoffs, often using high-speed lures. Fall and winter are prime wahoo time in the Keys. They're not only a great fight but also fantastic eating.

Great Barracuda: While not always the target species, 'cudas are a common catch and can really liven up a slow day. These toothy predators hit like a freight train and often go airborne. We find them around the reefs and wrecks year-round. Larger specimens can top 50 pounds and put up a serious battle. Just watch those teeth when you're unhooking them!

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, there's a reason they call Islamorada the sportfishing capital of the world. Where else can you have a shot at a blue marlin, a cooler full of mahi, and maybe even a wahoo or two all in the same day? Our experienced crew knows these waters inside and out, and we're committed to putting you on the fish. Whether you're looking to check that bucket list billfish or just want to bend a rod and fill the freezer, we've got you covered. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait. Give us a call, and let's get you out there where the big boys play. Trust me, once you feel that first run, you'll be hooked for life.

Customer Reviews

Mackerel Mayhem

We had a shared charter with Capt. Paul. We tried going for mahi, but unsuccessful...no fault of Capt. Paul...he and the first mate tried everything, but they were not biting...that why it's called fishing. We stopped on the way in and caught 4 King Mackerel (3 that were between 15-20 pound range) and some sharks. We stopped on the way out to catch bait fish, only a thirty minute stop, enjoyed catching on sabikl rig and watching the mate use the throw net. All in all great experience, Capt is very knowledgeable and friendly. Would use him again in a heartbeat. Thanks Capt Paul and Cody for making our Florida Keys fishing trip a wonderful experience.

Hannah Kota

November 4, 2018

Last Wish Fulfilled

after being diagnosed with a terminal illness the top of my list was to return to the keys and take a deep sea fishing trip , Cpt Paul was the charter I chose and I was truly not disappointed

Steven Maxwell

September 5, 2021

Marlin Madness

Caught 11 mahi and 1 barracuda. And to top it off. WE GOT A 350 PLUS POUND BLUE MARLIN. Couldn’t have asked for a better time. They know how to put you on the fish. Thanks to captain Steve and Mate Evan.

Garrett Anderson

September 4, 2023

Learn more about the species

Blue Marlin

Blue marlin are the giants of the deep, and hooking one is the thrill of a lifetime. These massive fish can top 1,000 pounds, though most we see run 200-400. They're found in the warm, deep waters offshore, usually over 100 feet deep. Spring and summer are prime time, when they follow the Gulf Stream currents. Blues are famous for their acrobatic fights, making spectacular leaps and powerful runs. It's pure adrenaline when one hits. We typically troll large lures or rigged ballyhoo at speeds of 7-9 knots. My go-to spread uses a mix of surface and deeper-running lures. If you see a bill slashing in the spread, get ready - that's often how they attack before the real chaos begins.

Great Barracuda

Great barracuda are the toothy terrors of the Keys. These long, skinny predators usually run 3-4 feet, but can reach over 6 feet and 60+ pounds. You'll find them hanging around reefs, wrecks, and channel edges in 10-100 feet of water. They're here year-round but seem most active in warmer months. 'Cudas are ambush predators - they'll rocket out from cover to attack. When hooked, they put up a good fight with powerful runs and jumps. We often catch them while targeting other species, but you can sight-cast to them too. Use wire leaders - their razor teeth will slice through anything else. A fun way to target them is with topwater lures. When a big 'cuda blasts a surface plug, it's an explosion you won't forget.

King Mackerel

King Mackerel are a prized catch here in Islamorada. These speedsters typically run 15-30 pounds, but we've seen some top 50. Look for them near the surface in depths of 40-150 feet, often following bait schools. They're most active in warmer months when water temps hit the mid-70s. Kings put up an awesome fight, making blistering runs and even jumping occasionally. Their firm, oily flesh is great for smoking too. When targeting kings, I like to slow-troll live blue runners or Spanish sardines. A wire leader is a must - their razor-sharp teeth will slice through mono in a heartbeat. Keep an eye out for birds working the water, that's often a dead giveaway kings are feeding below.

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Mahi mahi are one of the most exciting fish to catch in the Keys. These colorful acrobats usually run 10-30 pounds, but can get up to 50+. We find them near floating debris and weedlines, often in 100-400 feet of water. They're around all year, but peak season is April through October. Mahi are known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked - they'll leap and dance across the surface. They're also great eating, with a mild, sweet flavor. To target them, we'll often troll small ballyhoo or lures, or pitch live baits if we spot a school. A good tip is to keep the first one you hook in the water - mahi travel in schools, and the others will often stick around if they see their buddy.

Wahoo Fish

Wahoo are the speed demons of the ocean. These sleek torpedoes can hit 60 mph in short bursts. Most we catch run 15-30 pounds, but 100-pounders aren't unheard of. Look for them near drop-offs and current edges in 100-400 feet of water. Fall and winter are prime wahoo seasons here. They're famous for their blistering initial run - when a wahoo hits, hold on tight! Their firm, white meat is excellent eating too. We usually target them by high-speed trolling at 12-18 knots using wire line and leaders. My favorite lure is a black/purple Ilander with a ballyhoo. Pro tip: when a wahoo hits, don't strike immediately. Let it run for a few seconds to get the hooks set, then hang on for a wild ride.

About the Key West

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Cummins

Maximum Cruising Speed: 20

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 430

Welcome aboard our Islamorada offshore fishing charter, where the Florida Keys' crystal-clear waters beckon anglers of all levels. Our seasoned captains know just where to find the big game fish lurking in the deep blue. You'll have a shot at hooking impressive marlin, acrobatic sailfish, and colorful mahi mahi as we cruise to prime fishing spots. With room for up to six guests, it's perfect for a fun day out with friends or family. Our well-equipped boat has everything you need for a productive day on the water. Whether you're an experienced angler or trying offshore fishing for the first time, our friendly crew will ensure you have a great time reeling in some of the Keys' most sought-after catches. Get ready for an action-packed day of fishing in one of the world's top sportfishing destinations!

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