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Get ready to chase some serious fish in the deep blue waters off Islamorada! Our offshore charters take you straight to where the action is – we're talking sailfish, marlin, and mahi that'll make your arms ache (in the best way). With Reef Runner Sportfishing Charters, you're in for a day of world-class angling in the fishing capital of the world. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got everything you need for an epic day on the water.
Picture this: You're cruising out of Islamorada on a sweet fishing machine, fully rigged and ready to rumble. Our seasoned captains know these waters like the back of their hand, and they're itching to put you on the fish. We're talking about a 6-hour offshore throw-down where you'll be targeting the big boys – sailfish that'll make your reel sing, mahi-mahi that fight like middleweights, and if Lady Luck's smiling, maybe even a blue marlin that'll test your mettle. We provide top-notch gear, so all you need to bring is your A-game and a good attitude. Fair warning: once you've fished the Keys, everywhere else might seem a little... well, less fishy.
Offshore fishing in Islamorada isn't your grandpa's pier fishing – we're playing in the big leagues out here. We'll start by loading up on live bait, because fresh is best when you're tempting the ocean's finest. Then it's time to deploy our arsenal of techniques. We might set up a spread of trolling lines, watching for that telltale splash of a sailfish's bill slashing through the surface. Or maybe we'll slow-troll live baits, mimicking an injured fish to attract those hungry pelagics. If the mahi are running, we'll look for floating debris or frigate birds – nature's own fish finders. Our crew's always on their toes, ready to call out "Fish on!" at a moment's notice. And when that reel starts screaming? Hold on tight, 'cause you're in for one heck of a ride!
"Had an absolutely amazing day out on the Reef Runner with Captain Paul and his First Mate Avery. Long story short, my father booked a fishing trip for him, my brother and myself as a Christmas gift. Little 3 day trip, with 2 different charters. 1 Wednesday, one Thursday. I'm not going to name the first, but it wasn't a great experience. The 2nd, on the Reef Runner was the opposite, it was awesome. We did a 3/4 day 6hr trip. Started at 645. We promptly took off for our bait, which we got plenty of. Soon after Captain Paul put us right on the fish. We ended up with 4 or 5 Kingfish (3 good keepers) 2 awesome Mahi Mahi also keepers, and a Bonita. Had a couple Sailfish that we didn't end up landing as well. Can't say more about Paul and Avery. Amazing day." - Torrie
"We had a wonderful time during our 1/2 day fishing with Capt. Paul. His experience got us on the fish and his first mate Ed, had us landing fish in no time. Ed told us it was almost impossible to catch Mahi on a half day trip. Maybe so but not this day. We landed a couple Mahi-Mahi, a King Fish and a Almaco Jack. Excellent time. Comfortable atmosphere, beautiful day and plenty of laughs. Thanks Capt. Paul and Ed for entertaining us. Regards, Jack" - Jack
Let's talk about the rockstars you'll be chasing on this trip. First up, the Atlantic Sailfish – these bad boys are like the Usain Bolt of the ocean. They're fast, they're flashy, and when they decide to go airborne, it's a sight you'll never forget. Sailfish love the waters around Islamorada, especially in the cooler months. They're not the biggest fish out there, but pound for pound, they're some of the best fighters you'll ever tangle with.
Next on the hit list: Mahi Mahi, also known as Dorado or Dolphinfish (but don't worry, they're not related to Flipper). These guys are the crowd-pleasers of the offshore world. With their electric blue and green colors, they're like swimming neon signs. Mahi are known for their acrobatics and their tasty fillets. They're here year-round, but summer is prime time. When you hook one, be ready for some serious aerial shows!
Now, if you're looking for the heavyweight champion of the seas, look no further than the Blue Marlin. These are the fish that legends are made of. They're big, they're powerful, and they're not afraid to show it. Landing a blue marlin is the holy grail for many anglers, and while they're not as common as some other species, the chance to battle one of these giants is what keeps many folks coming back to Islamorada year after year.
Don't sleep on the Mackerels either. Spanish Mackerel are like the speedsters of the sea – they're quick, they're aggressive, and they're a blast to catch on light tackle. Their bigger cousins, the King Mackerel (or Kingfish), are the torpedoes of the ocean. When a King hits your bait, hold on tight because they're known for blistering runs that'll have your reel smoking.
Look, here's the deal: Islamorada isn't called the Sport Fishing Capital of the World for nothing. With Reef Runner Sportfishing Charters, you're not just going fishing – you're setting yourself up for the chance at some real bucket list catches. Our experienced crew, top-notch gear, and intimate knowledge of these waters mean you're in for a day you'll be talking about for years to come. Whether you're dreaming of that trophy sailfish, a cooler full of mahi, or just a day of bent rods and screaming reels, we've got you covered. So what are you waiting for? The fish are out there, and they're not going to catch themselves. Give us a call, book your trip, and get ready for some serious offshore action. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it!
June 6, 2022
We had a wonderful time during our 1/2 day fishing with Capt. Paul. His experience got us on the fish and his first mate Ed, had us landing fish in no time. Ed told us it was almost impossible to catch Mahi on a half day trip. Maybe so but not this day. We landed a couple Mahi-Mahi, a King Fish and a Almaco Jack. Excellent time. Comfortable atmosphere, beautiful day and plenty of laughs. Thanks Capt. Paul and Ed for entertaining us. Regards, Jack
October 10, 2022
Atlantic Sailfish are the showstoppers of the Keys. These acrobatic fighters average 6-8 feet long and 60-80 pounds. You'll find them in blue water, usually 100-300 feet deep, often near current edges and weed lines. Spring and fall are peak seasons as they migrate through. Sailfish are known for their spectacular aerial displays - expect wild jumps and powerful runs. We typically troll ballyhoo or pitch live bait. The bite is visual and heart-pounding as they light up bright blue and purple. Landing one is a real accomplishment, so we practice careful catch and release. Local trick: when a sail's hooked, keep the boat moving forward to prevent it from jumping and throwing the hook. These majestic billfish are a bucket-list catch for many anglers visiting Islamorada.

Blue Marlin are the giants of the deep, and hooking one is the pinnacle for many offshore anglers. These massive billfish average 200-400 pounds here, but granders (1000+ pounders) are possible. We find them in the deep blue waters beyond the reef, usually 600+ feet deep. Summer is prime time as warm currents push through. Blues are known for their incredible power and stamina - expect long, brutal fights. We typically troll large lures or rigged baits. The bite is often spectacular, with the fish greyhounding across the surface. Local tip: when a blue's hooked, clear the deck and settle in - these fights can last hours. It's all catch and release for these magnificent creatures. Landing a Blue Marlin is a true lifetime achievement for any angler.

King Mackerel, or Kingfish, are hard-fighting speedsters that'll test your gear. Adults typically run 20-40 pounds, but 50+ pounders aren't uncommon. Look for them in open water 30-150 feet deep, often near reefs, wrecks, or bait schools. Spring and fall are prime as they migrate through the Keys. Kings are known for blistering runs and will smoke a reel. We usually slow-troll live bait or pull diving plugs. Their razor teeth make wire leaders a must. The meat is good eating, especially when smoked. Pro tip: use two hooks when live baiting - one in the nose, one trailing. Kings often bite the back half of the bait first. Whether you're after a smoker king for the grill or just want to feel that screaming run, these fish deliver an adrenaline rush.

Mahi Mahi are the perfect gamefish - beautiful, acrobatic, and delicious. They average 10-30 pounds here, with 50+ pounders possible. Look for them in open water, often near floating debris or weed lines. They're here year-round, but summer is best. Mahi are known for their wild aerial displays and vibrant colors. We usually troll or pitch live bait. The bite is often visual, with schools competing for the bait. They're excellent table fare, with firm white meat. Pro tip: when you hook one, keep it in the water - the school will often stay with it, letting you catch multiples. Whether you're after a great meal or just want to see those electric blue and green colors, Mahi always deliver a good time on the water.

Spanish Mackerel are a favorite target here in the Keys. These streamlined speedsters typically run 1-2 feet long and 2-3 pounds, though bigger ones show up. Look for them in schools near the surface, often chasing bait. They love warm water, so spring through fall is prime time. We usually find them around reefs, inlets, and along beaches in 20-40 feet of water. Trolling small spoons or live bait works great. Spanish Macks put up a fun fight on light tackle and make excellent table fare. Pro tip: use wire leaders to prevent bite-offs from their razor-sharp teeth. These fish are fast and aggressive, so be ready for explosive strikes when they're feeding. Whether you're after a tasty dinner or just want some rod-bending action, Spanish Mackerel deliver.

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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cummins
Maximum Cruising Speed: 20
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 430
Had an absolutely amazing day out on the Reef Runner with Captain Paul and his First Mate Avery. Long story short, my father booked a fishing trip for him, my brother and myself as a Christmas gift. Little 3 day trip, with 2 different charters. 1 Wednesday, one Thursday. I'm not going to name the first, but it wasn't a great experience. The 2nd, on the Reef Runner was the opposite, it was awesome. We did a 3/4 day 6hr trip. Started at 645. We promptly took off for our bait, which we got plenty of. Soon after Captain Paul put us right on the fish. We ended up with 4 or 5 Kingfish (3 good keepers) 2 awesome Mahi Mahi also keepers, and a Bonita. Had a couple Sailfish that we didn't end up landing as well. Can't say more about Paul and Avery. Amazing day.