Key West Fishing

Key West may be most famous for its nightlife, dining, snorkeling and shopping, but any angler would be thrilled to fish its crystal clear waters. In fact, people come from all over the world to experience the fantastic fishing in Key West. With its many mangrove islands and channels, the backcountry fishing in Key West is truly world-class. The many reefs and wrecks that surround Key West have outstanding fishing at the bottom, middle and surface depths. And the world famous Florida Straits has some of the best deep water offshore fishing in the world.

Key West Inshore Fishing

Key West and its surrounding uninhabited mangrove islands have some of the most extensive grass flats and shallows in the Florida Keys. This network of shallows and flats provide home to a healthy population of sport fish-and some truly awesome backcountry fishing. Bonefish, tarpon, ladyfish, redfish, permit, snook, cobia, trout, barracuda and sharks all patrol the flats of Key West in search of crab, baitfish and other small creatures to eat. The clear, shallow water-as shallow as 2-4 feet in some places-is perfect for sight fishing on light tackle for all the sport fish species. A backcountry fishing charter has extensive knowledge of the tides and fishing trends of Key West and will be a perfect guide for your Key West backcountry fishing adventure.

Key West also has one of the longest barrier reefs in the world as well as numerous shipwrecks and artificial reefs. Living among the cracks and crevasses of these structures is a very healthy population of sport fish. Multiple hookups are common on a reef and wreck fishing trip. Grouper, permit, cobia, jacks, snappers, black fin tuna, yellowtail, barracuda, sharks, and kingfish all call the reefs and wrecks of Key West home. The fast action and beautiful scenery make a Key West reef and wreck fishing trip a perfect family fishing adventure.

Key West Offshore Fishing

With the deep blue water of the Gulf Stream and the Florida Straits just 30 minutes from shore, Key West is a must for any big game fishing enthusiast. The fertile waters of the Florida Strait and Atlantic Gulf Stream are home to all of the big game trophy fish species including marlin, sailfish, wahoo, tuna, dolphin fish (mahi-mahi), swordfish, shark and kingfish. Key West has a reputation for world-class fishing-and for good reason. Many record catches have been recorded in Key West, and the action is hot all year round. If you are looking for rod-bending, heart-pumping big game fishing you will love Key West.

With so much great fishing, gorgeous scenery, sparkling white beaches, world-class dining and nightlife, and friendly and colorful locals, people the world over flock to Key West for their fishing vacation. It's no wonder Ernest Hemingway called Key West "...the best place I've ever been, anytime, anywhere…" Come fish Key West and see for yourself why it truly is the best.