Often referred to as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, Islamorada is one of the world’s most popular destinations for anglers, with a huge number of fishing charters available, most of which include your license in the price.
(Photo: Fishingbooker.com)
The village of Islamorada encompasses six of the Florida Keys and is renowned for its beautiful coral reefs that can be found nearby. For many it is merely a pass-through on the road to vibrant Key West, but for fishing enthusiasts it is a veritable mecca and not to be missed. If you’re seeking an amazing angling adventure in Florida, we’ve picked out 5 of the best fishing trips that Islamorada has to offer.
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)
3/4-Day Trip
(Photo: Fishingbooker.com)
Another popular choice with those who don’t quite have the time for a full day out at sea, on this six-hour trip you can fish the shallow waters of the flats and the backcountry for Bonefish, Snook, Tarpon, Permit, and more. Alternatively, visit the reefs of the Everglades National park for some Cobia, Grouper, and Snapper fishing. All of these tours take place aboard aboard a 19’ Angler Center console, originally built in 1972 and fully restored in 2016. With a maximum cruising speed of 30 knots, the vessel transports up to three anglers and the captain to your chosen fishing destination with ease. From $598 (two guests max; $49 for each additional guest)
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)
