Private 8 Hour Backcountry Fishing Trip
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Fullday backcountry fishing targeting multiple species in Lower KeysCaptain Harlan provides personalized guidance to prime fishing locationsPrivate charter accommodates up to three guests on calm waters
Looking for a solid day of fishing in some of the most productive waters Florida has to offer? Captain Harlan's 8-hour backcountry adventure takes you into the heart of the Lower Keys, where the flats meet deeper channels and the fish are always biting. This isn't your typical crowded charter boat experience – with just three anglers max, you get personalized attention and plenty of elbow room to work your lines. The backcountry waters here are legendary among local anglers, offering everything from grass flats loaded with trout to structure holding snapper and mackerel. You'll spend a full day learning the water, perfecting your technique, and hopefully filling the cooler with some of the best eating fish in South Florida.
Your day starts early when you meet Captain Harlan at the dock, where his well-equipped boat is ready for a full day of fishing the Lower Keys backcountry. These protected waters offer something special – calm conditions most days, incredible diversity of species, and fishing spots that have been producing for decades. The backcountry here is a maze of mangrove islands, grass flats, and deeper channels that create perfect habitat for gamefish. You'll be moving between different areas throughout the day, targeting whatever's biting best. The captain knows these waters like his backyard and adjusts the game plan based on tides, weather, and what the fish are doing. With eight full hours on the water, there's plenty of time to try different techniques and really get dialed in on the bite. The relaxed pace means you're not rushed – perfect for anglers who want to soak up the experience and learn from a seasoned local guide.
Backcountry fishing in the Lower Keys requires a mix of techniques, and Captain Harlan has you covered with the right gear for each situation. You'll be using light to medium tackle – think spinning reels with 10-15lb test line that can handle the grass and structure without spooking fish in the clear, shallow water. Live bait is king out here, with shrimp, pilchards, and pinfish being the go-to options depending on what you're targeting. For the grass flats where trout hang out, you'll be working live shrimp under popping corks, letting the bait work naturally in the current. When targeting snapper around structure, it's all about getting your bait down quick with just enough weight to reach bottom without getting hung up. The mackerel bite often calls for trolling small spoons or casting jigs to breaking fish. The captain provides all the tackle, bait, and know-how – your job is to pay attention, follow instructions, and enjoy the ride. These aren't deep water techniques, but they require finesse and local knowledge that comes from years of working these specific waters.
Sea Trout are the bread and butter of Lower Keys backcountry fishing, and for good reason. These spotted beauties love the grass flats and can be found year-round, though spring and fall offer the most consistent action. They're perfect for light tackle fishing – averaging 12-18 inches with occasional keeper-sized fish pushing 20+ inches. Trout are aggressive feeders that hit live shrimp with authority, and their fighting ability on light gear makes every fish fun. The best part? They're excellent table fare when prepared fresh. Look for trout over grass beds in 3-6 feet of water, especially during moving tides when they're actively feeding.
Red Snapper bring the fight that every angler craves, and the Lower Keys backcountry holds some quality fish around rocky structure and hard bottom areas. These fish are built like linebackers – thick, powerful, and stubborn when hooked. Most backcountry snapper run 12-16 inches, but the occasional larger fish will test your tackle and skills. They're ambush predators that love live bait presented near bottom, and once hooked, they make multiple runs trying to reach cover. Snapper fishing requires patience and precise boat positioning, but the payoff is worth it. These fish are prized for their white, flaky meat that's perfect for everything from fish tacos to blackened fillets.
Spanish Mackerel add speed and excitement to any fishing trip, often showing up in schools that create non-stop action. These torpedo-shaped fish are built for speed, with razor-sharp teeth and an aggressive appetite for small baitfish and jigs. They typically run 1-3 pounds in the backcountry, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and fighting spirit. Mackerel are often found around bait schools in slightly deeper water, and when you find them, the bite can be fast and furious. They're excellent on light tackle, making screaming runs and acrobatic jumps. Fresh Spanish mackerel is outstanding when prepared properly – the key is keeping them cold and cooking them the same day you catch them.
This top-rated 8-hour backcountry fishing experience with American Allegiance Charters delivers exactly what serious anglers want – quality time on productive water with an experienced local captain who knows how to put you on fish. The Lower Keys backcountry is a world-class fishery that produces year-round, and Captain Harlan's personalized approach ensures you get the most out of your day on the water. Whether you're looking to learn new techniques, catch dinner, or just enjoy a day of fishing in some of Florida's most beautiful waters, this trip delivers. With only three anglers per trip, spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Don't wait – book your backcountry fishing adventure today and experience why the Lower Keys have been a customer favorite destination for generations of anglers.
This 17-foot custom flats boat cuts through the shallow backcountry waters around Big Pine Key like it was made for it. The 60HP Suzuki pushes you to the fishing spots fast, then runs whisper-quiet when you're working the flats for snapper and trout. Built specifically for up to 3 anglers, this skiff gets you into those skinny water honey holes where the bigger boats can't go. The fish finder helps locate schools of mackerel and kingfish, while the GPS keeps you on the productive spots Captain Harlan has dialed in over the years. Cold drinks and lunch stay fresh in the icebox during your 8-hour day on the water. The VHF radio keeps you connected for safety and fishing reports. This boat handles the Lower Keys backcountry perfectly - stable enough for fighting fish, shallow-draft for exploring creeks and channels, with plenty of casting room when the action heats up.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed Snapper are the prize catch that every angler dreams about. These beautiful crimson fish average 1-2 feet but can grow much larger, with some reaching 35 pounds. They live around structure in deeper water, typically 30-100 feet down near ledges, wrecks, and rocky bottom. Peak season runs May through October when they're spawning and more aggressive. What makes them special is their incredible fight - they're true warriors that will run straight for cover and test your drag. Plus, they're hands down one of the best eating fish in the Gulf with mild, nutty white meat that's restaurant quality. The key to landing big snappers is getting your bait right to the bottom with enough weight, and using circle hooks with live pinfish or fresh squid for the best results.
Salmo TruttaSpotted Sea Trout, or "specs" as we call them, are one of our most reliable targets in the Lower Keys backcountry. These silvery fish with distinctive black spots typically run 14-24 inches and put up a solid fight on light tackle. You'll find them cruising grass flats and shallow waters, especially during dawn and dusk when they're actively feeding on shrimp and small baitfish. They're more active in cooler months, making winter trips particularly productive. What guests love most is their willingness to hit both live bait and artificials, plus they make excellent table fare with delicate, flaky white meat. Pro tip: when working the flats, keep your noise down and make long casts - these fish spook easily in shallow water, but once hooked, they'll give you multiple runs.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish Mackerel are speed demons that'll test your reflexes and keep the action hot. These sleek, spotted fish typically run 1-2 feet long and are some of the fastest swimmers out there. You'll spot them in schools near the surface around structures, flats, and oyster bars throughout the backcountry. They're most active in warmer months when baitfish are plentiful, making spring through fall prime time. What anglers love is their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights - plus they're fantastic on the table with mild, tender meat perfect for grilling or smoking. The secret is speed: use light tackle with shiny spoons or small jigs, and work them fast. When you see birds diving, get there quick - Spanish Macs are likely feeding underneath those diving pelicans.
Big pine key, Florida