6 HR Private Bottom Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Sixhour private charter accommodates up to eight guestsTarget snapper, grouper, blue marlin, and mahi mahiEquipment, licenses, and flexible scheduling included
Picture yourself hauling in a trophy grouper while your buddies cheer you on—that's exactly what you'll get with Blind Squirrel Charters' 6-hour private bottom fishing adventure. This isn't your typical crowded charter boat experience. You'll have the entire vessel to yourself and up to 7 fishing companions, giving you the freedom to fish at your own pace without dealing with strangers crowding your lines. Starting at either 8 AM or 1 PM, this customizable trip lets you call the shots on where to drop lines and what species to target. Whether you're dead-set on wrestling with reef monsters or ready to troll for pelagic beasts, the experienced captain will put you on the fish that'll make your day memorable.
Your 6-hour adventure kicks off with a game plan discussion right at the dock. The captain will chat with your group about what you're hoping to catch and adjust the trip accordingly. You'll start by working the local reefs for snapper and grouper, where the action can be non-stop if you hit the right spots. The beauty of having your own private charter means no rushing—if the bite is hot, you can stay put and load the cooler. Once you've had your fill of bottom fishing, it's time to head offshore where the real giants live. This is where things get interesting as you switch tactics to target blue marlin, mahi mahi, and other pelagic species that'll test your drag and your arms. All your gear and fishing licenses are included, so you just need to show up ready to fish. The boat comes equipped with quality rods, reels, tackle, and everything else needed to handle whatever decides to bite.
Bottom fishing on the reefs requires a different approach than chasing pelagics offshore, and you'll get to experience both worlds on this trip. When working the reefs, you'll be using heavy tackle with circle hooks and cut bait to entice grouper and snapper hiding in the structure below. The key is getting your bait down quickly through the water column and keeping it in the strike zone where these fish patrol. Once you head offshore, the game changes completely. Trolling becomes the name of the game, with outriggers spread wide pulling colorful lures that mimic baitfish. The captain knows which lures work best in these waters and will have the spread dialed in to attract marlin, mahi, and wahoo. Don't be surprised if you're fighting fish on multiple lines—offshore fishing can turn into organized chaos when a school of mahi decides to crash the party. The crew handles all the rigging and re-baiting, so you can focus on what you came for: catching fish and having a blast doing it.
Blue marlin are the crown jewel of offshore fishing, and these apex predators can show up any time you're trolling the deep blue. These fish are pure muscle and attitude, often jumping clear out of the water when hooked in spectacular displays of power. Prime marlin season typically runs from spring through early fall, though these nomadic fish can surprise you year-round. What makes battling a blue marlin so special isn't just their size—it's the way they fight with intelligence, changing directions and using every trick in their arsenal to throw the hook.
Mahi mahi, also called common dolphinfish, are the perfect fish for groups because they travel in schools and hit lures with reckless abandon. These colorful fighters put on an aerial show that'll have everyone on deck cheering, and their brilliant gold and green colors make for amazing photos. They're most abundant during warmer months, and once you find one, there are usually plenty more nearby. The beauty of mahi fishing is that even smaller fish in the 10-15 pound range fight like they're twice their size.
Wahoo are speed demons that'll scream line off your reel faster than you can believe. These torpedo-shaped predators are built for speed and can hit trolled baits at over 40 mph. When a wahoo strikes, you'll know it immediately—the rod will nearly get yanked out of your hands. They're excellent table fare and provide some of the most exciting strikes you'll experience offshore.
Cobia are the gentle giants of the inshore waters, often curious enough to swim right up to the boat for a closer look. These fish can grow massive, with 40-50 pound specimens not uncommon. They're fantastic fighters that use their broad bodies and stubborn nature to test your tackle and patience. Cobia season peaks in spring and early summer when they're moving along the coast.
Black grouper are the heavyweights of the reef scene, using every piece of structure they can find to try breaking you off. These fish are pure power, making short, bulldozing runs toward the bottom when hooked. Landing a quality black grouper requires skill, patience, and tackle that can handle the punishment. They're most active during cooler months and provide some of the best eating you'll find in these waters.
At $2,150 for up to 8 anglers, this private charter delivers serious value when you break down the per-person cost. You're getting a full 6 hours on the water with experienced crew, quality gear, and the flexibility to fish exactly how you want. The free cancellation up to 14 days out takes the pressure off booking—no worries about weather or unexpected changes in plans. Whether you choose the morning trip to beat the afternoon heat or the afternoon departure to avoid early wake-up calls, you'll have prime fishing time in both scenarios. This is the kind of trip that creates lasting memories and fish stories you'll tell for years. Don't let another fishing season slip by—grab your crew and book your date with Blind Squirrel Charters for an offshore adventure that'll remind you why you love fishing in the first place.
This 63-foot custom sportfishing machine cuts through Key West waters like a dream, powered by twin 980HP MTU engines that'll get you to the fishing grounds fast at 23+ knots. Restored in 2018, she's built for serious anglers who want comfort while chasing everything from reef snappers to offshore marlin. The spacious deck gives your crew of 8 plenty of room to work multiple lines, while the flybridge offers killer visibility for spotting birds and baitfish. Below deck, you've got AC to cool off between bites, a full galley for snacks, and even bunks if someone needs a break from the action. Modern electronics including GPS, radar, and fish finders help locate productive spots whether you're working the reefs or heading blue water for mahi and billfish. The onboard icebox and refrigerator keep your catch fresh and drinks cold during those long battles with trophy fish. This boat handles offshore swells with ease, letting you focus on what matters - putting fish in the box.
Mycteroperca BonaciBlack grouper are the bulldozers of the reef, stocky ambush predators that average 10-30 pounds but can push 100+ in the right spots. These olive-colored fish with dark blotches love hanging around ledges, wrecks, and rocky structure from 30-200 feet deep. They're most active during cooler months when they move shallow to spawn. What makes them a favorite is their bulldogging fight - they'll head straight for the rocks and test every knot you've tied. The payoff is some of the best eating fish in the ocean, with sweet, flaky white meat. Here's the deal: once you hook one, crank hard immediately and don't let up - they'll suck your bait whole then dive for cover faster than you'd think possible. Heavy tackle and steady pressure are your friends.
Makaira NigricansBlue marlin are the kings of offshore fishing - massive billfish that can reach over 1,000 pounds, though most we see run 200-400 pounds. These cobalt-blue giants cruise warm offshore waters, usually beyond the 100-foot mark where currents meet. They're most active during summer months when baitfish concentrate along temperature breaks. What makes them special is their raw power and acrobatics - they'll jump, dive deep, and fight for hours. The meat is decent, but most anglers release these beauties for the bragging rights. Here's a tip: when trolling, keep your baits skipping on the surface and watch for that telltale bill slashing through the spread. Once hooked, tighten your drag gradually - too much pressure too fast and they'll throw the hook.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are like the bulldogs of the reef - stocky brown fish that average 20-50 pounds and fight way above their weight class. You'll often mistake them for sharks at first glance with their dark color and single dorsal fin. They hang around structure like reefs, wrecks, and buoys in 30-100 feet of water, often cruising just under the surface. Spring through fall is prime time when they're most active and feeding heavily. Anglers love cobia because they're aggressive fighters that make powerful runs, plus they're fantastic eating with firm, white meat. They're curious fish that'll often follow the boat, giving you multiple shot opportunities. Here's the trick: when sight fishing, cast a bucktail jig ahead of them and let it sink - they can't resist investigating.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi mahi are some of the most colorful fighters you'll encounter offshore. These golden beauties average 15-30 pounds and grow fast, living only about 4 years. Look for them around floating debris, weedlines, or current edges in 100+ feet of water. They're most abundant during warmer months when water temps climb above 75°F. What guests love is their spectacular aerial show - they'll jump repeatedly when hooked, flashing brilliant gold and green colors that fade quickly once boated. Plus, they're absolutely delicious with firm, white meat that's perfect for tacos or grilling. Pro tip: when you hook one, keep your lines in the water - mahi travel in schools and you can often catch multiple fish from the same spot if you work fast.
Acanthocybium SolandriWahoo are speed demons that'll test your reflexes and tackle. These torpedo-shaped fish average 20-40 pounds but can push 80+ pounds, with distinctive blue stripes along silver flanks. They patrol open water from 30-200 feet, often near drop-offs or structure. Best fishing happens during cooler months when they move closer to shore. What makes wahoo special is their blistering speed - they can hit 60 mph and make screaming runs that'll melt your reel. The meat is outstanding too, white and flaky with a mild flavor that's perfect for sashimi or grilling. Key tip: troll fast at 12-15 knots with wire leaders - their razor-sharp teeth will slice through mono in seconds. When one hits, hold on tight because that first run is something else.
Key West