Half-Day Reef & Wreck Fishing in Islamorada
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fourhour reef and wreck fishing adventure in Islamorada watersTarget snapper and grouper with complete gear and bait providedFamilyfriendly charter accommodating up to six guests maximum
If you're looking for world-class fishing without burning a whole day on the water, Captain TJ's got you covered with this top-rated half-day charter out of Islamorada. Four solid hours targeting the productive reefs and wrecks that make the Florida Keys legendary among anglers. We're talking about fishing some of the most fish-rich structures in the Atlantic, where every drop could be the one that puts a trophy in the boat. Perfect for families wanting to get the kids hooked on fishing, or seasoned anglers who know that four hours in the right spots beats eight hours in the wrong ones.
Captain TJ runs a tight ship and knows these waters like the back of his hand. You'll meet at the dock in Islamorada and be fishing within 20 minutes – no long runs burning daylight. The boat's rigged for bottom fishing success with quality rods, reels, and terminal tackle that can handle anything from schoolie snappers to heavyweight groupers. With space for up to six anglers, there's plenty of room to fish without getting tangled up in each other's lines. The captain provides everything you need including live bait, tackle, and your fishing license, so you can focus on what matters – putting fish in the cooler. The pace is relaxed but productive, making it ideal for beginners who want to learn proper technique while still having shots at quality fish.
This is bottom fishing at its finest – we're talking about dropping baits down to structure-rich areas where fish congregate in serious numbers. The reefs and wrecks off Islamorada sit in 40 to 80 feet of water, creating perfect ambush points for predators and shelter for baitfish. You'll be using circle hooks with live pilchards, pinfish, and ballyhoo to target the residents. The technique is straightforward but effective: drop your bait to the bottom, engage the reel, and keep light tension while feeling for that telltale tap-tap-pull that signals game on. Captain TJ will position the boat over proven spots using GPS and fish finder technology, then coach you through proper bottom fishing technique. When you hook up, it's all about steady pressure and letting the fish tire itself out against the structure.
Atlantic Sailfish are the crown jewel of South Florida fishing, and while they're typically caught trolling, these acrobatic billfish sometimes show up around deeper wrecks when chasing baitfish. Running 6 to 8 feet long and known for their spectacular jumping ability, sailfish are catch-and-release only but provide memories that last a lifetime. Peak season runs from December through April when cooler water temperatures bring them closer to shore. Landing one on bottom fishing gear is like winning the lottery – rare but absolutely possible around the deeper structures Captain TJ fishes.
King Mackerel are speed demons that patrol the edges of reefs and wrecks, ambushing anything that looks like an easy meal. These silver bullets typically run 15 to 30 pounds in these waters and are absolute tackle busters when they decide to make a run. Peak season is fall through early spring, and they're fantastic eating when prepared properly. Kings have razor-sharp teeth, so wire leaders are a must. When you hook one, expect a blistering initial run followed by several determined attempts to cut you off on the nearest piece of structure.
Mahi Mahi, also called common dolphinfish, are the ultimate offshore prize that occasionally venture into deeper reef areas. These brilliant gold-and-green gamefish are pound-for-pound fighters that never give up easily. Typical catches run 10 to 20 pounds, though larger bulls are always possible. Mahi are most common during warmer months and are considered among the best eating fish in the ocean. They often travel in schools, so when you find one, there are usually more around. Their tendency to jump and their beautiful colors make them a customer favorite for photos.
Lesser Amberjack are the scrappy cousins of greater amberjacks and perfect for bottom fishing around wrecks. These bronze-colored battlers typically run 5 to 15 pounds and fight way above their weight class. They're year-round residents around structure and excellent table fare when kept on ice immediately after catching. Amberjacks are notorious for testing your drag system with powerful runs toward the bottom, making them exciting opponents on medium tackle.
Great Barracuda are the apex predators of the reef, with lightning-fast strikes and impressive runs that test even experienced anglers. These silver torpedoes can reach 4 feet long and have teeth that can slice through most fishing line like butter. They're year-round residents but most active during warmer months. While their reputation for being tough eating keeps most anglers releasing them, the fight they provide is absolutely worth the price of admission. Barracuda often follow hooked fish to the boat, creating opportunities for additional hookups.
This half-day reef and wreck fishing adventure delivers serious fishing action without the full-day commitment. Captain TJ's local knowledge and customer-focused approach make this a trending choice for both visiting anglers and locals who want quality fishing on a reasonable schedule. With all gear, bait, tackle, and licenses included, plus space for up to six anglers, it's an outstanding value for families or small groups. The combination of productive fishing grounds, expert guidance, and flexible timing makes this charter a best bet for anyone wanting to experience what makes Islamorada fishing world-renowned. Book your spot today and get ready to see why these waters produce some of Florida's most consistent fishing action.
Step aboard this beautifully restored 42' Hatteras sportfisher and get ready to hit the productive reefs and wrecks around Islamorada. This classic fishing machine was given new life in 2016 and packs twin 450HP Cummins diesels that'll cruise you comfortably to the fishing grounds at 20 knots. The spacious cockpit gives all 6 anglers plenty of room to work their lines while targeting snapper, grouper, and whatever else is biting on the reef structure. Captain Tj has this boat dialed in with modern electronics including GPS, radar, and fish finder to locate the best spots and keep you safe in changing conditions. The onboard icebox keeps your catch fresh and your drinks cold during the 4-hour trip. With a clean head facilities and all the fishing gear, tackle, live bait, and licenses included, you just need to show up ready to fish. Whether you're bringing the family or trying offshore fishing for the first time, this Hatteras provides a solid platform for experiencing some of the best reef fishing the Florida Keys has to offer.
Istiophorus AlbicansAtlantic sailfish are the speedsters of our offshore waters, hitting bursts up to 35 mph when hooked. These gorgeous fish average around 7 feet and 50 pounds, with that iconic sail-like dorsal fin that makes them unforgettable. You'll find them in the top 30-65 feet of water, especially during winter months when they migrate through South Florida - we're right in the heart of "Sailfish Alley." What makes them special is the fight - they'll leap, dive, and put on an aerial show that'll get everyone on the boat excited. The key to landing one is patience and letting them run when they want to. Once hooked, keep steady pressure but don't horse them in too fast, or they'll throw the hook with one of those spectacular jumps.
Sphyraena BarracudaGreat barracuda are the ocean's torpedoes - sleek, fast, and armed with a mouth full of razor teeth. These silver missiles typically run 2-4 feet long, though we see 5+ footers that'll really get your attention. They cruise shallow reefs, grass flats, and around structure, often lurking near the surface waiting to ambush baitfish. Year-round fishing here, but they're more active in warmer months. What guests love is the explosive strike and initial run - they'll hit 35 mph in short bursts. They're challenging fighters but don't have much stamina, so the battle's intense but usually quick. Fair warning: they're curious fish that might follow the boat, and those teeth are serious business. Always use a wire leader and landing net - never lip one by hand like you would a bass.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing mackerel, or "kings" as we call them, are built for speed and can match a wahoo when they take off. These silver bullets typically run 20-30 pounds, but we see 50+ pounders that'll really test your arms. They cruise in 40-150 feet of water around our reefs and wrecks, especially when the water temps hit that sweet spot of 70-80°F. Spring through fall are prime times here in Islamorada. What guests love is the initial run - pure drag-screaming power that'll wake everyone up. They're also great eating with firm, flaky meat that grills perfectly. Pro tip: always use a wire leader and rig two hooks on your bait. Kings hit from behind and that second hook in the bait's back often makes the difference between a hookup and a cutoff.
Seriola FasciataLesser amberjacks are the deep-water cousins of the more common greater amberjack, but they're trickier to find. These smaller jacks max out around 26 inches and 10 pounds, with that distinctive boomerang-shaped tail and olive-green to pinkish coloring. You'll find them in 180-430 feet of water around deep wrecks and rocky bottom - deeper than most other amberjacks hang out. They're year-round residents here, feeding on small fish, squid, and crabs near the bottom. While not the biggest fighters, they're fun on lighter tackle and guests enjoy the challenge of targeting something different. They're decent table fare too, though watch for ciguatera in larger fish. My tip: use a vertical jig and work it right on the bottom - these fish won't chase baits up high like their shallow-water cousins.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi mahi are the showstoppers of offshore fishing - brilliant gold and green colors that light up like neon when they're brought boatside. These fast-growing fish average 15-30 pounds and rarely live past four years, but they make up for it with spectacular fights full of jumps and long runs. Look for them under floating debris, weedlines, or around our offshore structures in 100+ feet of water. Spring through fall brings the best action when water temps climb above 75°F. What makes them special is everything - the colors, the acrobatics, and some of the best eating fish in the ocean with sweet, firm white meat. Here's a local trick: when you hook one, keep it in the water and look around - they often travel in small schools, so have another rod ready for multiple hookups.
Islamorada