Expert Guided 6-Hour Offshore Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
6hour offshore fishing adventure in Florida Keys watersExpert Captain Mick Ware guides beginners and experienced anglersSmall group experience with maximum 6 guests aboard
Picture this: you're standing on the deck of a solid charter boat, salt spray hitting your face as you watch your line disappear into the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys. Captain Mick Ware knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on some serious fish. This 6-hour offshore adventure isn't just another fishing trip – it's your chance to tangle with some of the most sought-after species in South Florida waters. Whether you've been fishing since you could hold a rod or you're just getting your feet wet, this top-rated charter delivers the kind of action that keeps anglers coming back season after season.
Captain Mick runs a tight ship that accommodates up to 6 anglers, making this perfect for families, buddy trips, or corporate outings. The beauty of fishing the Keys lies in the incredible diversity – one minute you're sight-fishing shallow flats, the next you're dropping lines in 100+ feet of blue water. This charter strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and heart-pumping action. Beginners get hands-on coaching from an experienced captain who genuinely loves teaching the sport, while seasoned anglers appreciate Mick's local knowledge and ability to adapt tactics based on conditions. The 6-hour window gives you plenty of time to explore different fishing zones without feeling rushed. You'll cover serious ground, from nearshore reefs where cobia cruise to deeper waters where sailfish patrol. The Florida Keys fishing scene is world-class for good reason – the Gulf Stream runs close to shore, creating a highway for pelagic species, while the extensive backcountry and reef system holds resident populations of trophy fish year-round.
Captain Mick employs a variety of proven techniques depending on what's biting and where the fish are holding. Trolling is a staple for covering water and locating active sailfish – you'll pull a spread of ballyhoo, feathers, and lures at different depths to trigger strikes. When the bite gets hot, switching to live bait often seals the deal. For cobia, sight-fishing is the name of the game. These curious fish often approach the boat, giving you shots with spinning gear and live crabs or eels. Redfish action typically happens around structure – wrecks, reefs, and ledges where these bruisers ambush baitfish. Bottom fishing with cut bait or live pilchards produces consistent results. The captain provides all necessary tackle, from heavy spinning setups for sight-fishing to conventional reels rigged for trolling. Fresh and live bait is included, along with all terminal tackle. The boat comes equipped with quality fish-finding electronics, outriggers for trolling, and a livewell to keep your bait frisky. You'll fish with circle hooks and follow sustainable practices – this isn't just about catching fish, it's about preserving these fisheries for future generations.
Redfish are the backbone of Keys fishing, and for good reason. These copper-colored bulldogs average 8-15 pounds but can push 30+ when you find the right schools. They're most active during moving tides, especially around dawn and dusk. What makes redfish special is their fighting ability – they'll make powerful runs toward structure and test your drag system. The best part about targeting reds in the Keys is their year-round availability. While other species come and go with the seasons, you can count on redfish action almost any day of the year. They respond well to both live and cut bait, making them perfect for anglers of all skill levels.
Atlantic Sailfish represent the crown jewel of offshore fishing in South Florida. These acrobatic billfish average 6-8 feet and 40-60 pounds, but their aerial displays make them feel much larger. Peak sailfish season runs from December through April when cooler water temperatures bring them close to shore. What gets anglers fired up about sailfish is their spectacular fighting style – expect multiple jumps, long runs, and tail-walking displays that'll have everyone on the boat cheering. The Keys offer some of the most consistent sailfish action on the East Coast, with multiple-fish days being the norm rather than the exception during peak season.
Cobia fishing in the Keys offers a unique sight-fishing opportunity that's hard to find anywhere else. These brown sharks (as locals call them) cruise shallow reefs and wrecks, often swimming right up to the boat out of curiosity. They average 20-40 pounds but can exceed 50, and their aggressive nature makes them a favorite among charter captains. Spring migration from March through May provides the hottest action, but resident fish stick around year-round. Cobia are notorious for their powerful runs and stubborn fighting style – they'll test both your equipment and your endurance. The visual aspect of watching a 40-pound cobia slowly approach your bait makes this one of the most exciting fishing experiences the Keys has to offer.
DOA Charters delivers the complete Florida Keys fishing experience with Captain Mick at the helm. Six hours gives you serious time to explore different fishing zones and target multiple species. The combination of world-class fishing grounds, experienced guidance, and top-notch equipment creates the perfect recipe for an outstanding day on the water. Whether you're looking to check sailfish off your bucket list, tangle with bull redfish, or experience the rush of sight-fishing for cobia, this charter has you covered. The Florida Keys fishing scene doesn't get much better than this – book your spot and get ready for the kind of fishing stories you'll be telling for years to come.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are like the bulldogs of offshore fishing - brown, stocky, and built to fight. These loners cruise around wrecks, buoys, and structure in 30-70 feet, often mistaken for sharks with that single dorsal fin. They average around 40-60 pounds but can push 100+ if you're lucky. Spring migration brings the best action as they move through our waters heading north. What makes them special is they're curious fish - they'll actually come up to investigate the boat. The meat is top-shelf too, firm white fillets that taste like a cross between grouper and mahi. Here's the deal: when you spot one, don't just fire a cast at it. Drop a bucktail jig right in front of its nose and work it slow. They like to inspect their food before committing.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are hands-down one of the most rewarding targets in these Keys waters. You'll find them cruising the shallow flats in 1-4 feet, often with their backs barely under the surface around grass beds and oyster bars. These copper-colored beauties average 28-33 inches and put up a solid fight that'll test your drag. What makes them special is that distinctive black eyespot near their tail - it's like nature's bullseye. They're excellent table fare too, with mild, flaky meat that grills perfectly. Spring through fall gives you the best action when they're actively feeding. Here's a local trick: when you spot one tailing in skinny water, cast your bait about 3 feet ahead of where they're heading, not right on top of them. Spooks easily but worth the patience.
Istiophorus AlbicansAtlantic Sailfish are the crown jewel of offshore fishing here in the Keys. These speedsters average 7-8 feet and around 50 pounds, but it's that massive dorsal fin and acrobatic fight that hooks anglers for life. They'll leap, dive, and tailwalk across the surface like nothing else out there. We typically find them between 30-65 feet, cruising the blue water looking for baitfish schools. Winter months are prime time - December through March brings consistent action. They're not great eating, so most folks release them, but the battle is what you're really after. Pro tip: when you see that sail lit up bright blue and black, that fish is fired up and ready to eat. Keep your baits moving and don't set the hook too early - let them turn with it first.
Key West