Half-Day Florida Keys Fishing with DOA Charters
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Halfday inshore fishing trips with experienced Captain Mick WarePerfect introduction to saltwater fishing for up to six guestsCombines productive fishing with scenic Florida Keys sightseeing
Looking to get a real taste of what Florida Keys fishing is all about? Captain Mick Ware's half-day trips are hands-down the best introduction to these world-class waters. Whether you're completely new to saltwater angling or just want a solid day on the water without the full commitment, this four-hour adventure gives you everything the Keys are famous for. You'll be targeting some of the most sought-after species in these waters while soaking up scenery that'll have you planning your next trip before you even get back to the dock. With room for up to six anglers, it's perfect for families, buddy trips, or anyone wanting to experience why these waters have such a legendary reputation among fishing enthusiasts.
Captain Mick knows these flats and channels like the back of his hand, and he's got that rare combination of serious fishing knowledge and easygoing personality that makes for a top-rated day on the water. You'll launch from the heart of the Keys and head out to prime fishing grounds where the shallow flats meet deeper channels - exactly where the big fish like to hunt. The beauty of a half-day trip is that you get right into the action without any wasted time. Mick's got his finger on the pulse of what's biting and where, so you'll be fishing the hottest spots based on current conditions, tides, and seasonal patterns. The boat's set up with quality gear, but if you've got your own lucky rod, feel free to bring it along. Don't worry about experience levels - Mick's guided everyone from complete beginners to seasoned pros, and he's got a knack for putting everyone on fish regardless of skill level.
Inshore fishing in the Keys is all about reading the water and adapting your approach. You'll be using a mix of live bait and artificial lures, depending on what the fish are showing interest in that day. Light tackle is the name of the game here - it gives you that heart-pounding fight when you hook into a good fish, and it's way more sporting than heavy gear. Captain Mick will have you casting to structure, working the grass flats, and maybe even sight-fishing if conditions are right. There's nothing quite like watching a redfish cruise the shallows and making the perfect cast to intercept it. You'll learn proper casting techniques, how to work different lures, and the art of setting the hook when you get that strike. The boat's equipped with everything you need - rods, reels, tackle, bait, and all the terminal gear. Mick keeps his equipment in top shape because he knows that lost fish due to gear failure is nobody's idea of a good time.
Redfish are the bread and butter of Florida Keys inshore fishing, and for good reason. These copper-colored bruisers are aggressive feeders that'll absolutely hammer your bait when they're in the mood. They typically range from 18 to 35 inches in these waters, with the bigger bulls putting up fights that'll test your arm strength. Peak season runs from September through December, but honestly, you can find quality reds year-round if you know where to look. What makes them so popular is their willingness to eat just about anything - live shrimp, cut bait, spoons, soft plastics - and their habit of feeding in shallow water where you can actually see the action unfold. When you hook a slot red on light tackle, you're in for a bulldogging fight with powerful runs and head-shaking that'll get your adrenaline pumping.
Cobia are the wild cards that can turn a good day into an epic one. These chocolate-brown fighters are curious fish that often approach the boat, giving you shots at sight-casting that'll get your heart racing. They average 20 to 40 pounds in these waters, with some real giants pushing 50-plus pounds during peak season from March through June. Cobia are known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps, and they're not quick to give up once hooked. They're structure-oriented fish, so you'll often find them around channel markers, wrecks, or following rays on the flats. Live bait works best - crabs, eels, or large shrimp - but they'll also crush big jigs or bucktails worked near the bottom. Landing a good cobia is like winning the lottery, and the meat is absolutely fantastic on the dinner table.
Atlantic Sailfish are the crown jewel of Keys fishing and the reason many anglers make the pilgrimage here year after year. These spectacular billfish are built for speed, with that distinctive sail and electric blue coloring that makes them one of the most beautiful fish in the ocean. Peak season typically runs from December through April when they migrate through in impressive numbers. What makes sailfish so special isn't just their looks - it's the way they hunt. When you find them, they're often traveling in small groups, and the action can be fast and furious. They'll come up hot on a live bait or well-presented artificial, and once hooked, you're in for aerial displays that'll leave you speechless. Most sails in these waters run 6 to 8 feet long and 30 to 60 pounds. Captain Mick practices catch and release with these magnificent fish, so you'll get photos and memories while ensuring future generations can experience the same rush.
This half-day trip hits the sweet spot for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Florida Keys fishing without breaking the bank or spending a full day on the water. Captain Mick's reputation speaks for itself, and his repeat customer rate tells you everything you need to know about the quality of experience you'll get. Whether you're looking to introduce kids to saltwater fishing, planning a family outing, or just want to scratch that fishing itch during a Keys vacation, this trip delivers the goods. The combination of quality fishing, stunning scenery, and Mick's expertise creates exactly
Istiophorus AlbicansSailfish are the ultimate game fish - lightning fast with that massive dorsal fin and spear-like bill. Most run 6-7 feet and 40-60 pounds, but it's not the size that gets your heart pumping, it's watching them light up in electric blues and silvers while hunting baitfish. We find them in 80-200 feet of water, especially near current breaks and temperature changes. Winter months are prime time in the Keys when they follow bait schools closer to shore. What makes sailfish special is their aerial show - they'll jump, tail-walk, and put on a display you'll never forget. They're also catch-and-release fish, so it's all about the fight. Pro tip: when trolling, keep your drag light and be ready - once hooked, let them run and tire themselves out with those spectacular jumps before trying to bring them in.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are the bulldogs of the ocean, averaging 30-50 pounds with some reaching 6 feet long. These brown, shark-looking fish are loners that cruise around wrecks, buoys, and structure in 30-70 feet of water during summer months. Spring migration brings the best fishing when they move through our waters heading to spawning grounds. What guests love about cobia is their aggressive strike and bulldogging fight - they'll test your tackle and your arms. Plus, they're outstanding eating with firm, white meat that rivals any restaurant fish. These curious fish often approach the boat, making sight-fishing exciting. Here's my secret: when you spot one, toss a bucktail jig ahead of it and work it slowly along the bottom. Cobia can't resist that wounded baitfish action.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are perfect for our shallow-water fishing in the Keys. These copper-colored beauties with their distinctive black spots near the tail typically run 20-30 inches and love cruising the flats in 1-4 feet of water. You'll find them around mangroves, grass beds, and oyster bars where they hunt for crabs and shrimp. Winter through spring offers the best action when they're most active in cooler water. What makes redfish special is their strong, steady fight and that heart-stopping moment when you spot their backs cutting through shallow water. They're also excellent table fare with mild, flaky meat. My tip: when sight-fishing, cast well ahead of cruising fish and let your bait sink to the bottom - reds are bottom feeders and won't chase lures above them.
Key West