5.0(2 Reviews)Islamorada Afternoon Fishing Charter
5.0(2 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fivehour afternoon charter targeting kingfish, snapper, and tuna offshore.Combines trolling techniques with reef fishing for diverse species.Accommodates six guests with all tackle and bait provided.
Looking for the perfect afternoon fishing trip in the heart of the Florida Keys? This five-hour charter out of Islamorada delivers exactly what serious anglers and casual fishermen alike are after - variety, action, and the chance to fill the cooler with some of the best-eating fish in South Florida waters. Captain Conan and his crew know these waters like the back of their hand, and they're not shy about putting you on fish fast.
This isn't your typical one-trick-pony fishing trip. You'll get the best of both worlds with a solid mix of trolling and reef fishing that keeps things interesting from start to finish. The charter kicks off with a 12-mile troll through some of the most productive pelagic waters off Islamorada, where the drop-off holds King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Blackfin Tuna, and Cobia year-round. Once you've had your fill of the high-speed action, it's time to hit the reef structure where the real variety shows up. The crew switches tactics to drift fishing and bottom fishing, targeting everything from Red Snapper during season to hefty Amberjack that'll test your drag system. With time split evenly between both fishing styles, you're looking at about 2.5 hours of each - plenty of time to master both techniques and fill up that fish box. The afternoon departure means you'll avoid the morning rush and often have prime fishing spots to yourself.
All the gear you need comes with the trip, so leave the tackle box at home. The boat's rigged with quality trolling setups perfect for pulling spoons, ballyhoo, and diving plugs through the blue water column where pelagic species cruise. When it's time to switch to reef fishing, the crew breaks out the drift rigs and bottom tackle designed to handle everything from schooling Yellowtail Snapper to monster Amberjack that like to wrap you up in the structure. Bait's covered too - expect fresh ballyhoo for trolling and cut bait, squid, and live pilchards for the reef work. The captain reads the conditions daily and adjusts techniques accordingly, whether that means pulling deeper diving lures on rough days or switching to lighter tackle when the bite gets finicky. First-timers get hands-on instruction, while experienced anglers can take the reins and work their own techniques.
"Captain Conan and Alyssa were absolutely amazing and just what we were looking for! We hit the reef today and brought in a variety of awesome fish, some that put up a pretty good fight. We are looking forward to all the yummy dinners ahead! We will be back for sure do fish Mahi!!!" - Melissa
"Capt Conan has X-ray vision super power and really isn't a fair fight for the fish!!! First mate Alyssa was beyond helpful and smiles the entire time and never stopped helping. Highly recommend this boat who puts you on fish quickly and we were the only afternoon charter which was incredible." - Mike
Spanish Mackerel are the bread and butter of Keys trolling, and for good reason. These aggressive feeders hit trolled spoons and small diving plugs with authority, making them perfect for getting kids and new anglers hooked on saltwater fishing. They typically run 2-4 pounds in these waters, with the occasional bruiser pushing 6 pounds during peak season from fall through early spring. What makes them special isn't just the fight - they're phenomenal on the dinner plate when prepared fresh. Look for them in 20-60 feet of water, especially around structure and temperature breaks.
Blackfin Tuna represent the premium catch on any Islamorada trolling trip. These muscular speedsters typically range from 10-25 pounds in local waters, though bigger specimens show up during winter months when baitfish concentrations peak. They're built like torpedoes and fight accordingly, making long runs and testing your tackle to its limits. Blackfins feed heavily on ballyhoo, pilchards, and small tunas, making them prime targets for both trolling and live bait techniques. The meat is sushi-grade when handled properly, with a rich red color that's perfect for searing or eating raw.
King Mackerel are the apex predators of the trolling scene, capable of growing to impressive sizes in the deep waters off Islamorada. Local "smoker kings" typically run 15-30 pounds, but don't be surprised if you hook into a 40+ pound giant that'll have you questioning your drag settings. They're notorious for their blistering initial runs and aerial displays, often jumping completely clear of the water in spectacular fashion. Spring and fall migrations bring the biggest concentrations, though resident fish provide action year-round. Their razor-sharp teeth require wire leaders, and their speed means you need quality reels that can handle long runs.
Grey Triggerfish might not win any beauty contests, but they're scrappy fighters that provide steady action on the reef. These bottom dwellers use their powerful jaws to crush crabs, urchins, and small fish, making them willing biters on both cut bait and artificials. They typically run 2-5 pounds in local waters, with their tough skin and strong fins making them surprisingly good fighters for their size. What sets them apart is their excellent table fare - firm, white meat that's perfect for fish tacos or ceviche. Look for them around hard bottom and coral heads in 40-100 feet of water.
Mahi Mahi represent the crown jewel of offshore fishing, combining stunning beauty with world-class table fare. These vibrant fish light up in electric blues, greens, and yellows when hooked, creating a visual spectacle that never gets old. Local mahi typically range from 5-20 pounds, though larger bull
The Jus Cuz is a serious fishing machine built for Islamorada's offshore waters. This 36-foot diesel walk-around gives you plenty of room to move around while battling kingfish and snapper, with a comfortable cabin when you need a break from the Florida sun. The boat's loaded with top-shelf electronics including GPS, radar, and fish-finder to locate the best fishing spots, whether we're trolling the blue water for tuna and cobia or working the reefs for amberjack and triggerfish. The shaded stern keeps you cool during those long fights, while the full A/C cabin offers relief between fishing spots. With quality tackle and gear provided, this diesel-powered charter boat handles the 12-mile run to the trolling grounds with ease, then transitions smoothly to drift fishing over the reefs. The walk-around design means you can follow your fish around the boat, and the clean, family-friendly setup works great for both seasoned anglers and first-timers learning the ropes in Islamorada's productive waters.
Thunnus AtlanticusBlackfin Tuna are the smallest of the tuna family but pack serious punch for their size. Most run 15-25 pounds, though we see some pushing 40. They're found in warm offshore waters along the continental shelf, typically mixed with other pelagics during our trolling runs. Peak season is fall through spring when water temps stay above 68°F. What guests love about blackfins is their incredible fight - they're built for speed and endurance. Plus, the meat is outstanding, similar to yellowfin with that deep red color perfect for searing or sashimi. They school with skipjack and feed heavily on pilchards and small baitfish. Here's a key tip: when targeting blackfins, scale down your leader to 30-pound fluoro and use smaller hooks - they're spooky fish with sharp eyes that'll shy away from heavy tackle.
Balistes CapriscusGrey Triggerfish are one of the reef's craftiest residents, averaging 12-17 inches with some reaching 24. You'll encounter them during our bottom fishing portion around hard structure, ledges, and reefs in 60-180 feet. They're year-round targets but most active in warmer months. What makes triggers interesting is their personality - they're curious, aggressive, and surprisingly smart. They'll steal bait right off your hook if you're not paying attention. The meat is excellent, white and firm with a mild flavor that's great fried or grilled. These fish have tough, leathery skin and powerful jaws for crushing shells and coral. My advice: use small pieces of squid on a circle hook, drop it to the bottom, then reel up fast to keep tension. When you feel that subtle tap, set the hook immediately - they're notorious bait thieves.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing Mackerel, or "Kings" as we call them, are the main attraction on our trolling runs. These speed demons typically run 20-40 pounds, with bigger fish possible near structure and drop-offs. You'll find them in 40-150 feet of water along our offshore trolling lanes. They're most active when water temps hit 70-80°F, making fall through spring prime time. Kings are pure adrenaline - their initial runs will test your drag and nerves. The meat is rich and flaky, perfect for grilling or smoking, though it's higher in oils than some fish. They're opportunistic feeders, hitting live bait, spoons, and diving plugs. Local trick: rig live bait with a stinger hook near the tail since kings often attack from behind, and use wire leader - their razor teeth will cut through mono in seconds.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are the golden beauties of the offshore world, averaging 15-30 pounds with bulls reaching 50-plus. Look for them around floating debris, weedlines, and current breaks during our trolling runs. They're surface dwellers in blue water, most active in spring through fall when water temps warm up. What guests love is the spectacular color show - bright golds, greens, and blues that flash as they fight. They're also fantastic table fare with firm, white meat perfect for grilling or blackening. Mahi are aggressive predators that love chasing baits, making them great for families since they usually bite well. School fish travel in packs, so when you hook one, keep other lines ready. Pro tip: look for frigate birds working floating debris - they'll lead you right to feeding mahi underneath.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish Mackerel are fast-swimming, schooling fish that average 1-2 feet and weigh 8-11 pounds. You'll find them in our surface waters during the trolling portion, often mixed with other pelagics. They're drawn to shiny spoons and live bait like sardines or greenbacks. What makes them popular is their speed - they're one of the fastest fish out here - and their excellent table fare. The meat is mild, flaky, and perfect for grilling or smoking. Peak season runs fall through spring when water temps are right. During our 12-mile troll, watch for birds working bait schools - that's where you'll find Spanish Mackerel feeding. Pro tip: when you hook one, there's usually more around, so get another line in the water quickly while the school is fired up.
5.0 out of 5.0Captain Conan and Alyssa were absolutely amazing and just what we were looking for! We hit the reef today and brought in a variety...
Capt Conan has X-ray vision super power and really isn’t a fair fight for the fish!!! First mate Alyssa was beyond helpful and smi...
Key Largo