5.0(2 Reviews)Islamorada Reef and Offshore Fishing Charter
5.0(2 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fivehour morning charter combining trolling and reef fishing techniquesTarget kingfish, tuna, snapper, and amberjack up to 12 miles offshoreAll tackle, bait, and gear included for up to six anglers
When you're looking for a solid half-day fishing trip that gives you the best of both worlds, this 5-hour morning charter out of Islamorada delivers exactly what serious anglers want. Captain Yates and the crew at Just One More Charters know these waters like the back of their hand, and they've designed this trip to maximize your time on productive fishing grounds. You'll start before dawn and spend the morning working two completely different fishing styles - trolling the offshore waters up to 12 miles out, then settling in for some serious reef fishing. It's the kind of trip that keeps both seasoned anglers and first-timers happy, with quality tackle and all the gear you need included in the price.
This charter splits your time perfectly between two proven fishing methods that work year-round in Islamorada's waters. The morning kicks off with trolling runs that take you out to the edge, where the deep blue water holds schools of pelagic species moving through the area. You'll be running multiple lines at different depths, covering water efficiently while the crew watches the fish finder and adjusts speed based on what they're seeing. Once you've worked the offshore grounds, it's time to hit the reef structure where the bottom fishing really shines. The captain knows exactly which reefs are producing, and you'll drift over structure that holds resident fish populations. The transition from trolling to reef fishing gives you two completely different experiences in one trip, and the crew handles all the gear changes seamlessly so you can focus on fishing.
The trolling portion uses a spread of lures and baits designed to attract fast-moving predators cruising the offshore waters. You'll typically run four to six lines at varying distances and depths, with the crew adjusting trolling speed based on conditions and target species. The boat's outriggers keep lines separated, and downriggers help get baits to the right depth when fish are holding deeper. When you transition to reef fishing, the approach changes completely. You'll be drift fishing and dropping lines straight down to structure, using circle hooks with live and cut bait. The crew provides quality spinning and conventional tackle suitable for the target species, plus all terminal tackle, weights, and fresh bait. They'll show first-time anglers proper technique for both trolling and bottom fishing, making sure everyone on board knows how to work their gear effectively.
"My husband Ed and I booked our charter with Captain Yates as a last minute plan B. It was my first time trying to fish and it was a great experience. The first mate Angel was great at showing me the ropes. Would highly recommend Just One More Charters, you won't regret it." - Christine
"Conan and Alyssa are awesome ! They worked hard to keep us in fish all day . Great with kids👍 We had a good catch despite bad weather . The BEST TRIP!! Totally recommend 🌟" - S
Grey Triggerfish are one of the reef's most abundant and challenging species, known for their strong bite and excellent table fare. These fish are particularly active during warmer months and can be found around hard bottom structure in 60-120 feet of water. What makes triggerfish exciting is their aggressive nature once hooked - they'll dive straight for the reef and use their powerful jaws to try cutting your line on coral or rock. They're also one of the best eating fish in these waters, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling or blackening.
Greater Amberjack are the powerhouses of the reef, often called "AJs" by local anglers who respect their ability to test both tackle and angler endurance. These fish can reach 50+ pounds in Islamorada waters and are most active from spring through fall. When you hook an amberjack, expect a long, hard fight as they make powerful runs toward the bottom. They're ambush predators that patrol reef edges and wrecks, making them perfect targets for both live bait and heavy jigs dropped to structure.
Crevalle Jack are the wild cards of this fishery, showing up in schools that can turn a slow day into non-stop action. These hard-fighting fish are found both offshore and around reefs, making them possible catches during either phase of your trip. Jack Crevalle are known for their stamina and aggressive strikes, often hitting baits with explosive force. While they're not typically kept for the table, they provide some of the most exciting light-tackle fishing available in these waters.
Cobia are the nomads of the offshore waters, cruising solo or in small groups as they follow rays and sharks looking for stirred-up prey. These bronze-colored fish are highly prized for their size, fight, and exceptional eating quality. Spring and early summer are peak times for cobia in Islamorada, when they're moving through during their annual migration. A 30-50 pound cobia will test your tackle and technique, making long runs and using their broad tail to create serious drag pressure.
Red Snapper remain the holy grail of reef fishing when they're in season, combining beautiful appearance with incredible table fare and a challenging fight. These deep-water dwellers require precise presentation to structure in 80+ feet of water, and they're notoriously finicky about bait presentation. When red snapper are open for harvest, they become the primary target on the reefs, and experienced captains know exactly which pieces of structure hold the biggest fish. Their white, flaky meat is considered among the finest eating fish in Florida waters.
This world-class fishing charter represents everything that makes Islamorada a top-rated destination for serious anglers. The combination of offshore trolling and reef fishing gives you maximum variety in a single trip, while the experienced crew ensures you're fishing the most productive techniques in proven locations. With departure times that can be adjuste
The Jus Cuz is your ticket to some serious fishing action in Islamorada's productive waters. This 36-foot diesel walk-around gives you plenty of room to move around while chasing kingfish, snapper, and tuna. With full A/C cabin, advanced electronics including GPS, radar, and fish-finder, you'll stay comfortable and on the fish all morning long. The shaded stern area keeps you cool while working lines, whether you're trolling for kings and blackfin tuna up to 12 miles out or dropping baits on the reef for snapper and amberjack. Quality tackle and gear are ready to go, and the clean, family-friendly setup makes this perfect for experienced anglers and newcomers alike. Five hours on the water means plenty of time to work both offshore trolling spots and productive reef areas where the fish stack up.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are solitary hunters that grow big - averaging 20-40 pounds with fish over 50 pounds not uncommon. These brown, shark-looking fish cruise reefs, wrecks, and structure in 30-100 feet of water during spring and summer migrations. What makes cobia trips special is the sight fishing - you'll actually see them swimming near the surface before making your cast. They're excellent table fare with firm, white meat that rivals any fish. Spring migration from March through May is prime time here in Islamorada. The fight is strong and steady, not flashy but determined. Best technique is sight casting with bucktail jigs, live bait, or even topwater when they're shallow. Local tip: when you spot one, don't rush the cast - they're curious and will often circle back to investigate the boat. Take your time and make that first cast count.
Caranx HipposCrevalle Jack are the bullies of the reef, typically running 3-8 pounds but capable of hitting 20+ pounds. These brassy-gold fighters school up around structure, seagrass flats, and anywhere baitfish gather. They're year-round residents but peak activity happens in warmer months. What makes jacks special is their pure aggression - they'll attack almost anything you throw at them and fight way above their weight class. Look for diving birds, that's your best indicator of feeding schools pushing bait to the surface. They're curious fish that'll actually approach the boat, making sight casting a blast. Here's the key: cast past the school and retrieve fast - they love the chase. Silver spoons, topwater plugs, and bucktail jigs work great. Fair warning though, they'll burn your drag and test your tackle every time.
Seriola dumeriliGreater Amberjack are powerhouse fish that average around 30-40 pounds but can push 60 pounds or more. These bluish-grey bruisers with the distinctive amber stripe love deep reefs, wrecks, and structure in 60-200 feet of water. Spring through early summer is prime time when they're most active and feeding heavily. What guests love about amberjack is the raw power - they'll test your arms and drag on the first run. The meat is excellent when prepared right, firm and flavorful. We target them with live bait, heavy jigs, or trolled baits around structure. Pro tip: once you hook up, keep steady pressure and don't let them get back to the reef - they'll wrap you up in the rocks faster than you can blink. Bring your A-game because these fish don't give up easy.
Balistes CapriscusGrey Triggerfish are medium-sized bottom dwellers that average 12-17 inches but can reach up to 24 inches. They hang around hard bottoms, ledges, and reefs in 30-180 feet of water. You'll recognize them by their tough, leather-like skin and beak-like mouth with sharp teeth that can crack sea urchins and crabs. They're not picky eaters, making them great targets for beginners. Spring through fall are your best bets when they're most active. What makes them fun is their scrappy attitude - they'll charge at bait aggressively, especially if other fish are around. Here's a local trick: drop squid chunks near snapper or grouper, and the triggerfish will rush in to steal the bait. Use heavy sinkers to get down to them, then reel fast once you feel that first nibble. They fight hard for their size and make decent table fare.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed Snapper are the prize of the reef, averaging 2-8 pounds with trophy fish pushing 15+ pounds. These bright red beauties live on hard bottom and structure in 60-200+ feet during our summer season from June through August when they're legal to keep. What makes snapper fishing special is the challenge - they're smart, structure-oriented fish that'll test your skills. The payoff is some of the best eating fish in the ocean with sweet, flaky white meat. We target them with live pinfish, cigar minnows, or fresh squid on the bottom around reefs and wrecks. They're true warriors that'll head straight for cover when hooked. Here's the secret: use circle hooks and don't set the hook hard - let the fish hook itself, then apply steady pressure to keep it away from the reef. Get them up quick or they'll cut you off on the rocks.
5.0 out of 5.0My husband Ed and I booked our charter with Captain Yates as a last minute plan B. It was my first time trying to fish and it was ...
Conan and Alyssa are awesome ! They worked hard to keep us in fish all day . Great with kids👍 We had a good catch despite bad wea...
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