Next AvailableApr 04

Book with Daniel Zier

Guides > Captain Daniel Zier

Key West Fishing Connection

5 17 reviews Identity VerifiedIdentity Verified

Stock Island FL

Daniel Zier, Captain at Key West Fishing Connection

Identity VerifiedIdentity VerifiedGuidesly Guarantee

For over 40 years, Capt. Dan has been immersed in the waters of the Florida Keys, mastering the art of fishing and making it an integral part of his life. Growing up fishing these pristine waters has given him an unmatched connection to the sport, one that transcends mere hobby and has become second nature. Whether it’s the thrill of casting a line or the adrenaline of reeling in a trophy fish, fishing is not just something he does—it’s who he is. What truly fills him with joy, though, is seeing the excitement on the faces of those he takes out on the water, especially when they hook their first big catch. There’s nothing quite like watching someone land a massive fish for the first time, the culmination of patience, skill, and pure exhilaration.


Even on his days off, Capt. Dan can’t resist the call of the ocean. His passion for fishing goes beyond professional duty; it’s a way of life. He spends his free time doing what he loves most: fishing the warm waters of the Florida Keys. Based out of Stock Island, just minutes from the iconic Key West, Capt. Dan and his team at Key West Fishing Connection offer unforgettable fishing adventures that you’ll treasure for years to come.


On your 4 to 6-hour trip, you’ll target prized species like Tarpon, Shark, Snapper, Grouper, and more. Tarpon's acrobatics make them a top challenge, while Shark offers a thrilling battle for adventurous anglers. For a tasty catch, Snapper and Grouper are both exciting and great for dinner.


Your adventure starts on Capt. Dan’s 22’ Lake and Bay boat, built for both comfort and performance. It accommodates up to four anglers and is powered by a 250HP Yamaha engine, cruising up to 35 knots. Whether in shallow flats or deep waters, this boat gets you to prime fishing spots quickly and smoothly.


Capt. Dan provides all the gear you need for a successful fishing trip, including high-quality rods, reels, terminal tackle, and live bait. Your fishing license is also covered, so all you have to do is show up and fish. Plus, any legal-sized catch can be kept for dinner, and Capt. Dan's crew will clean and fillet it for you, ensuring you enjoy the freshest seafood after your trip.


So why wait? Book your trip today with Capt. Dan and Key West Fishing Connection and discover what makes fishing in the Florida Keys so special. Whether you’re a first-time angler or a seasoned pro, there’s no better way to experience the magic of Key West’s waters than with Capt. Dan at the helm!


Show more>

Trips Available with Key West Fishing Connection

No Shark No Pay Trip | 6 HR Private Trip

Fishing

Starting At $999

No Shark No Pay Trip | 6 HR Private Trip

Fishing Area: Key West

Fishing: Wrecks

Fishing Boat:

Key West Fishing Connection • 22' Lake and Bay • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Join us for a 6-hour fishing adventure starting at 8:00 AM for $999, designed for up to four people. Our unique "No Shark, No Pay" guarantee means you’ll get a 100% Shark hookup or your money back! We focus on targeting big Sharks using our 22' Lake and Bay boat, perfect for shallow water fishing. Capt. Dan and his crew will ensure you have plenty of time to catch Sharks and explore other species. Enjoy peace of mind with free cancellation up to three days in advance. Book now for a high-stakes, high-reward fishing experience!

Inshore Fishing For Kids | 4 HR Private Trip

Fishing

Starting At $700

Inshore Fishing For Kids | 4 HR Private Trip

Fishing Area: Key West

Fishing: Inshore

Fishing Boat:

Key West Fishing Connection • 22' Lake and Bay • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Join us for a fun-filled 4-hour kids' inshore fishing trip, starting at 9:00 AM. Priced at $700 for up to four people, this family-friendly adventure offers a 100% Shark Guarantee and free cancellation with three days' notice. Enjoy light tackle fishing for Mangrove Snappers, Barracuda, and trophy Sharks. Our 22' Lake and Bay boat, equipped with Sea-dek, ensures comfort for all. We’re dedicated to teaching kids to appreciate and respect fishing while ensuring everyone has a memorable time on the water. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to create lasting family memories!

Inshore Snapper Trip | 4HR private Trip

Fishing

Starting At $750

Inshore Snapper Trip | 4HR private Trip

Fishing Area: Key West

Fishing: Inshore

Fishing Boat:

Key West Fishing Connection • 22' Lake and Bay • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Join us for a 4-hour inshore fishing adventure, starting at 8:00 AM, for $750, and get ready to reel in your next meal. Perfect for up to four people, this trip focuses on catching a variety of delicious species including Mangrove Snapper, Mutton Snapper, Dog Snapper, Lane Snapper, Yellow Jacks, Hogfish, Porgies, and occasionally Red and Black Grouper.Enjoy a range of fishing techniques including bottom fishing, light and heavy tackle, and spinning, while targeting both inshore and nearshore species. Free cancellation with three days' notice ensures flexibility in your plans.

Tarpon Fishing Trip |  4 HR Private Trip

Fishing

Starting At $799

Tarpon Fishing Trip | 4 HR Private Trip

Fishing Area: Key West

Fishing: Flats

Fishing Boat:

Key West Fishing Connection • 22' Lake and Bay • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Embark on a thrilling 4-hour Tarpon fishing adventure for $799, available from April 15 to September 15. This private trip, starting at 8:00 AM, is perfect for up to four people and offers flexibility for early morning, evening, or nighttime fishing. Using live and cut pinfish on 40 to 50 lb spinning tackle, you'll target mighty Tarpon, often exceeding 100 lbs, providing a memorable fight. While fishing, you may also encounter Goliath Grouper, Snapper, Barracuda, and various shark species.

Sharks & Tarpon Fishing | 4 HR Private Trip

Fishing

Starting At $799

Sharks & Tarpon Fishing | 4 HR Private Trip

Fishing Area: Key West

Fishing: Inshore

Fishing Boat:

Key West Fishing Connection • 22' Lake and Bay • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Catch the excitement with our 4-hour Evening Shark & Tarpon fishing trip, starting at 4:00 PM for $799. This private charter for up to four people offers a thrilling experience aboard our 22' Lake and Bay boat. Perfect for fishing enthusiasts, this trip focuses on targeting Sharks and Tarpon inshore around Key West's channels and bridges. We typically pursue Tarpon ranging from 20 to 50 lbs, with the occasional larger catch. We use live bait on light tackle to ensure a fun and engaging experience for everyone. Alongside Tarpon, we also target big Mangrove Snapper and Sharks. Book now!

Nighttime Snapper Fishing | 4 HR Private Trip

Fishing

Starting At $750

Nighttime Snapper Fishing | 4 HR Private Trip

Fishing Area: Key West

Fishing: Wrecks

Fishing Boat:

Key West Fishing Connection • 22' Lake and Bay • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Experience the thrill of 4-Hour Snapper After Dark fishing for $750, starting at 7:00 PM. This private trip, perfect for up to four people, offers a fantastic way to escape the daytime heat and catch dinner. Explore mangrove channels, ledges, shipwrecks, and patch reefs as you fish under the stars. Encounter a range of exciting species including Mangrove Snapper, Mutton Snapper, Great Barracuda, and Goliath Grouper. You might even spot Tarpon and various sharks, like Blacktip, Bull, and Lemon. Enjoy diverse fishing techniques, book now!

Goliath Grouper & Shark Trip Adventure | 6 HR Private Trip

Fishing

Starting At $999

Goliath Grouper & Shark Trip Adventure | 6 HR Private Trip

Fishing Area: Key West

Fishing: Wrecks

Fishing Boat:

Key West Fishing Connection • 22' Lake and Bay • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Experience the thrill of battling the two biggest inshore species in the Florida Keys with our 6-hour fishing trip, starting at 8:00 AM for $999. This adventure, perfect for up to four people, targets both Goliath Grouper and Sharks in mangrove channels and shipwrecks. With ample time to catch and release these monster fish, you'll have the chance to reel in impressive species like Goliath Grouper, Blacktip Shark, Nurse Shark, Bull Shark, and Lemon Shark.

Shark Fishing Adventure | 3 HR Private Trip

Fishing

Starting At $499

Shark Fishing Adventure | 3 HR Private Trip

Fishing Area: Key West

Fishing: Inshore

Fishing Boat:

Key West Fishing Connection • 22' Lake and Bay • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Join us for a thrilling 3-hour shark fishing trip close to home, starting at 10:00 AM. Priced at $499 for up to four people, this adventure offers free cancellation with three days' notice. Experience the beauty of Key West as you cruise the bay, explore the nearshore mangrove channels, and seek out dolphins and wildlife. Target a variety of exciting species, including Great Barracuda, Cobia, Goliath Grouper, Jack Crevalle, Mangrove Snapper, and multiple shark species like Hammerhead, Blacktip, and Bull Sharks. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the incredible marine life and stunning scenery of

Goliath Grouper Trip

Fishing

Starting At $799

Goliath Grouper Trip

Fishing Area: Key West

Fishing: Inshore

Fishing Boat:

Key West Fishing Connection • 22' Lake and Bay • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Experience a thrilling 4-hour fishing trip for Goliath Grouper, starting at 8:00 AM for $799. This adventure, ideal for up to four people, focuses on inshore shipwrecks and deep mangrove channels. We use medium-heavy stand-up tackle and practice catch-and-release. Free cancellation with three days' notice. Target Goliath Grouper, Great Barracuda, and various shark species. Feel the adrenaline rush as you battle these powerful fish, known for their incredible strength and size. Our experienced captain will guide you to the best fishing spots, ensuring a memorable and action-packed trip. Book now and reel in the Goliath Grouper fun in Florida!

FAQs about Key West Fishing Connection

Ratings & Reviews Summary

5.00
out of 5
Based on 17 ratings
100%
recommended
recommended
Based on 17 recommendations
5
17
4
3
2
1
Our Captain is loved for...
Great Guide
Great For Top Anglers
Best Vehicle
Best Spots
Great For Novices
Best Boat
Good with Kids

April 4, 2025

If you’re looking to catch fish in Key West and have a fantastic time in a safe, fun environment, stop searching and book with Captain Dan! We did a 3-hour shark trip, and the action was nonstop from start to finish. Dan is not only a skilled, professional, and knowledgeable captain, but he’s also a genuinely great person. He’s a must if you want an unforgettable fishing experience in Key West!

April 4, 2025

I asked Captain Darna for some yellowtail, and he went above and beyond! Incredible trip—can’t wait to come back!

April 4, 2025

I recently enjoyed an incredible half-day offshore fishing trip in Miami with a knowledgeable and friendly captain who made the experience even better. The boat was well-kept and provided a smooth, comfortable ride. We had a successful day on the water, reeling in mahi-mahi, yellowtail snapper, Bonita, and mackerel. The captain’s expertise ensured we stayed on the fish, making the most of our time. With perfect weather and calm waters, the trip was an absolute pleasure. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned angler, this is a fantastic way to enjoy Miami’s beautiful waters!

April 4, 2025

We had an amazing half-day offshore fishing trip in Miami with a skilled and friendly captain who made the experience both fun and kid-friendly. He knew exactly where to find live bait, which made for an even more successful day on the water. We reeled in mahi-mahi, yellowtail snapper, Bonita, and mackerel, keeping everyone engaged and excited throughout the trip. The boat was comfortable, and the outing was perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy a fantastic day of fishing in Miami!

April 4, 2025

The captain was friendly and did an excellent job getting us hooked up with fish while guiding us every step of the way. Overall, it was a fantastic fishing trip!

April 4, 2025

We really appreciated how Captain Anthony customized the trip to make it more interactive, allowing us to be more involved in the fishing process rather than just reeling in after a fish was already hooked.

Loading...