5.0(5 Reviews)Key Largo Fishing Charters | 4 Hour Charter Trip
5.0(5 reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Top Rated
Halfday inshore fishing charter targeting snappers, tuna, and groupersCaptain Jason provides expert guidance and all fishing equipmentSmall group experience accommodating up to three guests maximum
Picture this: you're out on the crystal-clear waters off Key Largo with your family, watching your kids' faces light up as they feel that first tug on their line. Captain Jason's 4-hour inshore fishing charters are built for moments like these – half-day adventures that pack in serious fishing action without eating up your whole vacation. Whether you're teaching the kids how to cast or trying to land your first grouper, these waters deliver fish and memories in equal measure. The Florida Keys have earned their reputation as one of America's top fishing destinations, and Key Largo sits right at the heart of it all. You'll be fishing productive reefs and flats where snapper, grouper, tuna, and barracuda call home year-round.
Your charter kicks off from Key Largo, where Captain Jason has spent years learning every productive fishing spot within range. This isn't some cookie-cutter fishing trip – Jason tailors each outing based on current conditions, tides, and what's biting. The boat accommodates up to three guests, which means you get personal attention and plenty of elbow room to fish comfortably. All your tackle and bait come included, so you can focus on the fun stuff instead of worrying about gear. Jason provides everything from rods and reels to terminal tackle, but feel free to bring your lucky rod if you've got one. The scenic backdrop doesn't hurt either – you're fishing against a postcard view of mangrove islands and turquoise flats that make the Keys famous. Pack some snacks and cold drinks since meals aren't included, and don't forget sunscreen and a hat. The Florida sun can be intense, even on cloudy days.
Key Largo's fishing revolves around structure – coral reefs, ledges, and patch reefs that hold baitfish and attract the predators you want to catch. Captain Jason runs a mix of bottom fishing and drift fishing depending on conditions and target species. You'll likely spend time anchored over productive reefs, dropping baits down to grouper holes and snapper ledges. Live bait works magic here, and Jason keeps a good supply of pilchards, ballyhoo, and whatever else is working. When the tuna are running or barracuda are active, you might switch to trolling or casting lures around structure. The beauty of inshore fishing in the Keys is the variety – you're not locked into one technique all day. Jason reads the water and adjusts tactics to keep fish coming over the rail. First-time saltwater anglers get coaching on fighting fish in current and dealing with sharp-toothed critters like barracuda. Even experienced freshwater anglers find the transition educational, since saltwater fish fight differently and the gear is beefier.
"My son and I had another fabulous trip with Captain Jason. We had a blast fishing the reefs with a man who knows what he is doing. The equipment is great and Jason kept us baited and in the water as much as possible. He was good to offer pointers to us freshwater fishermen to get the fish caught and in the boat. Came back to shore with plenty of fish which Captain Jason quickly filleted for us at the resort cleaning station. You can't go wrong with Lock it Up Charters! Thanks Captain Jason!" - Mike
"This was a great outing for my 3 boys who went boating and fishing for the first time. Captain Jason was patient and kind with them. I appreciated that he actually taught the boys how to fish, about marine life and end the end taught them how to clean the fish. Monday will be a good eating day! Thank you Captain Jason!" - Faye
"Jason is a awesome Captain and gets you on the fish. He also has a great personality, and is great with kids. I couldn't imagine a better Captain we could have gone fishing with. I would definitely recommend a 8 hour trip with him if you are a die hard fisherman, you won't be disappointed." - Jason
Blackfin Tuna are some of the most exciting fish you'll encounter on these Key Largo waters. These speedsters typically run 5-15 pounds and fight like fish twice their size, making screaming runs and testing your drag system. Blackfins school up around structure and baitfish, often feeding near the surface where you can see them busting bait. They're year-round residents but peak during cooler months when they move closer to shore. What makes blackfin tuna special is their incredible speed and stamina – they'll take you into your backing and keep pulling. Plus, they're excellent table fare with rich, dark meat that's perfect for sashimi or searing.
Red Grouper represent the classic Keys bottom fishing experience, and these chunky fighters know how to use structure to their advantage. Most reds you'll catch run 3-8 pounds, though bigger specimens lurk in deeper water. They're ambush predators that sit tight to ledges and holes, waiting for bait to drift by. Red grouper fight dirty – they'll try to cut you off on coral or duck into caves the moment you hook them. That's what makes them so rewarding to catch. They're also fantastic eating, with firm white meat that works in everything from fish tacos to grilled fillets. Peak season runs fall through spring when they're most active in shallower water.
Great Barracuda bring the excitement factor with their explosive strikes and aerial acrobatics. These toothy predators can stretch over three feet long and hit lures with incredible violence, often launching clear out of the water. Barracuda are visual hunters that patrol reef edges and flats, making them perfect targets for both live bait and artificial lures. They're curious fish that often follow boats, giving you multiple chances if you miss the first strike. The fight is pure excitement – long runs, jumps, and head-shaking that tests your tackle
Captain Jason's 18-foot McKee Craft is your ticket to Key Largo's best inshore fishing spots. This reliable 2003 motorboat packs a serious 150-horsepower Yamaha engine that'll get you to the fish fast, cruising at speeds up to 35 mph. Perfect for small groups of up to 3 anglers who want a more intimate fishing experience without the crowds. The boat comes equipped with GPS navigation to hit those productive fishing holes and a quality fish finder to locate schools of Snappers, Groupers, and Tuna lurking below. Captain Jason knows these waters like the back of his hand and provides all the tackle and gear you'll need. Just bring your appetite for adventure and maybe some snacks for the 4-hour trip. Whether you're teaching the kids to cast their first line or competing with friends over who lands the biggest catch, this McKee Craft handles beautifully in Key Largo's protected inshore waters. The open layout gives everyone plenty of room to fight fish and move around safely while you soak up those Florida Keys vibes.
Thunnus AtlanticusThe smallest member of the tuna family, Blackfins typically run 10-20 pounds around Key Largo but pack serious punch for their size. These dark-bodied speedsters with gold side stripes school up near the surface, especially during fall through spring when water temps are ideal. You'll find them over deeper reefs and wrecks, often mixed with skipjacks. What makes them special? They fight like fish twice their size and taste amazing - firm, meaty flesh that's perfect for sashimi or grilling. Since they've got sharp eyesight, I always tell my guests to scale down to fluorocarbon leaders and smaller circle hooks. Vertical jigging with small spoons or chunking with pilchards usually does the trick.
Sphyraena BarracudaThese silver torpedoes are pure adrenaline on a fishing rod. Running anywhere from 3-6 feet long around the Keys, barracudas are ambush predators that hang near reefs, wrecks, and grass flats. They're here year-round but more active during warmer months. What makes them a blast to target? Lightning-fast strikes and aerial shows that'll get everyone's attention. They hit hard, jump high, but tire quickly - so be ready for short, intense battles. While the meat can be good, most anglers fish them for sport. Word of caution - always use a wire leader since their razor teeth will slice through mono instantly. Shiny lures or fast-trolled baits trigger their predatory instincts perfectly.
Lutjanus AnalisThese pink-tinged snappers are some of the prettiest fish we catch, and they taste even better than they look. Most run 2-8 pounds, though bigger ones push 15-20 pounds and really test your skills. You'll find them around reefs, ledges, and sandy areas in 30-200 feet, with adults preferring deeper structure. They're here year-round but bite best during spring and fall. What guests love is their solid fight and premium table quality - sweet, firm flesh that's hard to beat. Muttons can be picky eaters, so presentation matters. I always tell folks to use fresh bait on light weights, letting it drift naturally in the current. A knocker rig with live shrimp or small crabs usually seals the deal.
Epinephelus MorioThese rusty-red bottom dwellers are what many folks consider the best-eating grouper we have. Most run 5-15 pounds, though we occasionally hook into 20+ pounders that'll give you a real workout. They love rocky ledges, wrecks, and coral heads in 40-150 feet of water. Red groupers are year-round residents, but they're off-limits January through April during spawning season. What guests love most is the fight - they'll head straight for structure when hooked, testing your drag and patience. The payoff is incredible table fare with firm, flaky white meat. My go-to advice? Use heavy tackle with strong leaders because they'll try to cut you off on the reef. Fresh shrimp or crabs work best for bait.
5.0 out of 5.0My son and I had another fabulous trip with Captain Jason. We had a blast fishing the reefs with a man who knows what he is doin...
Out of all the trips I have taken. He is by far the best captain I have had! Always worth the extra drive to spend the day with Ja...
This was a great outing for my 3 boys who went boating and fishing for the first time. Captain Jason was patient and kind with t...
Jason is a awesome Captain and gets you on the fish. He also has a great personality, and is great with kids. I couldn't imagine a...
Key Largo, FL