Private 10 Hour Swordfish Fishing Trip
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Target swordfish in 1,2002,000 foot depths during 10hour charterHighspeed trolling for wahoo and mahi mahi includedExpert crew provides equipment and guidance for all skill levels
When you're serious about hooking into one of the ocean's most prized gamefish, there's no substitute for dedicated time on the water. This private 10-hour swordfish fishing adventure with Pelagic Raptors Charters puts you right in the heart of some of Florida's most productive deep-water fishing grounds. Starting at 6:30 AM from Islamorada, we'll run out to the continental shelf where the water drops to 1,200-2,000 feet – prime territory for broadbill swordfish and other pelagic species that call these depths home.
This isn't your typical half-day fishing trip. We're talking about a full commitment to the deep blue, where patience meets opportunity and every drop could be the fish of a lifetime. The early morning departure gets us to the fishing grounds while conditions are prime, and gives us maximum time in the strike zone. You'll be fishing waters that have made Islamorada famous as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World" – and for good reason. These depths hold some serious fish, and our experienced crew knows exactly where to find them. The boat accommodates up to 6 anglers, so whether you're bringing the whole crew or keeping it intimate, everyone gets plenty of room to work. We provide all the heavy-duty tackle and gear needed for targeting these deep-water giants, plus the local knowledge that makes all the difference between a good day and a legendary one.
Swordfishing requires specialized techniques that separate it from your typical offshore fishing. We'll be using electric reels loaded with heavy braided line to get our baits down into the strike zone efficiently – hand-cranking from 1,500 feet gets old fast. The key is precision: we're looking for specific bottom structure, temperature breaks, and bait concentrations that attract these apex predators. Our baits typically include fresh squid, mackerel, and other oily fish that create the scent trail swordfish can't resist. While we're working the deep drop for swords, we'll also run high-speed trolling spreads on the way out and back in. This gives you shots at wahoo, mahi mahi, and other pelagic species that cruise the upper water column. The trolling action keeps things lively during transit and adds variety to your catch. Our crew handles all the technical aspects – setting depths, monitoring electronics, and knowing when to move – so you can focus on what you came for: fighting fish.
Swordfish are the ultimate deep-water prize, and for good reason. These prehistoric-looking giants can reach over 400 pounds and are found year-round in South Florida waters, though summer and fall typically produce the most consistent action. What makes them special isn't just their size – it's their fight. Swordfish are known for their initial powerful runs and stubborn, bulldogging battles that can last an hour or more. They're also one of the few billfish that feed actively during daylight hours in deep water, making them a viable target on day trips. The meat is outstanding too – firm, meaty steaks that rival the best restaurants. When hooked, swordfish often jump and tail-walk, giving you that visual spectacle every angler dreams about.
Mahi mahi, or common dolphinfish, add color and action to any offshore trip. These golden-green beauties are incredibly acrobatic fighters that put on an aerial show when hooked. They typically run 10-40 pounds in these waters, with bulls occasionally pushing 50-plus. Mahi are structure-oriented fish, so we often find them around floating debris, weed lines, or temperature breaks. They're also schooling fish – where you find one, there are usually more. The bite can be absolutely explosive, with multiple hookups common when you locate an active school. Seasonally, mahi are most abundant from spring through fall, with peak action typically occurring during the warmer months. They're also fantastic table fare – white, flaky meat that's perfect for grilling or making fish tacos.
Deep-water fishing adventures like this don't come around every day, and the best dates fill up fast during peak season. With only 6 spots available per trip, you're getting an exclusive experience with plenty of room to fish comfortably and personal attention from our crew. The 10-hour format gives you serious value – enough time to work multiple spots, adapt to conditions, and maximize your chances at that fish of a lifetime. Whether you're an experienced angler looking to check swordfish off your bucket list or a group wanting to experience world-class offshore fishing, this trip delivers the goods. The low-rate deposit makes it easy to secure your spot, and our crew's local expertise gives you the best shot at success in some of the most productive waters in the Atlantic. Don't let this opportunity swim by – book your private swordfish adventure today and get ready to experience why Islamorada's deep waters have legendary status among serious anglers.
Capt. Michael's 34' SeaHunter is built for serious offshore fishing in Islamorada's deep waters. This motorboat comfortably handles 6 anglers while you target swordfish in 1,200-2,000 feet of water. The flybridge gives you excellent visibility for spotting fish, while the radar keeps you safe in changing conditions. Onboard fish finder technology helps locate those elusive swords hiding in the depths. All rods, reels, outriggers, and lures are provided, plus there's an icebox to keep your catch fresh and drinks cold. The toilet means no cutting trips short, and the multimedia system keeps things entertaining during the longer runs. GPS navigation gets you to the hotspots efficiently, and live bait is available when you need that extra edge. Between swordfish drops, you'll troll for wahoo and mahi mahi on the way out and back. The boat handles the deeper offshore waters well, giving you a stable platform whether you're fighting a big sword or just enjoying the ride to the fishing grounds.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are pure excitement on light tackle, averaging 15-29 pounds but fighting way above their weight class. These golden beauties love floating debris, weed lines, and current edges in warm surface waters. They're fast growers that mature quickly, so the population stays strong year-round here in South Florida. What guests love most is their electric color show - brilliant blues and greens that flash like neon when they jump, then fade to gold when boated. The white, flaky meat rivals any fish for table fare. They travel in schools, so when you find one, there's usually more nearby. Look for frigate birds working floating grass or debris - that's where the mahi will be. Once hooked, keep steady pressure and watch for those spectacular jumps.
Xiphias GladiusSwordfish are the ultimate deep-water challenge, averaging 9 feet and 400 pounds with some giants hitting over 1,000. We target them in 1,200-2,000 feet where they hunt during daylight hours, though they're more active at night. These powerful fish can hit 60 mph and put up fights that test even experienced anglers. What makes them special is their flat, sword-like bill and ability to heat their eyes and brain for better vision in the depths. The meat is firm and delicious - some of the best eating you'll find offshore. Peak season runs April through September when they're spawning. My tip: watch your lights carefully and keep that bait right at the thermocline where the water temperature changes.
Islamorada, FL