Private 10 Hour Swordfish Fishing Trip
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Target swordfish in 1,200-2,000 foot depths during 10-hour charterHigh-speed trolling for wahoo and mahi mahi includedExpert crew provides equipment and guidance for all levels
If you're looking to test your skills against one of the ocean's most legendary fighters, this 10-hour swordfish charter out of Islamorada is exactly what you need. We're talking serious deep-water fishing here – dropping lines in 1,200 to 2,000 feet of crystal-clear Atlantic water where the real monsters live. Starting at 6:30 AM sharp, you'll have the entire day to battle these broadbill beauties while also picking up wahoo and mahi mahi during our high-speed trolling runs. With room for up to 6 anglers and our experienced crew handling all the heavy lifting, this top-rated charter gives you the best shot at landing the fish of a lifetime in the renowned Sportfishing Capital of the world.
This isn't your typical half-day fishing trip – we're heading way offshore where the continental shelf drops into the deep blue. The day kicks off early because swordfish are most active during daylight hours, contrary to what most people think. You'll spend the morning run trolling for wahoo and mahi as we make our way to the swordfish grounds, giving you multiple chances to get your arms warmed up. Once we hit the deep water, it's all about precision – we'll be drifting with heavy tackle and using specialized techniques that have been perfected in these waters over decades. The crew provides all the world-class equipment you need, from 80-pound class rods to electric reels that'll save your back during those epic battles. Between the stunning blue water scenery and the anticipation of that telltale bite, every minute out there keeps you on edge. The ride back gives you another shot at pelagic species, making this a full-spectrum offshore adventure that maximizes your time and money.
Swordfish fishing is a completely different game from anything you've probably done before. We're talking about fishing in water so deep you can't even see the bottom on the fish finder – it just shows blue. The technique involves using heavy weights, often 3-5 pounds, to get your bait down to the strike zone between 300-800 feet deep. We use a combination of dead baits like squid, mackerel, and bonito rigged on circle hooks with light sticks to attract these apex predators. The key is maintaining the perfect drift speed and keeping your baits at different depths in the water column. Electric reels are absolutely essential – trying to hand-crank a swordfish from 600 feet deep would be nearly impossible. The trolling portions of the trip use completely different gear – lighter tackle with high-speed lures and ballyhoo combinations that trigger aggressive strikes from wahoo and mahi. Our crew has this system dialed in perfectly, constantly adjusting based on current conditions, water temperature, and what we're seeing on the electronics. The boat is equipped with top-of-the-line fish finders and GPS technology to put us right on the productive spots that have been producing consistently.
Swordfish are absolutely the crown jewel of deep-water fishing in South Florida, and for good reason. These prehistoric-looking fighters can reach over 400 pounds and are known for their incredible aerial displays and brutal runs that can strip hundreds of yards of line in seconds. What makes swordfish so special is their intelligence – they're not just strong, they're smart. They'll sound deep, run toward the boat, jump, and use every trick in the book to throw the hook. The best swordfish action in Islamorada typically runs from late fall through early spring, when the fish are moving through our area in good numbers. The meat is absolutely phenomenal too – dense, meaty steaks that are prized by top restaurants worldwide. Landing a swordfish is a bucket-list experience that most anglers never forget, and these waters consistently produce some of the best sword fishing on the entire East Coast.
Mahi mahi, or common dolphinfish, are the perfect complement to swordfish trips because they're active during the trolling portions of the day. These brilliant gold and green speedsters are pure fun to catch – they fight hard, jump repeatedly, and often travel in schools, meaning when you find one, you usually find several. Mahi typically range from 10-30 pounds in our waters, though bull mahi over 40 pounds show up regularly. They're most active during the warmer months but can be caught year-round in South Florida. What anglers love most about mahi is their aggressive nature – they'll absolutely crush a trolled ballyhoo or lure, and the fight is non-stop action from hookup to the boat. Plus, they're hands-down one of the best eating fish in the ocean, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling or making fish tacos. The visual aspect is incredible too – watching a big mahi explode on a surface lure in crystal-clear blue water is something that gets your heart pumping every single time.
This customer-favorite charter books up fast, especially during peak season when the swordfish bite is at its best. With only 6 spots available and a low-rate deposit to secure your reservation, there's really no reason to wait. Pelagic Raptors Charters has built their reputation on putting anglers on fish consistently, and this 10-hour format gives you the best possible shot at multiple species in one epic day. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add a swordfish to your list or someone wanting to experience what world-class offshore fishing is all about, this trip delivers. The early start time means you'll be back at the dock with plenty of time to clean your catch and still enjoy your evening in Islamorada. Remember to bring your camera, plenty of sunscreen, and an appetite for adventure – days like this are exactly why people call this area the Sportfishing Capital of the world.
Captain Michael's 34' SeaHunter is built for serious offshore fishing in Islamorada's deep waters. This sportfishing machine comfortably handles up to 6 anglers and comes rigged with outriggers, quality rods, reels, and lures for targeting swordfish in 1,200-2,000 foot depths. The boat's fish finder helps locate your targets while GPS and radar keep you on course during long runs to the fishing grounds. High-speed trolling for wahoo and mahi is a breeze with this setup. The flybridge gives you great visibility when working fish, and there's an onboard toilet plus icebox to keep your drinks cold during those 10-hour adventures. Live bait is available if you want to catch your own. The multimedia system keeps things entertaining during travel time between spots. This is a well-equipped fishing platform ready to get you into some serious action in the sportfishing capital's premier waters.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are one of the most colorful and acrobatic fish you'll encounter while trolling to and from the swordfish grounds. They average 15-29 pounds and love hanging around floating debris, weed lines, and current edges. What makes them special is their brilliant golden sides with electric blue and green markings - though they put on a wild color show when you bring them to the boat. These fish are fast growers, maturing quickly, which keeps populations healthy. They're fantastic table fare with firm, white meat and a mild flavor that's hard to beat. The fight is pure fun - lots of jumps and strong runs. When we're running offshore, I always watch for frigate birds working debris piles. That's where you'll find mahi. Keep your ballyhoo skipping on the surface - they can't resist something that looks like a flying fish.
Xiphias GladiusSwordfish are the ultimate deep-water challenge, living in 1,200-2,000 foot depths where we target them here in Islamorada. These bruisers average around 9 feet and 400 pounds, but can hit 15 feet and over 1,000 pounds. What makes them special is their flat, sword-like bill and their ability to heat their eyes and brain for better vision in the dark depths. They're primarily night feeders, coming up to around 300 feet after sunset. The fight is legendary - they're fast, powerful, and stubborn. Plus, swordfish steaks are some of the best eating you'll find. Pro tip: when we're deep-dropping, keep your squid bait fresh and use bright lights. These fish hunt by sight, and that glow in the deep water is what triggers the bite. It's a waiting game, but when one hits, you'll know why we make the long run offshore.
Islamorada, FL