Full-Day Key Largo Backcountry Fishing
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Fullday inshore fishing targeting seasonal backcountry speciesNavigate mangrovelined flats with experienced local guideSmall group experience accommodates maximum two guests
When you book this 8-hour backcountry adventure with Reel Deal Charter Fishing, you're signing up for some of the best inshore action Key Largo has to offer. We'll spend the day working the flats, mangrove shorelines, and hidden creeks where trophy fish hang out. This isn't a cattle boat operation – it's just you and one other angler, so you'll get plenty of hands-on time with the rod and personalized instruction. The backcountry here is pure Florida fishing at its finest, with crystal-clear water, endless wildlife, and fish that'll test your skills and your drag system.
Your day starts early when we push off into the maze of channels that make Key Largo's backcountry so special. We'll be running a shallow-draft skiff that lets us get into spots the big boats can't reach – those skinny water honey holes where the fish feel safe. The morning bite is usually hot, especially during cooler months when the water temps are just right. You'll see manatees, dolphins, and more birds than you can count while we're moving between spots. The beauty of an 8-hour trip is we're not rushed – if the fish are biting in one area, we can stay put and really work it. If they're not cooperating, we've got time to move around and find where they're feeding. The backcountry changes with the tides, so timing is everything, and that's where local knowledge really pays off.
We'll be using light to medium spinning gear most of the day – 10 to 20-pound test is perfect for these waters. Depending on what's happening, we might throw live bait like pilchards, pinfish, or shrimp, or we could be casting artificials like DOA shrimp, topwater plugs, or soft plastics. The technique changes based on the species we're targeting and the conditions. For snook around the mangroves, we'll be pitching baits right up to the roots. When we're sight fishing for redfish on the flats, it's all about accuracy and presentation. Tarpon might call for heavier tackle and live crabs or mullet. I provide all the gear, but if you've got a favorite rod or reel setup, feel free to bring it along. The key in these shallow waters is being quiet and reading the fish – we'll pole or use the trolling motor to stay stealthy.
Snook are the bread and butter of backcountry fishing here in Key Largo. These ambush predators love hanging around the mangrove edges, especially during moving tides. They're aggressive, fight hard, and can reach 30-plus inches. Peak season runs from spring through fall, but we catch them year-round. What makes snook special is their explosive strikes and the way they'll try to wrap you up in the mangroves – it's a chess match between angler and fish. Tarpon are the kings of these waters, and when they're around, everything else takes a backseat. We see juvenile tarpon in the 20 to 80-pound range regularly, with some true giants showing up in late spring and summer. Nothing beats watching a tarpon launch itself out of the water right next to the boat – it never gets old. Redfish are another customer favorite, especially the big bulls that cruise the flats in shallow water. These copper-colored bruisers can push 40 inches and will strip line like nobody's business. Fall and winter are prime time for reds, when they're fattening up and feeding aggressively. Blacktip sharks add some serious excitement to any trip. These athletes can hit 50 pounds and will take you into your backing in seconds. They're most active during warmer months and provide non-stop action when they move through. Bonefish are the ghosts of the flats – incredibly spooky and pound-for-pound some of the strongest fish that swim. They're around year-round but can be tricky to spot and even trickier to hook. When you do connect with a good bone, get ready for a screaming run that'll test your nerves.
This full-day backcountry fishing trip gives you the complete Key Largo experience – world-class fishing, stunning scenery, and enough time on the water to really get into the rhythm of it all. Whether you're looking to check species off your bucket list or just want to spend a day casting lines in paradise, this trip delivers. The 2-angler limit means you're getting premium service and plenty of shot opportunities. Book early, especially during peak season from March through June when the fishing is absolutely on fire. Come hungry to fish and ready for a day you'll be talking about for years.
This 18' Beavertail flats boat is your ticket to Key Largo's prime backcountry fishing spots. Built in 2007 and powered by a reliable 50HP Evinrude, she'll cruise at 35 knots to get you to those shallow water honey holes where tarpon, snook, and redfish love to hang out. The shallow draft design lets you slip into skinny water around mangroves where bigger boats can't reach. You'll have everything needed for a successful day on the water - GPS to navigate the maze of channels, fish finder to locate structure and baitfish, VHF radio for safety, and an icebox to keep your catch fresh and drinks cold. Perfect for up to 2 anglers who want to experience the real Florida Keys backcountry fishing without the crowds. Whether you're sight fishing the flats or working the mangrove edges, this boat puts you right where the fish are feeding.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktip sharks are the acrobats of the shark world and tons of fun on light tackle. Most run 3-5 feet long with those distinctive black-tipped fins. You'll find them cruising the flats and channels in 3-20 feet of water, especially around bait schools. They're most active during warmer months when they follow the mullet and sardine runs. What makes blacktips exciting is their jumping ability - they'll rocket out of the water spinning like a bottle rocket when hooked. They're strong fighters that make long runs and keep you busy. While not typically kept for the table, the fight is pure entertainment. These sharks are actually pretty timid despite their energy, so they spook easily in shallow water. Here's the trick: use fresh cut bait like mackerel or sardines and let it drift naturally with the current rather than constantly reeling. The scent trail draws them in better than any flashy presentation.
Albula VulpesBonefish are the ghosts of the flats and the ultimate sight-fishing challenge. Most run 16-24 inches and 3-6 pounds, with their silver sides reflecting the bottom like mirrors. These fish live in the shallowest water you can imagine - sometimes just inches deep - around turtle grass flats and sand patches. Winter through spring offers the most consistent fishing when water temps are stable. What draws people to bones is the pure skill required: spotting them, stalking them, making the perfect cast, then holding on as they peel off 100 yards of line in seconds. They're built for speed and will test your nerves and tackle. Most folks release them since they're full of bones, but the fight is addictive. The secret is watching for their tails when they're feeding head-down or spotting their shadows on light sand. Cast 3-4 feet ahead of a cruising fish and let your fly or jig settle naturally - any sudden movement spooks them instantly.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish, or red drum, are the workhorses of our flats fishing. Most of what we catch runs 18-30 inches, perfect eating size with that copper-bronze color and signature black spots near the tail. These fish love super shallow water - sometimes their backs are showing in 6 inches of water around oyster bars, grass flats, and mangrove edges. Fall through spring gives you the most consistent action when they're feeding heavy. What makes reds special is their willingness to eat almost anything and their bulldogging fight in shallow water. They're also some of the best eating fish around with sweet, firm meat. The key to success is staying quiet and watching for their tails or wakes as they cruise the shallows. Here's what most people miss: look for nervous water or slight color changes where reds are stirring up mud while feeding. Cast ahead of the disturbance and work your bait slow.
Centropomus UndecimalisSnook are one of the most sought-after game fish in our backcountry waters. These sleek predators typically run 1-3 feet long with that distinctive black lateral line and golden coloring. You'll find them around mangrove shorelines, docks, and structure in both salt and brackish water. They're ambush feeders that love to hide in the shadows and explode on bait with surprising speed. Spring through fall gives you the best action, especially around dawn and dusk. What makes snook special is their fight - they'll jump, run, and use every trick to throw your hook. Plus, they're fantastic table fare with firm, white meat. Here's a local tip: cast your lure or fly right into the mangrove roots where other anglers won't go. That's where the big ones hide, and a perfect cast often means the difference between going home empty-handed or with a trophy.
Megalops AtlanticusThe "silver king" is what dreams are made of out here. These prehistoric giants typically run 4-6 feet and 80-150 pounds in our waters, though we see some real monsters pushing 200+. You'll spot them rolling in the deeper channels and along the flats edges, usually in 3-15 feet of water. Late spring through summer is prime time when they migrate through the Keys. What hooks people on tarpon isn't just the size - it's watching a 6-foot fish launch itself 8 feet out of the water repeatedly. They're pure athletes with stamina to match. We practice catch and release since they're not great eating, but the fight alone is worth the trip. My advice: when you hook one, bow to the fish during those jumps. Drop your rod tip toward the tarpon when it goes airborne - keeps tension off the line and prevents that heartbreaking moment when a giant spits your hook.
Key Largo