5.0(2 Reviews)Swordfish Adventure: Islamorada Deep Sea Charter
5.0(2 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Extended swordfish adventure targeting multiple offshore speciesExpert crew guidance for all angling skill levelsSix-guest capacity ensures personalized fishing experience
Picture this: you're 20 miles offshore in the crystal-clear waters of Islamorada, lines set deep, waiting for that telltale scream of your reel as a swordfish takes the bait. This isn't your typical half-day fishing trip – we're talking about a full-blown swordfish adventure that'll have you battling some of the ocean's most prized gamefish. Captain Rick and his crew at Sea Horse Deep Sea Fishing know exactly where to find these apex predators, and they'll put you on fish that'll test every ounce of your angling skills. Whether you've been chasing swordfish for years or this is your first time dropping baits in the deep blue, you're in for a day that'll have you planning your next trip before you even hit the dock.
Your day starts early – and I mean early. Swordfish hunting isn't for the late risers, but trust me, it's worth every minute of lost sleep. We'll head out before dawn, giving us the best shot at these magnificent fish during their prime feeding times. The boat holds up to 6 anglers, so you're not fighting for rod time or elbow room at the rail. Captain Rick runs a tight ship, and his crew knows these waters like the back of their hands. We're not just throwing lines in the water and hoping for the best – this is strategic fishing. We'll be working specific depth zones, watching the electronics, and positioning baits where the swordfish are actively feeding. The ride out takes us over some of the most productive waters in the Florida Keys, where the Gulf Stream brings in baitfish and the gamefish that follow them. You'll see the water color change from that shallow Keys green to the deep cobalt blue that screams "big fish country." The crew handles all the heavy lifting – rigging baits, setting lines, and coaching you through the fight when that fish of a lifetime grabs your offering.
Swordfish fishing is a completely different animal than your typical offshore trolling. We're talking about deep dropping – getting baits down 1,200 to 2,000 feet where these fish cruise during daylight hours. The crew rigs up heavy tackle with electric reels because nobody's hand-cranking a swordfish up from the depths. We use circle hooks with squid, and sometimes live or dead bait, depending on what's working. The key is getting your bait to the right depth and keeping it there while we drift. You'll learn to read the electronics, understanding how depth sounders and fish finders show you what's happening way down below. The waiting game is part of the charm – swordfish don't bite every five minutes, but when they do, it's game on. These fish are notorious for their acrobatic fights, often jumping clear out of the water multiple times. The crew will talk you through every step of the battle, from setting the hook to working the fish up through the water column. Between swordfish bites, we're also targeting mahi mahi, wahoo, and sharks that cruise these same waters, so there's always action potential.
"Great trip we came for Dolphin and we got Dolphin ! Captain Rick, mate Dave and Emerson did not disappoint! They all were fantastic! 5 stars , amazing experience and time . Highly recommended!!" - Marcos. "Captain Rick got us into the fish. Hit our limit on mahi mahi, and caught a few tuna. Dave was a great first mate." - Mads.
Swordfish are the crown jewel of deep sea fishing in these waters, and for good reason. These prehistoric-looking beasts can stretch over 10 feet and weigh several hundred pounds, though most of what we catch ranges from 40 to 150 pounds – still plenty of fish to give you a workout. What makes swordfish so special is their fighting ability and their mysterious nature. They're most active during dawn and dusk hours, though we target them during the day when they're holding in deeper water. The best months run from November through April, when cooler water temperatures bring them closer to our fishing grounds. When a swordfish bites, you'll know it – they hit hard and fast, often jumping immediately and putting on an aerial show that'll have everyone on the boat cheering. Their distinctive bill and dark coloration make them unmistakable, and the meat is some of the finest eating you'll find in the ocean.
Mahi mahi are the crowd pleasers of offshore fishing, and they're abundant in these waters year-round, with peak action from March through September. These brilliant gold and green fish are aggressive feeders and acrobatic fighters, often traveling in schools that can provide non-stop action. Most mahi we catch range from 10 to 30 pounds, though bigger bulls over 40 pounds aren't uncommon. They love floating debris, weed lines, and structure, making them perfect targets while we're searching for swordfish. What anglers love about mahi is their willingness to bite – they're not picky eaters and will hit everything from ballyhoo to jigs. Plus, they're outstanding table fare with firm, flaky white meat that's perfect for the grill.
Wahoo are the speed demons of the deep, capable of reaching speeds over 60 mph and known for their devastating first runs that can strip hundreds of yards of line in seconds. These sleek predators have razor-sharp teeth and a torpedo-shaped body built for speed. We typically encounter wahoo while trolling between spots or when they show up to crash our mahi mahi party. They're most active during the cooler months from November through March, though we see them year-round in smaller numbers. Wahoo fishing is all about timing and location – they're often found around drop-offs and current edges where baitfish congregate. What makes wahoo so exciting is their unpredictability
Our fully-equipped sportfishing vessel is built for serious offshore swordfish hunting in the deep waters around Islamorada. This comfortable motorboat handles the rough Gulf Stream with ease while you chase down swords, mahi, wahoo, and whatever else is biting. The flybridge gives you excellent visibility for spotting fish, while the advanced fish finder and GPS keep you on productive water. Stay cool with full air conditioning between fights, grab cold drinks from the refrigerator, and rinse off in the onboard shower after battling a big sword. The spacious cockpit comfortably fishes up to 6 anglers, with plenty of room to work multiple lines and land trophy fish. VHF radio keeps you connected to other boats and fishing reports. When you need a break from the action, relax in the cabin or grab a snack from the galley kitchen. Built tough for long days targeting Florida Keys gamefish in blue water.
5.0 out of 5.0Great trip we came for Dolphin and we got Dolphin ! Captain Rick, mate Dave and Emerson did not disappoint! They all were fantasti...
Captain Rick got us into the fish. Hit our limit on mahi mahi, and caught a few tuna. Dave was a great first mate.
Islamorada, FL