Fishing and Boating for Guests of Key West Vacation Rentals

Key West's unique position at the junction of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, as well as its proximity to the Gulf Stream, creates ideal fishing conditions. Vacationers can enjoy exciting Key West sportfishing for blue and white marlin, sailfish, tarpon, grouper, snapper, permit, tuna, wahoo, dolphin, mahi mahi, king mackerel, cobia and more.

Key West fishing includes deep-sea fishing, fishing over reefs and wrecks, fishing from bridges and piers, and flats fishing, where small boats move silently over wide expanses of shallow water known as "flats." Key West fishing tournaments are held throughout the year.

Key West fishing charters typically offer half-day and full-day fishing trips for four to six anglers, with rates averaging about $550 for a full-day trip. Light tackle boats usually carry one or two fishermen at lower rates. Party boats are shared boats accommodating a larger number of people for about $30 per person for a full-day trip, including tackle. Guests of Key West rentals who bring their own boat can use the public boat ramp at Garrison Bight for $5 launch fee, plus a parking fee of $6. Numerous bait and tackle shops are available on the island.

Some local charter services include The Saltwater Angler (800-223-1629), Key Limey Charters (305-293-1814), Fantasy Fishing Vacations (305-294-7738), and Hog's Breath Fishing (305-294-9311). Key West Pro Guides (305-296-6602) represents more than 20 owner-operated charters. Party boats are available from Gulf Stream III Party Fishing Boat (305-296-8494) and Capt. John's Greyhound V (305-296-5139), both located at Garrison Bight.

Fishing licenses are not required for anglers fishing from a charter boat, but licenses are generally necessary when fishing from a privately owned boat. The fee for a one-week non-resident fishing license is about $15. Call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA for more information.

Vacationers staying in a Key West condo rental can also rent a boat and enjoy fishing, diving, snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing on their own. Contact Keys Boat (305-664-2203) or Boat Rentals of Key West (305-294-2628) for information on Key West boat rentals. Dream Catcher Charters (305-745-2114) lets vacationers design their own custom snorkeling, dolphin watching, and sightseeing trips with private charter services.

For a romantic gourmet dinner sunset cruise, check out Islescapes (305-923-3319), located at Schooner Wharf. Discovery Glass Bottom Boats (305-293-0099), at the Key West Historic Seaport, offers guests of vacation rentals in Key West a fascinating glimpse of the incredible sea life on the Keys' living coral reef.