To see our rates, go to the BOOKINGS tab. Below is the average costs of all types of fishing charters in Key West.
Cost of Key West Fishing Charters: What You Can Expect to Pay
Planning a fishing trip in Key West and wondering what it will cost? This guide breaks down typical Key West fishing charter prices—from the most affordable options to the most premium trips—so you can choose the experience that best fits your budget and fishing style.
Whether you’re new to fishing or a seasoned angler, understanding the different charter types will help you book the right trip.
Important Notes Before Booking
- Most private charters include: fishing licenses, tackle, bait, instruction, and iced water.
- Tips are NOT included. It’s customary to tip 15–20% if you had a good experience. Tips are usually given to the mate or directly to the captain on boats without a mate.
- Party boats may have shared tip jars for multiple deckhands.
- Fuel costs: Some deep sea and light tackle trips charge additional fuel fees. Ask your captain before booking.
- Payment fees: Many Key West charters charge a small credit-card processing fee.
- Fish policy: Always confirm who keeps the catch at the end of the day.
Head Boat/Party Boat Fishing
Starts around: $80
Party boats (also called head boats) are the most affordable way to fish in Key West. These larger boats—sometimes up to 70 ft—take groups of 20–30 people out to the reef to bottom fish.
What to expect:
- Great for beginners, families, and budget-friendly trips
- Bench seating and onboard bathrooms
- Reef fishing for species like yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, mangrove snapper, grunts, mackerel, grouper, jacks, and sharks
- Trips are shared, not private
This is the easiest and cheapest way to get on the water, and short-notice bookings are usually available.
Flats Fishing
Starts around: $500
Flats fishing is a private, shallow-water sight-fishing experience in the Key West backcountry. These trips use small flats skiffs (16–20 ft) designed for stealthy, technical fishing.
Best for:
- Anglers targeting permit, bonefish, tarpon, barracuda, and sharks
- Fly fishing enthusiasts
- Intermediate or experienced anglers who can make precise casts
- 1–2 anglers per boat
Typical rates:
$500–$600 for a 4-hour half day, with longer trips available.
Flats fishing is ideal for anglers who enjoy a more intimate, technical, and skill-focused experience.
Backcountry Fishing
Starts around: $700
Backcountry fishing is one of the most popular charters in Key West due to its comfort, scenery, and variety of fish. Trips are run on flats boats or bay boats (20–25 ft), which hold up to 4 anglers.
Why people love backcountry trips:
- Calm, shallow waters—perfect for families and new anglers
- Chance to catch up to 15+ species in a single day
- Comfortable, spacious, stable boats
- Ability to target everything from tarpon to snapper to barracudas
- Some boats offer shade and occasionally a portable toilet
Typical rates:
$650–$700 for a half day (4 hours) for up to 4 anglers.
Light Tackle Reef Fishing
Starts around: $900
Light tackle reef charters take you offshore on private center-console boats—usually twin-engine vessels built for speed and comfort.
This trip may sound like party boat fishing, but it’s very different. Light tackle trips offer:
- A private experience (up to 6 people)
- Faster travel and more fishing spots
- Ability to target both reef and pelagic species
Common catches include:
Amberjack, kingfish, snapper, grouper, sharks, sailfish, tuna, and more.
Typical rates:
Around $900 for a 4-hour trip.
These charters offer a great mix of action, variety, and comfort without the crowd of a head boat.
Deep Sea Fishing
Starts around: $1000
Deep sea fishing is one of the most iconic Key West fishing experiences, taking you into deep blue water to troll for big-game pelagic species.
Target species:
Wahoo, mahi-mahi, tuna, kingfish, sailfish, marlin, and more.
What to expect on a deep sea trip:
- Private charter for up to 6 people
- Trolling is the main fishing method
- Relaxed style—great for groups who want the classic offshore experience
- Split charters may be available, depending on the captain
Deep sea fishing is perfect for anglers who want to chase large offshore species without needing to be hands-on every second.
Typical rates:
Around $1,000 for a half-day (4 hours).
Final Thoughts
Key West offers fishing experiences for every budget—from affordable party boats to premium offshore charters. Whether you want action-packed backcountry fishing, technical flats fishing, or a classic deep-sea adventure, there’s a trip that fits your needs.