Why plan a Key West fishing trip? Well, because it is fishing season year round. Thanks to Key West’s location between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, there is always plenty of fish activity.
Whether you are an experienced angler looking to go backcountry fishing or a beginner planning to stay close to shore, this island paradise is the perfect backdrop to an unforgettable fishing experience. Here are five of the best fishing spots in Key West.
A tour we think you'll love
1) Hook The Perfect Fishing Experience – Book A Fishing Charter
At Linda D Sportfishing, we focus on our customers. Whether you are a beginner angler who wants to learn the ropes or someone who is ready to dive into deep sea fishing, our fishing charters can be tailored to meet your needs. Our award-winning captain and expert crew are ready to help you create your next fishing tale!
Choose your adventure:
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Open Cabin Charter – Perfect for families and beginners, this option features a spacious and comfortable layout, ideal for exploring calm, nearshore waters filled with fish.
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Closed Cabin Charter – Ideal for those seeking a more private and luxurious experience, this charter offers an enclosed, air-conditioned cabin and additional amenities.
Ready to reel in some unforgettable memories? Don’t wait any longer! Book your fishing charter with Linda D Sportfishing today and get ready for an amazing adventure on the water!
2) Best Fishing Spots Key West – The Fishing Pier
While spending a day on the water trying to hook your dream catch is ideal, it’s not always feasible. For those seeking a family adventure or who lack time for fishing charters, Key West’s piers offer excellent alternatives.
Make sure to fill up the cooler, grab your best equipment, a fishing hat, and a camera for proof of the big one that got away. Explore some of the Florida Keys best fishing piers:
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White Street Fishing Pier – The pier is at the end of White Street. The views are amazing, and the clear and calm waters make it an ideal location for sight fishing. Common catches include snapper and grouper. The pier has bathroom facilities, picnic tables, and benches for a fun family fishing adventure.
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Edward B. Knight Pier – The pier, also known as the Key West Pier, offers views of the islands and ocean. Get ready to catch several types of saltwater fish, including tarpon, grouper, and snapper, and it is possible to snag a mangrove snapper. Smaller fish swim in the shallow end, while at the end of the pier is where to find the larger fish.
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Key West Harbor Pier – The pier is easily accessible, and you can fish day or night. Live bait is recommended, and anglers can catch different fish species, including tarpon, jacks, barracuda, snapper, grouper, and more.
Did You Know? Key West is home to the Silver King Tarpon, known for its striking silver scales, and is one of the most sought-after catches near fishing piers. These powerful fish are known for their impressive leaps and fierce fights, challenging even experienced anglers.
3) Cast From The Coast – Key West Fishing Spots
For those looking for an easy and accessible way to cast a line, Key West offers plenty of opportunities to fish without ever leaving the shore.
From beaches and waterfronts to historic sites, there is no need for a boat to enjoy a day of shore fishing. Here are three locations where the shoreline is the place for your adventures:
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Smathers Beach – Head to the jetties, where smaller fish love to hide among the rocks. Anglers often reel in snapper, grouper, and barracuda. The best times for shore fishing are early morning and late afternoon when fish are most active.
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Fort Zachary Taylor – The rock jetty near the Key West Shipping Channel is the best fishing spot, attracting different fish species and even the occasional tarpon. Be sure to bring an assortment of bait to increase your chances of attracting different fish.
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Mallory Square – While it might seem like an odd place for shore fishing, Mallory Square’s deeper waters provide opportunities to catch fish such as snappers and jacks. The best times to fish here are early morning or sunset when activity peaks.
Pro Tip: Match your bait to the type of fish you are targeting. For example, squid and shrimp are best for species like snapper, redfish, and snook. Meanwhile, mole crabs are best for surf fishing along the shoreline.
4) Backcountry Fishing In Key West – Angler’s Paradise
Many experienced anglers are excited to fish in the backcountry waters of Key West, where the rush of the catch meets nature.
Booking a fishing charter or boat is typically the first step for this adventure. The reward is a day surrounded by serene mangroves and rich, shallow flats. Different species to catch:
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Bonefish – These elusive fish are an angler’s favorite. Their speed and agility make for a thrilling challenge.
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Permit – Prized for their strength and beauty, permits are in the backcountry deeper channels. They are a test of patience and skill.
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Tarpon – These big fish can grow up to 8 feet long and are famous for their aerial acrobatics during the fight.
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Snook – The snook hides in mangroves and roots and requires stealth and precision to catch. Their aggressive strikes are exciting.
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Redfish – A backcountry staple, redfish are strong fighters found in shallow flats or schooling in channels.
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Sea Trout – Common in the backcountry, sea trout provide consistent action and are spotted beauties.
Did You Know? Key West is home to some of the most diverse fishing opportunities in the world, with over 600 species of fish found in its waters, making it a true angler’s paradise for both beginners and seasoned pros alike!
5) Deep Sea Fishing – Sport Fishing At Its Best
Deep sea fishing in Key West offers adventure for the thrill-seeking angler. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you battle the trophy fish. The experience is sure to provide lifelong memories.
Game fish to target:
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Marlin – Known for their strength and long fights, they are a sought-after ultimate prize for many anglers.
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Sailfish – Known for their dorsal fins and acrobatic displays, these fish are not easy to hook
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Mahi-Mahi – Famous for their colors and speed, they are as tasty as they are thrilling to catch.
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Tuna – Whether blackfin, yellowfin, or bluefin, tuna are a favorite for their size and endurance.
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Wahoo – Their lightning speed and sharp teeth allow the wahoo to put up a fight.
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King Mackerel – A common catch in these waters, known for their aggressive strikes and strong runs.
Fun Fact: The wahoo fish is often called the cheetah of the ocean because of its speed. It can travel up to 50 mph!
Hook The Best Fishing Adventure
Ready to go on a Key West fishing adventure? Key West is the perfect fishing scene for beginners who want to stay on shore or for adventurous souls who want to try backcountry fishing.
At Linda D Sportfishing, our experts will ensure your fishing adventure will exceed your expectations. Whether you are readying for a deep sea adventure or want to learn the basics, we have a charter for you.
Head to our website and book your unforgettable adventure today!
