Book a Key Largo Fishing Charter
We offer 4, 6 & 8 day fishing tours with a maximum capacity of 6 passengers. Please note that the pricing is for the entire charter, not per person. Our package includes fishing licenses, equipment, bait, tackle, fuel, ice, and filleting your catch.
A credit card deposit is necessary to secure your reservation, and the remaining trip fee can be paid in cash or credit card after the charter. It is customary to tip the crew 20% for good service. We provide bottled water and a cooler for your use. You are welcome to bring your cooler with any food or drinks you prefer.
Key Largo Fishing Charters
8 hr
1,400 US dollars
6 hr
1,100 US dollars
4 hr
800 US dollars
Charter Booking Info
Morning trips depart at 7am for best fishing. Afternoon trips depart at noon or 1pm.
Prices are fixed and include: licenses, bait, tackle, fuel, ice and filleting your catch. Tipping the crew is customary. 20% is complimentary for good service. Maximum SIX passengers per Coast Guard regulations.
We highly recommend wearing light, SPF clothing to protect you from the sun. Sunscreen, hats, and polarized sunglasses are also highly suggested. For safety and traction, we recommend wearing sneakers or closed-toed shoes, and we discourage flip flops, although they are permitted.
Seasickness can ruin an otherwise fantastic day on the water. If you are susceptible to sea sickness or are uncertain if you are affected, we suggest asking your physician for an anti-motion sickness patch. Over-the-counter remedies have varying degrees of efficacy. Charters that return to the dock early at the client's request will be charged the entire amount booked for the charter. There are no exceptions.
Miss Chief Charters mandates a minimum 3-day cancellation notice for charters. If a charter is cancelled within 72 hours or is a no-show, the deposit booked on the card provided for the reservation will be forfeited. If the charter is cancelled due to weather, 100% of the deposit will be refunded. However, the Captain will make that determination on the day of the charter.
At Miss Chief Charters, we strive to provide every guest with an outstanding deep sea fishing tour in Key Largo FL and will make every effort to accommodate any disability, need or or special request. Please indicate any assistance required in the online booking notes section.
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We are excited to go fishing with you and wish you tight lines!
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Capt. Dan Matthews
Why Fish Key Largo?
Fishing in Key Largo is more than just a pastime—it's a passion driven by the exceptional variety and abundance of fish. This subtropical paradise boasts over 450 species of fish, making it a prime destination for anglers.
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Unmatched Diversity
The rich biodiversity in Key Largo's waters provides anglers with endless opportunities to reel in unique catches. From the challenging tarpon and speedy sailfish to the sleek, colorful dolphin fish, there's something for everyone.
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Year-Round Action
Key Largo's warm climate ensures that fishing is a year-round activity. Whether you're a fan of deep-sea fishing or prefer the tranquility of the flats, there's always fish biting.
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Legendary Tournaments
The vibrant fishing community in Key Largo hosts numerous tournaments throughout the year. Anglers gather to compete and celebrate their skills, targeting prized species like sailfish and bonefish.
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Ideal Conditions
With its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine habitats, Key Largo offers ideal conditions for both novice and seasoned anglers alike. Whether you're casting from shore or venturing offshore, the experience is both thrilling and rewarding.
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In essence, Key Largo's fishing scene is popular because it combines exceptional marine life with ideal fishing conditions and a welcoming community, making it a destination anglers return to time and again.
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Discover Key Largo Fishing
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Key Largo fishing is a premier destination for anglers seeking diverse and rewarding fishing experiences in the Florida Keys. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay, Key Largo offers access to a variety of fishing environments, including deep-sea, reef, and backcountry fishing. Anglers can target a wide range of species, such as sailfish, tarpon, grouper, snapper, and mahi-mahi, making it suitable for both novice and experienced fishermen. With its clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning natural landscapes.
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Fishing Types and Techniques:
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Trolling:
This is the main method employed, where the boat moves continuously, allowing lines to trail behind in pursuit of fast-moving fish. The crew deploys artificial trolling lures and rigged natural baits to entice larger pelagic species like; sailfish, mahi mahi, tuna, wahoo and marlin. Typically this is a deep sea fishing fishing activity, however a modified version can be used to catch certain reef species.
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Live Bait/Kite Drifting:
Targeting larger species in Key Largo begin around 5-7 miles offshore, using fishing kites or outriggers. Live baits are deployed during the winter/spring months to catch sailfish, blackfin tuna, wahoo, kingfish and occasional mahi mahi. These techniques are more advanced and require 6-8 hours.
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Wreck/Bottom Fishing:
The idea is to present cut and live bait fish near the sea floor or around structures such as wrecks. This active movement attracts fish like Cobia, Snapper, Amberjack, African Pompano, Kingfish, Sharks and Grouper.
Equipment: Medium and heavy conventional and spinning combos in the 30-100lb weight classes are preferred.
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Reef Fishing:
Reef fishing in Key Largo offers anglers a fantastic opportunity to explore the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life of the Florida Keys. This fishing method typically takes place in shallower waters, where boats venture to the numerous offshore reefs teeming with species like snapper, grouper, hogfish, cero mackerel, jack, barracudas and sharks and more. Often accessible for both novices and seasoned fishermen, reef fishing allows for a relaxed yet engaging experience, as anglers use a variety of techniques, including bottom fishing and trolling. The stunning underwater scenery and crystal-clear waters create a picturesque environment, making it not just about the catch but also enjoying the beauty of the ocean. With its rich biodiversity and thriving ecosystems, reef fishing in Key Largo is a highlight for anyone seeking to experience the natural wonders of this tropical paradise.
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Deep Dropping:
This technique involves using specialized tackle and heavy weights to send bait to the ocean floor, where fish like snapper, grouper, tilefish and swordfish are commonly found. Anglers typically venture out on charter boats equipped with the necessary gear, including electric reels, to handle the significant depth—often up to 1,000 feet or more. The thrill of reeling in large, deep-dwelling fish against the stunning backdrop of the Florida Keys makes deep drop fishing a popular choice for both novice and experienced anglers.​
Our Favorite Fish Species
Why Anglers Covet Blue Marlin and Sailfish in Key Largo
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Anglers dream of reeling in Blue Marlin and Sailfish, and Key Largo is one of the premier destinations to make that dream a reality. These remarkable fish are not only impressive in size and beauty but also offer an exhilarating challenge that delights fishing enthusiasts. Here’s why they’re such prized catches:
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The Thrill of the Hunt
Spectacular Battles: Both Blue Marlin and Sailfish are known for their incredible fighting spirit. Whether it's a Blue Marlin's acrobatic leaps or a Sailfish's lightning-fast runs, these fish promise unmatched excitement and a test of endurance and skill.
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Epic Struggles
Hooking one could mean hours of memorable struggle, making every successful catch a hard-earned trophy. They engage anglers with their aggressive attempts to escape, such as thrashing and darting, which can truly test your mettle.
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Perfect Seasons and Locations
Year-Round Sailfish: In the Florida Keys, especially near Key Largo, Sailfish maintain a year-round presence. During winter, they come closer to shore near the reefs, making them more accessible to anglers.
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Optimal Marlin Peaks
For those eyeing Blue Marlin, late spring to late summer provide peak opportunities. These seasons are when they are most prolific, allowing anglers to indulge in this spectacular pursuit.
Diverse Fishing Techniques
Trolling Techniques: The preferred approach for these titans is trolling, where lures that mimic small fish are deployed to entice these predatory giants.
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Innovative Methods: Adventurous anglers can experiment with kite fishing or even fly fishing, challenging themselves to reel in these impressive fish using more unique methods.
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Nature's Challenge and Reward
In essence, the appeal of fishing for Blue Marlin and Sailfish in Key Largo goes beyond just landing a big fish; it's about engaging in an epic duel against nature's finest adversaries. Their beauty, power, and rarity in these waters make them the ultimate prize for any serious angler.
What is Catch and Release Fishing?
​​Catch and release fishing is a conservation-minded practice in which anglers catch fish solely to return them to the water unharmed. This approach focuses on minimizing environmental impact while allowing avid fishers to enjoy the thrill of the catch. Miss Chief Charters highly suggests practicing catch and release, however we will gladly harvest any legal sized fish you desire, within their legal bag limits.
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Why Do Anglers Choose Catch and Release?
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Conservation Efforts:
By releasing fish back into their natural habitats, anglers help maintain healthy fish populations, ensuring the sustainability of local ecosystems.
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Preserving Trophy Fish:
For those who want a keepsake, many opt to take a quick photo instead of keeping the fish. Some even go a step further and order a custom-made fiberglass replica of their prize catch to mount on their walls, keeping memories alive without harming wildlife.
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Sporting Challenge:
Catch and release enhances the sport by encouraging skill development. Anglers refine their techniques to catch fish while avoiding harm, making the challenge more rewarding.
This practice not only promotes ethical fishing but also allows for the continuous enjoyment of fishing opportunities across generations.