Multi-Day Key West Fishing Charter: African Pompano & Shark Action With Long-Time Angler Jeff Wuest

A Repeat Customer’s Epic Return to Key West Sportfishing

For over 20 years, Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing Charters has welcomed anglers from all over the world. Few have been with us as long as Jeff Wuest. He is a loyal friend and fisherman who has fished with us since 2002. In mid-October 2022, Jeff came back with a group of close friends. They were ready for a multi-day fishing trip in Key West.

What happened next was an incredible three-day trip. We went offshore fishing, battled sharks, and fished around wrecks. We even caught a trophy African Pompano. It was one of the most exciting trips of the season.

Chasing Mahi Before Switching Strategies

Slow Mahi Bite Leads to a Smart Game Plan

The trip started offshore with the goal of finding mahi-mahi, a popular target for deep sea fishing in Key West. The crew covered ground and worked the spread, but the mahi bite was unusually quiet.

Instead of waiting for slow action, Jeff and his group made a smart choice. They changed plans and went to one of our favorite deep-water wrecks. This spot is known for steady action and big fish.

Wreck Fishing in Key West Brings Non-Stop Shark Action

Sandbar Sharks, Bull Sharks & Apex Predators

As soon as the boat settled over the wreck and the crew sent down fresh-cut bonita, things lit up fast.

Day one delivered everything wreck fishing in Key West is famous for:

• Hard-charging sandbar sharks

• Powerful bull sharks

• Consistent bites from apex predators patrolling the wreck

If you want to try this type of fishing, check out our Key West shark fishing trips. Learn how our captains catch these strong fish.

It was the kind of action-packed day that keeps anglers coming back year after year.

Day Two Delivers a Trophy: African Pompano

Jeff Lands His First African Pompano—28 Pounds of Silver

On the second day, the crew moved to a shallower wreck and switched to squid baits, perfect for targeting mid-depth species.

That’s when Jeff hooked into the fish of the trip—a beautiful 28-pound African Pompano. African Pompano are famous for their shiny chrome-silver color, fast swimming, and rarity. They are one of the most wanted fish in the Florida Keys.

This was Jeff’s first African Pompano in over 20 years of fishing with us. It was so special that he ordered a replica mount to remember the moment.

The Perfect Finish: Fresh Catch Cooked Three Ways

After three days of fishing, the group ended their adventure in the best way. They took their fresh African Pompano fillets to Hurricane Hole Restaurant, a favorite dockside eatery in Key West.

The chefs prepared the fish:

• Blackened

• Grilled

• Fried

Paired with cold drinks, ocean breezes, and a table full of stories, it was the perfect ending to an already incredible trip.

20+ Years of Fishing Together—And Many More Ahead

Jeff Wuest has been part of the Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing family for over two decades. This multi-day trip delivered everything Key West fishing is known for:

• Offshore action

• Shark fishing excitement

• Wreck fishing for trophy species

• Fresh catch cooked at a dockside restaurant

If you want to make memories like Jeff’s, we’d love to have you aboard. You can book a deep sea fishing charter in Key West. You can also go shark fishing in Key West. If you want, we can help you plan a multi-day fishing trip in the Florida Keys.

Book your next Key West fishing charter today and experience the thrill firsthand.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you catch African Pompano in Key West?

Yes. African Pompano are found year-round in Key West, especially around wrecks and deep structure. They are powerful, fast, and considered a trophy catch. Jeff’s 28-pound African Pompano was caught on a deep wreck during a multi-day fishing trip.

2. What is the best time of year to target African Pompano in Key West?

African Pompano can be caught at any time of year, but late fall through early spring generally provides the most consistent action. Cooler water helps concentrate them around wrecks and structure.

3. Is wreck fishing in Key West good for catching sharks?

Absolutely. Wrecks hold sandbar sharks, bull sharks, lemon sharks, and other apex predators. These deeper structures create ideal feeding zones, which is why Jeff’s group experienced non-stop shark action during their trip.

4. Can I have my fish cooked at a Key West restaurant?

Yes. Many dockside restaurants in Key West, including Hurricane Hole, offer “cook your catch” services. You bring your freshly filleted fish, and they prepare it grilled, blackened, or fried—just like Jeff’s group enjoyed during their trip.

5. Do you offer multi-day fishing trips in Key West?

Yes. Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing offers customizable multi-day fishing trips. These trips are for anglers who want to combine offshore fishing, shark fishing, wreck fishing, or exploring the Florida Keys. You will have a private captain and crew for your adventure.