FISHING TOURS IN KEY WEST: PRIVATE VS. SHARED CHARTERS EXPLAINED

From private groups to shared deep sea runs, we offer Key West fishing tours for every budget and style.

When it comes to booking a fishing tour in Key West, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go with a private charter or a shared (split) charter. Both offer great experiences on the water—but they serve different needs, budgets, and vibes.

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences, benefits, and which one might be the better fit for your next Key West fishing trip.

🎣 What Is a Private Fishing Charter?

A private fishing charter is exactly what it sounds like: you rent the whole boat for your group. It’s just you, your crew, and your captain.

✅ Pros:

• Personalized experience: Choose what you want to catch, how you want to fish, and how long you want to stay out.

• Privacy: No strangers onboard—ideal for families, friends, or corporate groups.

• Flexible itinerary: Want to fish AND hit a sandbar? You got it.

• Full attention from crew: Everything’s tailored to your experience level and goals.

❌ Things to consider:

• Higher cost: You’re covering the full cost of the boat and crew—but many guests find it worth it for the experience and comfort.

👥 What Is a Shared Fishing Charter (Split Charter)?

A shared charter—also called a split fishing charter—lets you book individual spots on a trip that includes other guests. You share the boat (and the cost) with other anglers.

✅ Pros:

• More affordable: Great way to experience deep sea fishing in Key West without booking the entire boat.

• Meet fellow anglers: If you enjoy swapping fishing stories and meeting new people, this is a fun bonus.

• Same equipment, same fish: You still get top-tier gear, an experienced captain, and the chance to catch incredible species.

❌ Things to consider:

• Less customization: The trip’s target species, techniques, and duration are fixed ahead of time.

• Luck of the draw: You may fish alongside beginners or pros—and you’ll rotate rods on a shared line.

⚖️ Quick Comparison Table

🛥️ Which Should You Choose?

It really depends on what kind of experience you’re after.

Choose a private fishing tour if you:

• Want to target a specific species like sailfish or tarpon

• Are celebrating a special occasion

• Want to mix fishing with a sandbar or island tour

• Have kids or less experienced anglers in your group

Choose a shared charter if you:

• Are traveling solo or as a couple

• Want an affordable way to get offshore

• Are flexible on what you catch and how long you’re out

Either way, you’re in for an incredible day on the water—and we make sure both options deliver great service and awesome catches.

🎯 Book the Right Fishing Charter in Key West

At Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing Charters, we offer both private and shared fishing tours in Key West. Whether you want to split a deep sea adventure or have the whole boat to yourselves for a sandbar and fishing combo, we’ve got the perfect trip waiting for you.

Before you go: Make sure to check out BiteBackBrand and under Local Legends, head to Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing for your official charter shirts and gear. It’s what the crew wears—tested and trusted on the water.