Traveling with a four-legged family member? You do not have to leave them behind. Well-behaved dogs are welcome aboard our private fishing charters in Key West, making us one of the few pet friendly fishing charter options in the Florida Keys.
Many families and couples travel with their dogs and hate the idea of leaving them at the hotel for the day. A morning on the water with your dog is one of those experiences that is hard to put into words. Dogs seem to love it — the salt air, the sound of the water, and the activity on deck keep them engaged and content throughout the trip.
We ask that dogs be comfortable around water and people, and that owners bring a leash for boarding and docking. Life jackets for dogs are a good idea and easy to find at local pet stores in Key West. Let us know when booking that you plan to bring your dog so we can plan accordingly.
Dog friendly charters are available as private bookings only. Shared fishing charters are not suitable for pets out of consideration for other passengers.
Bringing Your Dog Aboard: What to Know
A few simple things keep the day safe and comfortable for your dog, the crew, and everyone else on the boat.
- Bring a leash for boarding, docking, and any stops along the way.
- Dogs should be comfortable around water, engine noise, and new people.
- A canine life jacket is a smart idea and easy to find at Key West pet stores.
- Bring fresh water and a bowl — salt air and sun dehydrate dogs quickly.
- Pack a towel and a shaded spot option; decks get hot in the middle of the day.
- Tell us when booking that your dog is coming so the crew can plan the deck layout.
- Half-day trips are usually the best fit for a dog’s first time on the water — unless you are on one of our air-conditioned boats, where longer days are fine.
- Dogs stay off the tackle and out of the cockpit while fish are being landed.
Best Trips to Bring a Dog On
Every dog is different. Shorter trips in calmer water are the safest starting point, and your captain will help you pick the right one when you book.
Half-Day Private Charter
Four hours on the reef and patch reefs — the easiest introduction for a dog. Short run, calmer water, steady action on snapper and other reef species.
Reef Fishing Charter
Shallower water and shorter runs keep the ride comfortable, which makes reef trips the most dog-friendly style of fishing we offer.
Full-Day Offshore Charter
Better suited to dogs already used to boats. Longer runs and bigger water, targeting mahi-mahi, tuna, and wahoo out in the bluewater.
Why Dog Friendly Trips Are Private Only
On a private charter, the only people aboard are your group — up to six passengers under USCG limits. That means no strangers with allergies or a fear of dogs, no fixed itinerary, and the freedom to head back in early if your dog has had enough sun.
Your captain sets the pace around your group. If the reef is producing and everyone is happy, you stay. If your dog needs shade and a water break, that happens too. Browse our fishing charter fleet to see the boats, deck space, and shaded cabin options — our vessels run from 34 to 47 feet, so there is room to spread out.
Traveling With Kids Too?
If you came here for the kids as much as the dog, our family-friendly page covers what children can catch, trip lengths that work for younger anglers, and tips for a first day on the water.
Ready to Bring Your Dog Fishing?
Book a private charter online or reach out and we will help you pick the trip that fits your dog and your group. Pricing excludes gratuity, food, and drinks.