Best Key West Fishing Charters
Discover why Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing has been one of the most trusted fishing charter operations in Key West since 1965. Choose from offshore fishing, deep sea fishing, shark fishing, and private charter trips with experienced local captains.
Since 1965
Three generations of Key West captains
Licensed & Insured
Full USCG compliance on every trip
Private & Shared
Options for every group size and budget
Key West, FL
Two marina locations with free parking
Key West Fishing Charters — Family-Owned Since 1965
When it comes to Key West fishing charters, few operations can match the depth of experience and local knowledge that Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing brings to the water. We've been running fishing charters out of Key West, Florida since 1965 — that's three generations of the same family, guiding anglers on the same legendary waters.
Over six decades, the Florida Keys fishing scene has changed. New boats, better technology, improved regulations. But one thing hasn't changed: the quality of the fishing and the dedication of our crews. Our captains grew up on these waters. They know the tides, the currents, the seasonal patterns, and — most importantly — where the fish are holding on any given day.
We operate a multi-boat fleet, which means we can accommodate groups of almost any size. Whether you want a private fishing charter in Key West for just your family, or you'd prefer to save money by joining a shared trip with other anglers, we have options that work for your budget and your group.
Our trips span the full range of Key West fishing experiences. Offshore fishing in Key West targets mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, sailfish, and marlin in blue water beyond the reef. Deep sea fishing in Key West takes you to wrecks and ledges where snapper, grouper, amberjack, and cobia live year-round. Shark fishing trips go after bull, tiger, hammerhead, and lemon sharks — a specialty we helped pioneer in the Florida Keys. And our reef and sandbar trips are perfect for families, beginners, and anyone who wants constant action in calm, accessible waters.
No experience is necessary. Our captains have worked with first-time anglers of every age, from young children casting for the first time to grandparents who've always wanted to try deep sea fishing. If you've been fishing for years and want to push your limits with a full-day blue water run, we can do that too. Key West's year-round warm climate and proximity to the Gulf Stream make it one of the best fishing destinations in the world — and Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing is your best connection to all of it.
Choose Your Fishing Experience
Offshore & Deep Sea Fishing
Offshore fishing in Key West means running past the reef line into deep, open water where the big pelagic species roam. The Gulf Stream passes within 10 to 15 miles of Key West, bringing warm blue water and a constant parade of gamefish: mahi-mahi, blackfin tuna, wahoo, sailfish, and blue marlin. Trips run 4 to 12 hours depending on your target species and how far offshore conditions require. Our tournament-tested sportfishing boats are built for these runs, with all the tackle, bait, and safety equipment included. Whether you're targeting a slam — mahi, tuna, and wahoo in one day — or just want to experience the thrill of blue water fishing for the first time, our offshore captains put you in the right place at the right time.
Shark Fishing Adventures
Shark fishing in the Florida Keys is an adrenaline experience unlike anything else in sportfishing. The shallow flats and deeper channels around Key West hold some of the largest shark populations in North America. Bull sharks, tiger sharks, hammerheads, lemon sharks, and blacktip sharks are all common targets. Our crews specialize in sight-fishing for sharks on the flats — spotting them in clear, shallow water and presenting bait for a visible strike. It's an up-close encounter that leaves most anglers speechless. We were among the first charter operations in Key West to offer dedicated shark fishing trips, and our experience in this fishery is unmatched.
Reef & Wreck Fishing
The reef system running along the Florida Keys is one of the most biologically rich fishing environments in North America. Yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, mangrove snapper, grouper, amberjack, cobia, and kingfish all hold along these reefs and the many artificial wrecks that have been sunk to create additional habitat. Reef and wreck fishing is excellent for guests who want consistent action without long offshore runs. These trips are popular with families, beginners, and anyone who wants to come home with a full cooler of fillets. Our reef trips can be combined with sandbar stops for a mixed-experience day on the water.
Light Tackle & Sandbar Combo
For guests who want a more relaxed, all-day experience, our light tackle and sandbar combo trips are hard to beat. These trips combine targeted light tackle fishing — using smaller rods and spinning gear for mackerel, jacks, bonito, barracuda, and small snapper — with a stop at a remote sandbar for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the open water. It's a favorite for families with kids, birthday groups, and anyone who wants to catch fish but also spend time in the water. Our fast center console boats can cover ground quickly, making the most of your time on the water.
What to Expect on a Key West Fishing Charter
From the moment you arrive at our marina, your captain and mate handle everything. You will receive a safety briefing, a quick walkthrough of the boat and equipment, and a rundown of the day's plan based on current conditions. Whether you booked a half-day reef trip or a full-day offshore run, our crews set up all rods, rigs, and bait before you leave the dock.
On the water, the pace depends on your trip type. Offshore charters involve trolling at speed along weed lines and current edges, waiting for a strike that bends the rod and gets your heart racing. Reef trips are more relaxed—anchored over structure with a chum slick bringing fish to the boat while you drop baited hooks into the strike zone. Shark fishing is a waiting game that turns into controlled chaos the moment a bull shark or hammerhead picks up your bait and starts pulling drag.
Throughout the trip, your mate assists with every step—setting hooks, coaching you through the fight, netting fish, and handling anything with teeth. You do not need to touch bait, tie knots, or rig tackle unless you want to. When the trip wraps up, your crew fillets and bags your catch at the dock, ready for you to take to one of Key West's many restaurants that offer "hook and cook" preparation. You walk away with fresh fillets on ice and photos from one of the best days you will have in the Florida Keys.
Meet Our Fleet
Our fleet of six private charter boats covers every type of Key West fishing — from blue water offshore runs to shallow-water light tackle adventures. Each vessel is maintained to the highest standard and captained by a USCG-licensed professional.
Cowboy
36' HatterasClassic offshore powerhouse. Great for small groups chasing blue water game.
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Irish Cowboy
40' LuhrsTournament-ready offshore machine built for serious deep sea action.
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Cowgirl
45' HatterasSpacious, fast, and capable. A top pick for offshore and blue water fishing.
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Sanctuary
47' HatterasOur largest and most comfortable vessel—perfect for groups and extended trips.
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Knotty Cowgirl
37' ContenderFast center console built for reef, wreck, and light offshore fishing.
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Blue Cowboy
34' ContenderNimble and quick — ideal for sandbar, reef, and light tackle adventures.
View Details →Choosing the Right Fishing Charter in Key West
Private vs. Shared Charters
A private fishing charter gives your group exclusive use of the boat, captain, and crew. You choose the fishing style, set the schedule, and decide how long to stay at each spot. Private charters are ideal for families, groups of friends, bachelor parties, and anyone who wants a fully tailored Key West fishing trip. Our private boats accommodate up to six anglers.
A shared charter splits the cost across multiple parties—typically four to six people total. You fish the same waters with the same captains and equipment as private trips, but at a fraction of the price. Shared charters start around $200 per person, making them the most affordable way to experience deep sea fishing in Key West. They are perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups on a budget.
Trip Length Options
We offer Key West fishing charters ranging from 4 hours to 12 hours. Half-day trips (4–5 hours) are great for reef fishing, family outings, and first-timers who want consistent action without a long commitment. Six-hour trips split the difference—enough time to reach productive offshore grounds without a full-day commitment. Full-day charters (8–12 hours) open up the deepest offshore waters where pelagic species like mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, and sailfish hold along current edges and temperature breaks.
Picking the Right Boat
Boat selection affects comfort and capability. Our larger sportfishing vessels (38–47 feet) ride smoother in offshore seas, carry heavier tackle, and have spacious cabins with A/C and full heads. Mid-range boats (33–37 feet) are versatile for both reef and offshore work. Our fast center consoles are built for light tackle, sandbar trips, and backcountry fishing where maneuverability matters. Browse specs and photos on our fleet page, or call us and we will match you with the right vessel.
Why Choose Our Key West Fishing Charters
There are dozens of fishing charter companies operating out of Key West. Here's what sets Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing apart from the rest:
- Family-owned and operated since 1965
- Experienced, licensed captains and professional mates
- Multiple boat sizes to match any group or comfort level
- Shark fishing pioneers in the Florida Keys
- Affordable shared charter options for solo travelers
- Convenient marina location with free parking
Our captains don't just work for us — many of them grew up fishing these waters with their fathers and grandfathers. That local knowledge translates directly into better fishing for our guests. When conditions change, our captains adapt. When a spot isn't producing, they know where to go next. That's the edge that decades of experience gives you on the water.
Operating six boats means we are never overbooked and always have capacity for last-minute trips. It also means our captains share intel across the fleet every morning—if one crew finds a hot bite on the reef, the rest of the fleet knows within minutes. That level of coordination is something smaller, single-boat operations simply cannot offer.
We also believe that every angler deserves a great trip, regardless of their budget. Our shared charter option puts you on the same boats, with the same captains and tackle, at a fraction of the cost of a private charter. It's the best value in Key West fishing, and one of the most popular ways for solo travelers and small groups to experience offshore fishing without breaking the bank.
Best Time of Year for Fishing in Key West
Key West is a year-round fishing destination, but certain seasons are better for specific species. Planning your trip around the right window can turn a good day into a legendary one. Check our fishing calendar for a detailed month-by-month breakdown.
Spring (March – May)
Spring is peak season for Key West fishing charters. Mahi-mahi arrive in force, sailfish are still running, and cobia show up on wrecks and buoys. Tarpon begin their legendary migration through the Keys in April, and by May the harbors and channels are loaded with Silver Kings. If you can only visit once a year, spring delivers the most diverse action.
Summer (June – August)
Summer brings warm, calm seas and the tail end of tarpon season. Mahi-mahi continue to run offshore, and this is prime time for yellowfin tuna. Reef fishing stays productive, and shark fishing heats up as blacktip and bull sharks move closer to shore. Morning departures take advantage of flat conditions before afternoon thunderstorms roll in.
Fall (September – November)
Fall is the hidden gem of Key West fishing trips. Crowds thin out, but the fishing stays excellent. Kingfish and wahoo begin their run along the reef edge, mutton snapper fishing picks up, and offshore species remain consistent. Calm seas and fewer boats make fall an outstanding time for deep sea fishing in Key West.
Winter (December – February)
Winter fishing in Key West is better than summer fishing in most other destinations. Sailfish move through from December to March, making it the best season for a billfish release. Yellowtail snapper and grouper peak on the reef, and cold fronts push bait into the harbors, attracting tarpon, sharks, and jacks. Read our latest fishing report to see what is biting right now.
Who Our Key West Fishing Charters Are Perfect For
Families & First-Timers
Family-friendly fishing charters are one of our most popular trip types. Kids love reeling in snapper on the reef, and our crew goes out of their way to make younger anglers feel confident and have fun. We carry children's life jackets, and every boat has a bathroom on board. A half-day reef trip is the perfect introduction—consistent action, calm water, and fish that are fun to catch without being too large to handle.
Experienced Anglers
Serious fishermen choose Cowboy Cowgirl because our captains know these waters better than anyone. Whether you want to target sailfish on the kite, tarpon on the flats, or trophy sharks on heavy tackle—tell us your goals and we will build a trip around them. Our boats carry tournament-grade tackle, and full-day charters give experienced anglers the time to work multiple spots and maximize opportunities.
Groups & Celebrations
Planning a bachelor party, corporate outing, birthday, or team-building event? We regularly coordinate multi-boat charters for groups of 10 to 75 guests. Each boat gets its own captain and crew, and we can arrange for all boats to fish the same area so your group stays connected on the water. Call us at (305) 304-2946 to discuss group pricing and custom itineraries.
Budget-Conscious Travelers
Not everyone needs a private boat. Our shared fishing charters give you access to the same boats, crews, and fishing grounds as a private trip—at a fraction of the cost. You share the vessel with a small group of other anglers, keeping the price around $200 per person while still delivering the full Key West fishing experience.
Book Your Key West Fishing Charter Today
Spots fill fast — especially on weekends, holidays, and peak season. Reserve your trip online in minutes or call us directly. We're available daily from 6 AM to 11 PM.
Key West Fishing Tips & Seasonal Guides
Planning your first trip to the Florida Keys? Our Key West fishing guide covers everything you need to know before you book — from what to pack and how to prepare for seasickness, to understanding the difference between reef and offshore trips.
Timing matters when targeting specific species. Check our Key West fishing calendar to see what's biting each month of the year, so you can plan your visit around the best seasons for mahi-mahi, sailfish, wahoo, and more.
Trip Lengths & Group Options
Half Day Fishing Charters in Key West (4 hours)
Half day Key West fishing charters are our most popular option for first-timers, families with younger kids, and cruise-ship visitors short on time. Four hours on the water is enough to reach the reef, drop bait, and put a real bend in a rod — usually targeting yellowtail snapper, mackerel, and the occasional shark. Departures run morning and afternoon year-round. All rods, reels, bait, ice, and licenses are included. Text us with your dates and group size for live availability.
Full Day Fishing Charters Key West (8 hours)
Our full day Key West fishing charters give you the run of the calendar — offshore for mahi, tuna, and sailfish; the wrecks for grouper and amberjack; or a mixed-bag day combining reef and bluewater. Eight hours is the sweet spot for serious anglers and groups that want options. Captains read the conditions each morning and pick the bite. Includes captain, mate, all tackle, bait, and fish cleaning at the dock.
6 Hour Fishing Charters — Best Value Trip
The 6 hour fishing charter splits the difference: long enough to run offshore for mahi or tuna, short enough to fit a half-day budget. It's the trip we recommend most often for groups of 4–6 who want real sportfishing without a full eight-hour commitment. Available on all private vessels in the fleet. Text us for current 6-hour pricing and open dates, or see our full pricing guide.
Corporate, Group & Private Event Fishing Charters
For corporate retreats, bachelor parties, family reunions, and team-building outings, we run group fishing charters across multiple boats out of the same dock. We've coordinated trips for 8 to 40+ anglers, with synchronized departure times and combined fish-cleaning at return. Tell us your headcount and date range — we'll build a multi-boat quote and handle the logistics so your group fishes together. Looking for a more affordable option? Our shared charters let you join others on the same boat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Key West Fishing Charters
What is the best time of year for fishing in Key West?
Key West offers excellent fishing year-round, but certain seasons shine for specific species. Spring (March–May) is prime time for mahi-mahi, sailfish, and cobia as the Gulf Stream heats up. Summer brings wahoo, blackfin tuna, and tarpon in full force. Fall is a top offshore season with mahi and wahoo still running strong. Winter is excellent for grouper, snapper, and shark fishing, with fewer crowds and great reef conditions. No matter when you visit, our captains know what's biting and where — so you'll have a great trip in any month.
How much does a Key West fishing charter cost?
Key West fishing charter prices vary based on trip type, duration, and whether you book a private or shared trip. Shared charters typically run $200–$250 per person for a half-day trip and are the most budget-friendly option. Private charters start around $600–$800 for a 4-hour trip and scale up with trip length and boat size. Offshore and full-day trips cost more due to fuel and distance. All our charters include rods, reels, bait, tackle, and an experienced captain and mate — no hidden fees.
What fish can you catch on a Key West fishing charter?
Key West offers some of the most diverse fishing in the world. Offshore trips target mahi-mahi, wahoo, blackfin tuna, sailfish, and blue marlin. Reef and deep sea trips produce yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, grouper, amberjack, cobia, and kingfish. The shallow flats and channels hold bull sharks, tiger sharks, hammerheads, lemon sharks, and tarpon. What you catch depends on the trip type and the time of year — our captains know exactly where to go based on current conditions.
Are fishing charters in Key West good for beginners?
Absolutely — Key West fishing charters are one of the best experiences for first-time anglers of any age. Our captains and mates handle all the setup, bait, and coaching. You don't need to know anything about fishing to have a great time. The crew will show you how to hold the rod, set the hook, and reel in your catch. Kids and adults with zero experience routinely land impressive fish on their very first trip. If you want a relaxed, beginner-friendly option, our shared charters and reef trips are a great starting point.
Should I book a private or shared fishing charter in Key West?
It depends on your group size and budget. A shared charter (also called a split charter) is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want to keep costs low — you share the boat with other anglers and split the expense. Private charters give your group the entire boat, a fully customized trip, and more flexibility on where you fish and how long you stay. For families, groups of 4 or more, or anyone celebrating a special occasion, private is almost always the better experience. For budget-conscious travelers or those who don't mind meeting new people, shared is an outstanding value.
Are private fishing charters worth it?
For most families and groups of four or more, a private charter is absolutely worth it. You get the entire boat to yourself, set your own pace, and the captain tailors the trip to your goals. There's no coordinating with strangers, no sharing rods, and no compromises on where you go. Private charters also give you more flexibility — stop at the sandbar, fish an extra spot, or head home early if the kids are tired. If you're celebrating a special occasion or want the best possible experience, private is the way to go.
What's the difference between offshore and reef fishing?
Offshore fishing means running past the reef line — typically 10 to 30+ miles out — into deep blue water where pelagic species like mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, sailfish, and marlin live. Trips are longer and more physically demanding, but the rewards are hard to beat. Reef fishing stays in shallower water along the Florida Keys reef system, targeting snapper, grouper, amberjack, and cobia. Reef trips involve less travel time and are better for guests prone to seasickness, families with younger kids, or anyone who wants steady action closer to shore.
Do I need a fishing license in Key West?
Florida requires a saltwater fishing license for most anglers. However, when you fish aboard a licensed charter vessel like ours, you are covered under our captain's charter license — you do not need to purchase a separate state fishing license. This applies to all passengers on private and shared charter trips. If you plan to fish from shore, a pier, or on your own, you will need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license. Our crew handles all the regulatory compliance on the water so you can focus on fishing.
What should I bring on a fishing charter?
We provide all fishing equipment, bait, tackle, and ice — so you don't need to bring any gear. What you should bring: sunscreen (reef-safe is appreciated), sunglasses, a hat, light layers or a light jacket for early morning runs, non-marking shoes with rubber soles, snacks and drinks for the trip, and a valid ID. Motion sickness medication is a good idea if you're sensitive to waves, especially on offshore trips. Leave valuables and excessive bags at home — a small waterproof bag or soft cooler works perfectly.
Are shared fishing charters available in Key West?
Yes — shared charters (also called split charters) are one of the best values in Key West fishing. You join a small group of other anglers on one of our boats, splitting the cost while fishing the same waters with the same captains and equipment as a private trip. Shared trips are ideal for solo travelers, couples, or anyone who wants the offshore experience without the full cost of a private booking. Our shared charters typically run on a set schedule and have a maximum of six anglers per boat.
Key West Fishing Resources
Planning a fishing trip to Key West? Explore our guides, seasonal fishing information, and helpful resources to learn more about what makes fishing in the Florida Keys so special.
Key West Fishing Report
Stay updated with the latest fishing conditions and recent catches from the waters surrounding Key West.
Key West Fishing Calendar
Discover what fish are biting throughout the year with our seasonal Key West fishing calendar.
Key West Fishing FAQ
Find answers to common questions about fishing charters, seasons, and what to expect when fishing in Key West.
Fish Species of the Florida Keys
Learn about the many species anglers can encounter while fishing the waters of the Florida Keys.