LUCK, LEGENDS & BANANAS: FISHING SUPERSTITIONS FROM THE KEY WEST DOCKS
Captain aboard Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing tosses a banana overboard — because everyone in Key West knows better. No bananas, no bad luck!
You ever hear someone say “good luck” before a fishing trip… and then not catch a single thing all day? Yeah — that’s why we don’t mess with boat superstitions.
Here in Key West, we fish by feel, by tide… and by a few weird rules passed down from old salty legends. No bananas. No black bags. And definitely no whistling. From pineapples to pouring whiskey on the deck, the fishing gods demand respect — and sometimes a little rum.
Whether you’re superstitious or just a little “stitious,” here’s a fun look at some of the fishing luck, lore, and local rituals you’ll still find alive and well at the docks in Key West.
🍌 1. No Bananas on Board. Ever.
This one’s universal. Bananas = bad luck. Period. Want tangled lines, no bites, or a storm out of nowhere? Just try sneaking a banana on the boat. We’ve seen guys get their snacks thrown overboard before they even finish peeling them.
Where did it start? Probably back when sailing ships carried banana cargo and venomous spiders hitched a ride. But today, it’s just understood: leave the bananas at the dock and bring a pineapple instead.
🥃 2. Whiskey Before We Go
Old Scottish fishermen used to pour a little whisky on their gear before a trip for good luck. Here in Key West, some of our captains take that a step further — they pour a little on themselves too (off-duty, of course). Think of it as an offering to the fishing gods… or just a good excuse for a toast.
🍍 3. Pineapples = Good Vibes
Bring a pineapple aboard and you’ll be greeted with high-fives instead of side-eye. Pineapples have always been a sailor’s symbol of hospitality and safe return. Some say they attract fish. Others say they attract party guests. Either way, we’re fans.
Fun fact: You’ll find pineapple decorations all over old Conch homes in Key West — it’s kind of a local badge of honor.
🐟 4. Throw Back the First Fish
It’s called “respecting the Silver King” — especially if you’re tarpon fishing. Tradition says the first fish should be released as a gift to the sea gods. Do that, and you might just find yourself on a streak. Get greedy early? Don’t blame us if the bite shuts down.
🌊 5. Don’t Whistle on the Boat
Nope. Not even a little. Whistling is said to “call the wind,” and not in a good way. A gentle breeze might turn into a howling gale, and next thing you know you’re chumming sideways. Sing, hum, or tell jokes — but don’t whistle unless you’re looking for trouble.
🚫 6. Black Bags = Bad Mojo
This one spooks even the newer captains. Black duffel bags or backpacks on boats? No thanks. Some say it’s bad luck. Others say it reminds them of body bags. Either way, toss your gear in something colorful and call it a day.
👋 7. Never Say “Good Luck”
In Key West, we say “tight lines” or “go get ’em.” Saying “good luck” before a trip is basically daring the ocean to ruin your day. It jinxes the bite, kills your odds, and might even make your line snap at the worst moment. It’s not polite — it’s dangerous.
👻 8. Don’t Disrespect the Ocean
Whether it’s pouring out a sip of rum for the sea, releasing that monster fish, or just keeping your gear in shipshape — treating the ocean with respect seems to go hand in hand with full coolers and safe returns.
Bottom Line?
You don’t have to believe in ghosts or sea spirits… but if the captain says no bananas, don’t bring bananas. Down here in Key West, we fish hard, we play hard, and we try not to tempt fate.
Book a trip with us, follow the rules, and maybe grab a lucky shirt from BiteBackBrand before you board. (You’ll find us under “Local Legends” — just look for Cowboy.)
Because when the fish are biting, and the weather’s calm… it just might be the pineapple working.
🎣 Want to reel in more than just fish? Learn more: