%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F1375%2Fimages%2Fcoralseacharters.png&w=1200&q=100)
Florida Keys Shark & Tarpon Fishing Charter
- Published Date: July 3, 2025
- Fishing
- Islamorada, FL
- $700 - $1,600 price range
- Updated Date: July 3, 2025
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2Fce8e087e-3e48-4cc9-b861-0a29e96f1dc9%2Fratecard%2F272072337_107431618507218_4500201044324444812_n.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Reeling in the Action
9 big fish caught while fishing in FL
1 fishing catch in Islamorada
6 king mackerel, little tunny, and big fish caught in FL
Stunning view of the water in Islamorada
Casting our lines into the calm waters of Whale Harbor Marina under a partly cloudy sky.
Angler holding a large mahi mahi fish in Islamorada
A fishing trip in FL
Fishing in Islamorada
9 Mahi Mahi and Cero Mackerel fish caught during a fishing trip in Islamorada
6 big fish caught fishing in Islamorada
9 big fish caught while fishing in FL
1 fishing catch in Islamorada
6 king mackerel, little tunny, and big fish caught in FL
Stunning view of the water in Islamorada
Casting our lines into the calm waters of Whale Harbor Marina under a partly cloudy sky.
Angler holding a large mahi mahi fish in Islamorada
A fishing trip in FL
Fishing in Islamorada
9 Mahi Mahi and Cero Mackerel fish caught during a fishing trip in Islamorada
6 big fish caught fishing in Islamorada
9 big fish caught while fishing in FL
1 fishing catch in Islamorada
6 king mackerel, little tunny, and big fish caught in FL
Stunning view of the water in Islamorada
Shark & Tarpon Action in the Florida Keys
Get ready for some serious rod-bending action in the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys! This 3-hour private charter is your ticket to tangle with some of the most sought-after gamefish in these parts. We're talking shark and tarpon, folks - the kind of fish that'll make your arms sore and your stories legendary. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking to wet a line, this trip's got something for everyone. So grab your hat and sunscreen, 'cause we're about to hit the flats for some world-class inshore fishing!
What's the Deal?
Here's the scoop: we'll be cruising the skinny waters of the Keys, where the big boys like to hang out. You and up to five buddies will have the boat all to yourselves, with a local captain who knows these waters like the back of their hand. We're not messing around with any fancy-schmancy gear - just good old-fashioned rods, reels, and the right bait to get those fish fired up. The beauty of inshore fishing is you're always just a cast away from the action, and trust me, when a tarpon goes airborne or a shark starts peeling line, you'll be glad you're not stuck on some party boat miles offshore.
How We Roll on the Water
Alright, let's talk tactics. We'll be doing a mix of sight-casting and drift fishing, depending on what the fish are up to that day. For the sharks, we might chunk some fresh bait and let the scent trail do its thing. When it comes to tarpon, we could be tossing live bait or working artificial lures - these silver kings can be picky, but man, are they worth it. Your captain's got eyes like an osprey and will be spotting fish before you even know they're there. And don't worry if you're new to this - we'll show you the ropes, from setting the hook to fighting these beasts. Just be ready to move quick when that reel starts singing!
Straight from the Horse's Mouth
"Cap. Joe and Jess took myself and 16 year old son and 10 year old out on 8 hour trip. Kids said it was the best fishing trip we have been on (and we have gone on alot). 1st mate Jess was fantastic with the kids and wass patient and explained everything they were doing. Did great with my daughter. Highly recommend for a family trip. Kids want to come back and go out again next year. Caught tuna, king mackerel, snapper, and bonito. Thanks!" - Tim
The Big Three You're After
Let's break down the heavy hitters you'll be targeting on this trip. First up, the blacktip shark. These guys are like the sports cars of the shark world - fast, agile, and boy, do they know how to put on a show. They average around 5 feet long but can get bigger, and they love to make blistering runs that'll have your drag screaming. Spring and fall are prime time for blacktips, but they're around all year. When one of these bad boys hits your bait, hold on tight!
Next, we've got the mighty tarpon. These silver-scaled tanks are what fishing dreams are made of. They can grow over 6 feet long and tip the scales at 150 pounds or more. But it's not just their size that's impressive - it's their acrobatics. When a tarpon goes airborne, shaking that big ole head, it's a sight you'll never forget. May through July is peak tarpon season, but you can find some year-round in the Keys. Just remember, landing one of these giants is a real feat - they've got mouths like concrete, so setting the hook right is key.
Last but not least, the lemon shark. Don't let the name fool you - there's nothing sour about hooking into one of these beauties. Lemon sharks can grow up to 10 feet long, but the ones we usually tangle with are in the 5 to 7 foot range. They're known for their powerful runs and endurance, so be ready for a workout. These guys hang around the flats and mangroves, and they're not too picky eaters, which means more chances for you to hook up. You can find lemon sharks year-round, but they're especially active in the warmer months.
Time to Get Your Fish On
Listen, folks, this isn't just another day on the water - this is your chance to battle some real bruisers in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Whether you're looking to check "catch a shark" off your bucket list or you're dreaming of that tarpon mount on your wall, this trip's got you covered. And let's be real, even if you don't land the big one, you're still spending a few hours in paradise with good company and plenty of fish stories to take home. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, the sun's shining, and that cooler isn't going to fill itself. Book your spot now and get ready for some serious Florida Keys fishing action. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it!
Customer Reviews
Family Fish Frenzy
Tim W
January 16, 2024
Ocean Thrills Await
Had an absolute blast Amazing captain & first mate; friendly, funny and knowledgeable Tons of action with both tarpon, shark, barracuda and tuna Would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking for a great day on the ocean
Keegan Flynn
June 28, 2022
Learn more about the species
Blacktip Shark
Blacktip sharks are a real thrill to catch in the Keys. These stocky fighters usually run 4-5 feet long and put up an exciting battle. You'll often spot their black-tipped fins cutting through the water near reefs or in coastal shallows. We typically find them in 30-100 feet of water, especially around artificial reefs where smaller fish gather. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they follow bait migrations. Blacktips are known for their acrobatic leaps - don't be surprised to see one go airborne during the fight! Anglers love targeting blacktips for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs. They're not the biggest sharks out there, but pound-for-pound, they're some of the sportiest. Plus, they make for good eating if you're looking to keep one. Here's a local tip: Use fresh-cut mackerel or mullet to really get them fired up. Chum the water a bit, then send down a chunk on a circle hook. When that rod bends over, hold on tight - you're in for some fun!
Lemon Shark
Lemon sharks are a real treat to target in the Keys. These yellowish-brown beauties typically run 6-9 feet long and love hanging around in shallow, coastal waters. You'll often spot them cruising near mangroves, seagrass beds, or coral reefs. They're most active in the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. What makes lemon sharks special is their curious nature. They're not shy about investigating boats or divers, which can make for some exciting encounters. They put up a solid fight when hooked, with powerful runs that'll test your gear and skills. While they're not known for their table quality, catch-and-release fishing for lemon sharks is a blast. It's all about the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of landing a sizeable predator. Plus, you're helping with conservation efforts by tagging and releasing them. Here's a local tip: try chumming with oily fish like mullet or bonito to draw them in. Once they're interested, a fresh bait on a circle hook is your best bet. Just be ready for a good tussle when they take the bait!
Tarpon
Tarpon are the silver kings of the Florida Keys, and for good reason. These monsters can grow up to 8 feet long and 280 pounds, though most you'll see are around 4 feet and 80-100 pounds. They're famous for their acrobatics - a hooked tarpon can leap 10 feet out of the water and hit speeds of 35 mph. You'll find tarpon in shallow coastal waters and estuaries, especially in deeper channels cutting through flats. They love to hang around bridges and inlets too. Spring and summer are prime time, with May to July being the peak. Anglers come from all over to battle these prehistoric powerhouses. The fight is intense, often lasting over an hour. It's all catch-and-release, so we focus on the thrill, not the grill. To hook one, try drifting live bait like mullet or crabs near drop-offs or bridge pilings. My local tip: On calm mornings, look for their distinctive rolling and gulping at the surface. That's your cue to cast. Just be ready for an explosive strike and an airborne spectacle you won't soon forget.
About the Coral Sea Charters
%2F%2Fusers%2Fce8e087e-3e48-4cc9-b861-0a29e96f1dc9%2Fvehicle_picture%2F353759109_270092222240254_9124813709609201209_n.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Deisel Caterpillar
Maximum Cruising Speed: 15
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 500
Cap. Joe and Jess took myself and 16 year old son and 10 year old out on 8 hour trip. Kids said it was the best fishing trip we have been on (and we have gone on alot). 1st mate Jess was fantastic with the kids and wass patient and explained everything they were doing. Did great with my daughter. Highly recommend for a family trip. Kids want to come back and go out again next year. Caught tuna, king mackerel, snapper, and bonito. Thanks!