Top Islamorada Offshore Charter: 4-8 Hour Trip

Reel in Trophy Fish off Islamorada's Coast

Get ready for a full day of non-stop action on the water with Coral Sea Charters' private offshore fishing trip. Captain Joe knows these waters like the back of his hand and he's itching to put you on some of the Atlantic's most prized gamefish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, this 8-hour adventure has something for everyone. We'll be targeting the big boys - sailfish, bluefin tuna, mahi-mahi, and more. With all the gear provided and licenses covered, all you need to bring is your game face and maybe a lucky hat.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll push off from Islamorada bright and early, making tracks to some of the hottest offshore spots in the Florida Keys. Captain Joe's 30-plus years of experience means we're not just fishing - we're hunting. He knows where the bait's moving and where the big ones are likely to be hanging out. We'll set up with a mix of trolling and live baiting, depending on what's biting. The beauty of a private charter is we can switch it up on the fly. Got your heart set on sailfish? We'll work the edges where they like to feed. Want to fill the cooler with some tasty mahi? We'll run and gun, looking for those floating mats of sargassum where they love to hide.

Top Catches This Season

Islamorada isn't called the "Sportfishing Capital of the World" for nothing. Our offshore waters are teeming with trophy-sized gamefish year-round. We've been absolutely crushing the sailfish lately - they've been lighting up our spread like Christmas trees. The bluefin tuna bite has been red hot too, with some real shoulder-busters in the 100-pound class coming to the boat. Don't sleep on the mahi-mahi either - we've been finding some real slammers in that beautiful blue water. And for you bottom-fishing fanatics, the snappers and groupers have been chomping. We use top-of-the-line Penn and Shimano gear, spooled with fresh line, so you're always ready when that big one hits.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

"Fantastic trip! Captain and first Mate were great! Exceeded expectations and more!" - Vincent
"We had a great time! Capt. Joe and his first mate Jennifer made it easy and fun ——-and turned us into real fisherman for a day! That's not easy since we're both inexperienced fishermen. But, you'd never know by the catch we hauled in!! 😎 Thanks!" - David
"Thank you Joe and Jess!! What a great (and successful) day of fishing!" - Charlene

Species You'll Want to Hook

Atlantic Sailfish: These speedsters are the crown jewels of the Florida Keys. Known for their acrobatic leaps and blistering runs, hooking into a sail is like trying to stop a runaway freight train. They average 6-8 feet in length and can tip the scales at over 100 pounds. We typically target them from November through May when they're following the bait migrations. The thrill of watching a sailfish light up in that electric blue and purple as it charges your bait is something you'll never forget.

Bluefin Tuna: These are the heavyweights of the tuna world, and landing one is a true test of an angler's mettle. In our waters, we see fish ranging from 100 to over 500 pounds. They're here from December through March, and when they're on, it's all hands on deck. Fighting a bluefin is like being tied to a submarine - they're pure muscle and they don't quit. But the payoff? Some of the best sushi-grade meat you'll ever taste.

Tarpon: Known as the "Silver King," these prehistoric-looking fish are the stuff of Florida fishing legend. They can grow over 8 feet long and weigh upwards of 280 pounds. We target them primarily in the spring and early summer when they gather in huge schools to spawn. Watching a 150-pound tarpon launch itself 10 feet in the air, shaking its head like a mad dog, is a sight that'll make your heart skip a beat. They're catch-and-release only, but the memories last a lifetime.

Sea Trout: These tasty inshore predators might not have the size of some of our offshore targets, but what they lack in heft they make up for in numbers and fight. We catch them year-round, with the best action in the cooler months. They love to hang around grass flats and mangrove shorelines. There's nothing quite like the subtle 'pop' of a trout hitting a topwater lure at dawn - it's addictive fishing that's perfect for anglers of all skill levels.

Cobia: Often called "lemonfish" or "ling," cobia are one of the most sought-after gamefish in the Keys. They show up in force from March through October, often hanging around structures or following large rays and sharks. These brown battlers can grow over 100 pounds and put up one heck of a fight. They're also excellent table fare, with firm white meat that's great on the grill or in fish tacos.

Red Snapper: These deep-water delights are the cornerstone of many a fish fry in the Keys. We target them year-round over reefs and wrecks, but the bite really heats up in the summer months. They're known for their strong initial run for the bottom, so be ready to put your back into it when one takes your bait. The good news? Your hard work is rewarded with some of the sweetest, flakiest fillets in the ocean.

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen, I could go on all day about the fishing here in Islamorada, but nothing beats experiencing it firsthand. Whether you're looking to check that grander bluefin off your bucket list or just want to bend a rod and make some memories, we've got you covered. Captain Joe and the crew at Coral Sea Charters are ready to put you on the fish of a lifetime. With room for up to six anglers, it's perfect for a family outing, a group of buddies, or even a corporate team-building day. Don't let another season slip by - those fish aren't going to catch themselves. Give us a call, and let's get you out on the blue water where the big ones live. Tight lines and see you on the water!