Let Coral Sea Charters take you to an epic fishing escapade as you cruise along the stunning waters of Florida! Team up with Captain Joe Snyder, a well-versed guide who has over 20 years of experience and knows the area better than anyone. You won't be coming home empty-handed and you'll definitely have an adventure of a lifetime! Ride in style aboard an incredible 38' Harris that has plenty of space for up to six guests fishing with no trouble. Powered by a 500 HP Deisel Caterpillar engine, you'll get to your destination and fish comfortably all day. This vessel ensures a safe and comfortable sail on the waters so you won't have to worry about anything. The 'Harris' also features a clean bathroom, fighting chairs, and a tower. Guided trips are available year-round, so you'll be sure to find one that fits your schedule. Nothing beats an expedition with a lifelong and dedicated angler who will share with you his secrets to hook you a monster fish. Prepare yourselves as you wrestle some of the most tough-fighting species like Tarpon, Sailfish,&nbsp;Bluefin Tuna,&nbsp;Cobia,&nbsp;Sea Trout, and even Sharks! Everyone is invited by Captain Joe to join him on a phenomenal journey - whether you're a family with children, friends, or colleagues, you're in for a real treat! Quality fishing equipment and gear will be provided for you. Pack some sun protection, snacks and drinks to keep you energized throughout your trip! Get ready to be blown away as you tangle lines with Coral Sea Charters - an experience you won't regret!

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Catching mahimahi in Florida 

<div>the mahi and tuna fishing have been great lately. also we have been catching a few sailfish and wahoo.last week we had the opportunity to catch some mahi and one Tarpon on a fly rod .hope to see you on the water soon tight lines</div>

9 Mahi Mahi and Cero Mackerel fish caught during a fishing trip in Islamorada

EPSG:4269

Set sail with Coral Sea Charters in Islamorada and experience the thrill of hooking trophy fish while making unforgettable memories on the stunning Florida Keys waters! Book your adventure today and let Captain Joe Snyder guide you on a personalized, once-in-a-lifetime fishing journey.

Coral Sea Charters, led by U.S. Navy veteran Captain Joe Snyder, offers premier Islamorada fishing charters in the heart of the Florida Keys, home to the only living coral reef in North America. This vibrant ecosystem supports an unmatched diversity of marine life, making it a top destination for anglers seeking an unforgettable Florida Keys fishing experience. Specializing in light tackle sportfishing, kite fishing, and live bait techniques, Captain Joe targets iconic species including sailfish, mahi-mahi, tarpon, wahoo, blackfin tuna, and shark. Guests can explore both the deep Atlantic waters and the rich backcountry flats, encountering hundreds of species throughout the year while enjoying personalized trips tailored to families, serious anglers, or first-time fishermen. Captain Joe brings decades of experience to every trip, sharing his deep knowledge of the local environment and wildlife to create a truly engaging experience. From spotting loggerhead turtles to explaining the history of offshore lighthouses, every charter is designed to be educational, exciting, and memorable. Operating out of Whale Harbor Marina, Coral Sea Charters combines expert guidance, top-tier equipment, and a passion for the Florida Keys lifestyle. Book your Islamorada fishing charter today and experience world-class sportfishing, hands-on learning, and the kind of unforgettable moments that only come from a day on the water with Captain Joe Snyder.

Coral Sea Charters

Captain Joe Snyder’s journey to becoming one of Islamorada’s most respected fishing guides began far from the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys. Raised in Akron, Ohio, Joe served his country as a U.S. Navy veteran before moving to the Keys in 1999. Already an avid fisherman, he started his career on party boats, then worked his way up as a mate on offshore vessels, gaining firsthand experience navigating both inshore flats and deep-sea waters. In 2007, he earned his captain’s license and began running boats, steadily building a reputation for skill, professionalism, and an unmatched knowledge of the local marine environment. One of the most memorable highlights of Captain Joe’s career came in 2016 during an offshore adventure off Islamorada. After a day of deep-sea fishing, his crew hooked and released three different billfish species in a single trip—a white marlin, a 200+ pound blue marlin, and a sailfish. The sailfish catch was officially recorded by the IGFA and featured in their museum, a testament to the rare and remarkable experiences that can happen when fishing with Captain Joe. Moments like these illustrate his deep expertise, patience, and ability to create truly unforgettable days on the water. Captain Joe’s approach goes beyond catching fish; it’s about building relationships and making every trip engaging and memorable. He takes the time to get to know his guests, answers questions about wildlife, points out interesting sights, and teaches about the local ecosystem—from flying fish and seabirds to loggerhead turtles. Whether guiding seasoned anglers or introducing children to their first catch, Joe ensures each outing is educational, fun, and tailored to the needs and goals of his guests. His dedication and passion have earned him a loyal following of repeat clients who trust his guidance and knowledge of Islamorada’s waters. <h2>The Coral Sea Charters Boat</h2>Guests fish aboard a 38-foot Harris sportfishing boat, a classic 1978 vessel upgraded for modern comfort and performance. Powered by a 500hp Caterpillar diesel engine, the boat cruises at a steady 15 knots and accommodates up to six guests comfortably. With spacious areas for casting, lounging, and taking in the scenery, the vessel is perfectly suited for both serious sportfishing and relaxed inshore or offshore adventures. On this boat, Captain Joe brings decades of experience to every outing, ensuring guests enjoy a safe, educational, and immersive experience exploring the rich waters of the Florida Keys.

Meet Captain Joe Snyder by Coral Sea Charters

Year- Round Charters Offered

Common Questions: What types of fishing trips does Coral Sea Charters offer?Coral Sea Charters offers a variety of fishing trips including deep sea fishing, inshore fishing, and sportfishing adventures. Each trip can be tailored to target different species based on your preferences and the season. What is the cost of a deep sea fishing trip with Coral Sea Charters?Our affordable fishing charters Islamorada varies depending on the duration and specific requirements. Typically, rates start around $800 for a half-day trip and can go up to $1,500 or more for a full-day excursion. For the most accurate pricing, please contact us directly. Are there any additional costs for fishing gear or bait?No, the cost of fishing gear and bait is included in your charter rate. Coral Sea Charters provides all necessary equipment to ensure you have a successful fishing experience. How long are the typical fishing trips?Our fishing trips generally range from 4 to 8 hours. Half-day trips usually last about 4 hours, while full-day trips can extend up to 8 hours, giving you ample time to explore the best fishing spots. Do I need a fishing license for the trip?No, Coral Sea Charters provides all necessary fishing licenses for our guests. You don’t need to worry about obtaining a separate license before your trip. What should I bring on my fishing trip?We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable clothing. Additionally, you may want to bring a camera to capture your catches and any personal snacks or drinks you prefer. Can I book a private charter for a special event?Yes, Coral Sea Charters offers best fishing guide in Islamorada for special events such as birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate outings. Contact us to discuss your event details and we’ll work to create a memorable experience for you and your guests. What is the best time of year for fishing in Islamorada?Islamorada offers excellent fishing year-round. However, peak seasons vary by species: for instance, marlin fishing is best in summer, while tarpon fishing peaks in spring and summer. We can help you plan your trip based on the species you want to target. What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my trip?Safety is our top priority. If weather conditions are unsuitable for fishing, we will reschedule your trip for another day or provide a full refund. We will keep you informed about weather conditions leading up to your trip. How do I book a fishing trip with Coral Sea Charters?Booking a trip is easy! You can contact us via phone or email to check availability and secure your reservation. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get the preferred date and time. When is your peak season, and what drives demand?Our peak season runs from December through July, with the highest demand around the holidays and spring break when anglers are eager to book Florida Keys fishing charters. Offshore enthusiasts are also drawn by mahi-mahi season, which starts in April and lasts through October, offering some of the best sportfishing action in the Keys. Do you offer specialty or year-round trips unique to the area?Absolutely! We offer 4- to 6-hour offshore fishing trips year-round, featuring specialty adventures like deep drop fishing and seasonal highlights. Each trip is designed to showcase the best of the Florida Keys, giving anglers a chance to target a variety of species while experiencing the region’s unique marine environment.

DEPOSIT: A deposit is required for all bookings and will be applied at checkout&nbsp;BALANCE: The remaining balance is due on the trip date as either Credit or Cash.

GUEST CANCELLATION:&nbsp;In the event that you must cancel your booking, you must do so 14 days prior to your trip date to receive a refund on your deposit. Rescheduling is encouraged and dependent on guide availability.

GUIDE CANCELLATION: In the rare event that your guide must cancel due to inclement weather, health, or equipment issues, you will have the option to reschedule your charter for a later date or receive a refund on your deposit.

TIPPING: Tips to your guide are greatly appreciated for your quality trip.

Whale Harbor Fishing Report on 4th May, 2025

AUTHOR

Joe Snyder

NOTES

Catching mahimahi in Florida

Whale Harbor

STATS

CATCHES

18 Total Catches

Total catches18

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Catch - 18

Coral Sea Charters Available Trips

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