The End of 2023 of Charter Fishing in Key West Florida
Capt. Eric Evans
December 29, 2023
Key West - Saltwater Fishing Report
What a year it has been! Recapping this year, we have seen a lot of nice fish and have had many new anglers joining us. As the New Year approaches there are important dates to remember. January-April is known for the blackfin tuna, wahoo, sailfish, and king mackerel run in the Florida Keys. May 1 is the official start of grouper fishing season in Florida. During the opening of grouper season tilefish become available as well! May – October we have great opportunities to catch snapper, mahi, grouper, tilefish, marlin, and tarpon!
When looking for a charter fishing boat it is important to contact your guide. It is ok to have a conversation about what to expect and ask what the best option for the time of year might be when you plan on visiting. With fishing booking sites that offer multiple guides with quick book now options becoming a dime a dozen, it is important to remember that being on a boat with someone that does not fit can be grueling punishment even if you are having the best catching day.
Fishy Business has Gulf of Mexico federal Charter Permits. These permits are a game changer for charter fishing out of Key West. These permits open the door to fishing off the towers, shrimp boats, and federal gulf waters which are nine miles and greater from shore. There are more than 2,000 known wrecks in the Gulf of Mexico. Since the gulf is so flat any structure or break in sea bottom will hold the fish. Off the wrecks schools of cobia, tuna, snapper, mackerel, permit, jacks, and sharks patrol the area. It is understood this kind of activity creates an action-packed day! For the seasoned angler or the beginners who want to spend a full day on the water this is the trip for them.
We offer 4-hour and 6-hour trips as well. Many of our patrons are not diehard anglers but instead want to take in a great expierence and have a nice fresh catch lunch or dinner. It is common while taking a fishing tour to see dolphins, sea turtles, sting rays, and bird life. As a full time guide, I forget how fortunate I am to be able to see such sea life on a daily basis. It always comes back to me when on a charter, someone will light up and point out a dolphin or sea turtle and say that just made my trip. This is one of hundreds of spectacular things to see while fishing off Key West. Blue waters, reefs, lighthouses, sunsets, sunrises, can all be part of the expierence.
After 12 years running this business, I am proud to see people come back year after year and even month after month. The most common thing we all remember is the stories we have shared and the memories we have made. Yes, some are about the big ones that got away! I am looking forward to another wonderful year and making more memories with everyone that comes aboard!
Tight lines and sunny skies,
Eric Evans
305-731-5459
www.keywestfishcharter.com
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