Key West: Deep Sea Fishing Charter & Offshore Big Fish

Summary

Key West offshore fishing charter for big game catches

You’ll head out from Key West on a full-day deep sea fishing charter with Captain Russ, chasing big fish like Marlin, Tuna, and Mahi Mahi up to 18 miles offshore. Enjoy the comfort of a spacious boat with AC and private restrooms while learning tricks from a true local pro—plus bottled water to keep you going when things heat up.

What’s the experience like?

"You ever seen a Marlin up close?" That’s how Captain Russ started things as we climbed onto his boat in Key West. I just laughed because honestly, I hadn’t even pictured what we’d catch—just wanted to get out on the water. The sun was barely up but already warm, and you could smell salt and diesel mixed together while Russ checked the lines. He’s been doing this for decades, so I figured we were in good hands (he called me “kid,” which cracked me up since I’m almost forty).

The Corsair 2 isn’t some cramped little thing—it’s a 50-foot Hatteras with two restrooms and air conditioning that actually works (I hid there for a bit when the heat got real). We went out maybe an hour before the land disappeared behind us. Russ pointed out birds circling over the waves—said that’s where the Mahi Mahi like to hang out. I tried to say “dorado” like he did but probably butchered it; he just grinned and handed me a rod. There was this weird quiet for a second before the reel started screaming, and suddenly everyone was shouting directions at once.

I didn’t expect how heavy those fish would feel or how your arms burn after just a few minutes. At one point, my friend dropped her sandwich because she thought she had a bite—false alarm, but we all laughed anyway. The ocean out there is this deep blue you don’t really see near shore, almost too much color to take in at once. We fished for tuna and snapper too, but it was seeing a sailfish flash silver under the surface that stuck with me. Still think about that moment sometimes when I smell saltwater.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day deep sea fishing trip

• Board Corsair 2 Sportfishing boat
• Fish up to 18 miles offshore
• Target Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Sailfish
• Try catching Marlin, Snapper, Grouper
• Enjoy boat amenities and comfort

Top questions

How far offshore does this Key West deep sea fishing trip go?

The charter goes up to 18 miles offshore from Key West.

What kind of fish can you catch on this trip?

You can target Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Grouper, and more.

Is bottled water included on the fishing charter?

Yes, bottled water is provided during your day at sea.

How many people can fish at once on this boat?

The boat can accommodate up to six anglers fishing at the same time.

Does the boat have restrooms?

Yes, there are two private restrooms onboard.

Is this trip suitable for kids or people with limited mobility?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; suitable for all fitness levels.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this fishing charter.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the departure point in Key West.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water throughout your time at sea plus access to two private restrooms onboard; you’ll be guided by Captain Russ who brings over three decades of local experience as you fish up to 18 miles off Key West for big game species like Marlin and Tuna—all from a comfortable 50-foot Hatteras equipped with AC and plenty of space to relax between bites.