Spring Break Fishing in the Florida Keys — A Comprehensive Report

Last Updated on February 13, 2026 by Boatsetter Team

As the Spring Break season approaches, the Florida Keys stand out as a top destination for fishing enthusiasts and vacation-goers alike. With the Key West International Airport welcoming over 1 million visitors in 2025, and with over 40% of visitors fishing during their trip, the Keys’ angling appeal continues to be a cornerstone of its tourism economy. 

Between March and April, anglers from across the U.S. venture to The Keys to enjoy these subtropical waters, not just for trophy catches but also to compete in a packed calendar of high-profile tournaments. Some of the top fishing tournaments ongoing during the Spring Break season include Key West’s March Merkin Invitational Permit Tournament in early March, the Sailfish Tournament later that month, and the Spanish Fly Shark Tournament kicking off in early April. This blend of relaxed sport fishing, record-setting billfish challenges, and vibrant saltwater competition makes the Florida Keys one of the most sought-after spring break fishing destinations in the United States.

Most Popular Spots in the Florida Keys for Fishing

Key Largo

Key Largo, while more famously known for scuba diving in the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, still holds status as a popular fishing destination. Thanks to its unique position between the Everglades and the Atlantic Ocean’s Gulf Stream, its waters are a “gateway,” providing access to over 200 species of gamefish. Here you can target the “Big Three” of flats fishing: tarpon, permit, and bonefish, to secure a saltwater grand slam. 

Want a deep-sea catch? Just a 5 mile journey offshore will provide access to trophy giants like sailfish, mahi-mahi, and wahoo. 

 

Islamorada 

Often called the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” Islamorada’s status is backed by its strategic location and range of species that inhabit its waters. It is one of the few places on Earth where an angler can catch a deep-sea pelagic like a Sailfish in the morning, and a backcountry Tarpon in the afternoon. The variety of fish available is thanks to its location; Islamorada sits where the nutrient-rich Florida Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, a convergence zone that supports over 600 species of fish. After one fishing trip here, it’s easy to see why the area holds more IGFA world records than any other destination. 

Economically, the impact is massive; recreational fishing in the Florida Keys supports roughly 120,000 jobs and generates over $13 billion in annual revenue, with Islamorada serving as the densest hub for professional fishing charters in the region.

Marathon 

Marathon serves as a location in the middle of the Florida Keys that provides arguably the most efficient access to both Atlantic and Gulf fisheries. A defining landmark and contributor to fishing success in Marathon is the Seven Mile Bridge, a massive structural magnet for the world’s most concentrated spring Tarpon migration. The bridge creates tidal currents that are like a conveyor belt of nutrients, triggering legendary feeding frenzies. Just 27 miles offshore sits the Marathon Hump, an underwater mountain that rises from 1,100 feet to within 480 feet of the surface. This massive displacement of current forces baitfish upward, creating a year-round “dinner table” for Blackfin Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, and Billfish. 

 

Additionally, Marathon’s location allows boats to reach 250-foot depths just 10 miles from shore, significantly reducing travel time for deep-sea charters, and maximizing “lines-in” time compared to more northern mainland departures.

 

Big Pine Key

Big Pine Key is a top fishing destination in the Florida Keys thanks to its access to shallow flats, mangrove shorelines, and nearby reef systems, all within minutes of each other. The area is especially known for backcountry and flats fishing, where anglers regularly target bonefish, permit, tarpon, snapper, and redfish in clear, calm waters. Sitting between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean creates productive fishing grounds year-round, while lower boat traffic compared to Key West makes it ideal for anglers seeking less crowded, high-quality fishing conditions.

Key West

Key West is one of the best fishing destinations in the Florida Keys due to its immediate access to deep offshore waters, productive reef systems, and flats, all within a short boat ride. Anglers can target mahi-mahi, tuna, sailfish, and marlin offshore, while reefs and wrecks offer excellent snapper and grouper fishing. The area is also famous for tarpon fishing, particularly during peak migration season in spring and early summer, making Key West a year-round hotspot for both sportfishing and charter fishing.

 

Fishing Trip Data & Facts 2026

Fishing trips have surged in popularity, with demand for center console rentals and fishing charters climbing 32% year-over-year, and interest is only growing in 2026. 

Fishing is a wonderful way to unplug with friends and enjoy an activity that goes beyond cruising and sunbathing on a boat, and instead learning about local ecosystems, fine-tuning a skill, and making a brag-worthy catch that you can even enjoy for dinner later. 

A fishing trip doesn’t have to break the bank, either. According to Boatsetter data, the average cost of a 4-hour trip is around $650, which when split between a group, can even out to an affordable, fun way to spend time together. Most bookings for fishing trips come from renters in their 40s, but this is changing as Gen Z is shifting the demand for these types of experience for younger audiences.

Boatsetter’s Most Popular Fishing Charters in the Keys 

First time fishing the Florida Keys, or not sure where to start? These popular fishing charters with local captains and guides will help you get on the water to make that catch in 2026. 

 

#1 Islamorada Flats Fishing with Captain Mike

This charter is Florida Backcountry fishing at its finest. This boat is a Hells Bay Boatworks flats skiff powered by a Mercury XS-Pro Outboard motor; well-equipped for fly or light tackle fishing. Prices start at $500 for a 4-hour charter for 2 anglers onboard.  

Catch Bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, redfish, and more on shallow flats in protected waters and wilderness areas. Whether you are an expert or novice, you will find some of the best fishing and backcountry waters around with Captain Mike. 

The charter provides a fishing license, tackle, a cooler full of ice, bad jokes, and all the necessary Coast Guard equipment for a full day on the water. If you have a favorite rod bring it and if it is adequate for the job we will rig it. Bring polarized sunglasses for sight fishing to reduce glare. 

 

#2 — Fishing Charters in Key West with Captain Mike

Charters on this Compass Rose offer great stability and more fishing room than other boats her size. Powered with 700hp, running fast but smooth to get easy access to the best fishing spots. This boat can comfortably accommodate 6 anglers, with prices starting at $1,050 for a 4-hour charter. Bait and licenses are provided and you’re welcome to bring your own well-stocked cooler.

 

#3 – Fishing Charters in Marathon with Captain Joel

Captain Joel offers year-round fishing excursions with a fleet of boats, including this 45’ Hatteras and this 35’ Carolina Skiff Sea Chaser. A native Floridian and longtime resident of Marathon and the Florida Keys, Captain Joel has spent decades fishing and hunting across the globe, and he brings his expertise to his charters in Marathon, the home of the best fishing adventures in the world. 

With extensive local knowledge of reef, wreck, and offshore fisheries, each charter is fully customized to match the experience level and goals of the group. Prices start at $1,295 for a 4-hour charter, and he can take up to 6 anglers onboard. 

 

#4 – Fishing Charters with Captain Antonio in Key West

Fish the legendary waters of Key West with Captain Antonio, a born and raised local who has spent his life chasing fish in the Florida Keys. With decades of experience and intimate knowledge of these waters, Captain Antonio and his crew know exactly where to go to find the action, whether it’s shallow backcountry flats or offshore bluewater grounds.

Antonio’s fleet includes this 27 foot SeaVee center console and this 35’ Lurs Sportfishing Yacht. His charters come fully equipped with modern GPS, sonar, and safety gear, and with prices starting at $700 for a 4-hour excursion. 

Choose your adventure based on your fishing preferences — inshore and reef trips targeting snapper, grouper, kingfish, cobia, and tarpon or offshore for mahi mahi, sailfish, tuna, wahoo, and barracuda.

All trips include premium rods, reels, bait, tackle, fishing licenses, bottled water, and complimentary fish cleaning and bagging at the dock. Just bring your favorite snacks or drinks, queue up your playlist, and get ready for a day of tight lines and nonstop action.

 

#5 — Sanctuary Fishing Charters in Key West with Michelle

The Sanctuary is a 47’ premium offshore machine. Built for serious fishing and all-day comfort, with onboard air conditioning for your comfort on a full-day trip. This is a game changer for older anglers or families going fishing with their kids. Cooling off from the hot Florida sun is essential on a day of serious fishing. 

The boat offers a 130-lb fighting chair that is tournament-grade, ready for your epic battle with a marlin. Live-bait wells keep your baits swimming. Outriggers spread your lines wide. Everything on this boat is designed to hook trophy marlin and sailfish. These billfish fight hard and look amazing. They’re bucket-list catches.

Prices start at $1,150 for a 4-hour charter, but this boat is truly built for the long haul, 8, 10, or 12-hour days of fishing. Take up to 6 anglers onboard and have an unforgettable day of fishing in Key West. 

The Top Fish Species to Catch in the Keys 

In the Florida Keys, March and April serve as a “transition” window where winter staples overlap with arriving spring migrations, offering some of the best fishing action of the year. For those looking to fill the cooler, Mahi-Mahi begin their spring push into the blue water during April, drawn in by warming 75°F+ temperatures and the formation of sargassum weed lines. Meanwhile, the reefs become inundated with Yellowtail and Mangrove Snapper, which become increasingly aggressive as they prepare for summer spawns; these months are ideal because the receding cold fronts leave behind clear, high-energy water that keeps them feeding actively. 

While Grouper (such as Black and Red) are fantastic table fare, it is important to note that the Atlantic season is generally closed for harvest until May 1st to protect spawning aggregations, making March and April the “home stretch” for catch-and-release sport before they move into shallower waters.

For sportfishing enthusiasts, this period is legendary:

• Tarpon: The “Silver King” begins its massive spring migration in mid-March as water temperatures climb, making the bridges and backcountry channels a world-class arena.
• Bonefish & Permit: These “gray ghosts” and “flat-stones” flood the shallow flats in March to forage in the warming sun, providing peak sight-fishing opportunities.
• Sailfish & Blackfin Tuna: March is often the last “hurrah” for the winter Sailfish run, while April marks a significant uptick in Blackfin Tuna activity, particularly around offshore wrecks and shrimp boats.
• Mutton Snapper: Key West earns its title as the Mutton Snapper capital of the world during this time because the larger “winter” fish are still holding on the reefs while the local population begins moving into shallower depths—averaging a hefty 8 to 15 pounds—just before their massive May/June spawn.

Florida Keys Fishing FAQs

Where is the best fishing in the Florida Keys?

The best fishing in the Florida Keys is found around Key West, Islamorada, Marathon, and Big Pine Key. Islamorada is widely known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” offering excellent offshore, reef, and backcountry fishing, while Key West is popular for deep-sea fishing and tarpon. The Keys’ mix of flats, reefs, and open ocean supports year-round fishing for species like snapper, grouper, mahi-mahi, tarpon, and bonefish.

Why is spearfishing illegal in the Florida Keys?

Spearfishing is restricted or illegal in parts of the Florida Keys to protect coral reefs, marine habitats, and vulnerable fish populations. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary prohibits spearfishing in many protected zones, including coral reefs and nearshore areas, to reduce damage to reef ecosystems and prevent overfishing. Some areas allow limited spearfishing, but strict regulations apply.

Do you need a fishing license in Florida?

Yes, most people need a fishing license in Florida to fish in either freshwater or saltwater. Florida residents and non-residents ages 16 and older are required to have a valid license unless fishing from a licensed pier, on a licensed charter boat, or during a designated free fishing day.

 

How much is a fishing license in Florida?

The cost of a Florida fishing license depends on residency and duration. For residents, a saltwater or freshwater license is typically $17, while a combination license is around $32. Non-resident licenses generally cost about $17 for 3 days, $30 for 7 days, and $47 for an annual saltwater license.

Prices may vary slightly based on add-ons and permits.