The patch reefs, with a captain who knows them.
The patch reefs off Key West hold yellowtail snapper, grouper, permit, and when the mahi are running offshore, the captain knows the current lines that bring them close. Light-tackle fishing — spin and conventional gear — suitable for beginners and experienced anglers alike.
Private charter means no strangers, no shared rods, no schedule you didn’t agree to. Your group, the captain’s knowledge of where the fish are that morning, and time to move spots if the first isn’t producing.
Four hours covers two patch reef stops comfortably. Six and eight hours take you further and work more water. We don’t clean fish on board — the captain will point you to a local restaurant that does the cook-your-catch thing well.
The Practicals
What’s included. What to bring.
We provide
- USCG-licensed local captain
- All fishing tackle and rods
- Live bait and cut bait
- Fuel for the full charter
- Cooler with ice for the catch
- All marine safety equipment
- Ice, water, towels
- Perry Hotel pool access
You bring
- Florida saltwater fishing license (ask us about day licenses)
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Hat and layers for the breeze
- Food and drinks for the day
- Camera
How the day runs
A typical itinerary.
The captain running your fishing day.
What people who took this trip say.
"Mac and Captain Dustin were professional, went above and beyond to make me feel comfortable, and the charter was well worth the expense. Highly recommend."
"Seamless from the prep call to the boat. The lilypad was a big hit! 100% will do this again when we return."
Before you book.
Do I need a Florida fishing license?
Florida requires a saltwater fishing license to keep fish. We can arrange a group day license when you book — just ask. Cost is small and covers the whole group.
What fish can we expect?
Yellowtail snapper year-round, grouper, permit, jack crevalle. Mahi-mahi in spring and early summer. The captain checks reports the morning of and targets the best bet for that day.
Is this good for beginners?
Yes — the captain teaches. Most fishing guests have never done this before. Patch reef fishing is easy to learn quickly and the rods and bait are all covered.
Do you clean the fish?
We don’t clean or fillet on board. We’ll put the catch on ice and point you to a local restaurant that does the cook-your-catch service well.
What’s the difference between 4, 6, and 8 hours?
Four hours covers two reef spots — enough for a solid session. Six hours adds a third spot. Eight hours takes you to deeper structure or farther reefs and gives the most fishing time.