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World-Class Reef Fishing in Key Biscayne
- Published Date: October 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Key Biscayne, FL
- $500 - $1,150 price range
Summary
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Reeling in the Big Ones
Finding happiness one deep drop at a time.
Clear water, screaming reels, great Key Biscayne fishing.
Trade your office for this view and a rod.
Reeling in memories with Island Time Charters.
Sun, sea, and Sailfish near Key Biscayne.
Hooked on the Key Biscayne deep sea life.
Another trophy catch on Island Time Charters.
Epic offshore action from Key Biscayne harbor.
Fishing adventures start at Crandon Park Marina.
The Kingfish are running right now, Key Biscayne!
Finding happiness one deep drop at a time.
Clear water, screaming reels, great Key Biscayne fishing.
Trade your office for this view and a rod.
Reeling in memories with Island Time Charters.
Sun, sea, and Sailfish near Key Biscayne.
Hooked on the Key Biscayne deep sea life.
Another trophy catch on Island Time Charters.
Epic offshore action from Key Biscayne harbor.
Fishing adventures start at Crandon Park Marina.
The Kingfish are running right now, Key Biscayne!
Finding happiness one deep drop at a time.
Clear water, screaming reels, great Key Biscayne fishing.
Trade your office for this view and a rod.
Reeling in memories with Island Time Charters.
Full Day Reef Fishing in Key Biscayne
Ready for a real Florida fishing adventure? Captain Jesus Castell's got you covered with this 6-hour guided reef fishing trip off Key Biscayne. You and up to five buddies will hop aboard a 31-footer for a day of hauling in some of the Atlantic's most prized catches. We're talking bull sharks, cobia, king mackerel, mutton snapper - the works. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's hit the water!
What to Expect on the Water
As soon as we push off from Key Biscayne, you'll feel that salt air and know you're in for a treat. Captain Jesus knows these waters like the back of his hand, so he'll have us on the fish in no time. We'll be using a mix of techniques - trolling, drifting, jigging, bottom fishing - whatever it takes to get those reels screaming. Don't worry if you're new to this; the captain and crew will show you the ropes. And when you land that first big one? Trust me, you'll be hooked for life. We provide all the gear and live bait, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a cold drink or two).
Fishing Know-How & Gear
On this trip, we're not messing around with wimpy tackle. We're using heavy-duty rods and reels that can handle anything from a feisty mackerel to a bulldogging shark. For bottom fishing, we'll drop down some chunky baits on circle hooks - perfect for nabbing those tasty snappers. When we're trolling for kings or cobia, we'll be using live bait or lures that mimic their favorite snacks. And if we spot some sharks, hold onto your hats! We might break out the big guns and see if we can't tangle with a monster. Don't sweat it if you're not up on all the techniques; Captain Jesus will walk you through everything. By the end of the day, you'll be jigging and bottom fishing like a pro.
Top Catches This Season
Key Biscayne's waters are teeming with game fish, and we've got our sights set on some real beauties. King mackerel are always a blast - these speedsters can make a reel sing like nothing else. Cobia are another favorite; they fight like crazy and taste even better. For the thrill-seekers, we've got bull and lemon sharks. These bruisers will test your strength and make for one heck of a photo op. And let's not forget about the mutton snapper - these tasty bottom-dwellers are prized for their firm, white meat. No matter what we're after, you can bet it'll be a fight to remember.
Species You'll Want to Hook
King Mackerel: These silver bullets are the speedsters of the sea. They can hit 60 mph when they're chasing bait, which makes for some heart-pounding action when one slams your line. Kings love to hang around reefs and wrecks, and we usually find them in the 15-30 pound range. But hook into a big smoker king, and you might be looking at a 50-pounder! They're at their best in the fall and spring, but we can catch them year-round in these parts.
Cobia: Pound for pound, cobia are some of the hardest-fighting fish in these waters. They're curious critters, often following boats or even sharks, which is why we always keep a rod ready for sight-casting. These brown battlers can grow up to 100 pounds, but even a 30-pounder will give you a run for your money. Cobia love structure, so we'll be hitting reefs and wrecks to find them. They're most common in the warmer months, but you never know when one might show up.
Lemon Shark: Don't let the name fool you - there's nothing sour about hooking into one of these bad boys. Lemon sharks are known for their yellowish-brown color and can grow up to 10 feet long. They're common in the shallow waters around Key Biscayne, especially in the warmer months. These sharks put up a heck of a fight, and catching and releasing one is always a thrill. Just remember, we practice catch-and-release with all our sharks to keep the population healthy.
Bull Shark: If you're after a real test of strength, bull sharks are your ticket. These powerful predators are stocky and can reach up to 11 feet in length. They're not picky eaters, which makes them fun to target. We find them year-round in these waters, but they're especially active in the summer. Landing a bull shark is a real accomplishment - they're known for their aggressive runs and stubborn fights. It's catch-and-release for these big guys, but the photos and bragging rights are all yours to keep.
Mutton Snapper: For those who like their fishing with a side of good eating, mutton snapper is hard to beat. These beautiful red and yellow fish are prized for their sweet, white meat. They're crafty bottom-dwellers, often found around reefs and rocky areas. Muttons can grow up to 30 pounds, but even the smaller ones put up a great fight on light tackle. We catch them year-round, but spring is prime time when they gather to spawn. If you're lucky enough to land a keeper, you're in for some of the best fish tacos of your life.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Folks, I've been running charters in these waters for years, and I can tell you, there's something special about fishing off Key Biscayne. Maybe it's the way the Miami skyline fades into the distance as we head out to the fishing grounds. Or perhaps it's that moment when a big king mackerel skyrockets on your bait, sending spray everywhere. Whatever it is, it keeps anglers coming back for more. And let's not forget the variety - one minute you're battling a hard-fighting snapper, the next you're locked in a tug-of-war with a shark. It's non-stop action, and every trip is different. Plus, there's nothing like coming back to the dock with a cooler full of fresh fish and a camera full of memories.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, let's cut to the chase - if you're itching for some world-class reef fishing, this is your ticket. Captain Jesus and the Island Time Charters crew are ready to show you the best Key Biscayne has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got you covered. We'll provide all the gear, the know-how, and the hot spots. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a lucky hat). Remember, we can take up to six people, so grab your fishing buddies or bring the family for a day you won't forget. The fish are biting, the sun is shining, and the boat is ready. What are you waiting for? Let's get you on the water and into some fish!
Learn more about the species
Bull Shark
Bull Sharks are the heavyweights of our local shark scene, packing a punch at 200-300 pounds and stretching 8-10 feet long. These aggressive predators love warm, shallow waters and can even swim up into freshwater. You'll find them cruising our coastal areas year-round, but summer's when they're most active. Anglers target Bulls for the pure adrenaline rush - these sharks are known for their power and tenacity. When you hook one, be ready for a serious battle. To up your odds, use fresh, oily bait like mackerel or bonito. Chum the water to get them interested, then float your bait back in the slick. Here's a local secret: freshwater eel is bull shark candy. Its high oil content and tough skin make it irresistible and hard for smaller fish to steal. Just remember, these aren't catch-and-keep fish - we practice catch and release to keep our waters healthy.
Cobia
Cobia are bruisers that'll test your tackle and your stamina. These powerful fish average 30-50 pounds but can top 100. Look for them around structure like reefs, wrecks, and buoys in 30-70 feet of water. Spring and early summer is prime time as they migrate along the coast. Cobia are curious fish - they'll often investigate boats or even follow sharks, so keep your eyes peeled. Anglers love 'em for their hard-fighting spirit and excellent table fare. To target cobia, sight-fishing is the name of the game. Scan the surface for their distinctive shark-like profile. When you spot one, toss a live eel or a big bucktail jig their way. Let it sink, then retrieve with sharp jerks. Cobia can be finicky, so be ready to switch up your presentation if they're not biting. Once hooked, be prepared for some serious pulling - these fish don't give up easy!
King Mackerel
King Mackerel are lightning-fast predators that'll give you a real run for your money. These sleek fish typically weigh 20-30 pounds, but the big ones can top 90. You'll find them cruising in waters 40-150 feet deep, often near reefs or structures. Late spring through fall is prime time, when they follow bait schools up the coast. Anglers love 'em for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics - hook one and hang on! They're also great eating, with firm, flavorful meat. To up your odds, try slow-trolling live bait like blue runners or mullet. Keep an eye out for birds working the surface - that's a good sign Kings are feeding below. When you get a hit, let 'em run a bit before setting the hook hard. These toothy critters can slice through lighter leaders, so 40-pound fluorocarbon is a good bet.
Lemon Shark
Lemon Sharks are a common sight in our shallow coastal waters, usually hanging out in depths under 100 feet. These yellowish-brown predators typically run 8-10 feet long and pack a lot of power. Spring and summer are great times to target them, especially around mangroves and sandy flats where they hunt. Anglers love the thrill of battling these toothy giants - it's a real test of strength and endurance. Plus, there's something special about seeing that massive dorsal fin cut through the water. To hook up, fresh bait is key. Mullet, jack, or bonito chunks work well. Use a sturdy wire leader and circle hooks to improve your chances. Here's a local tip: chum the water to get them interested, then float your bait back in the slick. When you feel that telltale weight, hold on tight and get ready for a fight you won't soon forget!
Mutton Snapper
Mutton Snapper are the prize catch of our local reefs, known for their fight and fantastic flavor. These olive-colored beauties usually run 5-15 pounds, but the big ones can hit 30. You'll find them around rocky bottoms and coral reefs in 80-300 feet of water. Spring and early summer are prime times, especially during the full moon when they gather to spawn. Anglers love Muttons for their stubborn fights and their reputation as one of the best-tasting fish in the sea. To target them, fresh bait is crucial - try live pilchards or cut ballyhoo. Use a light sinker to let your bait drift naturally. Here's a local trick: chum heavily to get them feeding, then float a bait back in the slick. When you feel that telltale thump, give 'em a second before setting the hook. Once hooked, be ready for a tough battle - Muttons love to dive for cover, so you'll need to muscle them away from the reef.
About the Island time charters of Miami
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 300
