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World-Class 5-Hour Fishing Charters in Cudjoe Key

  • Published Date: July 17, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Cudjoe Key
  • $600 - $750 price range
  • Updated Date: September 1, 2025

Summary

Ready for a mix of fishing and island fun? Our 5-hour trip from Cudjoe Key has it all. We'll start with some quality fishing – you can try catch-and-release in the Gulf, hit the reefs on the Atlantic side, or troll for Dolphin. If you're into underwater views, we'll take you snorkeling at spots like Looe Key or in the Gulf. And don't forget the island hopping – we'll cruise to beautiful places like Sawyer Key, Content Keys, and Tarpon Belly. It's a perfect blend of action and relaxation on the water. With room for 6 guests, you can bring along friends or family for a day of Florida Keys adventure. Whether you're after a big catch or just want to explore, our local knowledge will help you make the most of your time on the water. Get ready for a real taste of the Keys – fishing, snorkeling, and island life all rolled into one great trip.
World-Class 5-Hour Fishing Charters in Cudjoe Key

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Island Hopping & Fishing Adventure in Cudjoe Key

Get ready for the ultimate Florida Keys experience! Our 5-hour trip packs in the best of Cudjoe Key - from reeling in trophy fish to snorkeling crystal-clear waters and kicking back on pristine sandbars. Whether you're an angling pro or just looking to soak up some sun, we've got you covered. Hop aboard and let's make some waves!

Your Half-Day Escape

Picture this: You're cruising the turquoise waters off Cudjoe Key, rod in hand, with the warm Florida sun on your face. Our half-day trip gives you the freedom to customize your perfect day on the water. Want to try your luck at some Gulf-side catch-and-release action? No problem. Keen to troll for mahi-mahi in the deep blue? We've got you. And when you're ready to cool off, we'll zip over to some of the best snorkel spots in the Keys. With room for up to 6 guests, it's the perfect way to spend quality time with family and friends while experiencing the best of the Florida Keys.

Fishing, Snorkeling, and Island Vibes

On this trip, we're all about variety. We'll start by wetting a line - maybe on the Gulf side for some laid-back catch-and-release fun, or we can head to the Atlantic side if you're after some serious reef fishing action. Our captain knows all the honey holes where the big ones lurk. When it's time to switch gears, we'll break out the snorkel gear. Looe Key is a favorite spot, with its vibrant coral gardens and schools of tropical fish. If the conditions are right, we might even hit some lesser-known Gulf spots where you can float above patches of seagrass and maybe spot a sea turtle or two. And let's not forget the island hopping! We'll cruise by spots like Sawyer Key and the Content Keys, where you can stretch your legs on powdery sand beaches and soak in those postcard-perfect views.

What's Biting in Cudjoe Key

Cudjoe Key is a fisherman's paradise, and we've got the inside scoop on what's running. Red grouper are always a favorite - these bottom-dwellers put up a great fight and make for some mighty fine eating. If you're lucky, we might hook into some mahi-mahi (or dolphinfish, as we call 'em). These acrobatic fish are known for their spectacular jumps and beautiful colors. Mutton snapper are another prized catch, especially if you're looking to fill the cooler. And for the serious anglers, there's always the chance of tangling with a hefty black grouper. No matter what's on the end of your line, our crew will be right there to help you land that trophy catch.

Underwater Wonders

When it's time to trade the rod for a snorkel, you're in for a treat. The waters around Cudjoe Key are teeming with marine life. At Looe Key, you'll float above stunning coral formations, watching parrotfish nibble at the reef and maybe spotting a curious barracuda cruising by. In the Gulf, it's a different world - vast seagrass meadows where you might see stingrays gliding along the bottom or even a manatee if you're really lucky. Don't worry if you're new to snorkeling - our crew will make sure you're comfortable and equipped with all the gear you need for an amazing underwater experience.

Island Time, Florida Style

No trip to the Keys is complete without some island hopping. We'll cruise by some of the area's most beautiful and secluded spots. Sawyer Key is a favorite - this little slice of paradise is perfect for beachcombing and birdwatching. The Content Keys offer up some of the most pristine sandbars you'll ever see - ideal for a refreshing dip or just lounging in the shallows. And if the tides are right, we might even swing by Tarpon Belly Key, where you can walk the flats and maybe spot some of the Keys' famous tarpon rolling in the distance. It's the kind of laid-back island vibe that the Florida Keys are famous for.

Gearing Up for Adventure

Don't sweat the equipment - we've got you covered with top-notch gear for both fishing and snorkeling. Our boat is fully rigged with quality rods, reels, and tackle to handle whatever's biting. For the snorkeling portion, we provide masks, snorkels, and fins in a range of sizes. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure, some sunscreen, and maybe a light jacket if you tend to get chilly on the water. Oh, and don't forget your camera - you'll want to capture those epic fish pics and dreamy island views!

Target Species Breakdown

Red Grouper: These tasty bottom-dwellers are a staple of Florida Keys fishing. They love to hang around rocky areas and reefs, using their powerful jaws to ambush prey. Red grouper can grow up to 50 pounds, though most catches are in the 5-15 pound range. They're known for their tenacious fight once hooked, often trying to dive back into their rocky lairs. The best time to target them is during the cooler months, from October through April.

Mahi Mahi (Dolphinfish): One of the most exciting fish to catch, mahi mahi are known for their acrobatic leaps and stunning colors. These fast-growing fish can reach up to 30 pounds in our waters. Look for them around floating debris or weedlines, where they hunt for smaller fish. Mahi mahi are most abundant from April to September, making them a perfect summer target. Their firm, white meat is also delicious, making them a favorite for both sport and table fare.

Mutton Snapper: These beautiful fish are prized for both their fight and their flavor. Mutton snapper are often found around reefs and rocky areas, using their keen eyesight to hunt for crustaceans and smaller fish. They can grow up to 30 pounds, with most catches in the 5-15 pound range. Mutton snapper are available year-round, but the peak season is from May to August during their spawning period. They're known for their initial powerful run when hooked, followed by a dogged battle all the way to the boat.

Black Grouper: The heavyweight champion of our local grouper species, black grouper can grow to over 100 pounds. These monsters are found in deeper waters around reefs and rocky structures. They're ambush predators, using their large mouths to inhale prey whole. Catching a big black grouper is a true test of an angler's skill and strength. The best time to target them is from December to May. While they're not as common as their red cousins, landing a big black grouper is an unforgettable experience that'll have you coming back for more.

Book Your Cudjoe Key Adventure

Ready to experience the best of the Florida Keys in one action-packed trip? Our half-day island hopping and fishing adventure in Cudjoe Key is calling your name. Whether you're looking to reel in that trophy catch, explore vibrant underwater worlds, or just soak up some sun on pristine beaches, we've got you covered. With our experienced crew, top-notch equipment, and insider knowledge of the best spots, you're in for a day you'll never forget. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait! Give us a call or book online today, and get ready to create some lasting memories in paradise. See you on the water!

Learn more about the animals

Black Grouper

Black Grouper are bruisers that'll test your tackle. They average 20-40 pounds but can top 100 pounds. Look for them around reefs and ledges in 60-250 feet of water. These olive-colored fish with dark blotches are ambush predators, so they hang tight to structure. Winter and spring are prime seasons when they move shallower to spawn. Black Grouper are favorites for their tough fights and tasty white meat. Use heavy gear - 80-pound braid and a sturdy rod. Drop live bait or large jigs right into their lairs. When you feel that thump, reel fast and pull hard to get them away from the rocks. A local tip: if you're getting nibbled by smaller fish, switch to a bigger bait - Black Grouper won't hesitate to gulp down a large offering. Landing one of these monsters is always a highlight of any trip.

Black Grouper

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Mahi Mahi are fast-swimming, acrobatic fish that put on a great show. They average 15-30 pounds but can reach over 80 pounds. Look for them near floating debris or weed lines in open water. These colorful fish change hues dramatically when excited. Spring through fall is prime Mahi season here. They're popular for their hard fights and delicious meat. To catch them, troll rigged ballyhoo or artificial lures near the surface. Once you hook one, keep the boat moving - Mahi often travel in schools, so you may land multiple fish. A local tip: when you see frigate birds working an area, there's a good chance Mahi are below. These fish are a blast to catch and make for some of the best eating around. Their firm white meat is versatile for grilling, frying, or searing.

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Mutton Snapper

Mutton Snapper are prized for their fight and excellent taste. They usually run 5-15 pounds but can reach over 30 pounds. You'll find them near reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottoms in 30-120 foot depths. Look for their olive coloration with blue lines near the eyes. Spring and early summer are peak seasons when they gather to spawn. Muttons are smart fish - use light tackle and fresh bait like pilchards or squid. A stealthy approach is key. Try a knocker rig or jig to keep your bait near the bottom. Chumming can bring them up in shallower water too. Once hooked, be ready for a strong initial run. Muttons make great eating with their sweet, white meat. A local trick: when you see that flash of pink coming up, you know you've got a good one on the line.

Mutton Snapper

Red Grouper

Red Grouper are bottom-dwellers you'll find around reefs and wrecks, typically in 60-250 feet of water. These fish average 5-10 pounds but can reach up to 50 pounds. They're known for their rusty red color and white spots. Red Grouper put up a good fight and make excellent table fare with their sweet, mild flavor. Best fishing is year-round, but they're especially active in warmer months. Use heavy tackle and drop your bait right to the bottom - live pinfish or cut bait works well. Watch for their quick, powerful strike and be ready to reel fast to keep them from diving back into structure. A local trick is to use a knocker rig with a sliding sinker to detect those subtle bites. Red Grouper are a blast to catch and even better to eat, so they're always a favorite target on our trips.

Red Grouper

About the Center Console

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 150

Ready for an action-packed day on the water? Our 5-hour trip from Cudjoe Key packs in fishing, snorkeling, and island hopping all in one go. Whether you're itching to cast a line, explore underwater reefs, or soak up the sun on pristine sandbars, we've got you covered. Try your luck catch-and-release fishing in the Gulf, reel in some reef dwellers on the Atlantic side, or troll for Dolphin if you're feeling lucky. Snorkel enthusiasts can dive into the colorful world of Looe Key or check out the Gulf's aquatic life. We'll also cruise to picture-perfect spots like Sawyer Key, Content Keys, and Tarpon Belly for some island vibes. With room for 6, gather your crew and get ready for a day filled with Florida Keys highlights. From fishing fanatics to beach bums, there's something for everyone on this aquatic adventure around Cudjoe Key.
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Salty Paradise Charters, where Captain Alison Hinton invites you to embark on unforgettable aquatic adventures in the pristine waters of Cudjoe Key, Florida. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the ocean with our expertly guided charters, tailored to create lasting memories. From Snorkeling to Sandbar Trips and fishing Charters- explore the wonders of the Florida Keys with Salty Paradise Charters—your gateway to the ultimate maritime experience

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