World-Class 5-Hour Fishing Charters in Cudjoe Key

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Cudjoe Key
$600 - $750 price range

Summary

Get ready for a full day of adventure on the waters around Cudjoe Key! Our 5-hour charter offers a mix of fishing, snorkeling, and island exploration. You'll have options to fish the Gulf or Atlantic sides, trying your hand at catch-and-release or reef fishing. If you're feeling lucky, we can even troll for Dolphin. When it's time to cool off, we'll take you snorkeling at spots like Looe Key or in the Gulf, where you can check out the colorful marine life. We'll also cruise to some beautiful nearby islands - think Sawyer Key, Content Keys, or Tarpon Belly - perfect for a bit of exploring or just soaking up the sun. With room for up to 6 guests, it's a great way to spend a day with family or friends. Our local knowledge means we'll put you right where the action is, whether you're after big fish or just want to relax on a secluded beach. Join Salty Paradise Charters for a day that shows you the best of the Florida Keys.

World-Class 5-Hour Fishing Charters in Cudjoe Key

Hooked on the Keys

Reeling in big catches in Cudjoe Key!

Photograph of a white grunt fish caught during a fishing tour in Cudjoe Key

Cudjoe Key: Where fish tales begin

Angler holding 2 fish caught during fishing tour in Cudjoe Key

Catch of the day from Cudjoe Key waters!

Photograph of a Red Grouper fish caught in Cudjoe Key

Cudjoe Key fishing adventures await

5-Hour Cudjoe Key Adventure: Fish, Snorkel & Explore

Hey there, fellow water lovers! Ready for a day you won't forget on the crystal-clear waters of Cudjoe Key? Our 5-hour private charter is the perfect mix of fishing, snorkeling, and island hopping. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking to dip your toes in the water, we've got something for everyone. Let's dive into what makes this trip a must-do when you're in the Florida Keys!

Trip Overview

Picture this: You're cruising out of Cudjoe Key, the wind in your hair, and the endless blue horizon ahead. Our 5-hour trip is all about variety - we'll hit the best spots for fishing, snorkeling, and beach bumming. Want to try your luck at catching a monster grouper? We've got you covered. Prefer to float above vibrant coral reefs? No problem. Or maybe you just want to chill on a secluded sandbar? We can do that too. With a max of 6 guests, this trip is all about what YOU want to do. It's like having your own floating home base to explore the best of the Lower Keys.

What's on the Menu Today?

Here's where it gets fun - you get to pick your adventure! If you're itching to fish, we can head to the Gulf side for some catch-and-release action, or hit the Atlantic side for some serious reef fishing. Feeling lucky? We might troll for some speedy Mahi Mahi. For the underwater explorers, we'll zip over to Looe Key or some sweet Gulf spots where the water's so clear you'll think you're flying. And don't forget the island hopping - we'll check out local favorites like Sawyer Key, Content Keys, or Tarpon Belly. It's like a buffet of Florida Keys goodness, and you get to load up your plate!

Why Folks Keep Coming Back

Listen, I've been running these trips for years, and there's a reason people book with us again and again. It's not just about catching fish or seeing pretty coral (though we do plenty of that). It's about those moments - spotting a pod of dolphins playing in our wake, or the look on someone's face when they reel in their first grouper. It's the stories we swap, the laughs we share, and those quiet moments when you're just soaking in the beauty of the Keys. That's the real magic, and that's what keeps folks coming back year after year.

Fish You'll Want to Hook

Let's talk about the stars of the show - the fish! First up, we've got Red Grouper. These guys are the bulldogs of the reef, all muscle and attitude. They love to hang out in rocky areas and wrecks, and when they hit your line, you'll know it. Best time to catch 'em is in the cooler months, and trust me, there's nothing like the fight of a big grouper.

Next, we've got the Mahi Mahi, or as we call 'em, Dolphin. These are the acrobats of the ocean - they'll leap and dance once they're hooked. With their vibrant colors and tasty meat, they're a favorite for both catching and eating. We usually find them in the warmer months, and trolling for them is a blast.

Mutton Snapper is another local celebrity. These guys are smart and can be tricky to catch, which makes it all the more satisfying when you do. They're around all year, but really show up in force during their spring spawn. The fight is great, and the meat? Some of the best you'll ever taste.

Last but not least, we've got the Black Grouper. These are the heavyweights of the reef, and landing one is a real accomplishment. They're ambush predators, so we often find them lurking around structure. They're here year-round, but the bite can be especially good in the fall. When you hook into one of these bruisers, hold on tight!

Time to Get Salty!

Alright, folks, here's the deal - Cudjoe Key is a slice of paradise, and our 5-hour trip is the perfect way to sample all it has to offer. Whether you're chasing that trophy fish, wanting to explore underwater wonders, or just looking to soak up some sun on a pristine beach, we've got you covered. And remember, with only 6 spots available, these trips fill up fast. So what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and let's make some memories on the water. Book your trip now, and I'll see you at the dock!

Learn more about the species

Black Grouper

Black Grouper are some of the hardest-fighting fish in our waters. These brutes average 20-40 pounds but can top 100 pounds. Look for them around deep reefs and wrecks in 60-250 feet of water. They're ambush predators, so fishing near structure is key. Black Grouper are most active in cooler months, from fall through spring. Anglers love targeting them for their powerful runs and excellent table fare. Their firm white meat is mild and sweet. We typically use heavy tackle with large live baits or big jigs. Here's my top tip: When you hook one, reel like crazy to pull it away from the structure. If it gets back to its hole, you'll likely lose the fish and your gear. Landing a big Black Grouper is always a battle, but the reward is well worth the effort!

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Mahi Mahi, also called dolphinfish, are one of the most exciting gamefish we target. These colorful speedsters average 15-30 pounds but can reach over 60 pounds. We find them offshore near floating debris and weed lines, usually in 120-180 feet of water. Mahi are fast-growing and short-lived, so there's no bad season to catch them, but summer is prime time. They're known for acrobatic jumps and blistering runs when hooked. Light tackle and fly fishing are popular methods. Mahi make excellent eating too - the meat is firm with a mild, sweet flavor. For the best results, troll rigged ballyhoo or artificial lures near floating structure. My local tip: Keep an eye out for frigatebirds - they often lead us right to the fish. Once you hook up, leave your bait in the water. Mahi travel in schools, so you can often catch multiple fish from the same spot.

Mutton Snapper

Mutton Snapper are a favorite target for many anglers visiting Cudjoe Key. These tasty fish typically run 5-15 pounds but can reach over 30 pounds. You'll find them around reefs and rocky bottoms in 30-120 feet of water. Muttons are most active during summer months, especially around the full moon when they gather to spawn. They put up a good fight and are known for their delicious, firm white flesh. We often catch them while bottom fishing with live bait or cut bait. Muttons can be tricky - they're wary and have excellent eyesight. Use light leaders and small hooks for best results. Here's a local trick: Chum heavily to get them feeding, then float a bait back in your chum slick. Be patient and set the hook as soon as you feel weight on the line. Landing a big mutton is always a thrill!

Red Grouper

Red Grouper are a prized catch around Cudjoe Key. These hefty fish average 5-10 pounds but can reach up to 50 pounds. Look for them near reefs, ledges and wrecks in 10-300 feet of water. They're ambush predators, so dropping bait near structure is key. Red Grouper put up a tough fight when hooked - be ready for a battle! Their firm, white meat with a mild, sweet flavor makes them popular for the dinner table too. We target them year-round, but fishing is best from spring through fall when waters are warmer. Use heavy tackle and fresh bait like squid or small fish. My tip: When you feel that telltale thump, set the hook hard and start reeling immediately before they dive back into the rocks. It's an exciting catch that'll test your skills and reward you with a delicious meal.

About the Center Console

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 150

Get ready for an action-packed 5-hour adventure in the stunning waters around Cudjoe Key! We'll take you on a customized trip that combines the best of fishing, snorkeling, and island exploration. Whether you're in the mood for some catch-and-release action in the Gulf, reef fishing on the Atlantic side, or trolling for Dolphin, we've got you covered. Want to cool off? Dive into the colorful underwater world at Looe Key or in the Gulf. And don't miss the chance to hop between picturesque islands like Sawyer Key, Content Keys, and Tarpon Belly. With room for up to 6 guests, this trip offers something for everyone. Soak up the Florida sun, reel in some fish, and discover hidden island gems - all in one amazing day on the water. Join us for a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement in the beautiful Florida Keys!

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