Ready for the Ultimate Key West Marlin Fishing Experience?
The Florida Keys is home to some of the most legendary fishing stories in the world, and there’s no greater legend than Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea. The tale of a man with nothing more than a boat and a length of line fighting one of the largest and strongest fish in the ocean, Hemingway’s short story captures the thrills, frustrations, and triumphs of deep sea fishing in the Keys. And the fish from the story, still swimming the Gulf today and a continuing source of legendary fishing battles, is the blue marlin.
If you’re looking to channel your inner Hemingway and do some Florida Keys marlin fishing, then you’ve found the right team with Fish Daily Charters. Our experienced crew draws on the latest gear and fishing practices, combined with good old-fashioned local knowledge, to bring you to where the big marlin are…fast!
Our vessel can accommodate up to six people, so friends and family can get in on the action. And our upfront pricing and flexible scheduling options mean that you know just what you’re getting, with no hidden fees or surcharges. Check out our pricing and chart options and find out which works best for you!
Deposits And Cancellations
A 20% deposit is taken when you book with us. If poor weather occurs, our captain will do his best to reschedule your trip or issue you a refund.
$1000+
- Duration: 4,6, or 8 Hours
- Passengers: Up to 6
- Start Time: Your choice! 6am - 4pm
- Equipment: All Provided
- Deposit: 20%
Deposit due today:
- 4 hour: $200
- 6 hour: $260
- 8 hour: $320
Marlin
Fishing Charter
Why Choose Our Marlin Fishing Charter?
The marlin is a seasonal visitor to our shallow warm waters, preferring the cold deep waters of the open ocean. Tracking them down and putting bait in front of them takes some skill, and that’s where our crew has you covered.
Our skipper, Captain John, draws on five generations of Key West local knowledge to read the signs and figure out not just where the marlin are, but where they’re going to be as well.
Our boat, the Heavy Hitter, is outfitted with the heavy-duty lines and gear needed to tackle these enormous and very strong fish, and our crew is versed in the safety procedures you’ll need when reeling in and handling them. With our guidance and your grit, you’ll be hooking monsters and coming home with a legendary fishing tale of your own!
About The Marlin
There are two species of marlin that visit the Keys: the larger and more famous blue marlin, and the smaller white marlin. Both give incredible sport on the line, leaping spectacularly once hooked. Female blue marlins can reach record-breaking sizes, 16 feet long and up to 1,400 pounds or more, while males usually top out around 350.
The white marlin is smaller and sleeker, usually between 60 and 80 pounds. The iconic bill, or “sword”, is used to spear fish at depths of up to 300 feet, and their muscular bodies let them cruise up to 50 miles an hour in search of fast-moving prey.
How We Catch Marlin
Since these predators go after fast-moving prey, we like to troll for marlin at around 10 knots, using a minimum 50-pound reel and braided line. Once hooked, you’ll know it immediately as these fish typically leap out of the water to try and shake free. Settle in for a fight as these fish can sometimes take hours to reel in, as you patiently keep the line taut and crank them in closer and closer until they exhaust themselves.
Remember that even an exhausted fish is dangerous, as their bills can make lethal stabbing weapons and are loaded with bacteria. You will need to work with your crew, who is compliant with safety regulations for handling marlin, to haul in and land these fish.
Finally, it’s important to check state and local regulations for marlin fishing, as they are changed annually. Blue marlins must be at least 99 inches in order to keep them, while white marlins need to be at least 66 inches long. Both fish make for great trophies as well as incredibly good eating for everything from steaks to ceviches.
What Else You Can Catch With Us
Marlin isn’t the only thing biting in the waters of the Gulf Coast! Some of the other species you might hook include:
…and more!
Other Fishing Charters We Offer In Key West
Sunset Cruises
Discover an unforgettable evening on the water as we take you out to one of the most beautiful scenes in nature – a tropical Florida sunset. Whether it’s a romantic evening you’re after or just peace and quiet, this cruise is for you.
Specialty Charters
In addition to marlin, we offer specialty charters going after Mahi Mahi, Shark, Snapper and Tarpon. Ask our crew about our charters targeting these legendary game fish.
Shrimp Boat Charter
Our Shrimp Boat Charters trail the iconic Gulf Coast shrimp boats as they haul in their nets, which attracts lots of marine predators for you to hook! We’ll help you take advantage of the feeding frenzy with this charter.
Dry Tortugas Charter
A few hours’ boat ride west of the Keys brings you to the beautiful Dry Tortugas, home to a national park and a Civil War-era fort, as well as crystal-clear tropical waters teeming with life. Our Dry Tortugas Charter will let you swim, fish, and experience the history of this amazing island chain.
Join us for an unforgettable marlin fishing charter in Key West!
Whether it’s your first time picking up a fishing rod, or you’re a seasoned pro looking to break the record, Fish Daily Charters has the knowledge and the patience to help you land the marlin of your dreams. Our commitment to sustainable fishing and ecological practices ensure that there will be more marlin next year, and we’re proud of our reputation for getting our guests the fish you’re after, at a price you’ll love.
Give us a call or book online today, but don’t wait – marlin season in the Keys draws anglers from all over the world, and slots fill fast (especially in summer, prime marlin season!) We can’t wait to get out on the water with you and send you home with a fishing tale even Hemingway would be jealous of.
Marlin Fishing Charters FAQs
What is the best time to catch marlin?
Blue marlin season runs March to October, but peak season is April to July. White marlin season is from August to October.
How do you catch marlin?
We troll over their feeding grounds with live bait, since that tends to get marlins’ attention the fastest. But we have lures on hand that we can use as well.
How far offshore do marlin live?
Marlin prefer deep colder water and congregate around underwater cliffs and drop-offs, the closest of which is about 20 miles from our location in the Keys.
Where are you located?
We’re found at the Oceans Edge Resort & Marina, and our address for mail is 5095 Peninsular Ave, Stock Island, Key West FL 33040.
What happens in the event of bad weather?
Safety is our top concern at Fish Daily Charters. If bad weather rolls in, our captain will reschedule your fishing trip or issue you a full refund.
What is your payment policy?
At booking, a 20 percent deposit (cash or credit card) is deducted. The balance of your payment will be charged at the end of your trip.
What does the price of one of your charters include?
A 20 percent upfront deposit is part of the initial charter booking, and a 20 percent tip is encouraged for our hard-working crew.
What is your cancellation policy?
Let us know of any cancellations at least 2 weeks before your scheduled charter.
Should I tip my crew after my journey?
Our crew really tries hard to provide you with a great Key West marlin fishing experience. A 20% tip is appreciated.
Are fishing gear and bait included in the charter?
Yes! We have all the necessary heavy duty gear, tackle, and bait.
Is a fishing license required for charter guests in Key West?
We cover all license requirements for our guests.
What should I bring on my fishing trip?
We recommend bringing sunglasses, some sunscreen, a hat, good non-slip shoes, and light layered clothing for any shifts in the weather. You can also bring any food or beverages you might enjoy on your trip.
How many people can your boat accommodate?
Our vessel can take on six guests, plus the crew.
Is it okay if this is my first time fishing?
It’s very okay! Our crew is happy to show you the ropes.
What kind of fishing does your crew specialize in?
Reef and wreck fishing is our specialty, but we are equipped for inshore flats and deepwater fishing charters as well.
What kind of payments do you accept?
We only accept cash or credit cards. 20 percent of the charter price is taken at the time of booking.
Is there parking at your marina?
Yes, parking is free at our marina.
Can I bring my service dog with me?
Yes, dogs are allowed, but please have a leash or harness in the event they have to be restrained for safety.
Is your boat handicap accessible?
Call or email us to see about outfitting our vessel to suit special needs for your charter.
Are there restrooms aboard the boat?
No bathrooms are aboard.
What happens if I get seasick?
We can return to calmer waters or take you back to the marina, but we have to remind our guests that we can’t do refunds just on account of seasickness.
Should I bring my own fishing gear?
You can bring your own gear if you’d like, but we have all the equipment and bait you’ll need for your charter.
Am I guaranteed to catch something?
We like to say, no guarantees with Mother Nature, especially if you’re hunting down something specific, but rest assured our crew can always find you something big to hook in the Florida Keys!
Do I need to know how to swim?
No swimming experience necessary, though we would like to know. We have safety equipment and life jackets for everyone, and no one has ever gone overboard on our charters.
Are you located on an island?
We are based out of Stock Island, on the western edge of the Florida Keys.
Can you sell any fish that I don’t want to keep?
Sorry, but it’s not legal to sell secondhand any fish we catch.
What times do we leave?
Anytime between 6am to 4pm, depending on when you’d like to set sail! Our Sunset Cruises are slated to get underway shortly before sunset.
Are sandals allowed onboard?
Yes, but please no shoes with black soles, which might scuff the boat.
What kind of tackle do you use?
We currently keep a variety of light and bottom tackles, including Vance’s, Shimano, and Accurate, but we are constantly trying new tackles to improve your fishing experience.
Is alcohol allowed on the boat?
Alcohol is permitted for anyone 21+, but no glass is allowed on board.
Do you provide water on your trip?
Bottled water is stocked, as hydration is important in the tropical heat.
Are snacks provided?
A couple of small snack varieties are usually aboard, but you can bring anything you might want to eat or drink and keep it in our cooler.
How far out to sea do we travel on a trip?
Specialty charters may go farther out, but usually we can get up to twenty miles offshore in winter, and not more than five miles out in summer.
Are gas prices included on your specialty trips?
All fuel costs are included up front with your total.
How fast does your boat go?
35 to 38 mph is our favorite cruising speed to and from our fishing spots.
Are children allowed on your fishing trips?
Yes, all ages are welcome to fish with us!
How many seats are on your boat?
There are two seats at the bow, and we can bring bean bags on board for any additional seating.
Is there a cooler on board?
Yes, it’s good for storing your food and drinks.
What should I NOT bring?
NO glass containers/bottles. NO illegal drugs.
Can we go for a swim during our charter?
Yes, if the weather cooperates just ask our crew to stop somewhere for a swim.
Do you have life jackets on board?
Life vests are provided for all guests.
How far in advance can I make a reservation?
We can book you a trip up to two years out, but summer months and winter holidays fill up fast.
Can we stay out longer than our allotted time?
Yes, although it may require additional charges.
Do you offer clothing-optional charters?
Ask us when you’re setting up your charter.
Are my credit card details secure?
We don’t share your credit card information with third parties.
Do you offer overnight charters?
Sorry, but our boat just can’t take people for overnight charters.
Do I need to know how to swim?
No swimming experience necessary, though we would like to know. We have safety equipment and life jackets for everyone, and no one has ever gone overboard on our charters.
Are you located on an island?
We are based out of Stock Island, on the western edge of the Florida Keys.
Can you sell any fish that I don’t want to keep?
Sorry, but it’s not legal to sell secondhand any fish we catch.
What times do we leave?
Anytime between 6am to 4pm, depending on when you’d like to set sail! Our Sunset Cruises are slated to get underway shortly before sunset.
Are sandals allowed onboard?
Yes, but please no shoes with black soles, which might scuff the boat.
What kind of tackle do you use?
We currently keep a variety of light and bottom tackles, including Vance’s, Shimano, and Accurate, but we are constantly trying new tackles to improve your fishing experience.
Is alcohol allowed on the boat?
Alcohol is permitted for anyone 21+, but no glass is allowed on board.
Do you provide water on your trip?
Bottled water is stocked, as hydration is important in the tropical heat.
Are snacks provided?
A couple of small snack varieties are usually aboard, but you can bring anything you might want to eat or drink and keep it in our cooler.
How far out to sea do we travel on a trip?
Specialty charters may go farther out, but usually we can get up to twenty miles offshore in winter, and not more than five miles out in summer.
Are gas prices included on your specialty trips?
All fuel costs are included up front with your total.
How fast does your boat go?
35 to 38 mph is our favorite cruising speed to and from our fishing spots.
Are children allowed on your fishing trips?
Yes, all ages are welcome to fish with us!
How many seats are on your boat?
There are two seats at the bow, and we can bring bean bags on board for any additional seating.
Is there a cooler on board?
Yes, it’s good for storing your food and drinks.
What should I NOT bring?
NO glass containers/bottles. NO illegal drugs.
Can we go for a swim during our charter?
Yes, if the weather cooperates just ask our crew to stop somewhere for a swim.
Do you have life jackets on board?
Life vests are provided for all guests.
How far in advance can I make a reservation?
We can book you a trip up to two years out, but summer months and winter holidays fill up fast.
Can we stay out longer than our allotted time?
Yes, although it may require additional charges.
Do you offer clothing-optional charters?
Ask us when you’re setting up your charter.
Are my credit card details secure?
We don’t share your credit card information with third parties.
Do you offer overnight charters?
Sorry, but our boat just can’t take people for overnight charters.