We’re veteran captains with some of the top Islamorada fishing charters, and we’ve seen it all out on the water: massive, hard-won catches, weather tricks of every kind, beginner’s pitfalls, and life-changing moments. First-time angler or pro seeking to hone skills, yet even if you come back without fish, a good day out here is about so much more than casting a line. It’s knowing the fish, reading the water, respecting the environment and figuring out how to adapt.
In the interest of helping you operate successfully on your next trip, we’ve assembled the 10 best insider tips, practical, proven advice from the helm of the boat that will help you fish like you’ve fished there all your life.
Trust Your Captain’s Knowledge
These waters are in our blood and bones. From tide schedules to bait migrations, and down to the fish changing behaviour minute to minute. If we put out the idea of moving spots or trying different bait, it’s because we’re reading the signals. Have faith in your captain that he is doing everything in his power to put you on the bite. We encourage you to ask questions, and we’re happy to share our knowledge.
Show Up Prepared
The key to having a great day is comfort. Don’t forget sunscreen, polarised sunglasses, a hat, water and a few snacks. Don’t forget non-slip shoes and a lightweight, water-repellent outer layer. Especially since sunburns, dehydration, and wet clothes would detract from your catch. If you arrive with preparations, we can spend time doing what’s essential, like fishing.
Get a Handle on the Basics Before Taking the Plunge
If you’re a newcomer to fishing, don’t worry, we’re here to help. But a few basics can help you get a head start. Get out there and practice your casting, and be sure to ask us for help with your hook-set. That often requires reading the situation well and adjusting accordingly, as I do now, while trying to catch the first fish of the day in a moving reservoir full of bass.
Pay Attention to the Tides
The tide is a significant factor in determining how fish behave in these waters. Most of the time, we’ll shift spots at some point in the journey, and that’s not by accident. A nice tide can turn a slow morning into a vicious afternoon. We want to tell you what’s going on, why, and why it feels paralysing, so that it will deepen your comprehension and appreciation of the rhythm of the day.
Know What’s in Season
There is a wide variety of fish in Islamorada, ranging from snapper and grouper to sailfish and tarpon. But the success of fishing depends on what is active during your visit. We always build the trip around what’s biting the best and what you are the most comfortable with. Some days are about chasing sportfish, others about filling the cooler with snapper. We want to help set the correct expectations and goals for you.
Let Us Take Care of the Gear (Unless You Do Have Some Favourites)
We operate the finest Islamorada charters with top-of-the-line, well-maintained equipment, specifically tailored to the species and conditions we are after. We have them covered, unless you have a favourite rod or reel you’re dying to use. We have representative, efficient, and effective set-ups in addition to knowing what little tidbits are helpful for the local fish.
Add a Couple of Knots and Handling Tips
You’d be surprised how many fish we lose to crappy knots. We can teach you a couple of solid knots, such as the improved clinch or loop knot, ones that will get you by. And we’ll teach you how to handle fish correctly, too. Handling fish with wet hands and supporting them is a good way to prevent tearing the fish (and your fingers). It is beneficial for individuals who practice catch-and-release fishing.
Stay Flexible and Alert
Fish don’t follow a script. One minute you’re waiting patiently, the other, casting into a fast-moving school. We may vary our approach, change our lures, or stumble into surface action on the nose. Stay on your toes, stay adaptable and don’t be afraid to try anything new. These unexpected moments are usually the ones that end up being the most memorable.
Respect the Environment
We’re fortunate to fish in some of the most productive and beautiful waters anywhere, and we owe it to future generations to take care of them. Adhere to all the rules, let some species go (if necessary), and handle fish carefully all the time. Between morals and the actual catching of fish, there is a need to ensure that there will be more fish and more fishermen in the future. As charter captains who believe in conservation, we can only hope that our clients share the same values.
Soak Up the Whole Experience
The success of a good day on the water isn’t just one of pounds and inches. Some of the best memories are made under the sunrise at the dock, dolphins cruising by, a good laugh after a missed strike, and the peace and serenity of the open ocean. Enjoy each fish, each lesson, each laugh. That is what fishing in Islamorada is really about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I have prior fishing experience before booking a charter?
A: Not. We’re welcoming to newcomers, and we love to teach. Whether this is your first visit or your 50th, we adapt the trip to your level of expertise.
Q: What shall I pack for the journey?
A: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, water, snacks, and any necessary medication. Rods, reels, bait and licenses are all yours to enjoy.
Q: How long are most charter trips?
A: Trips are available for half a day, three-quarters of a day, and a full day. We will discuss what you want to achieve and the best option to choose for your team.
Q: Are we allowed to keep the fish we catch?
A: Yes, but it depends on the species, size, and season. We are permitted to clean and bag the legal catch for you to take home and enjoy.
Q: Is motion sickness a problem?
A: Some are more sensitive than others. If you tend to get motion sickness, we encourage you to take non-drowsy motion sickness pills before you get on board.
Fishing in Islamorada is a privilege — and guiding these excursions is a responsibility that we don’t take lightly. As your Islamorada charters’ captains, we are not here to just put fish on the line. We are here to provide an unforgettable experience, to build your confidence as an angler, and to introduce you to the thrills and beauty of these amazing waters.
So hop on, listen well, and prepare to fish with the best of them. We’ll take care of the nitty-gritty; bring your dance moves. Tight lines!