facebook pixel

Permit Fishing Charters In Key West

Check real-time availability on Key West permit fishing trips. Online booking | 4.9 / 5 stars | Guides from $550

Experts Available 24/7

Licensed & Insured Guides

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Permit Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Fishing in Key West

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

100% (6)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Key West

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Backcountry Classic - 28’ Blue Wave

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Key West

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Inshore Trip - 18’ Xplor Flats Boat

100% (1)
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $550
Fishing in Key West

Flats, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Silver Kings And More

100% (2)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Key West

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Edge Of The Map Trip

100% (2)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Key West

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Morning 1/2 Day Fishing Charter

75% (4)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $800

Most Popular Types of Permit Trips in Key West

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Permit Fishing Charters Near Key West, Fl

Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West on Light Tackle & Flies in Key West

There is something about a flats boat in the keys that just feels right. Being poled around the endless maze of gin clear flats and mangrove riddled backcountry, stalking up on unsuspecting Bonefish, Permit, and Redfish, hooking into monster Tarpon in the summertime are what Florida Key's inshore fishing is all about! So head out to explore the beautiful tropical waters the Florida Keys are known for with Captain Jamie down in Key West to catch the bug! You'll chase bonefish and permit on the flats, and redfish, trout, jacks, and snapper back in the backcountry. Either way, Captain Jamie will be there to lend expert advice as he quietly poles you into schools of fish. Possible Species: Snook, Jack Crevalle, Tarpon, Spotted Sea Trout, Bonefish, Permit, Sharks, Ladyfish, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Redfish, Goliath Grouper, Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and others Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West On Light Tackle & Flies

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Marquesas Key "Hidden Gem" Trip in Key West

What sounds better than a quiet chain of islands in the beautiful Florida Keys with world class fishing? With Captain John, you can visit exactly that place. Spend the day exploring the beautiful flats around the Marquesas Keys as you chase down groupers, sharks, snappers and more. A couple dozen miles West of Key West, the Marquesas Keys are a hidden treasure when it comes to Florida fishing. Surrounded by flats, wrecks and reef features, these remote islands are home to some of the best fishing in the world. The journey starts aboard Captain John's 24' Yellowfin in Key West. Expect a bit of a trip to get to these islands, but it is well worth the wait! No detail will be left out or question unanswered in order to make your trip exciting, educational, and memorable. Be sure to bring any beverages or snacks you might need, and Captain John will provide everything else. Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Marquesas Key "Hidden Gem" Trip

NEW
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $1,200
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for The Florida Keys Inshore Experience in Key West

Head out with Captain Ryan to see what fishing the Florida Keys is known for: its Gorgeous and Bountiful backcountry, flats, and inshore waters! The 4 hour half day trip involves fishing the backcountry and inshore waters near and around Key West. You will usually stay within 9 nautical miles of the dock. The average depth of water is about 12'. We can target Tarpon, sharks, snapper, jacks , barracuda, Cobia and permit depending on time of year. Sometimes, you may want to extend your stay on the water to a 6 hour trip. There are spots that are just a bit too far to be hit on the normal half-day trip that you can explore. More time on the water spent can equal more time reeling in the big ones! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key West

The Florida Keys Inshore Experience

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Second Generation Bay Boat in Key West

Join us on a trip out and about around Key West. We have the back country to explore and see the wildlife that live around the mangrove islands. On this trip, we can catch Tarpon, Sharks, Barracuda, Jacks, permit, Grey Snapper, and Jewfish. We offer full day trips or half day trips aboard a 24' Yellowfin Bay Boat. We've been in the business for 33 years and can't wait to show you the best of Key West! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Second Generation Bay Boat

NEW
25 ft 1 - 3 People From $800
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for 1/2 Day Afternoon Deep Sea Fishing Charter (Private) in Key West

You have come to the right boat to catch fish on your Deep Sea Fishing Charters in Key West Florida. Fishing on board our air conditioned 46’ Bertram Sportfish we offer a variety of charters and types of fishing to make your charter in Key West fun and productive. We troll dead and live baits, jigging and live bait dropping on wrecks, and anchoring on choice reef formations and wrecks are few of our fishing techniques. We run half day, partial day, and full day fishing charters year round for private groups of up to six people. "SeaClusion" is an air conditioned 46' Bertram Sportfish. We offer value prices that give you the nicest, roomiest, and most comfortable charter boat in Key West. SeaClusion has an enclosed anglers lounge for getting out of the weather and a large full sized restroom. Our boat also has a full size refrigerator to keep your lunch fresh, but not soggy and a large well iced beverage cooler in the cockpit right where it is needed. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

1/2 Day Afternoon Deep Sea Fishing Charter (Private)

NEW
46 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,100
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West Deep Sea Fishing Charter (Private) in Key West

You have come to the right boat to catch fish on your Deep Sea Fishing Charters in Key West Florida. Fishing on board our air conditioned 46’ Bertram Sportfish we offer a variety of charters and types of fishing to make your charter in Key West fun and productive. We troll dead and live baits, jigging and live bait dropping on wrecks, and anchoring on choice reef formations and wrecks are few of our fishing techniques. We run half day, partial day, and full day fishing charters year round for private groups of up to six people. "SeaClusion" is an air conditioned 46' Bertram Sportfish. We offer value prices that give you the nicest, roomiest, and most comfortable charter boat in Key West. SeaClusion has an enclosed anglers lounge for getting out of the weather and a large full sized restroom. Our boat also has a full size refrigerator to keep your lunch fresh, but not soggy and a large well iced beverage cooler in the cockpit right where it is needed. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Deep Sea Fishing Charter (Private)

100% (1)
46 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,100
See All Permit Trips in Key West

Everything to Know About Booking a Key West permit fishing charter

What are the best permit fishing charters in Key West?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 25 permit trips in Key West, and the most popular trips in the area are Key West "Flex" Sportfishing guided by John, Backcountry Classic - 28’ Blue Wave guided by Alex, and Inshore Trip - 18’ Xplor Flats Boat guided by Chandler.

Our guides in Key West are rated a 4.9 out of 5 based on 2777 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Other popular cities nearby for booking a Permit charter include Cudjoe Key and Summerland Key.

Looking for kid friendly permit guides / fishing lessons in Key West? Check out our beginner and family friendly permit guides in Key West.

What types of permit fishing charters are common in Key West?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular for permit in Key West as well as inshore fishing, flats fishing, and nearshore fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Key West are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and artificial lure fishing but bottom fishing and sight casting are popular as well.

How much do Key West permit fishing charters cost?

for permit in Key West prices can range anywhere from about $550 to $1,200, but the average price for a half day trip for permit in Key West is $695. The average price for a full day trip for permit in Key West is $964.

What month is best for permit fishing in Key West?

The most popular season for permit fishing in Key West is spring, and most anglers book their trips 26 days in advance.

Do I need a Key West fishing license for permit and what are the bag limits for permit in Key West?

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in Key West don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. See here for more information on bag limits and fishing season regulations in Key West.

What is permit fishing in Key West all about?

Permit fishing in Key West is an exhilarating experience for anglers seeking a challenge. These prized gamefish are known for their strength, speed, and finicky behavior, making them a coveted catch among sport fishermen. Key West's shallow flats and nearshore waters provide prime habitat for permit, where they can be found tailing and feeding on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. Anglers often sight fish for permit, scanning the flats for signs of their distinctive tails breaking the water's surface.

Successful permit fishing in Key West requires patience, stealth, and precise presentation. Light tackle or fly fishing gear is typically used to target these wary fish, allowing anglers to make delicate casts to feeding or cruising permit without spooking them. Effective flies and lures mimic the natural prey of permit, such as crab or shrimp patterns tied with realistic movements and colors. Anglers must also be prepared for long battles once hooked, as permit are notorious for their powerful runs and tendency to seek refuge in nearby structure.

While permit can be caught year-round in Key West, certain times of the year offer better fishing opportunities. Spring and early summer are prime seasons for permit fishing in the area, as warming water temperatures trigger increased feeding activity and migration patterns. During these months, permit can be found in shallower waters, making them more accessible to fly fishermen and sight anglers. However, permit fishing can be productive throughout the year, with opportunities for anglers to target these challenging gamefish in a variety of habitats and conditions.

What are the most popular months to fish for permit fishing in Key West?

In Key West, permit fishing can be pursued year-round, offering anglers ample opportunities to target these prized gamefish. However, certain seasons present more favorable conditions for permit fishing, aligning with their natural behavior and migration patterns. Spring and early summer are considered prime seasons for permit fishing in Key West, typically spanning from March to June. During these months, warming water temperatures trigger increased feeding activity among permit, making them more responsive to anglers' presentations. Additionally, springtime sees the arrival of migrating permit schools, providing anglers with more opportunities to encounter these elusive fish.

Fall is another productive season for permit fishing in Key West, particularly from September to November. As the summer heat begins to wane, permit become more active and move into shallower waters to feed. During this time, anglers can find permit cruising the flats and nearshore areas, making them accessible to sight fishermen and fly anglers. The cooler temperatures and calmer winds of fall create ideal conditions for stalking permit on the flats, where their tails and dorsal fins often give away their presence. Anglers can capitalize on this season to target permit using a variety of techniques, including sight fishing with flies or light tackle.

While spring and fall are considered peak seasons for permit fishing in Key West, permit can be caught throughout the year, with varying degrees of success depending on weather conditions and water temperatures. Winter months may see fewer permit on the flats, but they can still be found in deeper channels and around wrecks and reefs. Similarly, summer months offer opportunities to target permit in deeper waters and along offshore structures. Overall, Key West's diverse ecosystem and favorable climate make it a premier destination for permit fishing, providing anglers with year-round excitement and challenges.

What techniques are popular for catching permit in Key West?

Permit fishing in Key West demands skillful techniques and a keen understanding of the fish's behavior. One of the most popular methods for targeting permit is sight fishing on the flats, where anglers meticulously scan the shallow waters for signs of feeding permit. This technique requires patience, keen observation, and precise casting to present flies or lures accurately to the fish. Anglers often use lightweight spinning or fly fishing tackle to make delicate presentations and entice permit to strike.

When sight fishing isn't feasible, anglers can target permit around structure such as wrecks, reefs, and channels. Permit are known to frequent these areas in search of crustaceans and other prey, presenting anglers with opportunities to target them using bottom fishing techniques. Fishing with live bait such as crabs or shrimp, either on the bottom or suspended beneath a float, can be effective for enticing permit to bite. Anglers may also use artificial lures like jigs or soft plastics to mimic the movement of natural prey and attract strikes from permit.

Another effective technique for permit fishing in Key West is chumming. Anglers use a mixture of crushed crabs, shrimp, and other baitfish to create a scent trail that attracts permit to the area. Once the fish are drawn in, anglers can present baits or lures to entice them to strike. Chumming can be particularly effective when targeting permit around wrecks and reefs, where the fish congregate in search of food. Regardless of the technique employed, permit fishing in Key West requires persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to experiment with different approaches to find success.

What other species are popular in Key West?

Key West offers anglers a diverse range of species to target aside from permit. One popular target species is the tarpon, known for its acrobatic jumps and powerful runs. Tarpon can be found in the waters around Key West year-round, with peak seasons typically occurring in the spring and summer months. Anglers often target tarpon in channels, flats, and around bridges using live bait such as mullet or crabs, as well as artificial lures like plugs and soft plastics.

Another sought-after species in Key West is the bonefish, prized for its speed and challenging nature. Bonefish are commonly found on the flats and shallow waters of the Lower Florida Keys, where they feed on crustaceans and small baitfish. Sight fishing is a popular technique for targeting bonefish, with anglers using lightweight spinning or fly fishing tackle to present small flies or lures to the fish. Patience, stealth, and accurate casting are essential for success when pursuing these elusive fish.

Key West also offers excellent opportunities for anglers to target a variety of reef fish species, including snapper and grouper. Yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, and red grouper are just a few of the species that can be found on the reefs and wrecks surrounding Key West. Bottom fishing with live or cut bait is a common technique for targeting these species, although anglers may also use jigging and trolling techniques to entice strikes. Whether targeting permit, tarpon, bonefish, or reef fish, Key West provides anglers with an abundance of opportunities to test their skills and reel in trophy catches.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Captain John was simply incredible! I have been fishing my entire life and know a great guide… Captain John is the real deal. He took the time to understand what we wanted to catch and then nailed it… put us on exactly what we wanted all day long. He was friendly, engaging and fun. We will be back to fish w Captain John again!!

    Patrick . with John D. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Second Generation fisherman Rob was absolutely the best. He knew where to go close to the Harbor to put us on the fish. Highly recommended.

    Robert H. with Rob D. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a fantastic trip with Robert, he got us into plenty of action including an 80lb Tarpon with a couple other hook ups. We then poled an area and caught some juvenile Tarpon that was a blast. And last but not least, Robert put us on some screaming bonefish, my buddy and I each landed a pair of bones. Thanks for an Awesome trip Robert. Tight lines👍

    Thomas M. with Robert H. of Cudjoe Key, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Spencer picked us up as scheduled. Boat was extremely clean and well prepared. We were fishing for tarpon and had a wonderful time. Hooked into multiple fish and had one giant. Spencer was amazing overall and would absolutely do it again. Couldn’t recommend him more.

    Patrick H. with Spencer C. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Tough day lots if wind. Still found fish, had a blast Chandler is an excellent guide coming back for more Tarpon

    Paul G. with Chandler W. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    My husband and son had nothing but great things to say about their trip! “Best trip ever” per my son. They were able to catch a 40+ lb grouper! They loved every minute and said Spencer was super knowledgeable! Worth every penny for the experience!

    Michelle P. with Spencer C. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Everything was top notch, Great communication from start to finish. Capt and 1 Mate were both professional and knowledgeable and put me on fish. Only down side was when I lost a Sailfish 🙁 but landed this nice Barracuda off a Tripple set of Barracudas 🤷‍♂️😂

    John C. with Thomas D. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent service! Will definitely use again. Very knowledgeable about the area and put us in the fish. Loved every minute of it and highly recommended to anyone who wants to go fishing!

    Jonathan L. with Brandon S. of Summerland Key, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain David Larson was nice, professional and best of all, he put us on the fish! I did the 4 hour charter and we caught barracuda, massive bull shark, trigger fish, grouper, and blue fish. By the end of the 4 hours I was happy and exhausted. Captain David was experienced, helpful and a genuine good guy.

    Blake L. with John J. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great day fishing with Captain Brandon. We caught a lot of fish, including barracuda, snapper, nurse and lemon shark. Brandon kept moving around to ensure that we stayed on the fish. We've fished with a number of guides over the years and Brandon was one of the best!

    Michael B. with Brandon S. of Summerland Key, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    First off, there was some confusion with the first Capt. we were booked with and he didn’t have us on his schedule. I called the cust service line and Adam took great care of me. He showed genuine concern and was able to get us booked with Capt. Bob. 5 stars for Adam. We enjoyed our trip with Capt. Bob. He was knowledgeable and accommodating, got us into some fish, and coached us on casting. Great guy! I would recommend Capt. Bob for anyone interested in fly fishing the flats.

    Joe M. with Bob B. of Summerland Key, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Brandon was fantastic. We went out on the coldest day of January, 2024 and we still caught fish. Brandon is extremely knowledgeable of the area and how to fish it, informative and extremely patient, especially with a beginning like me. I couldn’t have been happier the way the day turned out. I caught some beautiful Snapper for dinner and then some Barracuda and Sharks for sport. I highly recommend his services and he would be my first choice on a return trip to the Keys. Thank you, Mark Maynard

    Mark M. with Brandon S. of Summerland Key, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    David made it fun and kept me busy. I plan to use him again!

    Jonathan T. with John J. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Our charter with Captain John was fantastic! Despite the windy conditions, he managed to get us on fish in many different spots. John is very knowledgeable and a super fun guy! We will definitely be booking with Captain John again. Shannon & Greg Johnson

    Greg J. with John D. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic!! Even though the rain got us

    Mark C. with John D. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great day with Captain Spencer. He put us on the fish and even a nice shark! He was very professional and easy going. He went above and beyond for the four of us on our dad-cation. Not only did he put us in the fish he put us in to some great local Cuban sandwiches. If I head back to the keys with my friend or my family I will definitely book Captain Spencer again!

    Walter S. with Spencer C. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent captain who was extremely knowledgeable of his area and worked hard to keep us in fish. Lots of rod bending hard fighting fish species inshore in the keys that I was not aware of! Thanks!

    Dennis H. with Anthony S. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip! Capt Zac was awesome to fish with. Highly recommend 👍👍👍

    Scott C. with John J. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Brandon was fantastic! We had a great day on the water. Started catching fish immediately and the fun never stopped. Highly recommend him.

    Robert Z. with Brandon S. of Summerland Key, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Our guide Spencer was wonderful. He asked what we wanted to catch, we made a game plan . We have a wonderful time!!! Best Guide!!

    Carlos B. with Spencer C. of Key West, Florida

What's biting in Key West?

View Permit Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re licensed, insured and vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans all across the country and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Permit Trips in Key West