What to expect: Your first Key West fishing trip
- conchtoochartersll
- Mar 26
- 5 min read
So, you’ve booked your first Key West fishing charter—congratulations! Whether you’re an experienced angler or brand new to fishing, there’s nothing quite like a day on the water in one of the world’s top fishing destinations. To help you prepare, here’s a guide on what to expect when you step aboard with us at Conch Too Charters.
Before You Arrive
Before heading to the dock, take a moment to review your confirmation details, including your departure time and meeting location. We always recommend arriving 20 to 30 minutes early to allow time for parking, check-in, and a smooth start to your trip.
When it comes to packing, we suggest keeping it light but practical. While we provide all the necessary fishing gear, licenses, tackle, water, ice, and cooler space, there are a few essentials you’ll want to bring along. Sunscreen is a must—out on the open water, the sun’s reflection can be intense, making it easy to get sunburned. We strongly encourage using reef-safe sunscreen to help protect our marine environment. A good pair of sunglasses is just as important, as they cut down on glare and make it easier to see into the water. A hat can also provide much-needed shade to keep you cool throughout the day.
One thing many first-time anglers don’t consider is food. We always recommend bringing snacks or a packed meal, but if your trip is longer than four hours, having enough food on hand is even more important. Fishing can be physically demanding, and staying energized will make your experience much more enjoyable. As for drinks, you’re welcome to bring anything besides water—most charters, including ours, allow beer on board, so feel free to pack a small cooler with your favorite beverages.
A little pro tip from us locals—consider bringing an extra set of clothes, even if it’s just a dry shirt and shorts. After spending hours on the water, changing into fresh clothes for the ride back can make the return trip even more comfortable.
Meeting Your Captain & Crew
Upon arrival, you’ll meet your captain and crew, who will give you a quick rundown of the trip, the boat’s layout, and safety procedures. This is also the perfect time to discuss what you want to fish for that day. Communication with the captain is key—if you have a specific fish in mind, let them know! They will always provide recommendations based on what’s biting at that time of year, ensuring the best possible experience. If your trip is longer than four hours, you have the flexibility to pursue
your dream fish and, if conditions aren’t in your favor, pivot to targeting the species that are biting best at that moment. At Konk2 Charters, we’re here to make sure you have a great time, whether you want to be hands-on or just kick back and enjoy the ride.
Heading Out on the Water
Once we leave the dock, we’ll cruise to our fishing spot, which depends on what type of trip you’ve chosen. Offshore fishing takes us farther out in search of mahi-mahi, tuna, wahoo, and other deep-sea species, while nearshore and reef fishing focus on snapper, grouper, and other exciting bottom-dwelling fish. No matter where we go, expect stunning views of Key West’s waters and plenty of opportunities for action.
Fishing Time!
Once we reach our fishing grounds, your captain will help set up the gear and give you tips on techniques, whether it’s trolling, bottom fishing, or casting near a wreck. If you’re new to fishing, don’t worry—we’re happy to guide you every step of the way.
If you are bottom fishing, the boat will be anchored, and you’ll be at the back of the boat with a fishing rod in hand. Your mate will assist you every step of the way, but patience is key. Typically, we deploy a chum bag first to attract fish before the real action starts. If we are trolling, it may take a while for the first bite, so be patient, relax, and enjoy the sunshine while chatting with your crew. The thrill of feeling that first bite and reeling in a fish is something you won’t forget!
What Happens with Your Catch?
Depending on the species and regulations, you may have the option to keep your catch. If so, we’ll clean and fillet it for you, and you can take it to a local restaurant that will cook it up fresh. If catch-and-release is preferred, we’ll ensure the fish is safely returned to the water.
If your main goal is to bring home fish for dinner, be sure to communicate that with your captain and crew at the beginning of your trip. Many people don’t realize that while we catch a variety of fish in Key West, not all of them are considered good eating. Some species are abundant and fun to catch but aren’t typically kept for the table. By letting us know that your priority is catching fish to eat, we can tailor the trip to target the best edible species and maximize your chances of bringing home a delicious meal.
Wrapping Up Your Adventure
As we make our way back to shore, take a moment to soak in the views, share stories about the day’s best catches, and enjoy the ride. Once we reach the dock, please wait until the boat is fully tied up, the engine is shut off, and the crew has set up the steps and ladder for a safe exit. Your mate will let you know when it’s time to step off and will be there to lend a helping hand.
After you’re back on solid ground, your mate will arrange your fish for a classic dockside photo—one of the best ways to capture the moment and commemorate your trip. With the boat as your backdrop and your catch proudly displayed, it’s a picture-perfect way to wrap up the day. Once the photos are done, the crew will clean and fillet your fish, sending you off with the freshest seafood possible, ready to be cooked up for a well-earned meal.
More Than Just a Fishing Trip
Whether this is your first time fishing or your hundredth, we’ll do everything we can to make sure you’re fully prepared and ready for an unforgettable experience. We understand that this is your vacation, your special moment, and we’re honored to be part of it. We treat every guest like family, and our mission is to ensure that your day on the water with us is memorable. As locals who love the water and have a true passion for fishing, we can’t wait to share our love for the sport and the beauty of Key West with you!
-Captain Joel Cruz , Owner
& Operator , Conch Too Charters
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