Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Fishing Info

About Local Grown Charters

1. What fish can you catch in Key Largo across different seasons?

Key Largo offers world-class fishing year-round. Our deep sea fishing key largo runs target mahi-mahi, sailfish, wahoo, and tuna. If you prefer inshore or backcountry waters, you can target prize species like tarpon, snook, and permit, while our shallow reef structures yield abundant snapper and grouper.

2. Do I need to purchase a separate fishing license in the Florida Keys?

No, you do not need to buy an individual state license. When you step aboard with a registered florida keys fishing guide, the vessel's commercial captain's license automatically covers all guests on board for the entire duration of the trip.

3. Where in Key Largo will we meet our guests?

We meet at The Local Marina (10660 summerland Road, Key Largo, Fl 33037)

4. Are family fishing charters available in Key Largo for young kids?

Yes! We specialize in family-friendly excursions. We recommend our inshore or reef-focused key largo boat charters for families, where water conditions are calm and the bite is fast-paced to keep young children constantly smiling and engaged.

5. What is the difference between deep sea fishing and backcountry trips?

Florida keys deep sea fishing takes you miles offshore into the Atlantic to troll or drift-fish for large pelagic sportfish. Backcountry fishing takes place in the calm, sheltered mangrove channels of the everglades backcountry fishing grounds, focusing on light-tackle casting for flats species.

6. Are snorkeling tours available in Key Largo alongside fishing options?

Yes! Aside from premium angling, we offer dedicated key largo snorkeling tours and hybrid itineraries. We can customize a full or half-day trip that allows half your group to fish while the other half snorkels the crystal-clear shallow coral reefs.

7. How do I choose between a key largo fishing guide and a split-party boat?

Booking a private key largo fishing guide gives you exclusive access to the boat and a fully customized itinerary tailored to your skill level. Unlike crowded party boats with fixed schedules, a private charter ensures 1-on-1 coaching from the captain to keep you on the bite.

8. What should we wear for an offshore or deep sea fishing key largo trip?

We recommend wearing lightweight, UV-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and polarized sunglasses to cut through the water glare. Non-marking, rubber-soled shoes are required on board to maintain safe footing while reeling in fish.

9. What is the best fishing season in the Florida Keys overall?

Fishing is excellent 365 days a year, but the ideal time depends on your target. Spring and summer are unbeatable for major migrations like tarpon and offshore pelagics. Fall and winter offer incredible reef fishing florida keys for snapper and grouper, alongside excellent cooling-water backcountry action.

For further questions, please visit our Contact Us page.