Expert Guide for Hire | Florida Keys Inshore Trip

Published Date: July 16, 2025
Fishing

Big Pine Key, FL
$500 - $1,000 price range

Summary

Captain Jordan's 8-hour private guide service in the Florida Keys is perfect if you've got a boat but aren't sure about navigating local waters. He'll take the helm, letting you kick back and soak in the gorgeous scenery without stress. Whether you want to explore hidden spots or just relax with a drink, this trip fits the bill. It's great for groups up to 4 who want a safe, laid-back day on the water with a local expert. Jordan provides the know-how and gear, so you can focus on making memories. The Keys have tons of cool areas to check out - from shallow flats to deeper channels. You might spot sea turtles, rays, or even dolphins along the way. By the end of the day, you'll have a much better feel for the area and probably a few fish stories to share. It's a cool way to get the inside scoop on the Keys while enjoying your own boat.

Expert Guide for Hire | Florida Keys Inshore Trip

Keys From The Helm

2 people fishing on the beach at Big Pine Key

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Big Pine Key fishing: a new adventure every day

Adventures abound in Big Pine Keys waters

Where the fish are biting in Big Pine Key

Guide For Hire: 8-Hour Florida Keys Adventure

Ready to explore the Florida Keys like a local? Captain Jordan's got you covered with this 8-hour private trip that'll have you feeling like a Keys expert in no time. Whether you're bringing your own boat or just want to soak up the sun while someone else does the work, this is the perfect way to dive into the heart of the Keys without the stress of navigating unfamiliar waters.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're cruising through crystal-clear waters, the warm Florida sun on your face, and Captain Jordan at the helm, pointing out hidden gems only the locals know about. This isn't your average boat ride – it's a full-day immersion into the Keys lifestyle. You'll have the freedom to choose your adventure, whether that's hunting for the perfect fishing spot, finding a secluded cove for a swim, or just kicking back with a cold one and watching the world go by. With a max of 4 guests, it's like having your own personal Keys concierge on the water.

Navigating the Keys Like a Pro

Let's talk nuts and bolts. Captain Jordan's got the local knowledge that'll keep you safe and show you the best the Keys have to offer. We're talking about navigating shallow flats, dodging coral heads, and finding those secret spots where the big fish hang out. You'll learn the ins and outs of reading the water, understanding tides, and spotting wildlife. It's not just about getting from A to B – it's about soaking up years of local wisdom in a single day. And don't sweat the gear – Captain Jordan's got you covered with all the essentials you'll need for a day on the water.

Top Catches This Season

Alright, let's talk fish. The Florida Keys are a angler's paradise, and Captain Jordan knows exactly where the action is. You've got a shot at some real trophy catches on this trip. Tarpon, the silver kings of the flats, are always a favorite – nothing beats watching one of these monsters jump clear out of the water. Then there's the mahi-mahi, with their electric blue and yellow colors that'll have you reaching for your camera. And if you're looking for a real fight, the greater amberjack will give you a run for your money. But that's not all – wahoo and great barracuda are also on the menu, each offering their own unique challenge and reward.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Tarpon: These silver giants are the stuff of fishing legend. Known for their acrobatic leaps and powerful runs, tarpon can reach over 200 pounds. They're most active in the warmer months, and hooking one is just the start – landing a tarpon is a true test of skill and patience.

Mahi Mahi: Also known as dorado or dolphinfish, these colorful speedsters are a favorite among Keys anglers. They're known for their vibrant blue-green and yellow colors that fade quickly after they're caught. Mahi are fast growers and can be found year-round in the Keys, but the best action is usually in the summer months.

Greater Amberjack: These bruisers of the reef are like underwater freight trains. They'll test your strength and your gear with powerful runs to the bottom. Amberjacks tend to hang around wrecks and deep reefs, and the biggest ones can top 100 pounds. Spring and fall are prime times for these hard-fighting fish.

Wahoo: If you're after speed, wahoo is your fish. These streamlined predators are among the fastest fish in the sea, capable of short bursts up to 60 mph. They're known for their stunning vertical stripes and their delicious, firm white meat. Winter and early spring are the best times to target wahoo in the Keys.

Great Barracuda: With their menacing teeth and lightning-fast strikes, barracuda are the perfect target for light tackle enthusiasts. They're abundant in the Keys year-round, hanging around reefs and channels. While not typically kept for eating, they provide an exciting catch-and-release option that'll keep you on your toes.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish – it's about the experience. Captain Jordan's trips are tailored to what you want. Maybe you're after that trophy catch, or maybe you just want to cruise and enjoy the scenery. Either way, you're in for a treat. The Keys have a way of getting under your skin – the laid-back vibe, the stunning sunsets, the chance to see dolphins playing in your wake. It's the kind of day that'll have you planning your next trip before this one's even over.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, the Florida Keys are a special place, and getting out on the water with a local like Captain Jordan is the best way to experience them. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking for a relaxing day on the water, this 8-hour trip is the ticket to making some serious Keys memories. You'll come back with stories to tell, maybe a few fish pics to brag about, and definitely a new appreciation for this little slice of paradise. So what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and book your trip with Kokomo Keys Charters. The Keys are calling – time to answer!

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Learn more about the animals

Great Barracuda

Great barracuda are the toothy terrors of the Keys. They average 3-4 feet but can reach 6 feet and over 100 pounds. You'll find them around reefs, channels, and grass flats - anywhere there's bait. They're active year-round but especially in warmer months. Cudas are fun to catch because of their aggressive strikes and acrobatic jumps. They're not known for long fights, but their initial run is explosive. When targeting them, use wire leaders - those teeth will slice through anything else. Topwater lures, tube lures, or live bait all work well. A local trick is to retrieve erratically to trigger strikes. Be very careful handling barracuda - those razor-sharp teeth can do serious damage. While not commonly eaten, they put up a great fight and make for some cool photos!

Greater Amberjack

Greater amberjack are brutes that'll test your strength. These powerful fish average 30-50 pounds but can top 100. You'll find them around deep wrecks and reefs in 60-240 feet of water. They're most active in spring and fall as water temps change. AJs are popular targets because they fight like freight trains - expect long, powerful runs. They're also good eating, with firm white meat. When fishing for them, use heavy tackle - 50-80 pound class gear. Live bait like blue runners works great, or try large jigs. A local trick is to use a butterfly jig and let it flutter down - AJs can't resist. Just be careful when you bring one up - they've got a mean set of teeth and will thrash around in the boat. Always worth the effort though!

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Mahi mahi, also called dorado, are some of the most beautiful and tasty fish in our waters. They average 15-30 pounds but can get up to 80. Look for them near floating debris and weed lines offshore. Mahi are fast-growing and short-lived, so there's usually plenty around. Spring through fall is prime time, with summer being the peak. These fish are a blast to catch - they fight hard, jump like crazy, and light up with electric blue and green colors. For eating, mahi has a mild, sweet flavor that's hard to beat. When targeting them, I like to troll ballyhoo or small lures at about 7 knots. A good tip is to keep the first one you catch in the water - mahi travel in schools, so others will often stick around. Fresh-cut bait works great too. Just be ready for some acrobatics when you hook one!

Tarpon

Tarpon are the silver kings of the Florida Keys, growing up to 8 feet and 280 pounds. You'll find them in Florida Bay, around the flats, and in channels cutting through grass beds. They're most active from spring through fall when they migrate through. Tarpon are famous for their acrobatic leaps and powerful runs that'll test your gear and skills. Despite their size, you don't need super heavy tackle - a 7000-size reel on a medium rod will do the trick. Live bait like pinfish or crabs work great. For the fly anglers, a 10-weight setup with streamers can be deadly on the flats. Just remember, these fish have bony mouths, so a firm hookset is key. Catch-and-release is standard practice to protect the population. Landing a tarpon is a real accomplishment - you'll never forget that first silver missile launching out of the water on your line.

Wahoo Fish

Wahoo are the speed demons of the ocean, capable of 60 mph bursts. They average 30-50 pounds but can reach over 100. You'll find them in open water, often near drop-offs or floating debris. Late summer through fall is prime wahoo season here. These fish are prized for their blistering runs and excellent table fare. When a wahoo hits, hang on - they'll peel off hundreds of yards of line in seconds. For tackle, I recommend 30-50 class gear with wire leaders - their teeth will slice through mono. High-speed trolling with lures at 12-15 knots is the go-to method. A local trick is to use a planer to get your lure deeper. Fresh-cut bonito makes great bait too. Just be careful handling them - those teeth are no joke. Nothing beats fresh grilled wahoo steaks after a long day of fishing!

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