If you like fishing, Key West delivers. This private charter takes you up to 18 miles offshore for a serious shot at mahi mahi, wahoo, tuna, and more, with a team that pushes hard once you’re on the water. You also get the value of a private group outing (up to 6) and bottled water included.

What I like most is the mix of targets and the way the crew handles your day. In past trips, captains like Captain Jeff and mates like Christian focused on getting lines in the water early and kept communication clear, so you’re not just along for the ride.

One consideration: the ocean can be rough. A choppy day showed up in real-world experiences, and that can mean sea sickness for some people unless you plan for it.

Key points to know before you book

• Up to 18 miles offshore for deep-water and reef-style fishing
• Big-target species like mahi mahi, wahoo, tuna, sailfish, and even marlin
• Private charter for up to 6 people at a single group price
• Bottled water included, but no alcohol on board
• Choppy conditions can happen, so plan for comfort and motion
• Crews often emphasize help with fishing and fish handling, including filleting at day’s end on some trips

What You’re Really Buying: A Private Key West Fishing Day

This isn’t a ticket to sit around and hope. You’re paying for a dedicated run with Corsair 2 Sportfishing, where your crew’s job is to put you on fish and keep the whole experience moving. The private setup matters: with a group max of 6, you don’t feel like you’re competing for attention on a crowded boat.

The location is also a big part of the appeal. Key West is positioned for easy access to productive offshore and reef zones, so you’re not spending the morning crossing the ocean just to start fishing. Your trip runs from the start point at 5950 Peninsular Ave, Key West, and ends back there.

And because this is “Big Fish” style fishing, you’ll be aiming for species that many casual anglers only see in photos. The charter’s promise isn’t that you’ll land everything—no one controls fish—but the plan is built for serious effort and variety.

Your Time on Corsair 2: From Meeting Spot to Offshore Fishing

Your charter timing depends on which duration you choose, since this experience is offered in half-, 3/4-, and full-day options. The average booking mentioned is about 4 hours, so if you’re looking at the shorter format, think of it as a focused sprint: get out there, find action, then work through the best fishing windows you have.

Here’s the flow you can expect on the water:

• You meet at 5950 Peninsular Ave, check in, and get your bearings quickly.
• You head offshore—fishing can happen as far as 18 miles from shore.
• You’ll spend the main part of your day with the crew managing tackle, lines, and fishing instructions.
• When the charter ends, you return and finish right back at the meeting point.

Why that offshore distance matters

Going out to up to 18 miles offshore changes the fishing game. In Key West waters, that distance can put you closer to where pelagic fish cruise and where reefs and structure can start producing. It’s one reason people book this style of trip when they want more than a casual “try fishing once” day.

Fishing Targets: Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, and the Stuff You Actually Want

The target list here is the reason this charter sells. You’re not just aiming at one species and hoping for luck—you’re set up for a mix, including:

• Mahi Mahi
• Wahoo
• Tuna
• Sailfish
• Marlin
• Snapper
• Grouper
• Plus more depending on conditions

On real trips, people have brought in mahi mahi, had action with sailfish, and also reported catches like barracuda and mackerel. That variety is a good sign for first-timers and families, because it increases your chances of learning something useful and having at least a couple of good moments—even if the day isn’t a nonstop carnival.

How the crew’s style affects your odds

In past outings, captains and mates—often including Captain Jeff with mate Christian—were described as personable and genuinely invested in getting people chances. That matters because deep-water fishing has a learning curve. If the crew explains what they’re doing, keeps the line in the right zone, and adapts when the bite shifts, your day feels purposeful instead of random.

Comfort on the Water: Choppy Seas, Seating, and Motion Tips

If you’re sensitive to waves, Key West charters are worth planning for. One experience called out noticeably rough, choppy water on the ride out, and that led to sea sickness for a family member. Another point raised was comfort: on a 3/4-day trip, someone wished for more comfortable seating for people not actively fishing.

So here’s the practical take:

• Bring motion-sickness support if you even suspect you’ll need it.
• Dress for wind as well as sun. Offshore breeze can cool you down even on a warm day.
• Expect that not everyone will be in constant “cast and crank” mode. If you’ll be taking breaks, pick layers that keep you comfortable for long stretches.

Small boat rules can be real

One fun, odd-but-important note: on one trip, the crew specifically warned about bringing bananas. The reason wasn’t explained, but the takeaway is clear—follow the crew’s rules. If someone says leave something at home, do it. Boats have their own routines, storage needs, and safety habits.

Crew and Communication: The Difference Between a Trip and an Experience

This charter has a strong pattern in how it gets described: the crew works hard, communicates clearly, and pushes for bites rather than watching the clock.

Names that came up again and again include:

• Captain Jeff with Christian as mate
• Captain Russ with Christian
• Captain Rob
• Craig with Brett as mate (and other combinations with Christian)

Even when conditions weren’t perfect, the best accounts described staff who:

• helped people stay involved,
• were responsive and friendly,
• adjusted when action slowed,
• and made sure you understood what was happening.

That last point is underrated. If you’re new to offshore fishing, a good captain won’t just yell instructions; they’ll help you understand what you’re doing wrong—or what you’re doing right—so your next attempt is better.

Price and Value: Is $950 Worth It for a Private Charter?

The price is $950.00 per group (up to 6), which changes how you should judge value. You’re not paying per person. You’re paying for the boat and crew time, shared across your group.

That makes this more attractive if:

• you’re traveling as a family,
• you’ve got two couples,
• or you can realistically fill the group space (up to 6).

It’s less attractive if you’re one person shopping alone, because you don’t get the same “everyone splits the boat cost” effect. In that case, you’re basically buying a private experience mostly to yourself.

What’s included vs. what isn’t

Included:

• Bottled water

Not included:

• Alcoholic beverages

Also, the booking is private. That means your group does the fishing and the crew focuses on you, not juggling multiple parties.

One more value angle: some trips included filleting fish at the end so you could take it home for cooking. That can add real savings because you’re not paying separately for that service elsewhere. Since that detail isn’t listed as a formal inclusion, I’d confirm when you book, but it’s clearly been part of past outcomes.

The Reality Check: You Can Have a Great Day Without Catching Everything

No charter can guarantee fish. Even on strong outings, the bite can change hour to hour. One experience noted a disappointing day with no fish caught on a shorter trip and felt the crew didn’t adjust or engage enough.

That’s the reason I recommend you go in with a flexible mindset:

• You’re buying effort, instruction, and a real shot at action.
• You’re not buying a promise of mahi on every hook.

If you’re an angler who wants a near-certain landing rate, you’ll always be disappointed. If you’re here for a true fishing day in Key West—hands-on, offshore, and built for serious attempts—you’ll likely feel like you got your money’s worth, especially if the crew communicates and actively works the water.

Who This Charter Suits Best (and Who Should Think Twice)

This trip is a strong match if you:

• want offshore fishing rather than only near-shore variety,
• have a mixed group with different experience levels (it’s been described as working for people from teenagers to older adults),
• want a private format with a dedicated captain and mate.

You might think twice if you:

• get very seasick and don’t plan for it,
• need cushy seating and guaranteed calm seas,
• or you’re the type who will only feel satisfied if you bring home fish every time.

Practical Checklist: What to Do Before You Show Up

I’d treat this like a pro fishing day, even if you’re a beginner. Here are smart prep moves based on what matters most on charters like this:

• Choose your duration based on how patient you are with the sea ride and how much fishing time you want (half vs 3/4 vs full-day options).
• Pack for sun and wind, not just heat.
• Plan for motion if you’re prone to sea sickness.
• If you have requests—like making sure you learn how to reel properly—say so early and keep it simple.
• Follow any boat rules the crew mentions. That includes odd-sounding ones like the earlier banana warning.

One more planning point: this charter is booked, on average, about 63 days in advance. If you’re traveling during a busy season, book early so you’re not trying to squeeze a private offshore day into the last week.

Should You Book Big Fish Deep Sea Fishing in Key West?

If your goal is a private Key West deep-sea fishing charter with a real offshore plan, I think this is a solid pick—especially because the crew approach (helpful instruction and active effort) comes through in the experiences you’ll read about. The target list is strong, and the up-to-18-miles offshore distance gives you more than a token fishing trip.

I’d book it if:

• you can fill up to a few seats in your group,
• you’re ready for the ocean (or willing to bring motion support),
• and you want a hands-on day with a captain and mate focused on your success.

I’d hesitate if:

• you’re extremely sea-sickness-prone,
• you expect comfort to be perfect even on choppy days,
• or you’re only happy with a catch guarantee (because fishing doesn’t work that way).

If you want, tell me your group size and which duration you’re considering (half, 3/4, or full day). I’ll help you pick the best option for your comfort level and fishing goals.

FAQ

What species can I expect to target on this Key West deep-sea fishing trip?

You’ll have a chance to reel in mahi mahi, wahoo, tuna, sailfish, marlin, snapper, grouper, and more, depending on conditions.

How far offshore do you fish?

The charter fishes up to 18 miles offshore.

What’s included in the price?

Bottled water is included.

Is alcohol included?

No. Alcoholic beverages are not included.

Where do we meet, and where does the trip end?

You meet at 5950 Peninsular Ave, Key West, FL 33040, USA, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s private, and only your group participates.

What happens if it’s canceled due to poor weather?

If the experience is canceled because of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can the booking be changed or refunded if I cancel?

This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount paid will not be refunded.