Key West Fly Fishing
Faq –
TARPON SEASON DATES IN MAY AND JUNE AVAILABLE CALL 305-304-5880
Guided Saltwater Flats Fishing with Fly Rods and Light Tackle
1. Choosing a guide?
If you are interested in primarily flats fishing with a fly rod or light spin tackle, then Capt. Dexter Simmons is the right guide for you. We specialize in Fly Fishing and Spin Fishing (light tackle) on the flats, channels and basins of Key West, the Marquesas Keys and the Lower Florida Keys for Tarpon, Bonefish and Permit. We also catch Barracuda, Shark, Jacks, Mackerel, Pompano, Sea Trout, Cobia. Occasionally we might catch Redfish and Snook, but these species are rarely targeted because of the spotty populations in the lower Keys.
2. How do I book a trip?
Email me!
Key West Fly Fishing Charter Reservations & Information to [email protected]
3. What fish are available when I visit?
Specific seasons for fishing certain species are better defined in this FISHING FORECAST link:
CAPT. SIMMONS FEARLESS FISHING FORECAST
We specialize in Fly Fishing and Spin Fishing (light tackle) on the flats, channels and basins of Key West, the Marquesas Keys and the Lower Florida Keys for Tarpon, Bonefish and Permit. We also catch Barracuda, Shark, Jacks, Mackerel, Pompano, Sea Trout, Cobia. Occasionally we might catch Redfish and Snook, but these species are rarely targeted
4. Where do you fish and when?
Fishing takes place on my flats boat, “FlatsMaster”, an 18 foot Action Craft v-hull with a 115 Suzuki motor. See picture here:
We fish early mornings and afternoons, depending on the weather.
We meet at a Key West or Lower Keys marina at an advantageous time that is arranged in advance. Anglers need to call Capt. Dexter (305-304-5880) the day before fishing to make the final plan.
5. What do I need to bring?
Polarized sunglasses (amber color is best), light weather gear (jacket), billed cap, whatever you want for lunch, sunscreen. We provide fishing tackle. Don’t bring a cooler, I have a big one.
6. How many people can we bring on the boat?
1 or 2 anglers on the boat is customary. However, if there is a request for a third person, then we will consider that on a case by case basis.
7. Will I need a license when fishing on your boat?
We provide your fishing license. There is no need to buy one unless you plan to fish on your own separate from the charter.
8. Can I bring my own tackle?
Yes, you may bring your own tackle if you wish, but it is not necessary. Please advise us in advance so that we may make room on the boat.
9. What tackle do you have available to use?
FLY: Sage & Loomis Fly Rods, Tibor & Abel Reels, Sci. Angler & RIO Fly Lines, leaders and flys hand tied by Capt. Dexter Simmons. SPIN: Sage and Loomis Spin Rods, Shimano Spin Reels, Ande and Trilene lines, Lures & Bait provided by Capt. Dexter Simmons.
10. Can I bring beer or alcoholic beverages?
YES
11. Is there anything else I should bring on the boat?
YOUR BEST FISHING SKILLS!
12. How much fish can I take home or keep?
Our charters are primarily catch and release, however we will keep Cobia, Mutton Snapper, and Pompano within legal limits.
13. What are your rates? What form of payment do you accept?
A charter is $900 for each full day (8 hours), $800 for a short day (6 hours) or $700 for a half day (4 hours). That includes two of you, all the tackle, iced down cooler with soft drinks, and your fishing licenses. Anglers are responsible to arrange their own lunches. $200 deposit for all days booked in advance.
Cash or Check is preferred. Credit card payments are accepted.
14. What is your cancellation policy and do you give refunds?
Cancellations due to weather are fully refundable, when cancelled by the captain. Otherwise, 120 days notice is required. We are reasonable. Life changing events are given additional consideration. It is hard to reason with hurricane season!
15. What is Trip Insurance and do you offer it?
Travel insurance is available through online private carriers. Sorry, we do not offer travel nor trip insurance.
16. What is a Grand Slam?
In Caribbean and sub-tropical fly-fishing, a Grand Slam is when an angler is able to catch a bonefish, tarpon and permit throughout the course of a day. The International Game Fish Association defines an Inshore Grand Slam as catching all three of the following species on the same day: the bonefish, tarpon, permit.