Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing 34 Ft Contender - Offshore Fishing from Key West’s Prime Waters

Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing 34 Ft Contender

Experience offshore and inshore fishing in Key West with a private 4-hour trip aboard the 34 ft Contender, targeting mahi, king mackerel, sailfish, and more.

Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing with the 34 Ft Contender

Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing 34 Ft Contender - Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing with the 34 Ft Contender

This private fishing tour in Key West costs $1,100 per group, accommodating up to 6 people for approximately 4 hours. The trip takes place aboard a powerful 34 ft Contender, a vessel designed for speed, comfort, and versatility. It is operated by Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing Charters, a provider that emphasizes personalized service and well-equipped boats.

While this tour offers access to both inshore and offshore waters, an important consideration is the mixed review rating of 1.0/5, with a notable complaint about a cancellation issue that was not communicated in advance. Despite this, the tour’s core offering includes targeting a variety of fish such as mahi, king mackerel, sailfish, blackfin tuna, and wahoo. The trip is suitable for seasoned anglers and beginners alike who want to fish faster and farther on a powerful vessel.

Key Points

  • Price and Duration: $1,100 for 4 hours, suitable for groups of up to 6 people
  • Vessel: 34 ft Contender, known for speed, comfort, and off-shore reach
  • Target Fish: mahi, king mackerel, sailfish, tuna, wahoo, and more
  • Guides and Equipment: experienced captain and mate, top-tier fishing gear, bait and permits included
  • Booking and Cancellation: Full refund possible if canceled 24 hours in advance
  • Review Insight: low rating due to cancellation communication issues, not necessarily the fishing experience itself

The Power of the 34 Ft Contender Vessel

Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing 34 Ft Contender - The Power of the 34 Ft Contender Vessel

The 34 ft Contender is a high-performance center console that makes this trip stand out. It’s built for speed, maneuverability, and comfort, letting you reach prime offshore fishing spots efficiently. The twin engines and latest fish-finding technology promise a smooth, fast ride through key waters off Key West.

This vessel is especially suited for those eager to cover more ground in less time, maximizing fishing opportunities. Its design favors pelagic species like mahi, sailfish, and king mackerel, making it an ideal choice for anglers who want an action-packed experience in the deep blue.

Offshore Fishing from Key West’s Prime Waters

Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing 34 Ft Contender - Offshore Fishing from Key West’s Prime Waters

On this private charter, the guide takes you beyond the shore to reach offshore hotspots, where many of the targeted fish species are abundant. The offshore waters around Key West are renowned for big game fish, and this trip’s focus on speedy travel allows anglers to spend more time fishing and less time in transit.

You’ll be guided by an experienced captain and crew, who employ techniques like trolling and bottom fishing to increase your chances of landing a trophy catch. The trip promises a thrilling experience with stunning views of turquoise waters and the chance to connect with pelagic fish species in one of the world’s top fishing destinations.

Inshore and Offshore Fish Species You Can Target

Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing 34 Ft Contender - Inshore and Offshore Fish Species You Can Target

The trip’s catch list is diverse, highlighting species like mahi, king mackerel, sailfish, blackfin tuna, and wahoo. The guides are knowledgeable about hot spots where these fish are most active and employ various techniques to maximize the catch rate.

Landing mahi or sailfish on the same trip offers a well-rounded fishing experience. The offshore waters provide the chance to battle large pelagics, while inshore options may include other popular species, making the 4-hour window an exciting, fast-paced fishing journey.

Meeting Point and Departure Details

Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing 34 Ft Contender - Meeting Point and Departure Details

The tour begins in Key West, FL 33040, and the meeting point is straightforward to access, being near public transportation. Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, providing a more personalized experience. Guides speak English, and bait along with all necessary fishing permits are included in the price.

It’s important to note that foods and beverages are not included, so bringing snacks or drinks is recommended. The trip concludes back at the original meeting point, making logistics simple and convenient.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing 34 Ft Contender - What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are all tackle, fishing permits, guidance in English, and bait—everything needed for a successful day on the water. However, gratuities for the crew and food or drinks are not included, which may be worth planning for ahead of time.

This setup makes for a hassle-free experience where the focus is on fishing, but travelers should prepare to handle their own refreshments if desired.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing 34 Ft Contender - Weather and Cancellation Policies

The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours before the scheduled trip. Since the experience depends heavily on good weather, poor weather conditions can lead to cancellations with the option of rescheduling or full refund.

The noted negative review mentions a lack of communication regarding cancellation, which is a critical factor to consider when booking. Travelers should confirm their trip and stay in touch with the provider to avoid similar issues.

The Experience of a 4-Hour Deep-Sea Fishing Trip

Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing 34 Ft Contender - The Experience of a 4-Hour Deep-Sea Fishing Trip

This private 4-hour trip packs a lot of action into a short window. Guided by an experienced captain and crew, expect fast-paced fishing with top-tier gear and strategies aimed at landing big pelagic fish. The vessel’s speed and technology help maximize your chances of success.

While the trip doesn’t include food or beverages, the breathtaking views and exhilarating battles with fish make it a worthwhile experience for those seeking adventure on the water. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to try offshore fishing or seasoned anglers looking to cover more ground in less time.

The Downside: Low Review Score and Communication Concerns

Despite the trip’s exciting potential, the one-star review indicates significant communication issues, including lack of notification about cancellations. This highlights the importance of confirming details and maintaining contact with the operator before the trip.

It’s essential to weigh this negative experience against the fishing promise and decide whether the potential for a great catch outweighs the risk of unforeseen cancellations.

Who Will Enjoy This Fishing Trip?

This tour appeals most to anglers eager for offshore action and those comfortable with short notice cancellations due to weather or operational issues. Its speedy vessel and variety of targeted species suit adventurous groups looking for a thrilling, fast-paced fishing experience.

It’s ideal for families or groups wanting a private, tailored experience, but travelers should be aware of the cancellation risks and the lack of included food. Pre-trip communication with the provider is strongly advised to ensure a smooth outing.

The Sum Up: Worth Considering with Caution

The Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing trip aboard the 34 ft Contender offers a powerful vessel, diverse fish species, and a personalized experience for groups seeking deep-sea adventure. Its speed and technology enable covering more water and increasing the chances of landing big game fish.

However, the very low review rating underscores the importance of confirming arrangements and clarifying communication policies with the operator. This tour is best suited for those who are prepared for possible cancellations but still want to experience the thrill of offshore fishing in Key West’s famed waters.

Ready to Book?

Key West Inshore and Offshore Fishing 34 Ft Contender



1.0

“If I could give them a 0 star review, I would! We booked twice with them and received no communication from them that they were canceling. Went to …”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Apr 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour can be tailored to different skill levels, and guides are available to assist both seasoned anglers and first-timers.

What fish species can I expect to catch?
Target species include mahi, king mackerel, sailfish, blackfin tuna, and wahoo.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are not included. It’s recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can receive a full refund if you cancel more than 24 hours before the trip. Cancellations due to bad weather will be rescheduled or refunded.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring personal items like sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and any snacks or drinks you prefer, as these are not provided.

Is there any feedback about the experience?
There is significant concern about poor communication and cancellations, so travelers should confirm details directly with the provider before booking.