Little Torch Key Fishing Charters
Little Torch Key fishing charters give anglers easy access to backcountry channels, patch reefs, and deeper Gulf and Atlantic runs for tarpon, permit, snapper, and more.
Top Rated Charters in Little Torch Key
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Little Torch Key, FL Fishing Guide
Fishing charters out of Little Torch Key mostly run half-day and 6-hour trips, though full-day outings are popular during tarpon season or when chasing offshore pelagics. The island sits perfectly between Big Pine and Summerland Key, offering quick access to both the Gulf and Atlantic sides, with varied terrain that suits everything from technical flats fishing to reef drops and deep sea trolling.
Inshore, the backcountry around Little Torch Key is a maze of channels, basins, and flats. Anglers sight-fish for permit and bonefish on the oceanside shallows, while tarpon cruise the deeper basins and bridge channels from April through July. Light tackle and fly fishing are common here—think crab patterns for permit or live mullet under floats for tarpon. Snook and redfish are more of a bonus catch, often tucked back near mangrove edges on the Gulf side.
Reef trips usually run 5–10 miles out to patch reefs and live bottom in 20–60 feet of water. Here, you’ll find yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, grouper, and cero mackerel. Most captains anchor and chum, then fish weighted lines with cut bait or jig for action in the water column.
Offshore, full-day trips may head 15–30 miles out toward the dropoff, where mahi, wahoo, and tuna are targeted by trolling or running-and-gunning with spinning gear. Weather and time of year dictate how far out you’ll go, but Gulf Stream edges are often reachable on calm summer days.
Launch spots are typically out of Little Torch itself or nearby Big Pine. The run times are short, the water is clear, and the fishing pressure is lighter than in more crowded parts of the Keys.
Fishing Seasons in Little Torch Key
Spring
Spring kicks off tarpon season in earnest. Big fish push into the channels and basins, especially around the bridges. Fly anglers and bait fishermen alike get shots at rolling silver kings. Permit also start tailing more aggressively on the flats, while reef trips heat up with steady yellowtail and early muttons.
Summer
Tarpon remain a mainstay through July, with early morning and dusk bites being best. Offshore, calm seas mean more full-day runs for mahi and tuna. Patch reef action is steady, with mangrove snapper joining the mix. The flats stay productive early and late for bonefish and permit, especially around the moons.
Fall
Fall sees fewer crowds and good variety. Mangrove and mutton snapper feed well on the reef, while cooler temps start to bring in more grouper and baitfish. Bonefish and permit remain active on the flats. It’s also a good time for mixed-bag reef and backcountry trips with light tackle.
Winter
Cold fronts can make conditions tricky, but also push fish into predictable patterns. Channels and basins fill with snapper, jacks, and ladyfish. Cobia show up on the reef, and the occasional sailfish is possible on a winter trolling run. Flats fishing depends on wind and water temps but offers solid shots on calmer days.
Gamefish in Little Torch Key
- Tarpon – 40–120 lbs Targeted spring through summer in channels and basins using live mullet, crabs, or flies. Best around dawn and dusk.
- Permit – 10–30 lbs Sight-fished on ocean-side flats, especially near the moons. Crabs and shrimp under floats or fly patterns are key.
- Bonefish – 2–8 lbs Found on calm, hard-bottom flats. Target with small jigs or shrimp. Early morning is best in summer and fall.
- Mutton Snapper – 5–20 lbs Caught on the reefs with weighted baits or jig-and-bait combos. More active in spring and fall.
- Yellowtail Snapper – 1–4 lbs Abundant year-round on reefs. Chumming with light spinning tackle and small cut baits is the go-to method.
- Grouper (Black/Red) – 5–20 lbs Live bottom and ledges 5–15 miles out. Hit with live pinfish, jigs, or dead bait.
- Mahi-Mahi – 5–30 lbs Summer offshore favorite, found near weedlines or debris. Trolled or pitched baits do the trick.
- Cobia – 10–40 lbs Seen around structure or rays in winter and spring. Hit jigs, live pinfish, or eels.
- Sailfish – 30–60 lbs Targeted offshore in winter on trolling spreads with ballyhoo or live baits along the edge.
Little Torch Key Fishing FAQs
What types of fishing charters are available in Little Torch Key?
You’ll find half-day, 6-hour, and full-day trips here—ranging from flats and backcountry sight-fishing to reef and offshore adventures.
What’s the best time of year for tarpon near Little Torch Key?
Peak tarpon season runs from April through July. Local guides target them in the deeper channels and around the bridges at dawn and dusk.
Where do Little Torch Key charters usually depart from?
Most launch directly from Little Torch or nearby ramps on Big Pine Key. It’s a short run to both the Gulf and Atlantic.
Is fly fishing popular in this part of the Keys?
Yes, fly anglers often target bonefish and permit on the flats, and tarpon in the basins. Calm conditions and clear water make it ideal.
What kind of tackle is used for reef fishing around Little Torch?
Light spinning rods with cut bait or jigs work well for snapper. Heavier gear is used when targeting grouper or amberjack.
Are licenses included with charter trips in this area?
Yes, fishing licenses are typically covered under the captain’s charter license for all passengers.
Can kids fish on charters out of Little Torch Key?
Absolutely. Many guides cater to families and offer light tackle trips that are great for kids of all ages.
How far offshore do you need to go for mahi or tuna?
Most offshore trips run 15–30 miles to reach productive water, especially in summer when seas are calm.
Do Little Torch Key charters offer night fishing?
Some do, especially for tarpon or snapper. Be sure to ask your captain—night trips can be productive under the bridges or near the reef.
