Fishing License
Every angler 16+ generally needs their own Florida saltwater license for a bareboat rental (unlike a licensed charter). Get yours in minutes:
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The Keys Boating Guide
Florida Keys Boating & Fishing Guide
The one-stop resource for licenses, rules, marinas, gear, and what's biting — for your own day on the water.
Fishing Rules (FWC)
Check bag and size limits, closed seasons, and current rules before you go. A quick dockside check can save a day from going sideways.
On the Water — Marine Sanctuary
The Keys are part of a protected national marine sanctuary. Know the zones, use mooring buoys where provided, and give coral and wildlife plenty of room.
Marinas — Up the Keys
Looking for fuel, a ramp, or a slip? Start with these marina lists and local stops, then call ahead to confirm hours and availability.
Boating Needs & Gear
Ice, line, tackle, safety gear — it is easier to find the missing piece before you launch. This longtime Key West stop carries the boating basics.
Fishing Report & Tournaments
The bite changes with the water, weather, and season. Check the latest Keys fishing overview and see what tournaments are coming up.
Season notes
What's In Season
A quick read on the usual Keys calendar. Conditions and closures change, and species-specific rules still apply.
| Catch | Keys quick-reference |
|---|---|
| Spiny lobster | Mini-season: late July · Regular season: Aug 6–Mar 31 |
| Sailfish & kingfish | Best known as a winter bite |
| Mahi (dolphin) | Spring through summer |
| Tarpon | Spring is prime time |
| Snapper & grouper | Varies by species and current open season |
General guide — confirm current FWC rules.
Before you book: decisions and rules
- Rent a boat and drive it yourself, or hire a captain?Should you rent a boat in Key West and drive it yourself, or book a private captain? Florida's boater education rule, what each option is best for, and how to decide..
- Pontoon, deck boat or center console: which boat should you rent?Which rental boat fits your day in Key West — a pontoon, a deck boat or a center console? What each is good at, who it suits, and what to ask before you book..
- Rent a boat in Key West or Marathon?Should you rent your boat in Key West or Marathon? How the two areas differ, how many rental listings we carry in each, and how to choose based on where you're staying..
- Sandbar day in the Keys: the rules and the etiquetteHeading to a Key West sandbar? The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary rules on seagrass and coral, how to anchor without damage, mooring buoys, and simple sandbar etiquette..
- Booking a Key West fishing charter: what to know firstBefore you book a Key West fishing charter: do you need a fishing license, private vs.
- Boating in the Keys with kidsTaking kids on a boat in Key West? Florida's life jacket rule for children under 6, how operators set age limits, choosing the right trip, and what to bring..