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World-Class Snorkeling in Florida Keys | 8 Hours
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Florida Keys
- $500 - $1,100 price range
- Updated Date: November 17, 2025
Summary
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Reels and Reefs
Full Day Fishing & Snorkeling in Little Torch Key
Ready for a double dose of Florida Keys action? This full-day trip out of Little Torch Key packs in both fishing and snorkeling, giving you the best of both worlds. We'll start by dropping lines for some inshore fishing, targeting everything from tasty snappers to hard-fighting mackerel. Then we'll trade rods for masks and fins to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Keys. It's eight hours of non-stop adventure that'll leave you with a boatload of memories (and maybe some fresh fish for dinner).
What's On The Menu Today?
Our day kicks off bright and early as we head out from the docks of Little Torch Key. The morning's all about wetting some lines and filling the fish box. We'll hit some prime inshore spots where snapper and grouper love to hang out. As the day heats up, we might run into some schools of mahi-mahi or king mackerel - always a blast on light tackle. After we've had our fill of fishing, it's time to cool off with some world-class snorkeling. The reefs around here are teeming with colorful fish, and if we're lucky, we might spot a sea turtle cruising by. Don't worry if you're new to either activity - our experienced guides will make sure you're comfortable and having a great time, whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time putting on a snorkel mask.
Rods, Reels, and Reef Gear
For our fishing portion, we'll be using light to medium tackle - perfect for the inshore species we're after. We'll set you up with quality rods and reels, and show you the best techniques for enticing those fish to bite. Expect to do some bottom fishing for snappers and groupers, and maybe some trolling if we spot signs of mackerel or mahi. When it's time to snorkel, we've got you covered with masks, fins, and snorkels. The waters here are usually crystal clear, making it easy to spot all sorts of marine life. And don't sweat it if you've never snorkeled before - we'll give you a quick lesson and make sure you're comfortable before you hop in.
Target Species Breakdown
Grey Snapper: These guys are the bread and butter of inshore fishing in the Keys. Also known as mangrove snapper, they're crafty little devils that put up a good fight and taste amazing on the grill. We typically find them around structure like reefs and wrecks. They're here year-round, but the bite really heats up in the summer months.
Red Grouper: If you're looking for a fish that'll really test your arms, red grouper is your target. These bottom-dwellers can grow to impressive sizes and are known for their delicious white meat. They love to hang around rocky bottoms and reefs. Winter is usually the best time to target them, as they move into shallower waters.
King Mackerel: Also called kingfish, these speedsters are a blast to catch. They're known for their smoking runs and aerial acrobatics when hooked. We usually find them in open water, and they love to chase fast-moving baits. Spring and fall are prime seasons for kings, as they migrate through our waters.
Mahi Mahi: Also known as dorado or dolphinfish (though they're not related to dolphins at all), mahi are one of the most beautiful fish in the sea. They're incredible fighters, known for their acrobatic leaps and blazing speed. We often find them near floating debris or weed lines. Summer is the peak season, but we can catch them year-round in the Keys.
Why Folks Keep Coming Back
There's something special about combining fishing and snorkeling in one trip. In the morning, you're feeling the thrill of the catch, battling fish and (hopefully) filling the cooler. Then in the afternoon, you're face-to-face with the underwater world, seeing firsthand the environment where those fish live. It's like getting the behind-the-scenes tour of the ocean. Plus, with a full eight hours on the water, there's plenty of time to really settle in and enjoy both activities without feeling rushed. Whether you're here with family, friends, or flying solo, this trip offers something for everyone.
Time to Get Your Feet Wet
So, are you ready to experience the best of both worlds in the Florida Keys? This full-day fishing and snorkeling trip out of Little Torch Key is the perfect way to do it. You'll get to try your hand at catching some of the most popular inshore species in the area, then cool off by exploring the vibrant underwater world of the Keys. With all gear provided and guidance from our experienced local captains, it's a hassle-free way to make the most of your time on the water. Spaces are limited to just six guests, so don't wait - book your spot now and get ready for a day of Florida Keys adventure you won't soon forget!
Learn more about the species
Grey Snapper
Grey Snapper, or Mangrove Snapper, are a local favorite here in Little Torch Key. These feisty fish typically run 1-2 pounds inshore, but can hit 20 pounds in open water. Look for them around structures like mangroves, reefs, and docks in depths of 10-100 feet. They're opportunistic feeders, most active at night. Grey Snapper put up a good fight and make excellent table fare with their white, flaky meat. Prime fishing is May through October when water temps warm up. To land one, try using a live shrimp on a 4J hook. Thread it tail-first to keep it lively longer. Let it sink to the bottom near structure, then reel up slightly so you don't snag. Be patient - these guys like to ambush their prey, so avoid too much movement. When you feel a tug, reel steady to set the hook before bringing it up.
King Mackerel
King Mackerel, or Kingfish, are speed demons of the sea. They typically weigh 15-30 pounds, but can reach a whopping 90 pounds. You'll find them in depths of 40-150 feet, with bigger ones hanging out in harbors and inlets. These guys are migratory, so prime fishing here is April through October when water temps hit 68-84°F. Kings are prized for their fight - they'll make your reel scream. Trolling is the go-to method, using heavy tackle and large planers. Live bait works great too. Here's a tip: use a two-hook rig with a single hook through the bait's nose and a trailing treble hook. Kings often bite the back half of the bait, so this setup improves your hook-up ratio. Watch out though - they've got razor-sharp teeth that'll slice through light leaders in a flash.
Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish
Mahi Mahi, also called Dorado, are a sight to behold with their golden sides and bright blue-green backs. They're fast growers, typically 15-29 pounds and around 3 feet long. Look for them near floating debris or weed lines in open water. Mahi are surface feeders and incredible acrobats when hooked, making them a favorite for sport fishing. They're also delicious, with a mild, sweet flavor. Peak season here is April through September. To catch them, troll near floating objects or look for frigate birds circling - they'll often lead you to Mahi. Try using live bait like ballyhoo or squid, or bright artificial lures that skip across the surface. Here's a local secret: if you hook one, keep it in the water. Mahi often travel in schools, and the hooked fish will attract others, giving you a shot at multiple catches.
Red Grouper
Red Grouper are a prized catch in our waters, known for their moist, firm meat with a hint of shellfish flavor. You'll typically find them in rocky or muddy bottom areas, 16 to 300 feet deep. Most weigh 5-10 pounds, but they can grow up to 50 pounds. These guys are tough fighters, so be ready for a battle. They're aggressive eaters, making them fun to catch year-round, but the best action is outside their spawning season from May to December. Live bait like shrimp or crab works well, but they'll hit artificial lures too. Here's a local trick: when you feel a bite, give it a second before setting the hook. Red Grouper often grab the bait and run back to their hole. Wait for them to turn, then set the hook hard and start reeling. It's a thrill when you bring one up from the depths!
About the BullsBay
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 140
