Mahi-mahi fishing out of Key West is offshore work, and this guide is written for anglers who run their own boat. For the port overview, see the Key West page. For biology, general seasons, and methods, use the mahi-mahi species guide. This page covers the local calendar marker, how far the near ground sits, the named grounds, who fishes mahi here, and the port-specific rule note.
When mahi are around Key West
The VFW Fishing Tournament, usually held in June, is the local calendar marker for mahi out of this port. The regional mahi-mahi guide (see also the wider Atlantic Southeast guide) covers the wider seasonal picture.
Where boats run
Boats run offshore for mahi. The Gulf Stream edge is about 20 minutes by boat from the Dream Catcher operation. Check the official marine forecast before you leave the dock.
Grounds and structure near Key West
Four named grounds anchor mahi-mahi fishing out of Key West, and they make a workable starting list.
| Ground | What is known |
|---|---|
| Gulf Stream edge | Offshore, about 20 minutes by boat from the Dream Catcher operation |
| Marquesas Keys | Named ground near Key West |
| Dry Tortugas National Park (Fort Jefferson and Garden Key) | National park with Fort Jefferson and Garden Key |
| Garden Key Historic Use Area | One-mile boat fishing zone around Garden Key |
Gulf Stream edge
This offshore ground sits about 20 minutes by boat from the Dream Catcher operation.
Marquesas Keys
The Marquesas Keys are a named ground near Key West.
Dry Tortugas National Park (Fort Jefferson and Garden Key)
The park includes Fort Jefferson and Garden Key. The regulations section below covers the Garden Key boat fishing zone.
Who fishes mahi out of Key West
Offshore charters and a tournament fish mahi from this port. Methods are covered in the species guide linked above. For other species, see the guides to other offshore gamefish.
- Charters: at least one local boat lists mahi-mahi.
- Tournament: the VFW Fishing Tournament is the local mahi event.
- Private boats: you can run the same offshore water on your own.
Charters that list mahi-mahi
Eva Marie Fishing Charters runs the Eva Marie, a 43 ft boat, and lists mahi-mahi.
VFW Fishing Tournament
This mahi tournament out of Key West is usually held in June.
FAQ about mahi-mahi fishing out of Key West
How far is the Gulf Stream edge from Key West?
It is about 20 minutes by boat from the Dream Catcher operation.
What grounds near Key West are named for mahi?
The named grounds are the Gulf Stream edge, the Marquesas Keys, and Dry Tortugas National Park (Fort Jefferson and Garden Key).
Is there a mahi tournament in Key West?
Yes. The VFW Fishing Tournament is usually held in June.
Which Key West charters list mahi-mahi?
Eva Marie Fishing Charters lists mahi-mahi, aboard the Eva Marie, a 43 ft boat.
Can you fish around Garden Key?
The Garden Key Historic Use Area is a one-mile boat fishing zone around Garden Key. Check the state and federal rules pages linked above before fishing.
Where are the mahi-mahi limits?
Limits are on the state regulations page and the federal dolphin and wahoo rules page linked in the regulations section.
