Florida · Keys
BLACKFIN TUNA FISHING
IN KEY WEST
Key West is an outstanding destination for blackfin tuna fishing, with peak season in January, February, November and good catches in March, April, May. Book a charter and target blackfin tuna with local experts.
About Blackfin Tuna Fishing in Key West
Smaller cousin of the yellowfin but excellent eating and great light-tackle sport.
Key West is an outstanding destination for blackfin tuna fishing, offering peak season in January, February, November and good catches in March, April, May. The best months to target blackfin tuna here are January, February, November, December.
Scientific name: Thunnus atlanticus
Blackfin Tuna Seasonal Calendar — Key West
Month-by-month availability for blackfin tuna in Key West, FL.
How to Catch Blackfin Tuna in Key West
Techniques & Bait
Consult your local charter captain for the most effective baits and techniques in the area.
Recommended Tackle
Your captain will provide all tackle and gear suited to the target species and local conditions.
Best Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Spots in Key West
Top spots where local captains target blackfin tuna and other deep sea fishing species.
The Hump (West Hump)
The Hump is a legendary deepwater seamount about 14 miles west of Key West where the bottom rises from 1,100 feet to around 480 feet. This underwater mountain concentrates blackfin tuna, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and mahi-mahi in massive numbers. It is also one of the top swordfish deep-dropping spots in the entire Florida Keys.
The Wall (Gulf Stream Edge)
The edge of the continental shelf runs just 10-15 miles south of Key West where blue Gulf Stream water meets the reef line. Sailfish, blue marlin, wahoo, and mahi-mahi patrol this edge, making Key West one of the closest ports to bluewater fishing in the entire United States. Winter sailfishing along The Wall is a Key West tradition.
Marquesas Keys
The Marquesas Keys are an uninhabited atoll roughly 24 miles west of Key West surrounded by pristine flats and deeper offshore waters. The surrounding depths hold permit, tarpon, and barracuda on the flats, while deeper edges produce mutton snapper, grouper, and pelagics. The remote location means less fishing pressure and bigger fish.
Riley's Hump
Riley's Hump is a deepwater reef formation in the Tortugas Ecological Reserve roughly 30 miles west of the Dry Tortugas. It is a critical spawning aggregation site for mutton snapper and attracts large pelagics including yellowfin tuna and wahoo along its deep edges. The area's protected status ensures a healthy ecosystem that benefits surrounding fisheries.
Other Species in Key West
More fish you can target while visiting Key West.
Blackfin Tuna Fishing in Key West — FAQ
The peak months for Blackfin Tuna fishing in Key West are January, February, November, December. During these months, Blackfin Tuna are most active and abundant in the Key West area.
Blackfin Tuna fishing charters in Key West are typically deep sea fishing trips. Prices vary by trip duration and group size. Most charters include all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning.
Consult your local charter captain for the most effective baits and techniques in the area.
No — when you book a charter in Key West, your captain provides all required Florida fishing licenses as part of the trip.
Blackfin Tuna regulations in Florida include minimum size limits and bag limits that vary by season. Your captain will know the current regulations and ensure compliance.
While targeting Blackfin Tuna in Key West, you may also catch Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Tarpon, Mangrove Snapper, Snook. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
Ready to Catch Blackfin Tuna in Key West?
Compare verified charter captains, check availability, and book your blackfin tuna fishing trip today.
Get Charter Quotes