Fishing Charter w/Teens and a sandbar?

Question

Does anyone have a recommendation for a fishing charter that would also be willing to stop in a sandbar so we could swim after fishing? My teens would like to try fishing, something they have only done once in S.C. and was very disappointing because the fish were small. My impression is we don't need to do deep sea fishing in Key West to get some large fish? While the kids would like to see a lot of fish action, I would also appreciate some time to see the sandbars and swim in blue water.

Answer

Key West offers a variety of fishing charters that cater to families and can customize trips to include both fishing and stops at sandbars for swimming. Since your teens want a fun, active experience without the long haul of deep-sea fishing, a nearshore or backcountry charter is ideal. These trips often target species like snapper, grouper, mackerel, and barracuda, which are larger than what you might catch in smaller inshore waters.

Here are some recommended options for family-friendly fishing charters that are known to accommodate stops at sandbars:

Backcountry / Flats Charters: These charters focus on shallow waters, reefs, and sand flats. Captains are familiar with local sandbars and can stop for swimming. Fish species are plentiful, and these trips are typically shorter and less physically demanding.
Private Family Charters: Many charters offer private boat rentals for your group. This allows flexibility to fish first, then cruise to a sandbar for swimming and snorkeling. This is ideal if your teens want a balance of fishing and relaxation.
Half-Day Combo Trips: Some charters advertise half-day fishing combined with a stop at the famous sandbars around Key West. These trips usually run 4–5 hours, making them manageable for younger anglers while still allowing time for swimming in shallow, turquoise waters.

Tips to ensure a great experience:

Communicate your priorities when booking—let the captain know you want both active fishing and sandbar time for swimming.
Bring sunscreen, hats, snacks, and water. Even on a half-day trip, the Florida sun can be strong.
Check for charters that provide fishing gear, bait, and life jackets for all passengers, especially teens.
Consider morning departures to avoid peak heat and afternoon thunderstorms, common in summer months.

Overall, you don’t need to go deep-sea to catch sizable fish in Key West. Inshore and backcountry charters provide plenty of action and can easily incorporate stops at sandbars for a refreshing swim, making it a perfect combination for a family day on the water.

Fishing Charter w/Teens and a sandbar?

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