Hogfish Fishing in Key West, FL
Local guides, seasonality, and regulations for hogfish in Key West.
Fishing Charters in Florida
Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch hogfish.
The Way Sportfishing
Book a day of offshore charter fishing in Ft. Lauderdale FL for snapper, sailfish, amberjack, hogfish & more with The Way Sportfishing.
Reel Deal Sportfishing
Reel Deal Sportfishing offers Clearwater Beach Fishing Charters. We target snapper, cobia, hogfish, mahi mahi, tuna, sharks and much more!
Best Time to Catch Hogfish
Peak season: March, April, May. Also good: January, February, June, July, October, November, December.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Hogfish
The hogfish, a fascinating and delicious species, is a prized catch for anglers along the Atlantic coast and Gulf of Mexico. Known for its distinctive pig-like snout and vibrant colors, the hogfish offers a unique fishing experience. Found primarily in warmer waters, they inhabit reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottoms, often near structures that provide shelter and feeding opportunities. The challenge of targeting these bottom-dwelling fish, combined with their excellent table fare, makes hogfish a sought-after species for both recreational and experienced anglers.
Hogfish Fishing in Key West
Targeting hogfish in Key West offers a unique angling experience due to the diverse underwater structures found in the surrounding waters. Unlike areas further north, Key West provides year-round opportunities, though the warmer months (May-September) often see increased activity. These fish thrive around the abundant patch reefs, artificial reefs, and wrecks that dot the ocean floor.
For the best results, focus your efforts in 20-60 feet of water, using live shrimp as bait on a jig head or knocker rig. Hogfish have relatively small mouths, so use appropriately sized hooks. A local tip: try chumming with small pieces of shrimp to draw them out from their hiding places. Be aware that strong currents can be common, so adjust your weight accordingly to keep your bait near the bottom. Because they are prized for their delicious fillets, hogfish are subject to size and bag limits, so check current regulations before heading out.
Plan a Trip to Key West
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How to Catch Hogfish
Hogfish Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
May 1 – October 31
Daily Bag Limit
1 per person per day
Size Limit
16-inch fork length minimum
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
Harvest allowed in state waters of the Atlantic and Monroe County. Outside of Monroe County, harvest is prohibited in state waters of the Gulf.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to catch Hogfish in Key West, FL?
The best months for Hogfish in Key West are March, April, May.
What are the Hogfish fishing regulations in Florida?
In Florida, the season is may 1 – october 31, the daily bag limit is 1 per person per day, the minimum size is 16-inch fork length minimum. Regulations change throughout the year, so confirm current rules with the Florida wildlife agency before fishing.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Hogfish in Florida?
Saltwater fishing license. On a guided charter, anglers are often covered under the captain's license — confirm with your guide when booking.
More Hogfish Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Key West
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