Fishing Charters in Florida
Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch mutton snapper.


Nauti Girl Sportfishing
Palm Bay, FL
Captain Scott has been fishing Sebastian Inlet and the Space & treasure Coast since he moved here in 2002. But this is how his story started out, he saw the movie "Jaws" in June 1975 and found his calling, He started fishing along the Carolina coast and Gulf Stream at the age of 13. He fished around the world for 12 years in the US Navy, where he earned his 100 ton USCG Masters License. In 1993 in Port Aransas, Texas he was mentored by Captain Reese Green of Bill Buster's Sportfishing and he later went on to win some of the biggest fishing tournaments in the world. Island Mooring Pro Billfish Tournament 1993 and 1994 1997 Watermelon Classic Billfish Tournament 1997 Poco Bueno Blue Marlin Classic Texas Invitational Fishing Tournament 1995 Texas Women’s Anglers Tournament 1998 & 1999 Sharkey’s Pro Big Shark Tournament 1997-2000 Port Aransas Boatman “Deep Sea Round Up” 1997, 1999 and 2000 2007 Orange Beach Pro Billfish Tournament 2008 North Carolina Wahoo Shoot-Out He started Pure Pleasure Fishing in 1995 and ran it until 2003, when he moved to Melbourne, Florida and honed his skills on fishing Florida’s East Coast. Captain Scott is one of the world's top big shark fishing captains, having caught huge great whites, tiger sharks, mako sharks, bull sharks, hammerheads, blacktips, spinners and many more species. Captain Scott has caught 8 different species of billfish around the world, loves trolling and tuna fishing, bottom fishing, jigging and deep dropping. Captain Scott has caught 4 grander fish in his life (black marlin, mako shark, tiger shark and a great white). He has over a thousand + fish greater than 100 pounds boated under his skillful watch from wahoo, to blue and yellowfin tuna, thousands of sharks and many a blue marlin. Captain Scott is just missing a spearfish for his bucket list. Scott is a power production electrical engineer University of Texasand proud Long Horn. He works US Government civil service for the USAF with a TS-SCI Clearance and is retiring soon to pursue his love of fishing one last time. We are a veteran-owned company and offer Veteran and Military discounts


Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters
About The Captain Captain Tony, a seasoned guide, offers unique fishing charters around Big Pine Key and Bahia Honda Key. With a passion for mutton snapper, yellowtail snapper, tarpon, and sharks, he provides unforgettable experiences on the water. Note from Captain Tony Hi, I’m Captain Tony. Originally from the Jersey Shore, I grew up in…
Best Time to Catch Mutton Snapper
Peak season: May, June. Also good: March, April, July, August, September. Right now in April, activity is good.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Mutton Snapper
Targeting Mutton Snapper in Key West offers a unique angling experience, blending the thrill of the hunt with the stunning backdrop of the Florida Keys. These prized fish are commonly found around the numerous reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottom structures that dot the waters surrounding the island. Spring and fall are prime times, as muttons move into shallower waters to spawn. Focus your efforts around dawn and dusk for the best bite. A local tip: try chumming with cut bait to draw muttons out of their hiding spots. Key West muttons are known for their powerful runs and wily nature, so be sure your tackle is up to the challenge. They average a respectable size here, with opportunities for landing trophy fish. Be mindful of the sanctuary preservation areas and adhere to size and bag limits to help maintain this incredible fishery for future generations.
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How to Catch Mutton Snapper
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Mutton Snapper in Key West.
Mutton Snapper Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per person per day, within the snapper aggregate bag limit
Size Limit
18-inch minimum total length
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
Mutton snapper are included in the aggregate snapper bag limit, which is 10 snapper per person per day. Certain areas may have more restrictive regulations.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to catch mutton snapper around Key West?
Bottom fishing with live or cut bait around reefs and structure is a popular and effective method. Chumming can also help attract them.
Are there size restrictions for mutton snapper in Key West?
Yes, the minimum size limit for mutton snapper is 18 inches total length. Be sure to measure your catch from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail.
Do I need a license to fish for mutton snapper in Key West?
Yes, you need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license to target mutton snapper. You can purchase one online or at local tackle shops.
How many mutton snapper can I keep in a day in Key West?
The bag limit is 5 mutton snapper per person per day, but this counts towards the aggregate snapper limit. Make sure you are aware of the regulations for all snapper species.
More Mutton Snapper Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Key West
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