Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Fishing Info

Find clear answers to your questions about booking, tackle, and custom trip details to ensure a seamless outing with Keys To Montauk across New York and the Florida Keys.

Where does Keys To Montauk fish?

We fish the Montauk area, including Montauk (Gardiners Bay, Atlantic Ocean, Long Island Sound, Lake Montauk, Napeague Bay, Shelter Island), Florida Keys (Marathon to Islamorada).

What are the target fish?

Target fish include Atlantic Sailfish, Grey Snapper, Mutton Snapper, Sea Trout, Wahoo Fish

Where in Montauk to we meet our guests?

We meet at 32 Star Island Rd, Montauk, NY 11954, USA, 11499 B, 11499 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050, USA

Do I need a fishing license for my Montauk or Florida Keys trip?

For New York fishing trips, all anglers aged 16 and older must register for the free New York State Recreational Marine Fishing Registry prior to stepping on the water. For Florida Keys trips with Keys To Montauk, guests do not need an individual fishing license because Captain Chris holds a commercial license covering up to 10 anglers.

How much does a private captain for hire cost with Keys To Montauk?

Inshore captain-for-hire trips on your vessel cost $700 flat for up to 10 guests in both Montauk, NY and Marathon, FL. Offshore captain-for-hire trips cost $1,000 flat, while land-based shore fishing lessons start at $350 in Montauk and $500 in the Florida Keys.

Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for a Keys To Montauk trip?

For land-based shore fishing lessons, Captain Chris provides all necessary terminal tackle, custom rods, specialized gear, and fresh bait. For captain-for-hire trips on your private boat, guests supply their vessel and preferred tackle, though Captain Chris offers comprehensive pre-trip tackle advising to ensure your boat is properly rigged.

What is included when I book a captain-for-hire trip with Keys To Montauk?

Every captain-for-hire booking includes a 22+ year USCG Master Licensed Captain who provides expert vessel skippering, localized navigation, tide strategy, and hands-on instruction in advanced techniques like wire trolling, vertical jigging, and live baiting.

What is the best time of year to fish in Montauk and the Florida Keys?

Peak Montauk season runs from July through September for giant bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, trophy striped bass, and fluke. The Florida Keys season runs from October through mid-June, offering prime conditions for sailfish, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and yellowtail snapper around Marathon and Islamorada.

Is fish cleaning and filleting included with Keys To Montauk?

Yes, Captain Chris will clean, fillet, and bag your legally kept catch at the dock or along the shoreline following your trip so your fresh seafood is ready for the kitchen or cooler.

What should I bring on a shore fishing lesson with Keys To Montauk in Marathon or Montauk?

You should bring polarized sunglasses, sun protection, weather-appropriate clothing layers, non-slip footwear suitable for wet sand or rocks, personal snacks, drinks, and a cooler to keep in your vehicle for transporting your fillets home.

Can I hire Keys To Montauk for a scenic sunset cruise or navigation consulting?

Yes, Keys To Montauk offers private boat skippering for relaxed sunset cruises around Montauk Point or the Middle Keys, as well as one-on-one maritime navigation advising, electronics setup, and tide coaching for vessel owners.

For further questions, please visit our Contact Us page.