Top-Rated Deep Sea Fishing on Florida's West Coast

Epic Deep Sea Adventure off Florida's Gulf Coast

Ready for the offshore fishing trip of a lifetime? Tuna Wahoo Charters has you covered with our full-day deep sea excursion. We'll take you and up to five of your buddies out to where the big boys play – I'm talking sailfish, mahi-mahi, and even the occasional swordfish. This isn't your grandpa's pier fishing; we're going after the hard-fighters that'll test your arms and your gear. Our experienced crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, so get ready for non-stop action from the moment we leave the dock.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're cruising out past the breakwater as the sun's coming up, the salt spray in your face and the anticipation building. We typically run anywhere from 20 to 50 miles offshore, depending on where the fish are biting. Once we hit the sweet spot, it's all hands on deck. We'll set you up with top-notch gear and show you the ropes if you're new to offshore fishing. Live bait's available for an extra fee, and trust me, it's worth it when you're trying to entice those trophy fish. We're not just fishing here – we're hunting in the blue water, using every trick in the book to get those reels screaming.

Techniques That Land the Big Ones

Out here, we don't mess around with light tackle. We're talking heavy-duty rods and reels spooled with braided line that can handle the fight of a 100-pound sailfish. We'll use a mix of techniques depending on what's biting. Trolling's a favorite – we'll set out a spread of lures or rigged baits and cruise at the perfect speed to make those lures dance. When we mark fish on the sonar, we might switch to deep dropping or jigging. And if we spot a weedline or floating debris, get ready for some cast-and-retrieve action that could land you a monster mahi-mahi. It's all about adapting to what the ocean gives us, and that's where our crew's experience really shines.

Angler Tales from the Gulf

"We set out just after sunrise, and within an hour we were into fish! Captain Rich had us on the action from the start and it never let up. He's one of those rare guides who combines deep local knowledge with a fun, easygoing personality. His boat was well-stocked with everything we needed, and his attention to safety and comfort was outstanding. It was my son's first time ocean fishing and Rich made it a memorable one—we'll be talking about this trip for years to come." - Anup

"Our group included both seasoned anglers and total beginners, and Captain Rich made sure everyone had an amazing time. He adjusted techniques and gave one-on-one instruction when needed, which really made a difference. The variety of species we caught was incredible—barracuda, bonito, and even a small shark! Rich's passion for fishing is obvious, and he shares it with everyone on board. Whether you're a hardcore fisherman or just looking to try something new in Palm Beach, this trip is a must." - Ray

"Took my kids on their first fishing trip, and it couldn't have gone better. The crew was patient and taught them how to cast and reel. We all left with huge smiles (and dinner!)." - monica

Species You'll Want to Hook

Bull Shark: These bruisers of the sea are a year-round target off Florida's west coast. Bull sharks are known for their aggressive nature and powerful fights. They typically range from 200 to 300 pounds, but monsters over 500 pounds aren't unheard of. When you hook into one of these, be ready for a battle that'll test every ounce of your strength. Bull sharks are most active in the warmer months, but we can find them any time of year in the deeper offshore waters.

Atlantic Sailfish: The speedsters of the ocean, sailfish are prized for their acrobatic displays and blistering runs. These beauties can hit speeds of up to 68 mph and are known for their spectacular leaps when hooked. We typically target sailfish from late fall through early spring when they migrate through our waters. Watching a sailfish light up with iridescent blues and purples as it charges a bait is a sight you'll never forget. They average around 6-8 feet in length and put up a fight that'll have you grinning for days.

Cobia: Don't let their snake-like appearance fool you – cobia are pound-for-pound one of the hardest fighting fish in the Gulf. These curious creatures often follow our boat, giving us a perfect shot at sight-casting. Cobia season peaks in spring and fall, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look. They're not picky eaters, which makes them a blast to target with both live bait and artificial lures. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like cobia on the grill after a long day on the water.

Wahoo: If you're after pure speed and power, wahoo is your fish. These streamlined predators can rip line off your reel faster than you can blink. We often target wahoo by high-speed trolling, which is an adrenaline rush in itself. They're most common in our waters during the cooler months, but we've been known to hook into some monsters year-round. Wahoo can grow up to 8 feet long and weigh over 180 pounds, though most we catch are in the 30-50 pound range. Their firm, white meat is some of the best-eating fish in the ocean.

Mahi Mahi: Also known as dorado or dolphinfish, mahi mahi are the acrobats of the offshore world. These vibrant fish are known for their spectacular colors – electric blues, greens, and yellows that seem to shift and shimmer in the sun. Mahi are surface feeders, which means you'll often see them skyrocketing on bait – a sight that gets every angler's heart racing. They're abundant in our waters from spring through fall, often found near floating debris or weed lines. Mahi are incredible fighters for their size, and they're just as impressive on the dinner table as they are on the end of your line.

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen, I could go on all day about the thrill of deep sea fishing off Florida's west coast, but nothing beats experiencing it for yourself. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to tangle with some serious gamefish or a newbie eager to feel that first offshore bite, we've got you covered. Our trips fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Grab your buddies, pack some snacks and drinks, and get ready for a day on the water you'll be talking about for years to come. The fish are out there waiting – all that's left is for you to book your spot and join us for the offshore adventure of a lifetime. See you on the boat!