Keep an eye on Key West’s ever-changing skies with real-time weather updates. Whether you're planning a boat trip, beach day, or just exploring the island, our weather tracker gives you the latest forecasts so you’re always prepared—rain or shine.
FISHING IN KEY WEST
The Marker, an Angler’s Paradise
Key West is well-known as a premiere fishing destination. Its picturesque waters offer a diversity of fishable species, including Tarpon, Permit, Bonefish, and Snapper, as well as Barracudas, Sharks, and Yellow Jacks. Home to numerous world-class tournaments, Key West is a must-visit for professionals, amateurs, catch-and-release enthusiasts, and those craving a fresh-from-the-sea dining experience. For fishing-focused guests visiting The Marker, our on-site concierge can assist with connections to top local charters, captains, and services offering equipment rental, bait, and tackle.
Additionally, your charter crew can clean and prepare your fresh catch, ready for the award-winning culinary team at Starboard, our on-site restaurant, to expertly cook your catch — grilled, fried, or blackened — the perfect reward after an exhilarating day on the water.
Below are some of the best fishing tournaments in Key West this Spring & Summer:
March Merkin Invitational Permit Tournament
March 10-13: This is the world’s largest and most competitive catch-and-release Permit tournament, dedicated to conservation. Hosted at Oceans Edge Resort & Marina on Stock Island, just north of The Marker Resort, this flats-and-fly-only charity tournament supports the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s vital Permit research and conservation efforts.
Key West Sailfish Tournament
March 27–29: The 2025 Key West Sailfish Tournament is one of South Florida’s premier destination tournaments, drawing world-class teams to the vibrant waters of Key West and the Lower Keys. This two-day, shootout-style competition attracts top anglers from Florida and beyond, all vying for leaderboard dominance and prize money. A top event for avid anglers, the tournament promises high-stakes action in an unforgettable setting.
Spanish Fly Shark Tournament
April 3-5: The second annual Bull Shark Catch-and-Release Tournament aims to expand knowledge of bull sharks in the Florida Keys. Featuring both inshore and offshore divisions, the event is televised by Outdoor America and blends competitive fishing with conservation efforts. It serves as a platform to promote shark ecology and sustainable fishing practices.
Viking Yachts Key West Challenge
April 9-12 The Viking Key West Challenge is a family-friendly celebration. Participants spend the day chasing big catches and the evenings enjoying live music, great food, and fun-filled activities. This event also brings together Viking boat owners, offering a unique opportunity to connect, share fishing stories, and learn from industry experts. A perfect mix of competition, camaraderie, and unforgettable experiences, the challenge promises lasting memories for anglers and families alike.
Key West Gator Club Dolphin Derby
June 13-15: This charity tournament funds scholarships for University of Florida students who graduated from Key West High School. The boat team landing the heaviest dolphin fish wins $5,000, with prizes awarded through fifth place, as well as to the top lady and junior anglers.
Florida Keys PBA Dolphin Tournament
June 21-23 Hosted by volunteers for the Florida Keys Police Benevolent Association, this Stock Island-based tournament targets dolphin fish and awards cash prizes to the top four anglers, as well as the top junior, female, and PBA member anglers. Proceeds support the Autism Society of the Keys and Love Fund Inc.
VFW Fishing Tournament
June 20-22: The 13th Annual Family Event awards over $15,000 in cash and prizes, including $5,000 for the heaviest dolphin fish. Proceeds support disabled and needy veterans in Monroe County, Florida Keys.
The Del Brown Permit Tournament
July 14-17 This tournament honors the late Del Brown, the pioneer of permit fishing with a fly rod. As the original and longest-running permit fly fishing tournament in the Keys—and the world—it continues his legacy in the sport.
Key West Marlin Tournament
July 23-26: Celebrating its 44th year, this tournament honors Ernest Hemingway’s legacy with $50,000 in cash prizes. Teams earn points for blue marlin, white marlin, spearfish, and “fun fish” species. The event features nightly dinners, a silent auction, and an awards banquet, all coinciding with Key West’s annual Hemingway Days festival embracing the literary icon’s adventurous spirit. Open to anglers of all skill levels.
Track the Tides in Key West
Stay in the know with real-time tide updates for Key West. Whether you're planning a beach day, heading out to fish, or catching the perfect sunset stroll, our tide tracker gives you the daily highs and lows you need—no guesswork, just smooth sailing.