Guided light tackle trips across the shallow waters surrounding Key West.
Ideal for families, beginners, or anglers looking for steady action in protected water.
More time to explore deeper into the Backcountry and fish multiple areas.
Covers the greatest distance and variety of water. Best for anglers targeting specific species or wanting maximum opportunity.
Here’s what people are saying about their experience with ShadowCaster!
All reviews![]()
TripadvisorPosted on Google![]()
Julian PiersonSeptember 24, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Such an awesome time! Travis is so knowledgeable and great to hang out with. Very easy going people and super accommodating! Would recommend to anyone, fished quite a few charters in a lot of places and this is one of my favorites!Posted on Google![]()
SadieSeptember 18, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We couldn’t have had a better time fishing in the Florida Keys. The whole trip, Travis had multiple of us hooked up on Tarpon, Grouper, snapper, and even Snook. You can tell they really know what they’re doing and where to go. We were also able to customize the trip - Travis asked what we wanted to do and more than delivered. A 6hr trip was perfect for us because we were able to do a mixture of fishing. If I could give Shadow Casters more than 5 stars, I absolutely would. Next time we’re in Key West, we’ll definitely be fishing with them again!+2Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Kwin_Go_TravelJuly 24, 2026Verified
Great small boat fishing experience Travis was fantastic! We had a great time, he is super knowledgeable about the area and knows where the fish are! We had a great time catching tarpon, snappers and sharks! Perfect for a family of 4!Posted on Google![]()
Matt MageeJuly 17, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Awesome experience! 120lb Tarpon these guys know how to find em!Posted on Google![]()
RugglesJuly 17, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Excellent time hooked up on a ton of big tarpon! Great hospitality and captainsPosted on Google![]()
Jeremy BrileyJuly 12, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Had a great day on the water with Captain Travis. Caught over 100lbs of fish on a 6 hr trip. A 70lb tarpon, a 25lb grouper, some barracuda and several snapper. He’s super cool and knows the area well. If we weren’t catching something at a spot, he took us to another place quickly. I recommend an outing with him!Posted on Google![]()
Mike ScalfJune 26, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Been out a couple times with these guys. Travis is a fantastic guide and we seem to always catch what we are after, and usually something we weren’t after😂. They have a GREAT attitude and just a fun trip all around. Highly recommend.Posted on Google![]()
Scott PlylerJune 16, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My son and I booked 4 hour charter on June 16th. John and his staff were extremely accommodating and put us on some nice tarpon. Easy access and short boat rides to fishing grounds. Will book again on next trip to Key West.Posted on Google![]()
Neil HornJune 11, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Once again, I return home after a successful fishing trip with John Smouse. This was the 19th straight year I've fished with John. We targeted tarpon both days on the water and had good success, especially on the 2nd day. If you want to come down solo, or with family and friends, I whole-heartedly recommend booking with ShadowCasters. John and Justin and Travis know their craft and will help you have a fun experience on the blue Key West water. You will catch fish.Posted on Google![]()
Dyanna DesforgesJune 6, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had a great time with Captain Travis! We caught a tarpon with the first bait he threw out. Would highly recommend taking a trip with them!+0Posted on Google![]()
Lucas WilkeyJune 4, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Took my two boys out today with captain Travis and this is a trip they will be talking about for years to come! Big tarpon to start the day, snapper, jacks, sharks and even barricuda throughout the day. Would highly recommend and will be coming back for years to comePosted on Google![]()
Edward MooreJune 4, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great experience. Captain Travis worked hard and put us on the fish. 👍🏼🎣+0Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Ken DMay 29, 2026Verified
Great fishing in Key West As my niece was getting married in Key West, I took the opportunity to book a 6 hr fishing expedition for myself and 5 friends (we booked 2 boats). We had a great time. Both guides were great - friendly, laid back, and knew the waters and fish species well. On my boat, all 3 of us caught large tarpons (around 80+ lbs each). We also caught a few barracudas and some snapper to take home to the grill (delicious). We also saw a couple of sharks and stingrays. I definitely recommend ShadowCaster a if you want to catch some nice fish around Key West.Posted on Google![]()
Timothy FaganMay 27, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Chasing tarpon in the Key West backcountry with Cap'n John Smouse of ShadowCaster was hands-down the best day I've ever had on the water. John had us on the fish soon after sunrise, putting us in position for silver kings up to and over 100 pounds. We hooked and landed five tarpon, our new one-day record. What sets John apart isn't just that he knows where the fish are (though after years working these waters, he absolutely does). It's that he's a genuinely great guide and great company. He read the tides, the wind, and the light all morning long, repositioned constantly. Bonus points for his Key West funny stories and local insights! The boat was immaculate, the rods and live bait were dialed for big tarpon, and he had everything from sunscreen to cold water ready to go. If you're coming to Key West to fish tarpon inshore, do not book anyone else. Reach out to Cap'n John at ShadowCaster, plan your trip around the tides he recommends, bring polarized sunglasses and a hat, and be ready for the fight of your life. He'll put you on fish — the rest is up to you.+0Posted on Google![]()
Mike TMay 27, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My kid and I took a trip out with Shadowcaster Capt Travis and had an absolute blast! Captain did a great job putting us shark, barracuda, and snapper even when the weather didn’t cooperate with us. This was one of my favorite fishing trips I’ve ever been on. We’ll be calling shadowcaster next time we visit the keys.Posted on Google![]()
Wes BellMay 23, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Awesome half day trip! Caught tarpon , sharks a grouper and a few barracuda. Capt John was awesome and unbelievably great with the kids. I’ll be back!Posted on Google![]()
Dave JenkinsMay 20, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Went out for an evening trip and a 6hr trip with Travis. Put us on Tarpon both times and my wife and I both managed to land one with his guidance. Our second time out we fished several different spots and targeted different species- had a great time! Highly recommend Travis and Shadow Caster charters.Posted on Google![]()
Eric MenchacaMay 10, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Awesome experience, I highly recommend fishing with these guys. We fished two days with Capt Travis, he was very knowledgeable and put us on the fish. Over the two days we caught permit, bone fish, grouper, snapper, and multiple tarpon. Will definitely be using them again!+2Posted on Google![]()
Brent RossmanMay 9, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Caught a 140lb. Tarpon less than an hour on the water with Capt. Travis! Been on my bucket list for years. Highly recommend ShadowCasters Charters! Tap on video to see:) Brent Rossman Ohio+0Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Brent RMay 9, 2026Verified
Big Tarpon Went out tarpon fishing with Capt. Travis at 7:am and pick up bait. He took me to a spot in the bay. At 8:am I was fighting a huge tarpon that took an hour, to get to the boat. Capt. Travis, est. weight at 140lbs. I have caught big fish in other places bigger than this tarpon, but never had one fight like this. Tarpon was on my bucket list for years. I had been out 4 others time, no luck. This was my first tarpon and thrill of all my fishing trips. I'm a 76 year old man with a beer belly, this fish almost won the battle. If I were younger, I would have stayed out and caught more, but told Travis, I was done and take me back to the dock. Thanks to Capt. Travis and ShadowCaster Charters. They are the best, highly recommend! Brent Rossman OhioPosted on Tripadvisor![]()
Brent RMay 9, 2026Verified
Trophy Tarpon Caught a 140lb. Tarpon in first hour of trip with Capt. Travis! No better charter than ShadowCaster!Posted on Google![]()
Mike KrysiakMay 8, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I’ve been fishing with John for almost 20 years. He’s the best. Great fishing guide and also a lot of fun.Posted on Google![]()
Gary RennerMay 7, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
If you’re on the fence… do it. Captain Justin puts you on the fish all day. It’s a great time on the water and it’s something you will remember foreverPosted on Google![]()
William OlsenMay 5, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Absolute Professionals!!! With the best attitude to go with it… I’m a Salmon/sheelhead guide in the Pacific Northwest and I know what it takes and how much work you have to put in to get clients on the fish,The crew at Shadow casters exceeded my expectations. Well done!!+5Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Ed NovakMarch 31, 2026Verified
From First Cast to Pro: A Charter for Every Angler - And Every Family My son and I have been fishing with John and Justin of ShadowCaster for years and every trip has been a great day on the water. This March was another great day - we wanted to target Barracuda as we love the rush of top water strikes. Justin always wants you to catch fish even more than you do, and he worked tirelessly locating fish - which resulted in many top water explosions. What truly sets ShadowCasters apart is their ability tailor your day on the water to you. If you’re looking for a high-energy, fish-chasing adventure, they’ll make it happen. But if you’re out with kids and want a more relaxed, memory-making day catching "whatever is biting" they’re just as enthusiastic about creating that experience.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
BrianMarch 24, 2026Verified
Great day on the water. Great trip with Capt. Justin. He worked really hard to put us on fish and did a great job making sure my wife, who is not an experienced fisher, had a great time. Highly recommend ShadowCaster!Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Budandlaura_Columbia, MdFebruary 20, 2026Verified
“Caught a 70lb tarpon, 5 ‘aggressive’ barracuda! My wife, 29 y/o son and his girlfriend went for a 4-hr tarpon and flats fishing trip with Captain. Travis. We had a fantastic day and look forward to going again, ( w the same captain), in 2 weeks w some friends from home. We caught a 70 lb tarpon and 5 large, (and AGGRESSIVE), barracuda, along with enough snapper for a delicious dinner for 4! We’ve done similar KW fishing charters for the past 3 Februarys and this was by far the best looking forward to wearing my Shadow Casters fishing hoodie!Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Dallas SFebruary 19, 2026Verified
Great day on the water Travis is on of those captains with deep local knowledgeable and love for fishing .He put us on some fish right away with the first wreck and finished it off with some great battles with some cobia. Found my captain for when I visit the keys.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Julie EJanuary 7, 2026Verified
Fishing key west January 2026 We had a great day fishing with Travis. We caught red snapper, barracuda and a shark. Travis even caught a pelican lol lol 😝. It was a 5 star experience and can’t wait to do it again with the family.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Ryan BDecember 31, 2025Verified
Awesome trip Awesome time out fishing w/ Captain Justin at Shadow Caster. Was windy as heck but he put us on the fish, made it comfortable for the whole family (including my wife). 5 out of 5 experience and would do it again in a heartbeat - caught 7 species of fish, including some awesome topwater action with big barracuda on the flats.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Richard BDecember 24, 2025Verified
On point, what you would expect Travis knew where they were and they weren’t there we waisted no time getting to them. He asked what we wanted to catch and planned our trip accordingly. We wanted fish to take and eat as well as fish that fight. We caught 10 different types of fish and enough to eat daily for a few days. When they were biting Travis was like an automatic baiting machine, allowing us to stay on them. Thanks Again Travis!!!Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Venture17918005749December 17, 2025Verified
Hire these guys! My son and I fish all over the world and have been fishing with ShadowCaster for 7 years now. Always A+ and these guys work hard to put you on fish the entire outing. Captains John, Justin and Travis all fit the saying , "Any guide can put you on fish when they're biting, but a great guide can put you on fish even when they are not biting." Our recent trip in December 2025 was terrific. Bad weather prevented us from hitting the "best spots" but on this day with Capt. Justin we caught more fish than we probably deserved. These guys are welcoming, enthusiastic, patient, and make you feel like you are fishing with a long time fishing buddy. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for not only seasoned anglers, but first timers (and young folks) as well. They will adapt the trip to your group's specific skill set. Ed Novak, Akron, OhioPosted on Tripadvisor![]()
Jeffery KOctober 25, 2025Verified
A perfect day! Key West vacation. I wanted a first rate small back country fishing experience. Shadow Casters was highly recommended. Captain Justin exceeded our expectations. Super cool person, very knowledgeable and motivated. He bonded well with all of us. A great mentor to my son who never fished much. The weather was great, lots of fish caught by all. Thank you Justin for a memorable day!Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Patty JSeptember 21, 2025Verified
Back Country, Fish & Great Music!!! We had an awesome back country fishing experience with Justin. Fishing wasn’t great because of murky water after the rains, but Justin never gave up looking for yet another good spot. We got into the fish a number of times and truly just experiencing the peaceful beauty of the flats was wonderful in itself…..in a very comfortable boat too. We will definitely book with them again!!!!Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
MaleycApril 20, 2025Verified
A memorable day spent on the water We were blown away from our day! Both literally and figuratively! Captain Justin was an absolute legend in less than ideal wind conditions to say the least, but he stuck it out all day and helped me catch my first tarpon, plus took us to some epic spots all around the flats while jamming to some great tunes…nothing short of perfection, and definitely worth spending a day with an awesome guy and a great all around outfit down in the keys! Already looking to come back again.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
John BJanuary 2, 2025Verified
Epic Day! Our family fished with Captain John and Captain Justin during our recent visit to Key West for New Years. We all agreed that it was one of the best fishing trips we've had. Not only did we fill the boat with fish, we had a great time with both Captains, who were incredible with the younger members of our group. After some searching by the captains, we caught a 4' barracuda and around 20 cobia. It was truly an epic experience. At the end of the day, our son commented that he wanted to catch a shark. Twenty minutes later, we had a 6' black tip on the end of the line! It will be an experience that will be difficult to repeat.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Darren BOctober 21, 2024Verified
Shark, Barracuda, Tarpon…Son, father trip…Lasting memories. Awesome! Highly recommend ShadowCaster for your fishing adventure. We were originally scheduled for four hours, but my son (16 yo) and I were having the time of our lives we extended our trip to six hours.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
William PJuly 10, 2024Verified
A good day fishing! Justin was our guide and he was top notch!! Unfortunately the weather wasn’t very cooperative but he kept trying many different options to make it a good day. It turned out to be a very pleasant trip despite the weather.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Trvler19June 29, 2024Verified
Awesome Captain and Experience! Captain John was awesome to fish with. Got us into Tarpon, Sharks and Barracuda. He is all about the experience and having a good time. Perfect for all levels of experience. Will definitely be back!!Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
TonyApril 13, 2024Verified
Best fishing charter in Key West! Captain John is hands down the best fishing charter in Key West. Not only is he a great captain but an all around great guy to spend the day on the water with. He uses top tier equipment and customizes the experience for each fishermen. Are you new to fishing? He’ll show you the ropes. Are you an experienced fisherman? He’ll make sure you catch fish. He’s constantly making adjustments to keep the fun going. Switching up bait or hitting all the best spots. Whenever we are down in KW I always book with him (pro tip, reserve your spot early as he books up months in advance!). Highly recommend ShadowCasters!
Key West offers some of the most diverse inshore fishing in Florida. Shallow flats, mangrove islands, and protected bays create stable year-round conditions, and the species that use these habitats shift with the seasons.
Trip plans are built around weather, tides, bait availability, and current activity to make the most of each day on the water.
Our inshore trips take place in the clear, calm waters around Key West that rarely exceed a few feet in depth. These areas support a wide range of species, including Redfish, Jacks, Barracuda, Sharks, Sea Trout, Permit, and migratory Tarpon. Techniques change throughout the year, and the captains adjust approaches as conditions evolve.
Flats fishing in Key West is done in shallow, clear water where fish are often seen before the cast. Much of the day is spent watching for movement, shadows, or pushes, then positioning the boat for a quiet approach and an accurate presentation.
Launching from a central location allows quick access to both the Gulf and Atlantic sides of the island. This cuts down on travel time and gives flexibility to move between flats, channels, and mangrove areas based on daily conditions.
We’ve spent more than twenty years fishing these waters and learning how tides, weather, and seasonal changes affect where fish set up each day. That experience shapes how we plan trips and where we spend our time on the water.
The region’s network of flats, bays, and mangrove islands creates a productive and visually striking fishing environment. Clear water makes sight-fishing possible in many situations, and the protected nature of these areas provides stable conditions even when offshore waters are rough.
Each part of the year brings its own set of target species:
Cooler temperatures push Sea Trout, Jacks, Snappers, and Mackerel into protected bays and channels.
Light winds open access to remote flats and shallow wrecks holding Permit, Barracuda, Snappers, and resident Tarpon.
Transitional conditions create reliable mixed-species fishing across flats, rock piles, and channels.
Trips are adjusted to match these patterns and the species most active during your visit.
Regular reports provide up-to-date information on what has been biting, how conditions are shifting, and what anglers can expect in the coming days. These updates give a clear picture of current activity across the flats and Backcountry.
Fall is approaching and the fishing is has been great. Bait has been showing up in the usual spots and the Predators are not far behind. We are still getting our chances at early morning
We love the summer time here in Key West for many reasons: Light winds, Crystal Clear Water, Amazing Fishing, Clear Skies and with the “Slower Season”( you may go all day without seeing another boat)…..
The Summer is here in Full Swing. Get out on the water Early this time of year for your best shots at some of our Amazing Fish. The winds are usually light and the sun….
Our fishing charters are available year-round and led by experienced Key West fishing guides. Each trip is planned around seasonal patterns, daily conditions, and your preferred style of fishing.