CUDJOE KEY FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Under Stars and Boat Lights: Night Fishing off Cudjoe Key with Captain Jose
A hands-on guide to Above & Below Adventures’ 4- and 8-hour night charters from Cudjoe Key and Key West, including what to expect, what to bring, and where the action happens.
Under Stars and Boat Lights: Night Fishing off Cudjoe Key with Captain Jose.
After sunset the reefs and wrecks around Cudjoe Key and Key West change character: nocturnal feeders move in, boat lights draw life to the surface, and the steady pull of bottom rods becomes the night’s metronome. Above & Below Adventures’ guided night charters put anglers on these prime spots for mangrove and yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, grouper and other species that bite best after dark.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Reefs and wrecks that come alive after dark
As twilight gives way to stars and the boat’s lights, reefs and wrecks around Cudjoe Key turn into productive feeding zones for snapper, grouper and other nocturnal fish—creating a different, focused style of fishing than daytime trips.
Local knowledge from Captain Jose Rodriguez
Guided by Captain Jose, the trip combines local experience with targeted night techniques—using live and cut bait under the glow of boat lights to put anglers on steady action.
A purpose-built 2025 32’ SeaVee for comfort and performance
Charters sail aboard a new 32’ SeaVee with twin 300 Mercurys, premium tackle, live bait, advanced electronics, Starlink Wi‑Fi and a private head—set up for everything from quick 4-hour evenings to extended 8-hour night runs.
What the day feels like
What the night feels like
The charter departs around sunset and, under the stars and deck lights, moves between reefs and wrecks to fish with a mix of bottom and drifting techniques. On the shorter 4-hour trips anglers get a fast-paced evening of rod-bending action on nearby grounds; the 8-hour option stretches the night, allowing time to hit multiple spots and chase larger snapper and grouper as currents and seasons dictate.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this trip
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Charters are offered in 4- and 8-hour options, with departures around sunset for the night fishing experience.
Bring food and personal drinks (a cooler with ice and bottled water is provided), a light jacket or sweater, towel and dry clothes, comfortable grippy shoes or sandals, a waterproof camera or GoPro if desired, and cash or card for gratuity (15–20% customary).
Trips depart from Cudjoe Key, Stock Island or Key West meeting points; the boat is a 2025 32’ SeaVee with twin 300 Mercurys, premium tackle, live bait, advanced electronics, Starlink Wi‑Fi and a private bathroom for comfort.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long are the charters?
There are 4‑hour and 8‑hour night charter options.
Where do I meet the boat?
Meeting locations include Cudjoe Key, Stock Island (Oceans Edge Marina/Key West) and Key West departures are available.
What species will we target at night?
Guides target mangrove and yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, grouper and other nocturnal feeders that bite best after dark.
Is a mate available to assist?
A mate can be added to assist with bait rigging, fish handling and cleaning.
Will my catch be handled after the trip?
Captain Jose and crew will clean and bag your catch at the dock and provide recommendations for local hook‑and‑cook restaurants.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring food and personal drinks (a cooler with ice and bottled water is provided), a light jacket, towel and dry clothes, comfortable shoes, and a waterproof camera if desired; gratuity in cash or card is customary.
What amenities are on the boat?
The vessel is outfitted with premium tackle, live bait, advanced electronics, Starlink Wi‑Fi and a private bathroom.