CUDJOE KEY FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Hunting Giants: Daytime Swordfish & Bluewater Drops off Cudjoe Key
A private, fully equipped 8–10 hour offshore charter aboard a 32' SeaVee that targets daytime swordfish and a suite of deepwater species out of Cudjoe Key.
Hunting Giants: Daytime Swordfish & Bluewater Drops off Cudjoe Key.
Offshore Bluewater Charters out of Cudjoe Key is a focused, high-effort fishing operation that chases daytime swordfish and deepwater species from a purpose-built 32' SeaVee. Captain Jose Rodriguez runs a technical fishery—deep dropping into 600–1,600+ feet with electric reels, advanced sonar, and custom rigs—so expect methodical drifts, deliberate bait presentation, and a professional mate to handle heavy work aboard a private charter limited to six guests.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Daytime Swordfish — the main event
Swordfish are the principal quarry on this charter: a rare, technical daytime fishery pursued through deep drops and careful drift strategy. The operation is built around maximizing opportunities at this singular species.
Grouper, Tilefish and Deep Snapper
Beyond swordfish, the trip routinely targets a roster of deepwater species—snowy grouper, yellowedge grouper, golden tilefish, barrelfish, and deep-water snapper—during the same drops that search for giants.
Troll for Mahi, Tuna and Wahoo when conditions allow
When the sea state and timing permit, the charter can change pace: trolling on the way out or back can put mahi, tuna or wahoo in the spread, turning a deep-drop day into a full offshore experience.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You meet with the captain for a safety briefing, then push offshore aboard a fully equipped 32' SeaVee. The day is dominated by a sequence of calculated deep drops—600–1,600+ feet—using premium deep-drop tackle and high-powered electric reels while the mate tends rigs and fish care. Depending on conditions the crew can switch to trolling for faster action; at day’s end the captain and crew clean and bag your catch and share photos so you can relive the fights.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter suits best
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Soft-bottom or non-marking deck shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, hat and sunglasses, snacks and meals for the day, and plenty of beverages to stay hydrated.
Soft-bottom shoes or non-marking deck shoes are recommended; bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and polarized sunglasses for long hours on deck.
Bring snacks and meals for the day and plenty of beverages; the operator provides a cooler with ice and bottled water.
Pack personal items for comfort such as a light jacket and camera to document the trip—you’ll appreciate layered clothing for changing offshore conditions.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where do we meet for the charter?
Meeting locations include Cudjoe Key, Stock Island and Key West; specific meet points include Oceans Edge Marina (Key West) or the operator’s Cudjoe Key location.
How long is the trip?
The operator offers 8- or 10-hour options, with the longer expedition providing maximum drops and coverage in prime swordfish territory.
What species will we be targeting?
The principal target is daytime swordfish; other species commonly pursued include snowy grouper, yellowedge grouper, queen snapper, tilefish, barrelfish and golden tile. When conditions allow, the trip can also include trolling for mahi, tuna or wahoo.
How many guests can the charter accommodate?
This is a private charter for up to six guests.
What equipment and amenities are on board?
Fishing is conducted from a 2025 32' SeaVee powered by twin 300HP Mercurys and equipped with advanced sonar and GPS mapping, premium deep-drop tackle and electric reels, Starlink WiFi and a private onboard bathroom.
Will the crew handle fish care after the catch?
Yes. The captain and crew clean and bag your catch back at the dock and can point you to ‘hook-and-cook’ restaurants to enjoy your catch that evening.