What to Bring on a Key West Flats Fishing Charter

Packing for a Key West flats fishing charter is simpler than most people think. You are not loading a backpack for a week in the backcountry — you are stepping onto a private skiff with a captain who already has the rods, tackle, license, and ice covered. Still, the wrong clothes or missing sunglasses can turn a great day into a long one.

I am Capt. Srb with Always Somethin' Outfitters. Here is exactly what to bring on a Key West flats fishing trip, what we provide on the boat, and a few small extras that make the day more comfortable for first-timers and seasoned anglers alike.

What we provide on every charter

Leave the heavy gear at home. On our private light-tackle flats charters we bring the fishing side of the trip: rods and reels set up for the flats, terminal tackle, bait when the day calls for it, and a Florida saltwater fishing license for the boat. Always Somethin' also provides water and Gatorade in a cooler with ice — guests need not bring drinks for hydration. Snacks are optional if you want something to nibble. You show up ready to fish — we handle the rest.

Trip lengths are 3 hours for $389, 4 hours for $549, and 6 hours for $849. That is the full private boat for your group, not a per-person ticket. If you are not sure which length fits, start with four hours — it is the sweet spot for most visiting crews.

Sun gear is non-negotiable

Key West sun is no joke, even on cloudy days. Polarized sunglasses are the single most important item you can pack for flats fishing. They cut glare so you can see fish, bottom, and the edge of the grass. Bring a hat with a brim, a long-sleeve sun shirt or light performance top, and reef-safe sunscreen for your face, neck, and hands. A light neck gaiter helps when we are poling into the wind.

Closed-toe shoes or sandals that grip a wet deck beat flip-flops. Leave cotton beach towels that stay soaked — a small quick-dry towel is enough. If you burn easily, fingerless sun gloves are worth packing.

What to toss in a small day bag

• Polarized sunglasses (spare pair if you have one)

• Brimmed hat and sunscreen

• Light rain shell or windbreaker in a pocket

• Phone in a waterproof pouch or ziplock

• Optional snacks (water and Gatorade are already on the boat)

• Cash for a tip if the day goes well

• Any personal medication you may need

Keep the bag small. Space on a flats skiff is precious, and we move around to cast. You do not need a tote of drinks for hydration — Always Somethin' stocks water and Gatorade on ice. Bring snacks only if you want them. Avoid glass bottles when you can.

Food, drinks, and tips

Always Somethin' provides water and Gatorade in a cooler with ice on every charter. Guests need not bring drinks for hydration. Snacks are optional — think light fruit, sandwiches, or jerky if you want something aboard. Heavy meals before a sight-fishing day are not your friend when the boat is pitching in a chop.

Tipping is customary on guided fishing trips when the captain works the day hard for you. Most crews tip 15–20% of the charter rate in cash at the end of the trip. You do not need to tip in advance.

What you do not need to bring

You do not need your own rods unless you prefer a specialty setup we agree on ahead of time. You do not need a fishing license — we cover that. You do not need drinks for hydration — we stock water and Gatorade with ice. You do not need a cooler full of ice. You do not need boots or waders for our typical Key West flats day; we fish from the boat and sometimes step into skinny water briefly when it helps.

A quick pre-trip checklist

Confirm your meet time and boat location the day before. Wear clothes you can cast in. Charge your phone, pack polarized glasses, and bring cash for a tip. If anyone in the group gets seasick in small boats, take what works for you before we leave the dock — flats skiffs are stable, but the ride to the grounds can still bounce.

Ready to book? Reach me at Capt.Srb@alsocharters.com or call (386) 285-8402. Tell me your dates, how many anglers, and whether you want bonefish, tarpon, permit, or a mixed light-tackle day — and we will match the trip length and plan to your crew.