Lionfish Hunting Florida Keys
From $1,000
Dive into an unforgettable underwater adventure in the Florida Keys with Captains Zander and Ryan on our Lionfish Hunting Charter in Islamorada. This hands-on experience combines the thrill of spearfishing with a conservation mission, giving you the chance to help protect local reef ecosystems while targeting one of the Keys’ most notorious invasive species. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll enjoy a full day exploring vibrant reef habitats, learning lionfish hunting techniques, and discovering the incredible marine life that calls the Keys home.
Captain Ryan brings unmatched expertise to the trip as a PADI Scuba Instructor, Freedive Instructor, Spearfishing Instructor, Master Captain, and Dive Guide. Having made the Florida Keys his home and passion, Ryan spends more time under the waves than above, ensuring every guest has a safe, educational, and thrilling experience. With guidance from Captain Ryan and Captain Zander, this charter is perfect for anyone looking to combine adventure, skill-building, and environmental stewardship on the beautiful waters of Islamorada.
Target Seasons & Species
Lionfish are a striking but highly invasive species in the Florida Keys, known for their beautiful striped appearance and venomous spines. Originally from the Indo-Pacific, they have no natural predators in the Atlantic and reproduce rapidly, allowing their populations to explode. This unchecked growth poses a serious threat to local reef ecosystems, as lionfish consume large numbers of native fish and invertebrates that are crucial for maintaining healthy coral reefs. Removing lionfish helps protect these delicate ecosystems, supports biodiversity, and allows native species to thrive making every hunt an important step in preserving the beauty and balance of the Florida Keys reefs.
Where We Go
On our Lionfish Hunting Charter, we explore some of Islamorada’s most vibrant and productive reef systems, targeting areas where lionfish are most commonly found. Trips typically take us to shallow patch reefs, coral ledges, and wrecks where these invasive predators like to hide among crevices and overhangs. We focus on spots that balance accessibility with high lionfish activity, giving you plenty of action while allowing for safe and responsible hunting. Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to observe the incredible variety of tropical fish, corals, and other marine life that make the Keys’ reefs so unique.
What's Included
All Lionfish Hunting charters include a captain/mate. Coolers full of ice and water, with plenty of room for all your food and drinks you may like to bring. We offer resort pick up and drop off. Gear is available for all sizes. We will also clean and prepare your catch for transport home.
We provide pole spears and Lionfish zookeepers. Snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels, fins) is available to rent for our shallow reef and free dive trips.
What To Bring
You must be Scuba certified for this charter, so bring your verification IDs.
If you want to bring your own spearfishing and dive equipment, it’s always recommended as it’s what you’re comfortable with and will be most successful with.
We do have rental gear available:
- Tanks & Weights are included for everyone (this is part of the charter)
- BCD or a Regulator ($30 per person, per day, per device)
- Masks, snorkel ($10)
- Fins ($10)
We do not rent wetsuits. You’ll need to bring your own. Local dive shops will rent or sell you one. The closest dive shop to us is Key Dives or Islamorada Dive Center. Conch Republic Divers is great as well, up in Tavernier.
- Scuba certification IDs
- Food
- Drinks
- Sunscreen
- Your own equipment (if you have it)
- Glassware
Lionfish Hunting Florida Keys FAQs
Have a question? We've got answers. If you do not see your question answered below, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Do we need a fishing license?
Where do we meet?
Can we keep the fish?
Do you require a deposit?
What if we need to reschedule?
What if we need to cancel?
What if there is bad weather?
About Us
I'm Capt. Zander
Hey there, I'm the man steering the ship here at Lightly Salted Charters with mate First Mate, Bax The Boat Dog. I'm a seasoned mariner with the heart of an explorer and the skills of a first responder. Imagine cruising Islamorada’s azure waters with someone as passionate about your safety as they are about showing you an exhilarating time. That's the experience Bax and I offer here at Lightly Salted Charters.
About Us
Our Boat
Say hello to our pristine 2015 Twin Vee 26-Foot Ocean Cat! Engineered for both power and comfort, this boat takes your sandbar, snorkeling, and fishing adventures to uncharted territories of exhilaration! With spacious seating, top-notch amenities, and plenty of room for all your favorite water toys like lily pads, sunchills, and paddleboards, this boat is practically a floating paradise.
Other Tours
Islamorada Spearfishing Trips
Islamorada Scuba Diving
Create Your Own Tour
Indian Key Tour
Islamorada Sunset Cruise
