Backcountry Fishing

Islamorada backcountry fishing charters with Bug Sportfishing are always action-packed! The day typically begins by catching fresh bait. While I’ll have live shrimp and pinfish ready, having the freshest bait possible is always a benefit for our outing.

Once we have the bait we need, we’ll target fish-holding structures such as channel edges, cuts, sandbars, and banks. The water clarity can vary depending on the wind—some days it’s clear, other days a bit stirred up—but no matter the conditions, the fishing remains hot. This is active shallow-water fishing, typically in depths of 5 to 10 feet.

Common catches in the Islamorada backcountry include redfish, snook, sea trout, snappers, mackerel species, and various types of sharks. Many of these fish are excellent table fare, and you’re welcome to take some home for dinner.

For our full-day trips, guests can add a visit to Flamingo Bay in Everglades National Park. This remote area offers stunning scenery and exceptional fishing, though it requires a longer run than our usual backcountry charters.

We also offer tarpon fishing in the backcountry, but it’s a specialty trip available only for a few months each year.

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Target Species

Backcountry fishing trips in Islamorada offer the opportunity to target a variety of exciting species!

  • Snappers
  • Sea trout
  • Redfish
  • Snook
  • Cero Mackerel
  • Spanish Mackerel
  • Lemon, Spinner, or Bull Sharks
  • Tarpon

Where We Go

On a typical day, we fish a variety of spots, typically running 5-10 miles from shore. For full-day trips, we also offer the option to venture into Flamingo Bay, where you can target species like trout, snook, and redfish in the stunning waters of the Everglades.

What's Included

  • All rods, reels, and necessary fishing tackle
  • All safety equipment
  • A cooler with cold water and ice
  • All necessary licensing
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Included in price of trip)

What To Bring

Bring along any food and drinks you’d like to enjoy during the trip, as well as sun protective clothing to keep you comfortable throughout the day. Please refrain from bringing glassware for safety reasons. Additionally, we recommend packing a fresh change of clothes to change into after your trip, ensuring you’re comfortable and ready to go once you’re back at the marina.

  • Any food you want to eat during the trip
  • Any drinks you would like to have other than water (no glassware)
  • Sunscreen (no spray)
  • Sun protective clothing (hat, buff, hooded sun shirts, etc.)
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Clean change of clothes
  • Glassware
  • Spray sunscreen
  • A bad attitude

Backcountry Fishing FAQs

Have a question? We've got answers. If you do not see your question answered below, please do not hesitate to contact us.

How far will we go?
Is cleaning and filleting fish included?
Will we be able to target a specific species?
Do we need a fishing license?
What if we need to cancel?
What if there is bad weather?
Do you require a deposit?

From $600

Trip Rate

1-3 Anglers

4-8 hours

Year Round

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Meet Capt. James Duncan III

A Lifelong Passion For The Water

I am a lifelong sportfisherman that has earned a reputation for being easygoing, patient, and adaptable. I love taking everyone out and showing them the beautiful waters of Islamorada, from hardcore fishing groups to families looking to get out for a fun day on the water.

Our Story
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Other Trips

From $1200 | 4-6 hours

Reef Fishing

Reef fishing trips allow us to target many of the iconic species that make Islamorada famous among sportfishermen.
From $1,600 | 6-8 Hours

Offshore Fishing

Islamorada offshore fishing trips offer an action-packed day on the water. With the Gulf Stream so close to our marina, we can target fish typically found only after long runs in other parts of the country.
From $600 | 4-6 hours

Tarpon Fishing

Islamorada Tarpon fishing is a legendary experience! Many consider tarpon the king of sportfish. They’re hard-fighting, high-jumping, and should be on every angler’s bucket list.
From $800 | 4 hours

Snorkel Trip

Adventure aboard the Bug and spend the day exploring the stunning waters of Islamorada. Dive into some of the best snorkeling spots in the area, where vibrant marine life awaits.
From $600 | 4 hours

Sandbar / Ecotour

Come out on the Bug and experience a day exploring the beautiful waters around Islamorada. Your day around Islamorada can be designed to what your group wants to do!