The spring and summer months (April – September) bring plenty of Florida Dolphin Fishing throughout the keys. Dolphin are also known as Florida Mahi Mahi. Typically the summer time is the most consistent for these bad boys!There is usually a mix of smaller ‘schoolie’ fish along with bigger ‘bulls.’ Bull dolphin are the male fish with a more square head, and the ‘cows’ are their female counter parts. Nothing compares to getting into a good school of dolphin with every rod on the boat screaming drag at once!
Dolphin in the Keys are often caught trolling baits and lures. While blind trolling in deeper water your always ‘in the game’ when trying to catch a big dolphin. However often times captains will run around and look for birds which are following schools of fish and bait, and are a good indicator of where to fish. This style of fishing can often put you on the fish faster than just blind trolling. Our captains know what to look for to find them.
When throwing baits to a school of dolphin, often times dead bait is used, though occasionally fish are picky and it helps to have some live pilchards or the like. The boats at Bud n Marys are always keeping up with where the live bait is to give you the best shot at getting nice fish!
One rule when in a big pack of dolphin is always leave one in the water (usually a schoolie, smaller fish) in order to keep the rest of the school following you. You often will see dolphin jumping when they know they are hooked, which is very impressive!
The captains at Bud N’ Mary’s are true professionals when it comes to catching big Islamorada Dolphin!
July 15, 2026
Early Summer Fishing in the Florida Keys June & Early July: Prime Time for Anglers If there is one time of year that truly showcases everything the Florida Keys fishery has to offer, it’s early summer. June and early July bring warm water, calm seas, abundant bait, and an incredible… Read More
Miss Islamorada 300 fish caught A great day on the water. Crew was kind and professional. Over 30 people on the boat and there was room to fish. A little overhang provided some shade. Capt went to three spots and rotated positions so everyone got a chance to fish off the back for yellowtail. Boat pulled in over 300 fish and my daughter and I walked away with 10 mangroves and three yellowtail, best drift boat experience for me personally! Great job to the capt and crew of Miss Islamorada!
We were looking for an inexpensive fishing charter for the day when we drove by and saw the sign, $70 all day party boat. COVID restrictions limited boat capacity to 30 which was the perfect amount of people without being over crowded. The boat wasn't luxurious by any means but what do you expect for that price. Not a long ride out, about 45 minutes. The captain had us on fish all day! The deck hands, Ray and Erin were awesome guys and very helpful with anything you needed. All you had to do was bait your hook and catch the fish! Most of the day was fishing and not riding which was great. Definitely will be back! Thanks guys, cheers!
Bud N Mary's Marina Vacation Booked a stay along with fishing excursion for my birthday. Staff great from pre-planning to actual arrival date. Suggested places to eat and other things to do. Lazy Days restaurant next door, highly recommend for dinner. Do an amazing job on catch and cook, everything is fresh and prepped to order. Also, Saylor Ashton's Sunrise Cafe is conveniently located on the premises, great breakfast and lunches prepared for your day out on the boat. The rooms are clean, and have everything needed for a comfortable stay. Close to multiple dining options, and shopping for all of your needs while visiting Islamorada. Highly recommend, will be visiting again in the future. Very relaxing time spent here.
