Long range fishing trips take you far beyond the reach of day boats, to offshore grounds 70 to 120 miles or more from shore where grouper and snapper grow big and fishing pressure is light. In Florida, these trips last anywhere from 30 hours to five days, with bunks, galleys and a crew that fishes around the clock. This guide explains how long range fishing trips work, which Florida boats run them, what they cost and how to prepare for your first one.
What Is a Long Range Fishing Trip?
A long range fishing trip is any trip that stays out overnight or longer to reach distant fishing grounds. Instead of spending most of the day traveling, you sleep during the run out and wake up on the fishing grounds. Most Florida long range boats are large, stable vessels from 65 to 135 feet with bunks, restrooms, a galley and plenty of fish-hold space. Anglers buy individual spots, so you can book a single bunk or bring a group.
Florida Long Range Fishing Trips Compared
These boats in our directory run overnight and multi-day trips. Prices are starting rates from each listing and vary by trip, so confirm with the operator before you book.
| Boat | Port | Trips | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yankee Capts | Key West | 3, 4 and 5 days | From $910; trips to the Dry Tortugas and beyond, usually leaving between 8 and 10 pm |
| American Patriot | Marco Island | 2 to 5 days | 135-ft boat for up to 32 anglers; boarding starts two hours before departure |
| American Hunter | Marco Island | Dry Tortugas and Pulley Ridge trips | Limited to 12 anglers for more room at the rail |
| Gulfstar Fishing | Tarpon Springs | 44 hours, 3 days and 4 days | 85-ft boat for up to 22 anglers; Middle Grounds, Elbow and deep-drop trips |
| Hubbard’s Marina | Madeira Beach | 39-hour and 44-hour trips | Also runs 10-hour, 12-hour night and 12-hour Extreme trips |
| Sea Trek Fishing | Fort Myers Beach | 30-hour wreck trips and Dry Tortugas trips | Wreck trips run February to March; Dry Tortugas trips April to January |
Pricing note: Prices listed in this article were accurate when it was published in October 2026 and may change at any time. Always confirm current rates by calling the charter or checking its website before you book.
Where Florida Long Range Trips Go
- Dry Tortugas: remote waters west of Key West, reached from Key West, Marco Island and Fort Myers Beach.
- Pulley Ridge: a deep reef system in the southern Gulf, fished by Marco Island boats.
- Florida Middle Grounds and the Elbow: classic Gulf bottom-fishing areas reached from the Tampa Bay area.
- Deep wrecks and ledges: offshore structure that holds big amberjack, grouper and snapper.
Dig deeper with our guides to Dry Tortugas fishing trips, Pulley Ridge fishing, deep drop fishing and overnight fishing trips in Florida.
What You Can Catch
Long range trips focus on bottom fish. Expect red and gag grouper, scamp, red snapper, vermilion snapper, mangrove snapper and amberjack, plus deep-water species like snowy grouper, yellowedge grouper and tilefish on deep-drop trips. Some boats also use slow-pitch jigs or electric reels for the deepest spots. Mahi, kingfish and tuna sometimes show up as a bonus. Seasons and limits change every year, so check current rules or ask the crew which species are open.
How Much Do Long Range Fishing Trips Cost?
Expect to pay from around $900 to well over $1,500 per person, depending on trip length and destination. Most tickets include your bunk, rod and reel, bait and tackle. Food, ice, fish cleaning and crew tips are often extra, and some boats ask you to bring your own food. Because you can bring home a lot of fillets, many anglers find long range trips good value per pound of fish.
Overnight vs Multi-Day Trips
| Trip type | Typical length | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Overnight | 30 to 44 hours | Trying long range fishing for the first time |
| Multi-day | 2 to 5 days | Dedicated anglers chasing the biggest bottom fish |
An overnight trip is the best way to find out whether long range fishing suits you. For help comparing shorter trips, read our fishing charter trip length guide.
What to Bring on a Long Range Trip
- Sleeping bag or bedding and a pillow (most boats provide only the bunk)
- Several days of clothes, rain gear and a warm layer for night fishing
- Fishing gloves, sunscreen, a hat and polarized sunglasses
- Seasickness medicine, started before you leave the dock
- Food and drinks if the boat doesn’t sell meals
- Large coolers waiting in your vehicle to take your catch home
For the full list, including tackle, cooler rules and alcohol policies by boat, see our long range fishing trip packing checklist.
Tips for Your First Long Range Trip
- Book early. Bunks are limited and popular dates sell out months ahead.
- Read the boat’s rules. Each boat has its own policies on gear, alcohol, food and fish limits.
- Sleep on the ride out. You’ll fish long hours once you arrive.
- Ask about heavy tackle. Deep spots may need heavier gear or electric reels, which some boats rent.
- Watch the weather. Long range trips depend on calm seas and can be rescheduled if a front moves in.
Find Your Long Range Fishing Trip
Every boat above has a full listing with trip details, photos and contact information. Browse all Florida long range fishing charters, or if you’d rather start with a day trip, see our party and head boats and our guide to half-day vs full-day fishing charters.
Long Range Fishing Trips FAQ
How far offshore do long range fishing trips go?
Most Florida long range trips fish 70 to 120 miles or more offshore, depending on the destination and the weather.
How long is a long range fishing trip?
In Florida, they range from about 30 hours to five days. Overnight trips of 30 to 44 hours are the most common starting point.
Do you sleep on a long range fishing boat?
Yes. Long range boats have bunks for every angler, though you’ll usually bring your own bedding.
Is a long range trip good for beginners?
It can be, if you don’t get seasick and you’re comfortable with long hours. Most first-timers start with an overnight trip before booking a multi-day trip.
Where do long range fishing trips leave from in Florida?
In our directory, they leave from Key West, Marco Island, Fort Myers Beach, Madeira Beach and Tarpon Springs.
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