Captain Kyle Kelso runs All Water Charters from 5950 Peninsular Avenue in Key West, earning a perfect 5.0-star rating from 45 Google reviews. Operating 24/7 with flexible scheduling, he specializes in backcountry fishing and longer trips to productive areas like the Marquesas.
According to his website at fishingtripkeywest.com and customer feedback, Kyle runs a bay boat that's well-suited for both shallow backcountry work and runs to more distant fishing grounds. Multiple reviewers specifically mention his professionalism, knowledge of local waters, and ability to adapt to changing conditions.
You can reach him at (305) 509-2201. The name "All Water Charters" reflects his approach to fishing wherever conditions and client goals dictate, rather than being locked into one style or location.
Veteran guide with deep local knowledge
Don Barrientez has been bringing his sons to Key West for 13 years for annual fishing trips. After fishing with Kyle, he said it "may very well be the best one yet." When someone who's hired guides for over a decade gives that feedback, it means something.
Versatile trip planning
Kyle delivered exactly what the Barrientez group wanted: "a backcountry run...catching a variety of sport fish and for the first time for us...Table fish." That flexibility to mix catch-and-release sport fishing with taking home dinner shows he adapts to client preferences.
Longer-range capabilities
Jessica Kelley's review of their Marquesas trip highlights the bay boat's comfort for extended runs, with "plenty of room and hatches to store your stuff." Kyle provides the logistics (live and frozen bait, iced fish box) that make longer trips work smoothly.
Full-service approach
Kyle "kept our hooks baited, unhooked our catches and fixed our lines if our lines snapped," according to Jessica. He cleaned and bagged their fish at the dock. "We didn't have to lift a finger" except for reeling in fish.
With 45 reviews averaging a perfect 5.0 stars on Google, the feedback is remarkably consistent:
Professionalism and safety get mentioned repeatedly. Ben Prevost specifically called Kyle "professional, easy to work with, safe" while ensuring everyone has a great time.
Knowledge of changing conditions. Multiple reviewers note that Kyle understands how tides and conditions affect fishing around Key West and adjusts his approach accordingly. That adaptability matters in a place where tides control fish movement.
Variety of fishing styles. Reviews mention backcountry, Marquesas trips, and different target species, suggesting Kyle isn't locked into one approach.
Communication during booking. The process is described as smooth and responsive, which matters when you're coordinating vacation schedules.
The main consideration is that trips to more productive areas like the Marquesas require good weather and take time to reach. Jessica mentioned "fantastic weather" for their trip there. If conditions aren't right, Kyle will likely suggest alternative plans.
Annual fishing groups with evolving interests - If you fish Key West regularly and want a guide who can mix things up year to year, Kyle's versatility makes sense.
Families wanting the full experience - The combination of catching various species and bringing home table fish, with Kyle handling all the work details, makes this approachable for groups with mixed experience.
Anglers interested in the Marquesas - This remote atoll west of Key West holds excellent fish populations but requires a capable boat and experienced captain. Kyle gets specific praise for trips there.
Groups who appreciate a hands-on guide - If you want to focus on fishing while your guide handles bait, tangles, and fish care, Kyle's full-service approach delivers that.
Ask about Marquesas trips if you're interested and have the time. The run takes a while, but the fishing can be exceptional because the area sees less pressure than waters closer to Key West. You'll need good weather and ideally a full day.
Book early for annual trips. Don's review mentions coming back for 13 years, suggesting people find their guides and stick with them. Popular guides book up, especially during peak seasons.
Discuss your catch preferences when you book. Kyle clearly differentiates between sport fishing (catch-and-release) and targeting table fare (keeping fish for dinner). Knowing what you want helps him plan the approach.
Bring adequate sun protection for longer trips. Runs to places like the Marquesas mean extended time in open water with sun reflecting off the surface. Quality sunglasses, sunscreen, and protective clothing matter.
Take advantage of Kyle's local knowledge for more than just fishing. Several reviews mention him sharing information about the area during slower moments. Good guides know their waters comprehensively.
The bay boat format means more space and stability than a technical flats skiff, which can be better for families or those concerned about seasickness. If that's a consideration, mention it when you book.
Source: Google My Business listing and customer reviews for All Water Charters, accessed January 2026.
