Operating from the Historic Charter Boat Row at 1801 N Roosevelt Blvd in Key West, Boo-Ya Fishing Charters maintains a 4.7-star rating from 175 Google reviews. Running trips from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, they offer flexibility for both early morning departures and later trips.
According to their website at booyafishingkeywest.com and customer feedback, Captain Lane is the primary guide mentioned in reviews. The operation has built a base of repeat clients, with Michael Szydlowski noting this was their fourth year going with Lane.
You can reach them at (305) 292-6692. Located on Charter Boat Row means you're fishing with an established operation in Key West's main charter hub.
Repeat client loyalty
When someone books with the same captain four years running, as Michael's review indicates, that tells you something about the consistency of the experience. "Always gets us on fish and is extremely knowledgeable," he noted.
Flexible tactics based on conditions
TJ Villamil's group wanted mahi trolling but the Atlantic was too windy. Instead of forcing a rough trip, they switched to Gulf-side bottom fishing with "great spots w constant action." That adaptability matters when weather doesn't cooperate.
Variety of trip options
Reviews mention both shorter and longer trips (including 8-hour full days), suggesting they can accommodate different schedules and budgets. TJ's group did a full 8-hour day and "caught way more than we were able to bring in."
Last-minute booking availability
The IcyyCuban review mentions booking "a last-minute trip" that still produced snappers and a nice cobia. Having availability on short notice helps when your vacation plans shift.
With 175 reviews averaging 4.7 stars on Google, the feedback is generally positive:
Captain Lane gets strong reviews for knowledge and patience. He's mentioned by name across multiple reviews spanning several years, suggesting he's the consistent face of the operation.
Fish-finding ability. Reviews mention catching "a lot of snappers," landing cobia, and having constant bottom action. TJ noted they have "great spots" for when offshore conditions aren't favorable.
Honest guidance about conditions. The willingness to shift from Atlantic mahi trolling to Gulf bottom fishing when conditions dictate shows they prioritize client experience over running a pre-set program regardless of weather.
Good communication and flexibility. Being described as "easy to talk to and flexible" matters when you're coordinating vacation schedules and dealing with weather variables.
Reviews suggest the operation focuses more on reef fishing and bottom species than technical flats work or offshore big game. If you're specifically after tarpon, permit, or billfish, you might want to confirm their approach for those species.
Return visitors building annual traditions - If you're coming to Key West regularly and want to establish a relationship with a guide who knows your preferences, the repeat client base suggests Lane delivers that consistency.
Groups wanting flexibility - The extended hours (7 AM to 10 PM) and willingness to adjust tactics based on conditions make this a good choice when you need adaptable planning.
Anglers targeting mixed bags - Reviews mention snapper, cobia, and various bottom species, suggesting a focus on variety rather than specializing in one technique or target.
Last-minute bookers - If your plans are fluid and you need a guide with some availability on shorter notice, reviews suggest they can sometimes accommodate.
When weather's questionable, ask about the backup plan. TJ's review shows they're willing to shift from Atlantic to Gulf or from trolling to bottom fishing to keep the trip productive. Knowing options ahead of time helps manage expectations.
Book Lane specifically if that's important to you. While reviews focus on him, larger charter operations sometimes have multiple captains. If you're returning because of a specific experience with Lane, request him when you call.
Bring a cooler if you're planning to keep fish. Reviews mention catching more than they could bring in, so having proper storage for your fillets helps, especially on full-day trips in the heat.
Ask about optimal species timing. Cobia, for example, run strong at certain times of year. Knowing when your target species are most active helps you plan trips for better odds.
If you're prone to motion sickness, mention it when booking. The ability to shift from Atlantic (often rougher) to Gulf side (typically calmer) could matter to your comfort level.
Take advantage of their local knowledge for more than just fish locations. Experienced Key West guides know the whole ecosystem, from water quality patterns to bird behavior. That information makes you a better angler.
Source: Google My Business listing and customer reviews for Boo-Ya Fishing Charters, accessed January 2026.
