Fishing in Key West is an exciting experience for anglers of all ages! The sparkling turquoise waters, the thrill of the fight when a big fish bites, and the unmatched satisfaction of bringing a fresh catch aboard.
At Above & Below Fishing Adventures, we believe that the experience doesn’t stop when you leave the water—it continues right in your kitchen. After all, nothing beats turning your catch into a delicious meal.
Whether you’re chasing snapper, grouper, pelagic species, or bottom fish, we’ve gathered some of our favorite recipes so you can enjoy your catch in a variety of exciting ways!
Florida Keys Reef & Wreck Fishing with Captain Jose
If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly fishing adventure, then our Reef & Wreck Fishing Charters in the Florida Keys are a perfect choice. Captain Jose knows the local waters like the back of his hand, guiding guests to prime spots where Yellowtail Snapper, Mutton Snapper, Black Grouper, and other prized fish love to hang out.
These trips are perfect for first-timers, seasoned anglers, kids, and groups of all sizes. Our fully-equipped boats ensure you have everything you need for a relaxing, action-packed day on the reef.
But the fun doesn’t end when you step off the boat! Once you’ve landed your fresh catch, it’s time to bring the flavors of the Florida Keys into your kitchen. Here are some of our favorite snapper and grouper recipes to try.
Snapper Recipes
- Pan-Seared Red Snapper with Lemon Caper Sauce
A quick and elegant dish, this recipe features perfectly seared snapper fillets topped with a tangy lemon caper sauce. The bright flavors of lemon and capers complement the mild, flaky snapper beautifully.
👉 View Recipe - Cajun Grilled Red Snapper
Bring a taste of Louisiana to your table with this bold and spicy grilled snapper. The Cajun seasoning adds a kick while keeping the fish moist and flavorful.
👉 View Recipe - Mediterranean Baked Red Snapper with Bell Peppers
For a healthier, vibrant dish, try roasting a whole snapper with fresh herbs and colorful bell peppers. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is as eye-catching as it is delicious.
👉 View Recipe - 20-Minute Snapper Piccata
Pressed for time? This zesty recipe is ready in just 20 minutes. Snapper fillets are cooked in a lemon butter caper sauce for a quick, flavorful meal.
👉 View Recipe - Snapper Recipes Collection – NOAA Fisheries
Want more ideas? NOAA Fisheries offers a variety of snapper recipes, including sautéed fillets, seafood stews, and other creative preparations.
👉 View Recipes
Grouper Recipes
Grouper is another staple of the Florida Keys, known for its firm texture and mild flavor. Here are some top recipes that bring out the best in this versatile fish:
- Pan-Seared Grouper with Lemon Caper Sauce
A simple yet flavorful dish, pan-seared grouper pairs wonderfully with a lemony caper sauce for an easy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
👉 View Recipe - Mediterranean-Style Baked Grouper with Tomatoes and Olives
This Mediterranean-inspired dish features baked grouper with cherry tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs. It’s a colorful, aromatic meal that’s perfect for sharing.
👉 View Recipe - Broiled Grouper Parmesan
For a cheesy twist, try broiling grouper under a parmesan crust. Minimal prep, maximum flavor!
👉 View Recipe - Blackened Grouper (Cast-Iron Skillet)
A Southern classic, this recipe uses bold spices and a hot cast-iron skillet to sear the fish to perfection. It’s smoky, spicy, and absolutely delicious.
👉 View Recipe - Grouper Recipes Collection – NOAA Fisheries
NOAA Fisheries also offers a range of grouper recipes, from pecan-encrusted preparations to pan-seared classics.
👉 View Recipes
Florida Keys Deep Sea Fishing with Captain Jose
If you’re after bigger game fish, our Deep Sea Fishing Charters are designed for the ultimate offshore experience. Target Swordfish, Grouper, Snapper, Tuna, and more aboard a fully-equipped vessel with LP electric reels, premium tackle, and an experienced local captain. Whether you enjoy trolling, deep dropping, or full-service offshore sportfishing, there’s a deep-sea adventure waiting for you.
After a day on the open ocean, you might be wondering what to do with that prized pelagic catch. Luckily, we have a collection of pelagic and bottom fish recipes to inspire your next meal.
Pelagic Fish Recipes
- Mahi-Mahi: A firm, flavorful fish that’s perfect for grilling or pan-searing.
👉 Mahi Mahi Recipes from Allrecipes - Wahoo: Lean, tender, and slightly sweet, Wahoo is excellent with a nutty finish.
👉 Wahoo Almondine recipe from East Cape Resorts - Blackfin Tuna and Yellowfin Tuna: Enjoy this tuna in a variety of preparations, from seared steaks to sushi-style dishes.
👉 NOAA Fisheries offers great Tuna Recipes - Blue Marlin: A true trophy fish, Blue Marlin deserves bold flavors.
👉 Blue Marlin Recipes from Florida Sportsman - Sailfish: Sailfish is tender and mild, perfect for simple preparations.
👉 Sailfish Recipes from Florida Sportsman - Barracuda: Often underrated, Barracuda is flavorful and pairs well with citrus and spices.
👉 Barracuda Recipes from Florida Sportsman
Bottom Fish Recipes
- Swordfish: Meaty and rich, swordfish steaks are ideal for grilling.
👉 Discover Swordfish Recipes – Florida Sportsman - Snowy Grouper: Mild and firm, Snowy Grouper can be baked, broiled, or pan-seared.
👉 Check Grouper Recipes – Adelphia Seafood - Yellowedge Grouper: Another firm, delicious choice, perfect for broiling or pan-searing.
👉 Explore Yellowedge Grouper Recipes – Florida Sportsman - Queen Snapper: Sweet and delicate, Queen Snapper shines in simple preparations.
👉 Try Queen Snapper Recipes – Florida Sportsman - Tilefish: With a slightly sweet flavor, Tilefish works wonderfully in Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
👉 See Tilefish Recipes – Florida Sportsman - Amberjack: Robust and meaty, Amberjack is great for grilling or baking.
👉 Find Amberjack Recipes – Florida Sportsman
Bringing Key West to Your Table
Fishing in the Florida Keys is an adventure like no other. Whether you’re casting lines on a reef and wreck trip or trolling the deep blue for pelagics, the experience is unforgettable. But the fun continues once you take your catch home. With these recipes for snapper, grouper, pelagic, and bottom fish, you can savor the flavors of the Keys every night of the week.
Cooking your own catch is not just about taste; it’s about celebrating the moment, the effort, and the joy of fishing. Imagine sitting down with family or friends to a Mediterranean baked snapper, a Cajun grilled red snapper, or a perfectly blackened grouper, knowing you caught it yourself.
At Above & Below Fishing Adventures, we’re proud to provide more than just a fishing trip. We offer an entire experience, from the thrill of the catch to the satisfaction of a homemade seafood feast.
Tips for Cooking Your Catch
- Freshness is key: The sooner you cook your fish after catching it, the better the flavor.
- Simple seasoning: Let the fish shine—olive oil, lemon, herbs, and a touch of salt go a long way.
- Mind the cooking method: Pan-searing, grilling, broiling, or baking can each bring out different textures and flavors.
- Use local ingredients: Fresh vegetables, herbs, and citrus from your local market can elevate your dish.
- Experiment and enjoy: Don’t be afraid to try a new recipe or cooking method—it’s all part of the adventure.
Book Your Florida Keys Fishing Adventure Today
There’s no better way to enjoy the bounty of the Florida Keys than with Above & Below Fishing Adventures. Whether you’re after reef fish or deep sea pelagics, we’ll help you make unforgettable memories on the water and in the kitchen!
Book your Key West fishing adventure today and get ready to reel in big fish, learn local tips, and savor the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted. Your next culinary masterpiece is just a charter away!
