Daniel Zier

For over 40 years, Capt. Dan has been immersed in the waters of the Florida Keys, mastering the art of fishing and making it an integral part of his life. Growing up fishing these pristine waters has given him an unmatched connection to the sport, one that transcends mere hobby and has become second nature. Whether it’s the thrill of casting a line or the adrenaline of reeling in a trophy fish, fishing is not just something he does—it’s who he is. What truly fills him with joy, though, is seeing the excitement on the faces of those he takes out on the water, especially when they hook their first big catch. There’s nothing quite like watching someone land a massive fish for the first time, the culmination of patience, skill, and pure exhilaration. Even on his days off, Capt. Dan can’t resist the call of the ocean. His passion for fishing goes beyond professional duty; it’s a way of life. He spends his free time doing what he loves most: fishing the warm waters of the Florida Keys. Based out of Stock Island, just minutes from the iconic Key West, Capt. Dan and his team at Key West Fishing Connection offer unforgettable fishing adventures that you’ll treasure for years to come. On your 4 to 6-hour trip, you’ll target prized species like Tarpon, Shark, Snapper, Grouper, and more. Tarpon's acrobatics make them a top challenge, while Shark offers a thrilling battle for adventurous anglers. For a tasty catch, Snapper and Grouper are both exciting and great for dinner. Your adventure starts on Capt. Dan’s 22’ Lake and Bay boat, built for both comfort and performance. It accommodates up to four anglers and is powered by a 250HP Yamaha engine, cruising up to 35 knots. Whether in shallow flats or deep waters, this boat gets you to prime fishing spots quickly and smoothly. Capt. Dan provides all the gear you need for a successful fishing trip, including high-quality rods, reels, terminal tackle, and live bait. Your fishing license is also covered, so all you have to do is show up and fish. Plus, any legal-sized catch can be kept for dinner, and Capt. Dan's crew will clean and fillet it for you, ensuring you enjoy the freshest seafood after your trip. So why wait? Book your trip today with Capt. Dan and Key West Fishing Connection and discover what makes fishing in the Florida Keys so special. Whether you’re a first-time angler or a seasoned pro, there’s no better way to experience the magic of Key West’s waters than with Capt. Dan at the helm!

EPSG:4269

<div>the evening shark bit has been very good.&nbsp; it's pretty much non stop action.&nbsp; we're catching big black tips, black nose and sand sharks&nbsp;</div>

Sun set shark fishing 

<div>Some unbelievable fishing today.&nbsp; I ran a morning 3hr and a afternoon 6hr trip. We caught 15 or more sharks, 2 big cobia and 3 Goliath grouper up to 100lbs. 1 cobia we saved for dinner evening else was released.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div>

<div>cut bait for the grouper and sharks. mostly blue runners&nbsp;</div>

Two big fish caught in Stock Island fishing trip

Perfect fishing day

Lemon Shark

The Goliath grouper trip

Goliath Grouper

<div>we released 3 Goliath grouper up to 80lbs and 2 big lemon sharks.&nbsp; key west inshore fishing has been amazing the last few days.&nbsp;</div>

<div>pen conventional reels with 300lb braid and 250 mono top shot</div>

4he Goliath grouper trip

3 generations of fisherman and crabers!! Fun day off with the kids

3 generations of fisherman and crabers!! 

Cobia

Trophy amberjack and a big cobia 

Trophy amberjack and a big cobia caught this morning. Capt Steve birch and Blake Kalk.  Let go fishing!!!

A huge cobia fish caught while fishing in FL

Large shark caught while fishing in Stock Island FL waters being handled alongside boat

Large spotted fish being held in clear turquoise water in Stock Island FL

Bonnethead shark caught fishing in Stock Island FL waters

Large shark being released alongside fishing boat in Stock Island FL waters

Shark being released from fishing boat in Stock Island FL waters

Goliath grouper caught fishing in Stock Island FL waters being held alongside boat

Goliath grouper caught during fishing trip in Stock Island FL

Large shark caught while fishing in Stock Island FL waters being released from boat

Goliath grouper catch on fishing boat in Stock Island FL waters

Blacktip shark caught fishing from boat in Stock Island FL waters

Fishing from boat with bent rod over clear water with large fish visible beneath surface in Stock Island FL

Large shark caught during fishing trip in Stock Island FL waters

Blacktip shark caught fishing in Stock Island FL waters

Shark caught on fishing line next to boat in turquoise waters off Stock Island FL

Shark caught on fishing line being released back into ocean waters near Stock Island FL

Set sail with Key West Fishing Connection in Key West and experience the thrill of reeling in your next trophy fish! Don’t wait—grab your rod, join Capt. Dan, and create unforgettable memories on the Florida Keys waters today!

For over 40 years, Capt. Dan has been a trusted name in Key West fishing, sharing his deep knowledge of the Florida Keys waters with anglers of all skill levels. Growing up in these pristine waters, he turned his passion for fishing into a lifetime pursuit, offering expertly guided trips that cover everything from inshore Tarpon and Snapper fishing to exciting Key West Shark charters and challenging deep sea fishing adventures. Capt. Dan’s hands-on experience and dedication ensure that every guest enjoys not just a fishing trip, but an unforgettable adventure on the waters of Key West, Florida. Operating from Stock Island just minutes from Key West, Key West Fishing Connection provides fully equipped fishing charters with top-quality rods, reels, live bait, and tackle. Each trip includes a fishing license and professional cleaning of your catch, making it easy to focus on the thrill of the fight and the joy of landing your prize. Whether you’re aiming to catch hard-fighting sport fish or stock your cooler with fresh Snapper, Capt. Dan’s expertise guarantees an unparalleled fishing experience in Key West. Book your trip today and discover why Key West Fishing Connection is the go-to choice for anglers seeking the ultimate Florida Keys fishing adventure.

Give the gift of adventure! Treat your loved ones to an unforgettable fishing charter with Key West Fishing Connection and Captain Daniel Zier. Experience the thrill of fishing in Key West, Florida, and create lasting memories on the water!

Purchase A Key West Fishing Connection Gift Card today!

Easily change trip dates, times, or trip type by contacting Key West Fishing Connection from your receipt or right from our website! We look forward to fishing with you!

Purchase an E-Gift card and your loved one will apply that unique confirmation code to the booking at checkout from keywestsharkcharters.com

Key West Fishing Connection The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from Key West.

For over 40 years, Captain Dan has been at the center of Key West fishing, turning his lifelong passion into unmatched expertise. Growing up in the Florida Keys, he developed an intimate understanding of the local waters, making him a trusted guide for anglers of all skill levels. Whether coaching first-time fishers through their initial big catch or assisting seasoned anglers in landing trophy Tarpon, Snapper, or Shark, Capt. Dan’s knowledge and dedication shine through every trip. His greatest satisfaction comes from witnessing the excitement and pride on his clients’ faces when they reel in a memorable catch. Even off the clock, Capt. Dan’s love for fishing keeps him close to the sea. Based on Stock Island near Key West, he explores the same waters he navigates professionally, staying attuned to seasonal patterns, fish behavior, and emerging hotspots. This personal connection to the waters ensures that every trip he leads is informed by real-time conditions and local expertise. Guests benefit from his deep understanding of Florida Keys fishing, making each outing more productive, safe, and enjoyable. Capt. Dan’s reputation as a knowledgeable and friendly guide is matched by his approachable style. He enjoys sharing tips on techniques, gear selection, and fish species, creating an environment that’s both educational and relaxed. Anglers often note his patience, attention to detail, and ability to tailor experiences to each person’s comfort and skill level. By combining expertise with a genuine love for teaching and mentoring, Capt. Dan builds trust with every client, making them feel confident and excited to fish the unique waters of Key West. <h2>About the Boat</h2>At the heart of Capt. Dan’s operation is his meticulously maintained 22’ Lake and Bay boat, built for both comfort and performance. Powered by a 250HP Yamaha engine, the vessel reaches prime fishing grounds quickly and smoothly, whether pursuing Tarpon, Shark, Snapper, or Grouper. The boat is fully equipped with rods, reels, live bait, and other essentials, while Capt. Dan handles all logistics, including fishing licenses and cleaning your catch. Designed for an optimal fishing experience, this boat allows guests to focus on the excitement of the day while trusting that every detail is expertly managed.

Captain Daniel Zier And The Key West Fishing Connection

Book a 4-hour private inshore fishing trip in Key West. Target snapper, grouper, and more with expert guides. Reserve now!

Snapper Quest

Premier Key West Inshore Snapper Fishing Trip

Book a top-rated inshore fishing trip for Goliath Grouper in Key West. Expert guides, all gear provided. Reserve now!

Grouper Grab

Epic Goliath Grouper Fishing in Key West

Experience world-class flats fishing in Key West. Target trophy tarpon, sharks, and grouper on this premium 4-hour charter.

Tarpon Time

World-Class Tarpon Fishing in Key West, FL

Experience world-class wreck fishing for sharks and groupers in Key West. Book your private 6-hour adventure today!

Wreck Warriors

Key West Shark & Grouper Wreck Fishing Charter

Book a 3-hour inshore shark fishing adventure in Key West. Expert-guided trips for all skill levels. Reserve now!

Shark Frenzy

Shark Fishing Adventure in Key West FL

Book a 6-hour private shark fishing trip in Key West. Target Blacktip, Bull, and Lemon Sharks on wrecks. Reserve now!

Shark Hunt

Guaranteed Shark Fishing: Key West Private Trip

Book a 4-hour guided night fishing trip in Key West. Target sharks, snappers, and more on this premium wreck fishing adventure.

Nite Snapper

Night Snapper Fishing: Key West's Hidden Gem

Explore Key West like never before with our guide to the top 10 must-do activities. From historic sites and art museums to local dining hotspots and many more!

Things To Do

THINGS TO DO IN KEY WEST

Book a premium 4-hour inshore fishing trip in Key West. Perfect for families, 100% shark guarantee. Reserve now!

Kid Catch

Expert-Guided Kids Fishing in Key West FL

Experience world-class inshore night fishing for sharks in Key West. Expert guides, all gear provided. Book your adventure today!

Moonlit Catch

Top-Rated Shark & Tarpon Fishing Key West

Contact Captain Daniel Zier For Inquiries:

Key West Fishing Connection

Common Questions: What types of fishing trips does Key West Fishing Connection offer?Key West Fishing Connection offers a variety of fishing trips, including inshore, nearshore, and deep-sea adventures. Popular trips include shark fishing, tarpon fishing, and goliath grouper excursions. Capt. Daniel Zier specializes in providing personalized experiences tailored to your fishing preferences and skill levels. How do I book a fishing trip with Capt. Daniel Zier?Booking a trip with Capt. Daniel Zier is easy. You can visit the Key West Fishing Connection website to view availability and make reservations. Alternatively, you can call or email the team directly for assistance with booking and trip details. What should I bring on a fishing trip with Capt. Daniel?Capt. Daniel provides all necessary fishing gear, including rods, reels, and bait. You should bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and any personal items you may need. It’s also a good idea to bring a cooler if you plan to keep any of your catch. Are fishing licenses included in the trip price?Yes, all fishing licenses are included in the price of your trip with Key West Fishing Connection. Capt. Daniel ensures that you have all the required permits to fish legally in Key West’s waters. What is the best time of year to fish in Key West?Key West offers excellent fishing year-round. The best times depend on what you’re targeting: tarpon fishing is best from April to September, while goliath grouper and shark fishing can be great throughout the year. For specific seasonal conditions, it’s best to consult with Capt. Daniel. What types of fish can we expect to catch on a trip with Capt. Daniel?On a trip with Capt. Daniel, you can target a variety of species, including tarpon, goliath grouper, shark (such as hammerhead, blacktip, and bull sharks), mangrove snapper, and more. The specific species will depend on the type of trip you choose. How long are the fishing trips with Key West Fishing Connection?Fishing trips typically range from 4 to 6 hours, depending on the type of trip you choose. Options include shorter inshore trips and extended adventures targeting deeper waters and larger species. What happens if the weather is bad on the day of our trip?Safety is a priority for Capt. Daniel. If weather conditions are unsafe, the trip will be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund. Capt. Daniel and his team will work with you to find an alternative date or time that suits your schedule. Can we bring our own food and drinks on the trip?Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks on the fishing trip. Capt. Daniel provides a cooler with ice, but it’s a good idea to bring your own refreshments to keep you hydrated and energized throughout the day. Is it suitable for beginners or families with kids?Absolutely! Capt. Daniel caters to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced anglers. Families with kids are welcome, and Capt. Daniel ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. The trips are designed to be educational and fun, making them perfect for introducing young anglers to the sport.

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great For Top Anglers

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Best Spots

Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

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