Marathon Fishing Charters
Marathon fishing charters are your ticket to the Middle Keys’ wrecks, reefs, and shallow backcountry waters loaded with snapper, tarpon, grouper, and more.
Top Rated Charters in Marathon
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Marathon, FL Fishing Guide
Marathon is one of the most versatile fishing hubs in the Florida Keys, with inshore, reef, and deep sea options all within striking distance. Most charters here run half-day or full-day trips, depending on target species and season. Inshore and backcountry trips explore the shallow flats, mangrove creeks, and channels behind the Seven Mile Bridge, where anglers sight-fish for tarpon, permit, bonefish, and snook on light tackle. These waters are especially productive from spring through early fall.
Reef and nearshore charters are a staple in Marathon. It’s a short 4–8 mile run to reach the patch reefs and coral edges that hold yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper, grouper, cero mackerel, and hogfish. Many captains anchor up and chum heavy, then fish with knocker rigs, jigheads, or flat lines for steady action.
Farther offshore, deep sea charters push 15–30 miles out to the Marathon Humps and the bluewater beyond. This is where trolling spreads raise mahi, blackfin tuna, sailfish, and wahoo, especially in spring and summer when the Gulf Stream edges closer. Deep drop trips are also common for snowy grouper, tilefish, and queen snapper using electric reels and heavy rigs.
Launch points typically include Boot Key Harbor, Sombrero Marina, and several private docks and resorts. Thanks to its central location, Marathon gives guides quick access to both Atlantic and Gulf sides, offering year-round flexibility no matter the wind.
Fishing Seasons in Marathon
Spring
Spring lights up the tarpon bite around the bridges and backcountry, with live mullet or crab the go-to baits. Offshore, dolphin (mahi) start showing in numbers, while reef fishing heats up with yellowtail and mutton snapper firing on the edge.
Summer
Summer is peak offshore season for dolphin, blackfin tuna, and occasional wahoo. Inshore, early morning trips target tarpon, permit, and bonefish on flats before the heat kicks in. Reef fishing remains strong, especially for mangrove snapper at night.
Fall
As water cools slightly, snapper and grouper action stays solid on the reef. Inshore, look for redfish and snook to become more active, particularly around mangrove edges and cuts. Offshore, expect scattered tuna and early sailfish runs.
Winter
Winter is prime time for reef action—yellowtail, mutton, and grouper feed heavily on cold fronts. Inshore, cooler water brings in big sea trout and pushes snook deeper into channels. Deep drops for tilefish and snowy grouper are also popular this time of year.
Gamefish in Marathon
- Tarpon – 30–150+ lbs Caught under bridges and in channels March–July, usually on live mullet, crabs, or pinfish on circle hooks and float rigs.
- Permit – 10–30 lbs Found on flats and wrecks in spring/summer; crab on a jighead is the top bait.
- Bonefish – 3–8 lbs Sight-fished on calm flats with shrimp, crabs, or small jigs, especially on incoming tide.
- Yellowtail Snapper – 1–4 lbs Reef staple, caught on chum lines with small baits on light tackle.
- Mutton Snapper – 5–15 lbs Found near reef edges and deeper wrecks; best on live pinfish or ballyhoo on knocker rigs
- Grouper (Black, Red, Gag) – 5–30 lbs Caught near reefs and wrecks, especially during open season using live bait near bottom
- Mahi-Mahi (Dolphin) – 10–30 lbs Trolled offshore around weed lines and debris, best spring through early fall.
- Blackfin Tuna – 10–25 lbs Caught offshore by trolling or vertical jigging near the humps, especially April–June.
- Sailfish – 30–60 lbs Winter and spring target, caught while live-bait drifting or kite fishing offshore.
Marathon Fishing FAQs
What types of fishing charters are most common in Marathon?
In Marathon, both inshore/backcountry and offshore fishing charters are popular. Half-day trips often target the reef or flats, while full-day charters run to the humps or focus on deep drop species.
Where do most fishing trips leave from in Marathon?
Most charters launch from Boot Key Harbor, local marinas like Sombrero Marina, or private resort docks along US-1.
Is tarpon fishing good in Marathon?
Yes, especially in spring and early summer. The Seven Mile Bridge is a famous tarpon hotspot, particularly during the early morning or evening tides.
How far offshore do deep sea trips go?
Most deep sea trips from Marathon run 15–30 miles out, depending on target species and conditions. The Marathon Humps are a prime destination for tuna and mahi.
Do I need a fishing license in Marathon?
No, fishing licenses are covered under your charter captain’s permit when fishing aboard a licensed vessel.
Are electric reels used for any types of fishing here?
Yes. Deep dropping for tilefish, queen snapper, and snowy grouper typically involves electric reels and heavy rigs in 600–900 feet of water.
What’s the best time of year for mahi in Marathon?
Late spring through summer is peak season for mahi-mahi, especially when the Gulf Stream pushes in close and weed lines are stacked.
Can kids or beginners fish here?
Absolutely. Many Marathon charters offer reef trips that are perfect for beginners or kids, with constant action on snapper and grunts.
Are live baits included on charters?
Yes, most captains provide live bait or will catch it at the start of the trip. Some offshore trips may include bait stops or prearranged livewell setups.