Target Bull Sharks in Marathon's Proven Inshore Spots
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target bull sharks, cobia, and snapper in Marathon watersProfessional guidance and quality gear provided for all levelsFlexible 4-10 hour charters accommodate up to 6 guests
Captain Joel Brandenburg and the crew at Ana Banana Fishing Company know Marathon's inshore waters like the back of their hands. This isn't some cookie-cutter fishing trip—we're talking about 4 to 10 hours of serious angling in some of the most productive shallow water fisheries in the Florida Keys. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just learning to work a spinning reel, Captain Joel tailors every trip to match your crew's skill level while putting you on fish that'll have you talking for years. The boat's dialed in, the gear's top-shelf, and the captain's got decades of local knowledge working these flats, channels, and structure spots where the big fish hang out.
Marathon sits right in the sweet spot of the Florida Keys, where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Atlantic, creating perfect conditions for world-class inshore fishing. Captain Joel runs a well-maintained vessel that handles up to 6 anglers comfortably, giving everyone room to fight fish without getting tangled up. The boat's rigged with quality rods, reels, and terminal tackle—no bargain-bin gear here. You'll start early, usually around sunrise when the fish are most active, working everything from shallow grass flats to deeper channels and bridge pilings. The captain reads the water conditions, tides, and weather to put you on the most productive spots for the day. Don't worry about bringing anything except sunscreen, snacks, and drinks—Ana Banana provides all the fishing equipment, bait, and ice you'll need.
Inshore fishing in Marathon means adapting your approach based on what's biting and where they're holding. Captain Joel teaches proven techniques that work in these waters, from sight-fishing the flats with live pilchards to working deeper structure with cut bait for bigger predators. You'll learn how to read the water—spotting nervous baitfish, working bird activity, and identifying structure that holds fish. The captain sets up different scenarios throughout the day, maybe starting with live bait presentations around channel edges for snapper and cobia, then switching to the flats for permit and mackerel action. Bottom fishing with circle hooks keeps things simple for beginners, while experienced anglers can work with lighter tackle and more challenging presentations. The key is staying flexible and letting the fish tell you what they want on any given day.
Bull sharks are the apex predators of Marathon's inshore waters, and hooking into one is like grabbing onto a freight train. These powerful fish cruise the deeper channels and flats edges, especially during warmer months from late spring through fall. They're not picky eaters—fresh-cut barracuda, mackerel, or bonito gets their attention fast. What makes bull sharks special here is their willingness to come shallow, sometimes cruising in just a few feet of water. When you hook one, expect long runs and serious headshakes that'll test your drag system and your arms.
Cobia are the gentle giants of the inshore game, often called "brown sharks" by newcomers who spot their distinctive coloring and size. Spring migration brings the best cobia action to Marathon, typically March through May, when these curious fish follow rays and cruise structure looking for an easy meal. They're sight-fishing targets that respond well to live crabs or jigs worked near the surface. Cobia fight with steady power rather than dramatic runs, making them perfect for anglers who want to experience a big fish without the chaos. Plus, they're excellent table fare when prepared right.
Mutton snapper represent some of the best eating fish in these waters, and Marathon's rocky bottom and patch reefs hold good numbers year-round. These fish are structure-oriented, hanging around ledges, wrecks, and coral heads in 15-40 feet of water. Summer months produce the most consistent action, especially during new moon phases when they're more aggressive. Muttons are smart fish that require finesse—light leaders, fresh bait, and patience. When you connect with a good one, they'll make powerful runs toward structure, testing your ability to turn them away from their rocky homes.
Permit are the holy grail of flats fishing, and Marathon offers some of the most consistent permit opportunities in the Keys. These spooky, intelligent fish cruise the shallow flats in small schools, feeding on crabs and small baitfish. They're notoriously difficult to hook, requiring perfect presentations with live crabs or specialized permit flies and jigs. The best permit action happens on incoming tides when they move onto the flats to feed. Landing a permit requires patience and skill, but there's no feeling quite like watching one of these silver bullets accept your bait in crystal-clear shallow water.
Spanish mackerel provide fast action and are perfect confidence builders for newer anglers. These aggressive fish school up around structure and bait concentrations, hitting small jigs, spoons, and live bait with authority. They're most active during cooler months, roughly October through March, when they move inshore in large numbers. Spanish mackerel fight with quick runs and jumps, making them entertaining on light tackle. They're also excellent bait for larger predators like sharks and cobia, so Captain Joel often targets them early in the trip to stock the live well.
Marathon's inshore fishing scene is legendary for good reason—the variety of species, the scenic backdrop, and guides like Captain Joel who know how to put you on fish consistently. Ana Banana Fishing Company has built their reputation on delivering quality fishing experiences that match each group's expectations and skill level. Whether you're after trophy bulls, table fare snappers, or the challenge of permit on the flats, this charter puts you in position to succeed. Remember that deposits are non-refundable, so commit to your dates and get ready for some of the best inshore fishing the Florida Keys has to offer. The fish are here year-round, the captain knows where to find them, and the only thing missing
Step aboard our beautifully restored 1975 Hatteras, a 53-foot classic that's perfect for targeting bull sharks, cobia, and snapper in Marathon's productive inshore waters. Twin 450HP Detroit diesels power this spacious vessel up to 17 knots, giving you access to the best fishing spots around the Florida Keys. The flybridge offers excellent visibility for spotting fish, while our fish finder and GPS help locate the hottest action. When you need a break from battling trophy catches, cool off with air conditioning, grab cold drinks from the fridge, or relax on deck with plenty of room to move around. The onboard icebox keeps your catch fresh, and there's even a bed for longer trips. With radar for safety and a multimedia system for entertainment between bites, this classic fishing machine has everything needed for a productive day chasing big fish in Marathon's legendary waters.
Carcharhinus LeucasBull sharks are the true inshore predators - thick, muscular fish that average 8-10 feet and pack serious power. These gray torpedoes with white bellies patrol our shallow coastal waters, channels, and even venture into brackish areas where fresh and salt water mix. We target them year-round, but summer months bring the best action when they move into our warmer inshore waters. What makes bull shark fishing special? Pure adrenaline - these are strong, aggressive fighters that'll test your tackle and nerves. They're not table fare, so it's all about the experience and bragging rights. We use heavy tackle with whole fish like mullet or mackerel, and fresh chum really brings them in close. Pro tip: fresh eel is absolute magic for bulls - its high oil content and tough skin make it irresistible bait that stays on the hook through their powerful strikes.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are the bruisers of inshore fishing - dark brown sharks look-alikes that average 6 feet and 100 pounds. These solitary hunters cruise around wrecks, buoys, and structure in 30 feet or less, though we find them deeper around offshore rigs too. They're aggressive predators that'll hit bucktail jigs, crankbaits, or live bait without much fuss. Spring migration and spawning season from June through August gives us the best action, but they're around most of the year in our waters. What guests love about cobia? They fight hard, grow big, and make outstanding table fare - firm, white meat that's restaurant quality. Plus, they're usually loners, so landing one feels like a real achievement. My go-to tip: look for them on the surface around any floating debris or structure, and don't be shy with your jig - these fish respond to aggressive presentations.
Lutjanus AnalisMutton snapper are the prize of reef fishing - beautiful olive-colored fish with distinctive blue streaks around their eyes and pointed dorsal fins. Most run 15-20 inches, but trophy fish can hit 30+ inches and weigh over 30 pounds. These smart fish hang around reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottom in 20-80 feet of water, often just outside the structure in sandy areas. Adults tend to be solitary, making each catch feel earned. We catch them year-round, with warmer months bringing them into shallower water. What anglers love? They're excellent fighters for their size and absolutely delicious - sweet, firm meat that's hard to beat. The challenge is presentation - they're picky eaters. Use fresh bait on light sinkers and let it drift naturally in the current. Here's my secret: when you see that pink flash coming up through the clear water, keep steady pressure and lead them away from structure or they'll cut you off.
Trachinotus FalcatusPermit are the holy grail of flats fishing - tall, silver fish that can reach 36 inches and weigh up to 60 pounds. These wary creatures cruise shallow grass flats in just 2-3 feet of water, using their golf-ball sized eyes that rotate almost 360 degrees to spot danger. Young permit school together, but adults become loners, making them trickier to find. Peak season runs April through October when they spawn, though we catch them year-round in our warm Keys waters. What makes permit special? They're smart, spooky, and will test every bit of your skill. The fight is legendary - they'll make blistering runs across the flats. Here's the key: use live blue crabs on circle hooks with light tackle, and when you spot one, approach dead quiet. Make your first cast count because you rarely get a second chance.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are fast, fun, and plentiful - silvery speedsters with yellow spots that typically run 1-2 feet and 8-11 pounds. These schooling fish travel in large groups near the surface around structure, flats, and open water. They're here year-round but peak action happens during warmer months when schools move closer to shore. What makes them popular with guests? They hit hard, fight fast, and are perfect for light tackle action. Plus, they're fantastic eating - mild, flaky meat that's great grilled, fried, or even smoked. Kids especially love catching them because they're aggressive and don't require much finesse. We target them with small spoons, jigs, or live shrimp around any structure. The trick is to drift quietly into the school rather than motoring right through - spook them once and they'll disappear. Watch for birds diving, that usually marks an active school feeding on baitfish.
Marathon