Swordfish & Mahi Marathon Deep-Sea Adventure
Private Trip
Shore Fishing
10hour private swordfish trip starts at 7:00 AM offshoreTarget swordfish 30 miles out with tuna and mahi opportunitiesPremium gear and expert guidance for up to 6 guests
Marathon's offshore waters are calling, and this 10-hour private swordfish charter is your ticket to some of the most challenging deep-water angling in the Keys. Starting at 7:00 AM sharp, you'll be heading 30 miles offshore with Captain and crew who know exactly where these broadbill beauties hang out in the deep. This isn't your typical half-day trip – we're talking serious fishing for serious anglers who want to tangle with one of the ocean's most prized game fish. With room for up to 6 anglers, you'll have plenty of space to work the lines and chase that trophy swordfish you've been dreaming about.
This deep-drop adventure starts before sunrise, which means you'll be rigged and ready as we cruise past the reef line toward the deep blue. The ride out takes us over some prime mahi territory, so keep your eyes peeled for floating debris and weed lines – that's where the dolphinfish love to hide. Once we hit the swordfish grounds, it's all about patience and precision. These fish hunt in depths of 1,200 to 1,800 feet, so we're talking serious deep-dropping with electric reels and heavy tackle. The boat comes equipped with top-shelf gear, but if you've got your own swordfish setup, feel free to bring it along. Between drops, we'll keep an eye out for tuna boils and mahi schools, making this a full-spectrum offshore experience that keeps your adrenaline pumping all day long.
Swordfishing is all about the deep-drop game, and we've got the technique dialed in. We'll be using circle hooks with whole squid and ballyhoo, dropped down on 80-pound tackle with weights heavy enough to get through the current. The electric reels do the heavy lifting – literally – but when that fish hits, it's all you. Swordfish are notorious for their explosive runs and acrobatic jumps, so be ready for a fight that can last anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour. While we're working the sword grounds, we'll also have some lighter tackle ready for mahi opportunities. These fish are aggressive and put on quite a show, making them perfect for warming up your arms before the main event. The crew will handle all the rigging, but don't be shy about asking questions – understanding the setup makes you a better angler.
The swordfish action around Marathon has been absolutely lights-out this season, with fish ranging from 80 to over 200 pounds coming to the boat. The mahi bite has been equally impressive – we're seeing plenty of 20 to 40-pound bulls, with some real slob dolphinfish pushing 50 pounds. What makes this fishery so special is the consistency. Marathon's location puts us right in the middle of the Gulf Stream's influence, creating the perfect conditions for these pelagic species. The deep water is close, the current is strong, and the bait is abundant. Anglers are walking away with coolers full of premium table fare and stories that'll last a lifetime. The best part? Even when the swordfish are being finicky, there's always something else to target, whether it's a school of blackfin tuna or a floating log loaded with mahi.
Swordfish are the undisputed kings of the deep, and Marathon's waters hold some absolute monsters. These prehistoric-looking fish are built for speed and power, with that iconic bill they use to stun baitfish before feeding. Peak season runs from October through March, when cooler water temperatures bring them up from the deepest parts of the continental shelf. What makes swordfish so special isn't just their size – it's their fight. They'll sound deep, run long, and jump high, testing every bit of your tackle and stamina. Many anglers consider landing their first swordfish a bucket-list achievement, and for good reason. The meat is absolutely premium, with a firm texture and mild flavor that's perfect for grilling or making into steaks.
Mahi mahi, or common dolphinfish, are the perfect complement to any offshore trip. These fish are pure aggression wrapped in brilliant gold and green colors that'll take your breath away when they come to the boat. Marathon's waters see mahi year-round, but the best action typically happens from March through September when the fish are following the weed lines and debris fields. Bulls can reach 60 pounds, though most fish range from 15 to 30 pounds – still plenty of fish for an epic fight. What anglers love about mahi is their willingness to eat just about anything and their spectacular aerial displays. They'll jump, tail-walk, and put on a show that makes everyone on the boat grab for their cameras. Plus, they're absolutely delicious, with white, flaky meat that's perfect for fish tacos or ceviche.
This world-class swordfish adventure fills up fast, especially during peak season when the bite is hot and the weather's cooperating. With only 6 spots available per trip and a growing reputation among serious offshore anglers, you'll want to lock in your date well in advance. Remember, this is a 10-hour commitment starting at 7:00 AM – bring your sunscreen, pack some snacks, and get ready for a day of fishing that'll spoil you for anything else. The non-refundable deposit secures your spot, and trust me, once you've tangled with a Marathon swordfish in 1,500 feet of water, you'll understand why this trip has become a customer favorite among deep-sea fishing enthusiasts throughout South Florida.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are pure fun to catch and beautiful to watch. They average 15-29 pounds and about 39 inches, but the world record is 87 pounds. These fish put on a color show when hooked - brilliant golds, blues, and greens that change like a light display. We find them around floating debris, weedlines, and current edges in warm surface waters. They're strong swimmers and fight hard, so bring backup tackle. Spring through fall are prime times when they're most active. The meat is mild, sweet, and firm - perfect for grilling. They mature fast and spawn year-round, so the population stays healthy. Pro tip: look for frigate birds working floating debris - they'll lead you right to the fish. Make your bait skip on the surface since mahi love chasing flying fish. A 30-50 pound setup works perfect.
Xiphias GladiusSwordfish are the ultimate trophy fish out here in Marathon's deep waters. These giants average around 9 feet and 400 pounds, but we've seen monsters over 1,000 pounds. They live in depths of 1,500 feet or more, about 30 miles offshore where the Gulf Stream runs strong. We target them during our 10-hour trips because they're challenging - they use their flat bills to slash at prey, not spear it. The meat is firm and delicious, making every catch worthwhile. Peak season runs April through September when they're spawning. My tip: always use squid for bait and keep multiple lights running. The current out there is fierce, so we use heavy sinkers and 80-120 pound line. When one hits, you'll know it - they're one of the fastest fish in the ocean at 40-60 mph.
Marathon, FL