Family-Friendly Inshore Fishing in Marathon
Private Trip
Wrecks/Reefs Fishing
Three-hour family fishing charter targeting snapper and grouperAll gear, licenses, bait, and refreshments included onboardExpert guidance from Captain Craig for all skill levels
When you're looking for a solid fishing charter that actually delivers, Captain Craig and his crew at Fun In The Sun Charters know how to put you on fish. This 3-hour inshore trip targets some of the best eating and fighting fish in the Florida Keys, from snapper and grouper to yellowtail and whatever else is biting that day. We're talking about real fishing here - the kind where you come home with stories, sore arms, and hopefully a cooler full of dinner. Perfect for families who want to get the kids hooked on fishing, or experienced anglers who just want a productive half-day on the water without all the hassle of organizing gear and finding the fish.
This isn't your typical tourist trap fishing trip. Captain Craig runs a tight ship and knows these Marathon waters like the back of his hand. You'll be fishing the productive inshore wrecks and structure that hold the good stuff - gag grouper, hogfish, mahi, and whatever seasonal species are moving through. The boat comes rigged with everything you need: quality rods and reels that can handle these fish, fresh bait, a tackle box full of the right lures, and all your fishing licenses squared away. They even throw in ice, sodas, and water so you can focus on what matters - catching fish. The first mate will be right there to help with everything from baiting hooks to landing fish, making sure even first-timers feel confident. Just remember that 20% gratuity is standard for the crew when they put you on fish.
Wreck fishing is where the big boys hang out, and Captain Craig knows exactly how to work these underwater structures. We're talking about dropping baits down to submerged wrecks, ledges, and artificial reefs where grouper, snapper, and other bottom fish set up shop. The technique here is all about precision - getting your bait down to the right depth, keeping it in the strike zone, and being ready when these fish hit. You'll be using heavier tackle to pull fish up from structure, and the crew will show you how to feel the difference between a bite and just bumping bottom. The wrecks around Marathon are loaded with life, from baitfish that attract the predators to the resident species that call these structures home. It's active fishing that keeps you engaged, and when you hook into a good grouper or snapper, you'll know it immediately.
Mahi mahi are the golden boys of offshore fishing, but when they move inshore around Marathon's wrecks, things get really exciting. These fish are pure muscle and attitude, known for their bright colors and acrobatic fights that'll have you working the drag. Mahi typically show up in warmer months and can range from schoolie-size dolphins around 5-10 pounds to bigger bulls pushing 20-30 pounds. What makes them special is how they fight - jumping, diving, and making long runs that test your technique. Plus, they're some of the best eating fish in the ocean, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling.
Hogfish are the locals' secret favorite, and once you taste one, you'll understand why. These guys are bottom dwellers that love hanging around wrecks and hard structure, using their pig-like snouts to root around for crabs and small fish. They're not huge fighters, usually running 2-8 pounds, but they make up for it by being absolutely delicious. Hogfish have this unique ability to change colors when they're excited or stressed, flashing from pale to deep red. They're year-round residents in these waters, but spring and fall tend to produce the best action when they're most active.
Tripletail are the weird-looking fish that'll make you do a double-take. They get their name from their dorsal and anal fins that make them look like they have three tails, and they have this habit of floating on their sides near debris or structure, looking like a dead leaf. Don't let their lazy appearance fool you - when hooked, tripletail are strong fighters that make powerful runs and jumps. They're typically found around floating debris, weed lines, and yes, wrecks, especially during summer months. Most tripletail run 5-15 pounds and are considered premium table fare by those in the know.
African pompano are the speed demons of the wreck scene, built like silver torpedoes with long, flowing fins that make them unmistakable. These fish are relatives of the permit and share that same powerful, sustained fight that'll have your arms burning. They typically cruise around structure in small schools, and when you find them, the action can be fast and furious. African pompano can range from a few pounds up to 30-plus-pound monsters, and they're known for their incredibly long runs and stubborn fights. They're more common in warmer months and are considered a real prize catch by serious anglers.
Gag grouper are the bullies of the wreck, and for good reason. These thick-bodied fish are ambush predators that use the structure to their advantage, darting out to grab unsuspecting baitfish. When you hook a good gag, the fight is immediate and powerful - they'll try to get back to their hole in the wreck and break you off. Most gags around these wrecks run 5-20 pounds, though bigger fish are always possible. They're open year-round with certain size restrictions, and they're absolutely fantastic on the dinner table. The key to catching gags is getting your bait right to the bottom and being ready for that solid thump when they eat.
Look, Marathon's wreck fishing doesn't get much better than what Captain Craig and his team deliver. You're getting a legitimate fishing experience with a crew that knows how to find fish and put guests on them consistently. The 4-person max keeps things comfortable and ensures everyone gets plenty of
Meet the Pro Kat Catamaran, your stable fishing platform for Marathon's productive waters. This 25-foot twin-hull boat was built in 2001 and completely restored in 2022, combining proven design with fresh reliability. Twin 115HP Yamaha engines push her to 35 knots when you need to reach those hot grouper spots quickly, while the catamaran's wide beam keeps everyone comfortable when the fish are biting. The GPS and fish finder help Captain Craig locate structure where snapper and yellowtail hang out, while the VHF radio keeps you connected to other boats sharing fishing intel. An icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold during those long battles with stubborn fish. With space for up to 6 passengers but booked for 4, you'll have plenty of elbow room to work your lines without bumping into each other when multiple rods go off at once.
Alectis CiliarisPart of the jack family, African pompano are fast, powerful fish that'll test your tackle. Adults are silvery and round, typically found in 30-250 feet over structure and reefs. Juveniles look completely different - diamond-shaped with long trailing filaments that disappear as they grow. These fish can roam vast distances and are attracted to shiny, moving lures, making jigs deadly effective. They average smaller than the world record of 50 pounds, but any pompano will give you a serious fight. Year-round fishing is good, but warmer months see more activity. They feed on crabs and small fish, so live bait works great too. Watch for birds working - pompano often feed with other jacks underneath.
Mycteroperca MicrolepisGag grouper might not win beauty contests, but they're excellent eating and provide solid fights. They average around 20 inches but can reach 80 pounds. Look for them around rocky bottom, reefs, and wrecks where they ambush prey like crabs, shrimp, and small fish. All gags start as females and change to males as they mature - males are darker with reticulated dorsal fins. They love structure and will try to pull you back into the rocks once hooked. Spring through fall offers the best action. Use live pinfish or mullet, but cut bait works too. Keep your drag locked tight and rod tip low when fighting them - don't give them a chance to dive into cover.
Lachnolaimus MaximusHogfish are one of the tastiest fish in our waters, with sweet, mild meat that beats grouper any day. They get their name from that pig-like snout they use to root through the sand for crabs and shrimp. Males can reach 3 feet and sport brighter colors with a black spot behind the fins. Look for them around hard bottom areas, coral heads, and rocky structure in 10-100 feet of water. They're curious fish but spook easy, so we use live shrimp or mud crabs on light tackle. Best fishing is spring through fall when water temps are up. Here's the trick: make some noise tapping the boat - they're drawn to vibrations thinking it's feeding time.
Coryphaena HippurusThe golden sides and brilliant colors make mahi mahi one of the most beautiful fish you'll see. They average 15-29 pounds but can get much bigger. These fast swimmers love floating debris, weedlines, and current edges where they hunt flying fish. Spring through fall brings the best action around Marathon. What makes them special is their incredible fight - they'll jump, run, and put on quite a show. The meat is firm, white, and absolutely delicious. When we find a school, we'll often catch several since they travel together. Pro tip: once you hook one, leave it in the water briefly - the splashing will keep the school around for more shots.
Lobotes SurinamensisTripletail get their name from their rounded fins that look like three tails when they're floating sideways. They're masters of disguise, lying on their sides mimicking floating debris. Most run 2-13 pounds but can hit 40. You'll find them near weedlines and floating objects from surface down to about 50 feet. Summer and fall are prime time when they're spawning and more active. They're becoming popular with fly anglers because they put up a great acrobatic fight for their size. The meat is firm and tasty, similar to snapper. Sight casting works best - cast past them and work your bait back slowly. They're easily spooked, so be stealthy on your approach.
Marathon, FL