Marathon FL Deep Sea Fishing Charter
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
8hour deep sea charter targeting tuna at Marathon HumpsDeparts 7:30am to 400foot depths with mahi opportunitiesSixperson capacity with tip included in pricing
Looking for world-class tuna action in the Florida Keys? This 8-hour deep sea charter out of Marathon is your ticket to some of the best offshore fishing in South Florida. We're talking about hitting the legendary Marathon Humps, where the water drops to 400 feet and the big fish roam. Captain and crew will have you out of the dock by 7:30 a.m., ready to chase down blackfin tuna and mahi mahi in one of the most productive fishing grounds you'll find anywhere. This isn't your typical half-day trip – we're going deep and staying long to put you on fish that'll have your drag screaming.
You're looking at a full 8 hours of serious fishing time, and trust me, you'll need every minute of it. The run out to the Marathon Humps takes some time, but that's where the magic happens – we'll be working the weed lines and temperature breaks for mahi on the way out. Once we hit the Humps, we're dedicating 2.5 to 3 solid hours trolling specifically for tuna. This isn't random fishing – we're targeting structure that consistently holds fish. The captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll position the boat where the current, bottom structure, and bait come together. Weather plays a big role out here, so we'll adjust our game plan based on conditions, but that's what separates the good trips from the great ones. Your group of up to 6 anglers will have plenty of room to fish without getting tangled up, and the crew will keep you in the action all day long.
We're talking serious trolling operation here – this is how you catch tuna in deep water. The boat will be rigged with a spread of lures designed to mimic the baitfish that tuna feed on. We'll be pulling everything from cedar plugs to ballyhoo rigs, adjusting speed and depth based on what the fish want that day. The Marathon Humps create upwelling that brings bait to the surface, and that's where predators like tuna and mahi concentrate. You'll be fishing with quality tackle that can handle the power these fish bring – we're talking 30 to 50-pound class gear that'll give you a fighting chance but still let you feel every head shake and run. The crew will handle all the rigging, net work, and fish cleaning, but when that rod doubles over, it's all you. The tip for the mates is already included in your trip cost, so you don't have to worry about anything except fighting fish.
Mahi mahi are the crowd-pleasers out here, and for good reason. These fish are pure electricity when they're hooked – jumping, tail-walking, and putting on a show that'll get everyone on the boat excited. In Marathon waters, mahi typically run anywhere from 10 to 30 pounds, with the occasional bull dolphin pushing 40 or more. They're most active during the warmer months, but you can find them year-round if you know where to look. What makes mahi special is their willingness to eat – they'll hit trolled baits, live bait, and even jigs. Once you hook one, there's often more in the area, so we'll stop and work the school with spinning gear. The meat is as good as it gets, with firm white fillets that are perfect on the grill.
Blackfin tuna are the main target on the Marathon Humps, and these fish will test your endurance. They might not be the biggest tuna species, but what they lack in size they make up for in fight. Marathon blackfins typically range from 15 to 40 pounds, with the occasional fish pushing 50. These are schooling fish that feed aggressively when conditions are right, and the Humps provide the perfect environment. The deep water and current breaks concentrate baitfish, which draws in the tuna. What makes blackfin tuna special is their stamina – they'll make long, powerful runs that'll burn your arms and test your drag. The best action typically happens during the cooler months from October through March, but you can find them year-round. The meat is outstanding – dark red and rich, perfect for searing or making into sashimi.
This Marathon deep sea charter represents some of the best offshore fishing value you'll find in the Keys. You're getting a full day on the water with an experienced crew that knows how to find and catch fish. The Marathon Humps aren't a secret, but knowing how to fish them properly is what separates the tourists from the anglers who go home with coolers full of fish. At 6 anglers max, you won't be crowded, and you'll have the captain's full attention when it comes to putting you on fish. The early 7:30 departure means you'll be fishing during prime time, and the 8-hour duration gives you enough time to really work the grounds properly. With meals not included, you can pack exactly what you want to eat and drink – just remember to bring plenty of water and snacks for a long day in the sun. This trip books up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait around if you want to experience some of the best tuna fishing in South Florida.
This 47-foot Sea Ray sport fishing boat is built for serious offshore action in Marathon's deep waters. Twin 420HP Caterpillar engines push her to 25 knots, getting you out to the Marathon Humps and tuna grounds fast. The flybridge gives you great visibility for spotting fish and bird activity, while the fish finder helps locate schools below. When you need a break from fighting fish, retreat to the air-conditioned cabin with full kitchen, bed, and head. The icebox and refrigerator keep your catch fresh and drinks cold during those long days chasing mahi and yellowfin. GPS and radar ensure safe navigation whether you're running in pre-dawn darkness or afternoon squalls. Perfect setup for up to 6 anglers heading to 400-foot depths where the big fish live.
Thunnus AtlanticusBlackfin are the perfect tuna for our waters here - they're the smallest in the tuna family but pack serious attitude. These fish run 10-30 pounds on average and love the deeper waters around the humps and drop-offs. You'll find them in 150-600 feet, especially around structure where baitfish concentrate. Fall through spring is when they really turn on in the Keys, with water temps in the high 60s to mid 70s. What guests love about blackfin is their bulldog fight - they'll make screaming runs and test your drag system. The meat is outstanding too, perfect for sashimi or searing. Pro tip: scale down your tackle when targeting blackfin. Use lighter fluorocarbon leaders and smaller hooks - these fish have sharp eyes and will shy away from heavy gear.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are one of the most colorful fish you'll see out here - brilliant gold and green that puts on a real light show when they come out of the water. We typically find them around floating debris, weedlines, or anywhere there's structure in 100-400 feet. They average 15-30 pounds but can get much bigger. Spring through fall is prime time when water temps stay above 70 degrees. What makes mahi special is their incredible fight - they'll jump, run, and give you everything they've got. Plus, they're absolutely delicious eating with that mild, sweet flavor. Here's a tip: when you hook one, keep your eyes open for others nearby. Mahi often travel in schools, so where there's one, there's usually more. Work the area thoroughly and you might limit out.
Marathon