Marathon Tarpon Fishing with Captain Michael
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Fourhour tarpon fishing adventure in Marathon watersCaptain Michael guides groups of five guests maximumLate afternoon departure timing for optimal fishing conditions
Looking for a real fishing adventure in the Florida Keys? Captain Michael at Jersey Key Charters knows these Marathon waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on some serious tarpon action. This isn't your typical tourist charter - we're talking about targeting one of the most sought-after gamefish in Florida waters. With a max of 5 anglers, you'll get the personal attention and prime fishing spots that make for legendary days on the water. Pack your camera and bring your A-game because these silver kings don't mess around.
Your 4-hour afternoon charter kicks off from Marathon, putting you right in the heart of some of Florida's best tarpon territory. Captain Michael runs a tight ship and knows exactly where these fish like to hang out during different tides and conditions. You'll be fishing the backcountry flats, channels, and bridges where tarpon cruise looking for baitfish. The late afternoon timing is perfect - that's when tarpon really start to get active, rolling on the surface and giving away their location. With only 5 spots available, everyone gets plenty of rod time and individual coaching. Don't expect a crowded party boat experience; this is serious fishing with a captain who lives and breathes these waters year-round.
Captain Michael comes loaded with the right gear for tarpon fishing - we're talking heavy spinning tackle and conventional reels that can handle 100+ pound fish. Live bait is the name of the game here, with fresh crabs, pilchards, and mullet being top producers. You'll learn proper tarpon techniques like keeping the rod tip low during the jump, managing drag pressure, and reading the fish's body language. The boat is rigged with quality rods, fighting belts, and all the terminal tackle you'll need. If you've got your own gear and want to bring it, just make sure your drag is smooth and your line is fresh - tarpon will test every weak point in your setup. Circle hooks are required for tarpon, and Captain Michael will walk you through the proper hookset technique.
Tarpon are the undisputed kings of inshore fishing, and Marathon sits right in their migration highway. These prehistoric beasts can reach 8 feet long and weigh over 200 pounds, with their trademark silver scales and bucket-sized mouths. What makes tarpon so special isn't just their size - it's their acrobatic fights that can last 30 minutes or more. When hooked, they'll jump clear out of the water multiple times, often throwing the hook with their gill-rattling headshakes. Peak season runs from April through July when massive schools migrate through the Keys, but resident fish can be caught year-round. The Marathon area offers both shallow water sight fishing opportunities and deeper channel fishing depending on conditions. Tarpon are catch-and-release only, so you're fishing for the fight and the photos, not the dinner table. These fish have been around for 50 million years and can live over 80 years, making each one you hook a truly ancient adversary.
Captain Michael's tarpon charters book up fast, especially during prime season when the fishing is red-hot. With only 5 anglers max, you're guaranteed a quality experience without fighting for rod time or watching from the sidelines. This is your chance to tangle with one of Florida's most legendary gamefish in waters that consistently produce trophy-sized tarpon. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to check tarpon off your bucket list or an experienced Keys fisherman wanting to target these silver kings, Jersey Key Charters delivers the goods. Don't wait until you're down here trying to book last minute - secure your dates now and get ready for some world-class tarpon action in Marathon's pristine waters.
Jump aboard The Whitewater, a solid 2004 center console that's built for serious tarpon action in Marathon's waters. Twin 200HP Yamaha engines push this fishing machine up to 50 knots, getting you to the hot spots fast and back to the dock before dark. The spacious deck gives your group of up to 5 anglers plenty of room to fight those silver kings without bumping elbows. Captain Michael relies on the GPS and fish finder to put you on the fish, while the built-in icebox keeps your drinks cold and any keeper fish fresh. This boat handles Marathon's backcountry flats and deeper channels with ease, whether you're sight-casting to rolling tarpon or working the bridge pilings. The reliable Yamahas and proven hull design mean more time with lines in the water and less worry about mechanical issues.
Marathon, FL