Next AvailableMay 31
Book with Johnny Maddox
Experience the ultimate fishing adventure with Johnny Maddox Charters SportFishing Adventures, your premier choice for year-round Marathon fishing charters. Captain Johnny invites you to explore Florida fishing, from vibrant reefs to the expansive Atlantic, promising an unforgettable fishing charter for both novice anglers and seasoned anglers alike.
Discover the remarkable fishing opportunities that await in the waters off Marathon. Delve into the reefs and reel in Snapper, Grouper, and the thrilling Critters Shark. During the appropriate season, you can also anticipate the presence of Big Mackerel. For the more experienced angler, offshore fishing presents an exhilarating challenge, targeting a range of prized species including Tuna, Marlin, Sailfish, Swordfish, Wahoo, and Mahi. Captain Johnny's passion for blue water fishing shines through, whether you're trolling or engaging in the art of Deep Drop bottom fishing.
With a lifelong devotion to fishing, Captain Johnny's journey began at a young age alongside his father. Years of dedication and practice have honed his skills, transforming him into a true master of his craft. With an intimate knowledge of the Marathon waters spanning over 25 years, he ensures every aspect of your trip is enjoyable and rewarding.
Embark on your fishing charter aboard the 31’ Ocean Master Express boat, a stable and capable vessel designed to conquer these waters. Powered by twin 300 HP Suzuki engines, this vessel reaches speeds of up to 40 knots, ensuring a swift journey to prime fishing locations. Revel in panoramic views from the flybridge, take advantage of the full private toilet, and gear up for the ultimate battle in the comfortable fighting chair. The boat comes fully equipped with GPS, a fishfinder, live wells, ice boxes, and outriggers, ensuring a seamless and successful fishing experience.
Your comfort and convenience are our priority. While the crew provides all necessary fishing gear and licenses, we recommend packing your favorite food and drinks to savor during the trip. Don't forget essentials like a cap, sunglasses, sunblock, and suitable attire for the adventure ahead.
Choose Johnny Maddox Charters SportFishing Adventures for an unmatched fishing journey departing from Marathon, FL. Captain Johnny's unparalleled expertise, combined with top-notch equipment and a commitment to your enjoyment, guarantees an expedition that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Book your adventure today!
What's Included
This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.
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Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
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Read about the licensing details that is / is not covered in the below trips.
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This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
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When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
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What's Included
This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.
Show More
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
Read about the licensing details that is / is not covered in the below trips.
Show More
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
Show More
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
Fishing
Starting At $850
Description: Book an unforgettable inshore fishing charter in Marathon, FL, with options ranging from a half-day to a full-day trip. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, this trip offers fishing opportunities in reefs, wrecks, and nearby Atlantic and Gulf waters, where you can reel in prized catches such as Mahi-mahi, Kingfish, Snapper, and Grouper. Our boat accommodates 4-6 anglers, and we provide all the necessary gear for a successful outing. Bring your favorite food and drinks to enhance the experience. With no extra fuel charges to worry about, this trip offers a smooth and memorable fishing adventure. Deposits are non-refundable (Trips & Rates Page).
Fishing
Starting At $850
Description: Join us for an exciting Snapper and Shark fishing adventure in Marathon, FL, where you can explore the local waters filled with Toothy Critters. The charter departs at 8:00 a.m., and we recommend arriving at 7:30 a.m. to ensure a smooth departure. Our boat comfortably accommodates 4-5 anglers and is equipped with everything you'll need for a successful outing. All fishing gear is provided, so just bring along your food and drinks to enjoy the day. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, this trip offers something for everyone. There's no extra fuel charge, so you can simply focus on enjoying your time on the water. Deposits are non-refundable (Trips & Rates Page).
Fishing
Starting At $1,795
Description: Join us for a 10-hour offshore fishing charter in Marathon, FL, where you'll venture into the Atlantic’s depths in search of prized game fish. Departing from Marathon Humps and the Continental Ledge, you'll have the opportunity to catch a variety of species, including Dolphin (Mahi Mahi), Swordfish, and Tuna. Marlin and Wahoo are also on the list, offering a great challenge for skilled anglers. This trip is designed for anglers of all skill levels, with gear provided for your convenience. Just bring your own food and drinks to enjoy your time on the water. A nominal $1.00 per gallon used fuel charge will apply. Deposits are non-refundable (Trips & Rates Page).
Fishing
Starting At $1,195
Description: Join us for a 6 to 8-hour offshore fishing charter in Marathon, FL, where you’ll journey into the Atlantic's depths in pursuit of premium game fish like Dolphin (Mahi Mahi), Tuna, and Wahoo. On the return trip, we’ll make a reef stop, adding an extra dimension to your adventure. This trip is perfect for anglers of all experience levels, as we provide all the necessary gear to ensure a smooth and enjoyable day. Simply pack your provisions and personal essentials to make the most of the day. The waters of Marathon offer rich opportunities for a memorable fishing experience. A nominal $1.00 per gallon used fuel charge will apply. Deposits are non-refundable (Trips & Rates Page).
New Papa
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
31 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Ocean Master
Model Year:
2005
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Suzuki
# of Engines:
2
Horsepower Per Engine:
300
Maximum Cruising Speed:
40
Features: Fighting Chair Bait Tank Outriggers Flybridge Toilet Ice-Box Fish Finder GPS Radar
The 31' Ocean Master (dedicated to offshore sport fishing) was initially constructed in 2005, undergoing a comprehensive restoration in 2023. Propelled by twin 300HP Suzuki engines, it achieves an impressive top cruising velocity of 40 knots. This vessel comfortably hosts up to 6 guests.
New Papa
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
31 ft
Vehicle Details
Today's Half Day–Grouper/Snapper/Shark (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 in Marathon, FL was a real blast. April is a prime time to target a variety of inshore and offshore species in these waters, and that's exactly what we set out to do with this diverse group of anglers. The weather was perfect - partly cloudy throughout the day, with great water conditions that had us feeling optimistic from the start. We began the day trolling for pelagic species, and it wasn't long before the rods started bending. The group hooked into some feisty Gray Snapper and Black Seabass, putting up a great fight on our light tackle. After a while, we switched gears and tried our hand at some deep-sea fishing, deploying kites and heavy tackle to target the bigger predators. The action was steady, with a mix of species hitting our baits, keeping us all entertained and on our toes. Towards the end of the trip, we even got in some fly fishing for a change of pace. It was a real treat to see these anglers adapt their techniques and put some quality fish in the boat using fly rods. By the time we headed back in, the cooler was full of delicious Gray Snapper and Black Seabass - the perfect end to a memorable day on the water. If you're looking to experience some of the best inshore and offshore fishing Marathon, FL has to offer, be sure to book a Half Day–Grouper/Snapper/Shark (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. Whether you're after hard-fighting Gray Snapper, tasty Black Seabass, or want to try your hand at a variety of techniques, our expert guides will put you on the fish and make sure you have a blast doing it. Give us a call today to schedule your next fishing adventure!
It was a beautiful day on the water in Marathon, FL as we set out on our 3 Hour Reef & Inshore Fishing adventure with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. The clear conditions were perfect for targeting the Yellowtail snapper that are known to be abundant this time of year. Dave Mercier was eager to get on the water and experience some of the best fishing the area has to offer. We started the day working the reefs, trying a variety of techniques like deep sea, trolling, fly fishing, heavy tackle, kite fishing, and light tackle. The Yellowtail snapper were definitely in a feeding mood, and it wasn't long before Dave's rod was bent over with a nice fish on the end. He fought it expertly, and we soon had a beautiful Yellowtail snapper in the boat. We continued to work the area, picking up a few more of these spirited fish throughout the morning. As the day went on, the action stayed strong, and Dave was really getting the hang of things. He was loving the variety of techniques we were able to employ, and it was clear he was having a great time out on the water. Between the steady bites and the beautiful scenery, this was shaping up to be an unforgettable trip. If you're looking to experience some of the best fishing that the Marathon, FL area has to offer, I highly recommend booking a 3 Hour Reef & Inshore Fishing trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. Whether you're an experienced angler or you're new to the sport, our knowledgeable crew will make sure you have an amazing time out on the water. We use a wide range of techniques to target the most exciting species, and we'll work hard to put you on the fish. So don't hesitate, book your trip today and get ready for an adventure you won't soon forget!
Heading out for a day of fishing in Marathon, Florida was an absolute blast. Mindy and I had the chance to experience the best of what the area has to offer with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. April is a prime time to target a variety of species, and we were excited to get out on the water. The weather was a bit mixed, with some clouds rolling in, but that didn't dull the action. We started the day with some deep sea trolling, hoping to hook into some big game fish. It didn't take long before Mindy's rod doubled over - she had a monster Wahoo on the line! After an intense fight, we managed to get that beauty into the boat. The action stayed hot as we switched things up, using live bait and fly fishing to target Mutton Snapper and Gray Snapper. The variety kept us on our toes, and the fish just wouldn't quit biting. As the day went on, the weather started to turn a bit, with some storms moving in. But that didn't slow us down one bit. We kept grinding, using heavier tackle to target some Grouper and Sharks. Mindy was an absolute all-star, handling each fish with skill and enthusiasm. Between the variety of species and the ever-changing conditions, it felt like we were really earning every catch. All in all, it was an incredible day on the water. The team at Johnny Maddox Charters knows exactly how to put anglers on the fish, no matter the conditions. From the early morning Sailfish and Wahoo to the afternoon Grouper and Sharks, we had a blast. If you're looking to experience the best of what Marathon, FL has to offer, I can't recommend Johnny Maddox Charters enough. Whether you're an experienced angler or just getting into the sport, they'll make sure you have an unforgettable day on the water. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and get ready for the fishing trip of a lifetime!
It was a bright and breezy day as we set out from Marathon, FL for an exciting full-day fishing trip targeting some of the best species in the area. Though the morning started with a bit of rain, the weather cleared up nicely, giving us perfect conditions to get out on the water and put some fish in the boat. We opted for a mixed approach, working different techniques like deep sea fishing, trolling, fly fishing, heavy tackle, kite fishing, and light tackle to cover all our bases. It didn't take long before the African pompano started showing up, putting up a great fight on our lines. We worked hard, staying patient and focused, and managed to land a nice haul of these tough, acrobatic fish. The action was steady throughout the day, with the fish really turning on as the afternoon progressed. Beyond the fantastic fishing, the trip was full of good vibes and great company. Zachary and the rest of the crew were a blast to be around, and we shared plenty of laughs and memorable moments out on the water. Between the bites, we took in the scenic Marathon, FL surroundings, admiring the beautiful flats and wrecks that make this such a premier fishing destination. At the end of the day, we had some excellent fish to show for our efforts, but even more importantly, we created an experience that will stick with us for a long time. If you're looking to enjoy world-class fishing in the beautiful waters around Marathon, FL, I highly recommend booking a full-day trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. Whether you're chasing feisty African pompano, tackling tough species on the flats and wrecks, or just want to spend a memorable day on the water, our team will make sure you have an amazing time. Book your trip today and get ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure!
What a day out on the water we had with Robert West and the crew! We embarked on an Extended Full – Big Game Bluewater trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31, and it was an absolute blast from start to finish. June is prime time for targeting big game fish in the Marathon, FL area, as the warm summer conditions bring them close to shore, making for some incredible offshore action. We started the day bright and early, meeting up at 7:00 am in Marathon and getting the crew and gear loaded up. With clear skies and great water conditions, we wasted no time getting lines in the water and covering some prime deep-sea territory. The fish were biting aggressively, and it wasn't long before we had our first Mahi Mahi hooked up. Robert handled the rod like a true pro, keeping steady pressure and working the fish until we had it safely in the boat. That set the tone for the rest of the trip, as we continued cycling through a variety of techniques – trolling, kite fishing, fly fishing, you name it – to target the Mahi Mahi that were absolutely crushing our baits. It was one of those days where everything just seemed to come together. The weather stayed cooperative, the fish were active, and the camaraderie among our little crew was top-notch. Between the constant action on the rods and the stunning Marathon scenery all around us, it was hard not to have a good time. And even when the late afternoon rain rolled in, it just added to the excitement, keeping us on our toes as we adapted our approach. If you're looking to experience the best big game offshore fishing Marathon, FL has to offer, then you have to book a trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. The Extended Full – Big Game Bluewater package is truly second to none, with expert guides, top-of-the-line gear, and the opportunity to tangle with some of the most impressive fish in the Gulf. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to the sport, we'll make sure you have an unforgettable time out on the water. So don't wait – get in touch and let's
What a day we had out on the water with the crew today for our Half Day–Reef/Wreck/Insh/Gulf (PM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31! The weather was absolutely perfect, with clear skies and ideal conditions for chasing some quality fish. March is a prime time to target Yellowtail Snapper and Mutton Snapper around the Florida Keys, and that's exactly what we set out to do. As soon as we got the lines in, the action started heating up. We were using a mix of DeepSea, Trolling, FlyFishing, HeavyTackle, KiteFishing, and LightTackle techniques to cover all our bases, and it paid off in a big way. The Yellowtails were absolutely crushing our baits, putting up some great fights before we got them in the boat. And when we hooked into a nice Mutton Snapper, it was game on—those fish really know how to put a bend in the rod! We stayed on the fish throughout the day, adding more Yellowtails and Muttons to the cooler. The whole crew was fired up about the awesome fishing, and the energy on the boat was unreal. I love seeing that kind of excitement, whether it's someone's first time catching a Yellowtail or a seasoned angler adding a new personal best to their list. That's what makes a day like this so special—not just the fish, but sharing the experience with a great group of people. We were all smiles and laughter the whole time, taking in the beautiful Florida Keys scenery and enjoying every minute on the water. If you're looking to get in on some incredible reef, wreck, inshore, and Gulf fishing in the Keys, I can't recommend the Half Day–Reef/Wreck/Insh/Gulf (PM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 enough. Whether you're after Yellowtails, Mutton Snappers, or want to see what else the fishing has to offer,
It was a beautiful day in Marathon, FL, and I was excited to take Greg Kennemer and his guest out for a Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. March is a fantastic time to be out on the water in this area, as the warming temperatures bring the fish into shallower waters, making for some fantastic inshore and reef fishing opportunities. We met up at the launch in Marathon at 8:00 AM and got the boat loaded up and ready to go. The conditions were ideal - clear skies and calm, comfortable waters. As we headed out, I pointed out a few spots I was eager to hit, knowing this time of year the fish tend to be congregating on the reefs and in the channels. We started off trying a mix of techniques, from deep sea trolling to kite fishing, and even some fly fishing just to see what the fish were most interested in. Though we didn't manage to land any big prize catches, we had a great time working different areas and experimenting with different methods. The best part was just being out on the water, feeling the sun on our faces and the light breeze in our hair. We took in the beautiful Marathon scenery, kept an eye out for any signs of fish activity, and chatted about our favorite fishing spots and techniques. It was a laid-back, enjoyable trip where the focus was simply on having a good time and making the most of the day. If you're looking to experience some of the best fishing Marathon, FL has to offer, I highly recommend booking a Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. Whether you're an experienced angler or just looking to try your hand at light tackle fishing, fly fishing, or even some deep sea trolling, we'll make sure you have an unforgettable time on the water. The variety of techniques and fish species in this area is truly impressive, and we'll work hard to put you on the action. So don't hesitate - get in touch and let's get you out on the water for an amazing fishing adventure!
We had a fantastic morning out on the water with the crew for our Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. March is a prime time to target inshore and reef species around Marathon, FL, as the warming waters bring the Yellowtail Snapper into a feeding frenzy. With clear conditions throughout the day, we knew we were in for an exciting trip. As soon as we started chumming the waters and got our lines out, the Yellowtail Snapper started smashing our baits. The rods were bent left and right as we worked to land one fish after another. The action was nonstop, and every time we thought the bite had slowed, another school would show up and fire up again. In between the Yellowtail onslaught, we also managed a few other reef species, keeping the variety and excitement high all morning long. The great fishing was just one part of an all-around fantastic trip. The clear water allowed us to spot the baitfish and gamefish, and the calm conditions made the ride out and back a breeze. But beyond the fishing, it was just an enjoyable day on the water with good company. We shared plenty of laughs, swapped stories, and made memories that'll have us counting down the days until our next trip. If you're looking to experience some of the best inshore and reef fishing Marathon, FL has to offer, I can't recommend the Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 enough. Whether you're after hard-fighting Yellowtail Snapper, tasty Mangrove Snapper, or want to mix it up and chase a variety of reef species, our experienced team will put you on the fish and make sure you have an unforgettable day on the water. Book your trip today, and let's get you out there for some incredible fishing!
It was another great day on the water with the crew from the 3/4 Day Trip – Reef, Wrecks,Combo with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. We met up early at 7:30 am, ready to dive into some world-class fishing around Marathon, Florida. Though the weather was clear throughout the day, the conditions were perfect for getting after a variety of species, whether that was working the reefs, exploring the wrecks, or trying our hand at some combo fishing. With a mix of deep sea, trolling, fly fishing, heavy tackle, kite fishing, and light tackle techniques at our disposal, we were able to cover a ton of water and target a wide range of fish. The clear conditions and great visibility made it easy to spot baitfish and other signs of life, keeping us on our toes and ready to react as the action unfolded. While we didn't manage to land any big catches, it was still an incredibly fun and productive day. The best part was just being out on the water, surrounded by good company and chasing after whatever species decided to bite. Between the camaraderie, the chance to try out different techniques, and the excitement of the hunt, it was the perfect way to spend a day in Marathon. Whether you're an experienced angler or a complete beginner, the 3/4 Day Trip – Reef, Wrecks,Combo offers an unbeatable opportunity to explore some of the best fishing in the area. If you're planning a trip to the Florida Keys, don't miss your chance to join us for an unforgettable day on the water. Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 has the knowledge, the gear, and the passion to deliver an amazing experience, no matter your skill level or what you're hoping to catch. From targeting trophy-sized game fish to simply enjoying the thrill of the hunt, this is an adventure you won't soon forget. So what are you waiting for? Book your 3/4 Day Trip – Reef, Wrecks,Combo today and get ready for an epic day on the water!
Today's half-day reef and inshore fishing trip out of Marathon, Florida was an absolute blast. The weather was perfect, with clear skies all day, and the water conditions couldn't have been better - just glassy calm and crystal clear. The Yellowtail Snapper were really fired up, and we had some phenomenal action. As soon as we got the lines in the water, the fish started crushing our baits. We were using a mix of techniques - deep sea, trolling, fly fishing, heavy tackle, kite fishing, and light tackle - to target the Yellowtails as well as some other inshore species. The snappers were really aggressive, and we had a ton of fun fighting these powerful, acrobatic fish. Michael, one of our anglers, absolutely crushed it, landing several nice Yellowtails that put up incredible fights. In between the hot fishing action, we got to take in the beautiful Marathon scenery. Seeing the tropical fish darting through the clear water below the boat was just mesmerizing. And the calm, comfortable conditions made for such an enjoyable day on the water. That's what I love most about these inshore and reef fishing trips - it's not just about the number of fish you catch, but the whole experience of being out on the water, surrounded by nature, and creating amazing memories with a great group of anglers. If you're looking to experience some of the best reef and inshore fishing that the Florida Keys have to offer, I highly recommend booking a trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 out of Marathon. Whether you're an experienced angler or just getting into the sport, our Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) trips are the perfect way to target an array of species, from hard-fighting Yellowtails to other inshore favorites. We've got all the right techniques and top-notch gear to put you on the fish, and you'll get to enjoy a fun, comfortable day on the water in one of the most beautiful fisheries in the world. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip with us today and let's go catch some fish!
11.27.2024 - Anthony Toric brought his brother-in-law and nephew, Andrew and Luke from Mississauga Ontario Canada to fish with Capt’n Brian and Mate Nick of Johnny Maddox Charters. A fun day on the water - dinner is served ❤️🎣
Today in Marathon, FL was an absolute delight for fishing enthusiasts like myself. The weather was perfect, with clear skies and a gentle breeze making for ideal conditions out on the water. I set out early in the morning with Captain Johnny Maddox aboard the Papa 31, eager to explore the rich fishing grounds of the Florida Keys. As we cruised out to our first spot, Captain Johnny's expertise was evident as he navigated us to prime fishing locations. Within minutes of dropping our lines, we were already getting bites. The action was non-stop, with a variety of species eager to take the bait. Throughout the day, Captain Johnny's jovial personality kept the atmosphere lively and fun. He shared stories of past fishing adventures and provided valuable tips to enhance our technique. His first mate, Nick, was equally skilled and ensured everything ran smoothly on the boat. We had great success targeting mangrove snapper, yellowtail, and even managed to hook into a few elusive grouper. The excitement of reeling in each catch never got old, and before we knew it, the cooler was filled with a bountiful catch. As the sun began to set, we reluctantly headed back to shore, already planning our next fishing trip with Captain Johnny Maddox. Today's adventure was truly unforgettable, and I can't wait to do it all over again.
one of those days
Ratings & Reviews Summary
May 31, 2025
Horrible communication. Waited till I arrived to the boat to tell me we could not go cause he couldn't find a mate .very unprofessional would not recommend!!! An for your reply your captain called me the day before saying he was having trouble finding a mate , when I asked if I should find someone else to take me out he insured me he would find one and be ready to go ! So don't make up lies saying it was cause of a no show !
May 31, 2025
Had a great experience today. This was the first time my kids have been on a fishing charter. We caught our limit of mangrove snapper, as well as a few Goliath grouper and 3 Sharks. The whole family had a blast. Thanks for the great day!
May 31, 2025
Our family spent a full day offshore fishing and we had a blast. Captain Chris and the mate, Dillon, were fantastic. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. We caught mahi, yellow tail and a mangrove. We highly recommend fishing with this crew!
May 31, 2025
Had a great time fishing with Captain Brian and Cody. We were able to catch yellow tail snapper and mahi-mahi fish. Brian and Cody were helpful and worked hard to locate the fish! We were even lucky enough the see a Marlin jump and swim close to the boat. They recommended a great restaurant to take our catch to and have it prepared for us in several different ways! It was an awesome fishing trip and I would highly recommend Johnny Maddox Charter!
May 31, 2025
Your google ad is covering my weather radar and making it impossible to use.
May 31, 2025
Thanks for a fantastic day of fishing. Limited out on Yellowtail Snapper. Captain Brian and Cody were great. They put us on the fish immediately. Looking forward to booking another trip soon.