5.0(7 Reviews)10 Hour Offshore Fishing Charter in Marathon Florida
5.0(7 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Top Rated
10hour offshore charter targeting Mahi, Swordfish, and TunaDeparting Marathon Humps and Continental Ledge fishing groundsAll gear provided with accommodations for six anglers
When you're ready to test your skills against some of the Atlantic's most prized game fish, this 10-hour offshore charter out of Marathon puts you right where the action happens. We're talking deep blue water fishing at its finest—heading out to legendary spots like Marathon Humps and the Continental Ledge where the big fish roam. Captain Brian and his crew know these waters like the back of their hand, and they'll work their tails off to put you on fish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip delivers the kind of fishing stories you'll be telling for years.
Your day starts early with a departure from Marathon, heading straight for the productive offshore grounds that make this area famous among serious anglers. The Continental Ledge drops off into serious depths, creating the perfect conditions for pelagic species to cruise and feed. With 10 hours on the water, you've got plenty of time to work different areas and techniques—no rushing, no feeling like you're watching the clock. The boat handles up to 6 anglers comfortably, so you're not fighting for rail space or dealing with crowded conditions. All your gear is provided, from rods and reels to tackle and bait, so just bring your cooler with food and drinks for the day. The only extra cost is a buck per gallon for fuel used, which is pretty standard for offshore trips these days. Plus, you can cancel up to 3 days out without any penalties if the weather doesn't cooperate or plans change.
Out here in the deep water, trolling is king. The crew sets up a spread of outriggers and flat lines, running everything from ballyhoo to artificial lures that mimic the baitfish these game fish can't resist. When we're targeting mahi, we're looking for floating debris, weed lines, or birds working the surface—classic signs that predators are feeding below. For tuna and marlin, it's all about finding the right water temperature breaks and current edges where the food chain stacks up. The tackle is matched to the target species, with heavy enough gear to handle a big fish but light enough that you still get a good fight. Circle hooks are the standard for live bait presentations, while the trolling spread might include cedar plugs, skirted baits, or diving plugs depending on what's been producing. The crew handles all the rigging and knows when to switch tactics based on conditions and what's showing on the fish finder.
"Had an awesome time on the water—caught plenty of fish! The captain and crew were top-notch from start to finish." - Brandon
"My son and I had an amazing introduction to fishing in the Keys! We spent the day reeling in mahi with the help of an outstanding captain and deckhand. Their skill and determination made the trip a success — we'll be eating well for the rest of our stay in Marathon. Huge thanks for an unforgettable day out on the water!" - Stephen
"Captain Brian and First Mate Nick were incredible! The weather had been rough and windy for days, and even though conditions were still bumpy this morning, they made it happen. I don't think I've ever seen a crew work so hard to get us on the fish. We landed our target — mahi — along with plenty of yellowtail snapper. Great trip with an even better crew. Highly recommend Johnny Maddox Charters to anyone looking for a solid day on the water!" - Christopher
Mahi Mahi are the bread and butter of Marathon offshore fishing, and for good reason. These bulls and cows are absolutely gorgeous fish with their bright gold and green colors, and they fight like crazy once hooked. Mahi are most active during the warmer months from spring through fall, and they love hanging around floating debris or weed lines. A good-sized bull can push 30-40 pounds, and they're known for their spectacular jumps and long runs. What really gets anglers fired up about mahi is that where you find one, you usually find more—they travel in schools, so it's not uncommon to have multiple hookups at once. Plus, they're some of the best eating fish in the ocean.
Blackfin Tuna are the speed demons of these waters, and they'll test your stamina and your drag system. These fish typically run 10-25 pounds, but what they lack in size compared to their yellowfin cousins, they make up for in pure attitude. Blackfins are year-round residents in South Florida waters, but they really turn on during the cooler months when bait is abundant. They're suckers for a well-presented trolled bait or a chunk of ballyhoo, and once hooked, they'll take you straight to the backing with their initial run. The fight is all about speed and endurance—they don't jump much, but they'll pull steady and hard until they're boat-side.
Atlantic Sailfish are the acrobats of the offshore world and landing one is a badge of honor for any angler. These fish are built for speed, with that massive dorsal fin and streamlined body allowing them to hit 60+ mph when they want to. Peak sailfish season in the Keys runs from December through April, when they migrate through in good numbers. Most sails run 6-8 feet long and 40-60 pounds, but it's not about the weight—it's about watching one of these fish come completely out of the water, tail-walking and gill-rattling in an attempt to throw your hook. They're mostly catch-and-release fish, so you get that hero shot and the fish swims away to fight another day.
King Mackerel are the perfect mix of size, fight, and table fare. These toothy predators can range from school-sized fish around 10-15
Meet your offshore fishing machine - a fully restored 31' Ocean Master built for serious anglers heading into Marathon's deep waters. This 2005 beauty got a complete makeover in 2023 and runs like a dream with twin 300HP Suzuki engines that'll get you to the fishing grounds fast, cruising at 40 knots. Perfect for up to 6 fishermen ready to battle Mahi, Swordfish, and Tuna out at Marathon Humps and the Continental Ledge. The boat's loaded with everything you need: fish finder to locate your targets, GPS and radar for safe navigation, plus an icebox to keep your catch fresh and drinks cold. The flybridge gives you excellent visibility for spotting fish, and there's even a head onboard for those long 10-hour days on the water. Whether you're chasing Marlin or Wahoo, this fishing platform has the power and features to get you on the fish.
Istiophorus AlbicansSailfish are the crown jewel of our offshore trips - pure speed and acrobatics on the line. These bills average 7-8 feet and 50 pounds, though we've seen some push 100. They cruise in 30-65 feet but will chase bait deeper. Winter months are prime time here in the Keys when they migrate through following warm currents. What makes them special is the fight - they'll jump, dive, and put on a show like nothing else out there. That massive sail fin isn't just for looks either; they use it to herd baitfish. Pro tip: when you get a bite, let them run first before setting the drag. They'll try to throw the hook immediately, so patience pays off. Use bright pink and white lures or fresh ballyhoo for best results.
Thunnus AtlanticusBlackfin tuna are the smallest of the tuna family, typically running 15-30 pounds around Marathon. These fast-growing fish school up in warm water above 68°F, usually found in 40-150 feet near structure like the Continental Ledge. They're fierce fighters with sharp eyesight, making them a favorite target for both beginners and seasoned anglers. Peak season runs fall through spring when they move into our waters. The meat is excellent - firm, rich, and perfect for sushi or grilling. Here's a local tip: scale down your leaders to 30-pound fluorocarbon and use smaller circle hooks. These fish are smart and leader-shy, so lighter tackle actually gets more bites. Vertical jigging and chunking with pilchards works best when you find the schools.
Makaira NigricansBlue marlin are the ultimate big game challenge - true giants of the deep that separate serious anglers from weekend warriors. Females can reach 400-1000+ pounds while males stay smaller around 200-300. We find them in deep blue water along current breaks and temperature changes, usually 100+ feet. Summer brings the best chances when warm water pushes in close. The fight is legendary - powerful runs, jumps, and endurance that can last hours. It's not about the meat with these fish; it's about the battle and bragging rights. Most get released after photos. Here's what I've learned after 20 years: keep your spread tight and baits swimming naturally. When one hits, clear the other lines fast and settle in for the fight of your life.
Scomberomorus CavallaKings are speed demons that'll test your drag system and reflexes. These torpedo-shaped predators typically range 20-40 pounds, with bigger fish often found closer to shore around inlets and structure. They cruise in 40-150 feet of water with temps between 68-84°F. Spring through fall brings the best action when they migrate along our coast following baitfish schools. Anglers love them for their blistering runs and excellent table fare - firm, flaky meat that's perfect grilled or blackened. The key trick here in Marathon is running a two-hook rig on wire leader. These fish have razor teeth and usually hit the back half of your bait first. Troll fast with live blue runners or spoons to trigger their predatory instincts.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are pure gold both in looks and action - our most reliable offshore target that fights hard and eats even better. These colorful speedsters average 15-30 pounds and grow incredibly fast in warm surface waters. Look for them under floating debris, weedlines, and current edges where they ambush flying fish and squid. They're around year-round but peak during spring and summer when weed patches drift close. The electric colors and acrobatic jumps make every hookup exciting, plus the white, flaky meat is restaurant-quality. Once you hook one, keep the boat positioned - they usually travel in schools. My go-to technique is trolling ballyhoo or squid just under the surface near any floating structure. The key is making your bait skip like a flying fish.
5.0 out of 5.0Had an awesome time on the water—caught plenty of fish! The captain and crew were top-notch from start to finish.
My son and I had an amazing introduction to fishing in the Keys! We spent the day reeling in mahi with the help of an outstanding ...
Stephen B, Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip. hurry back soon
It was mahi day! Captain Brian did great. Mahi on fire.
Robert W, Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip. A great day of fishi...
Captain Brian and First Mate Nick were incredible! The weather had been rough and windy for days, and even though conditions were ...
Awesome trip — we came back with mahi and blackfin tuna! Couldn't have asked for a better day on the water.
Awesome trip! The crew did a fantastic job—calm, easygoing, and no pressure the whole day. We limited out on yellowtail, and the r...
Marathon