5.0(9 Reviews)Marathon FL Family Fishing Charter for Kids
5.0(9 reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Top Rated
Familyfocused 3hour inshore fishing trip designed for beginnersCaptain Johnny provides all tackle and adjusts pace for kidsVeteranfriendly charter accommodates up to 4 guests comfortably
Looking for a fishing adventure that works for the whole family? Captain Johnny's 3-hour inshore charter from Marathon is built specifically for families, beginners, and young anglers who want to experience the magic of Florida Keys fishing without the pressure or complexity of a hardcore fishing trip. This isn't about hauling in monster fish or pushing limits – it's about creating memories, learning the basics, and enjoying some quality time on the water while still having real chances to catch dinner.
This trip keeps things simple and fun. Captain Johnny runs a relaxed operation where the pace adjusts to your group's experience level and energy. With just 4 guests maximum, everyone gets personal attention and plenty of opportunities to handle the rod. The boat stays close to shore in protected waters around Marathon, so you won't deal with rough seas or long runs to fishing spots. Light tackle makes it easy for smaller hands to manage, and the crew focuses on techniques that produce quick results rather than complicated setups. The 3-hour timeframe is perfect – long enough to get into fish but short enough that kids stay engaged and nobody gets worn out. All your gear is provided, from rods and reels to tackle and bait, so you just show up ready to fish.
The fishing approach centers around simple bottom fishing and light trolling techniques that beginners can master quickly. You'll use circle hooks and natural baits like shrimp and small fish that the local species can't resist. The captain positions the boat over productive reef structure and grass flats where fish congregate, making it easier to stay connected to action. Instead of complicated jigging or advanced techniques, the focus stays on basic presentations that allow kids and first-timers to feel confident handling their equipment. When fish bite, the crew guides everyone through proper fighting and landing techniques, turning each catch into a learning opportunity. The veteran-friendly atmosphere means everyone feels welcome regardless of their fishing background or physical limitations.
"Captain Rip is deeply knowledgeable about the local waters and marine life. He was very accommodating to our group of three and stands out as one of the friendliest charter captains we've ever encountered. He demonstrated patience with each of us, clearly explaining various fishing techniques and the target species. Given the sporty conditions for reef fishing, he wisely took us out along the 7 Mile Bridge, which made for a smooth and very enjoyable trip. Fishing was a little slow initially, but we soon found yellowtail and mangrove snapper, plus a few other interesting species we got to see up close. The highlights were definitely landing a young Goliath grouper and a HUGE barracuda. We absolutely recommend Rip for the five-hour fishing and sunset trip." - Francine
"He's an awesome guide! I would confidently recommend him to anyone looking for a great trip, and I truly can't wait to go again myself." - Steven
"We had a great time with Captain Rip! He was very knowledgeable of the area and definitely knew how to put us on the fish. We would highly recommend him!" - Kalley
Cero Mackerel are speed demons that make every fight exciting, even on light tackle. These sleek predators cruise the edges of grass flats and reef lines, ambushing baitfish with lightning-fast strikes. They typically run 3-8 pounds in these waters, making them perfect for younger anglers who want to feel a fish pull without getting overpowered. Spring through fall offers the most consistent action, and their aggressive nature means they'll often hit trolled baits or live shrimp presentations. Kids love the way these fish make drag scream on lighter reels.
Hogfish represent one of the most prized catches in the Keys, both for their fight and their reputation as outstanding table fare. These reef dwellers use their pig-like snouts to root around coral and rock structure, feeding on crabs and small invertebrates. They're incredibly smart fish that require patience and finesse, making them perfect teaching opportunities for learning proper bait presentation. Most hogfish in Marathon waters run 2-5 pounds, and their curious nature often brings them close to the boat where kids can observe their unique coloration and behavior patterns.
Lane Snapper might be smaller than their yellowtail cousins, but they make up for size with sheer numbers and willingness to bite. These colorful reef fish rarely exceed 12 inches, but they school heavily around structure and provide consistent action that keeps young anglers engaged. Their bright pink and yellow stripes make them visually appealing catches, and they bite readily on small hooks with shrimp or cut bait. Lane snapper fishing teaches patience and precision since these fish can be line-shy despite their aggressive feeding behavior.
Black Grouper represent the heavyweight division of this trip's target species. These powerful bottom dwellers inhabit deeper reef structure and use their massive mouths to inhale prey items. While smaller specimens make up most catches on family trips, even juvenile black grouper provide memorable fights with their ability to dive straight back toward cover. They're ambush predators that require precise bait placement near structure, making them excellent fish for teaching kids about reading bottom contour and fish behavior. Their mottled black and gray coloration provides perfect camouflage against rocky bottoms.
Grey Snapper, also called mangrove snapper, combine the perfect mix of catchability and challenge for family fishing. These adaptable fish move between shallow flats and deeper reef areas depending on tides and feeding opportunities. They're incredibly structure-oriented, holding tight to dock pilings, bridge supports, and coral heads where they ambush passing prey. Grey snapper test an angler's patience since they're notorious bait stealers, but their schooling behavior means once you find them, multiple hookups are common. They're also among the best eating fish in Florida waters, making them perfect targets for families wanting to take dinner home.
Papa 23 is your perfect fishing buddy for Marathon's family-friendly waters. This 26-foot Proline handles beautifully with her 250 hp Suzuki, cruising at speeds up to 45 knots to get you to the fish quickly. Built for up to 4 anglers, she's rigged with everything you need - outriggers for trolling, live bait tank, GPS, and fish finder to locate those hiding spots. The onboard icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold, while the multimedia system adds some fun between bites. Captain Johnny knows these inshore waters like the back of his hand and keeps things relaxed for beginners and kids. Light tackle makes it easy for small hands to feel every tug, and the crew adjusts the pace so everyone stays comfortable. With snorkel gear aboard, you might even hop in for a quick swim if the fishing slows down.
Mycteroperca BonaciBlack grouper are the bruisers of the reef - powerful fish that'll test your arm strength and make a fantastic dinner. These olive-colored giants with dark blotches can reach 30+ pounds, though most we catch run 10-20 pounds. They live around wrecks, ledges, and coral heads, moving shallow in winter (30+ feet) and deeper in summer (up to 200+ feet). Cold weather months are prime time when they're in shallower, more accessible water. What makes them special is that incredible fight - they'll try to drag you back into the rocks using pure muscle. Their meat is outstanding: firm, mild, and versatile for any recipe. The key is heavy tackle with at least 80-pound braid and a stout drag. When you feel that thump, reel hard and fast - don't give them time to think or they'll bury you in the structure and break you off.
Scomberomorus RegalisCero mackerel are fast, streamlined fish that hit hard and make great table fare. These torpedo-shaped predators typically run 5-10 pounds and can reach speeds up to 30mph, though they tire quickly once hooked. You'll find them year-round in our clear coastal waters, usually around patch reefs and wrecks at depths of 3-66 feet. They travel alone or in small groups, feeding on sardines, anchovies, and shrimp near the surface. What makes them fun to target is their aggressive strikes on topwater lures and their excellent eating quality - they're actually sushi-grade fish. The key trick is using a wire leader since their razor-sharp teeth will cut through regular line in seconds. Once you hook one, keep steady pressure and reel fast to prevent them from diving back to structure.
Lutjanus GriseusGrey snappers, or mangrove snappers, are smart fish that'll teach you patience while rewarding you with some of the best eating in our waters. These copper-red fish typically run 1-4 pounds inshore, though open water fish can hit 15+ pounds. They love structure - docks, mangroves, wrecks, and rocky areas where they can ambush prey. Being nocturnal, early morning and late evening produce the best action, especially around new and full moons. What makes them popular is their flaky, white meat and the challenge they present - they're cautious and won't hit moving baits. The secret is live shrimp hooked through the tail, dropped to the bottom, then lifted just off the structure. Stay still, be patient, and when you feel that subtle tap, don't jerk - just start reeling steadily until the hook sets, then bring them up slow and smooth.
Lachnolaimus MaximusHogfish are one of the most prized catches in our waters, known for their distinctive pig-like snout and sweet, mild meat that many say beats grouper. These colorful wrasse typically reach 10-20 pounds and can grow up to 3 feet long. They hang around hard bottom areas, coral reefs, and rocky structures in 10-100 feet of water, using that snout to dig for crabs and shellfish. Peak fishing is during cooler months when they're more active. What makes them challenging is their unique mouth shape - regular hooks often don't work well. They're curious fish that respond to noise and commotion in the water. The local secret is using live mud crabs or fresh shrimp on a small circle hook, and making some noise by tapping the boat hull. They're quick strikers, so stay alert and set the hook fast when you feel that tap.
Lutjanus SynagrisLane snappers are great starter fish for families - they're aggressive biters that aren't too line-shy and put up a decent scrap for their size. These pretty pink fish with yellow racing stripes typically run 1-3 pounds and average about 14 inches, though you might hook into one pushing 5 pounds. They love coral reefs and sandy areas with lots of grass, usually in 20-80 feet of water. Best fishing runs March through September during spawning season when they school up and feed heavily at night. What guests enjoy most is their willingness to bite and their excellent table quality - firm, white meat that's perfect for fish tacos. They'll eat just about anything you throw at them: shrimp, squid, cut bait, even small jigs. The trick is fishing right on the bottom where they feed and being ready for that aggressive strike.
5.0 out of 5.0Captain Rip is deeply knowledgeable about the local waters and marine life. He was very accommodating to our group of three and st...
Francine F., Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.
He's an awesome guide! I would confidently recommend him to anyone looking for a great trip, and I truly can't wait to go again my...
Our trolling was slow, netting only one fish, but that was still more than any other boat around us managed! The action took off o...
I will absolutely book again for sure. It genuinely felt like I was fishing with a long-time friend.
We had a great time with Captain Rip! He was very knowledgeable of the area and definitely knew how to put us on the fish. We woul...
caught 12+ yellowtail, a triggerfish, 2 suckerfish and 3 grunts (blue and yellow). Some where thrown back due to size or species....
Dan Levine, Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.
Marathon