5.0(7 Reviews)Marathon FL Half Day Snapper and Shark Charter
5.0(7 reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Top Rated
Four-hour inshore charter targeting snapper and sharks from MarathonMorning or afternoon departures accommodate flexible scheduling preferencesAll fishing equipment and tackle provided for up to four anglers
When you're looking for a solid half-day fishing trip in Marathon, this 4-hour charter with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 delivers exactly what you're after. Captain Rip and his crew know these waters like the back of their hand, and they've got the track record to prove it. You'll be targeting snapper and sharks in some of the most productive waters the Florida Keys have to offer, with morning and afternoon trips available to fit your schedule. The boat handles 4-5 anglers comfortably, so whether you're bringing the family or a few fishing buddies, everyone gets plenty of elbow room to work their lines.
This top-rated charter keeps things straightforward and effective. You'll meet Captain Rip and his first mate at the dock, where they'll get you set up with quality rods, reels, and all the tackle you need. No need to haul your own gear – they've got you covered with everything from circle hooks for snapper to the heavy tackle needed when a shark decides to crash the party. The crew runs a tight ship but keeps the atmosphere relaxed, making it perfect for beginners who want to learn the ropes or seasoned anglers looking for a productive half-day on the water. Just bring your food, drinks, and sun protection, and they'll handle the rest. The first mate works his tail off throughout the trip, so keep that in mind when it comes to gratuity – these guys earn every dollar.
Captain Rip switches between bottom fishing the reefs and trolling the deeper waters, depending on what's biting and where the fish are holding. For snapper, you'll be working circle hooks with live bait or cut bait, dropping down to structure where these fish like to hang out. The crew knows exactly how much weight to use in the current, and they'll coach you through setting the hook properly – it's all about letting the circle hook do its job. When targeting sharks, they'll set you up with heavier tackle and wire leaders, using chunk bait or live pinfish to draw them in. The transition between techniques keeps things interesting, and you'll learn different approaches that you can use on your own fishing adventures back home.
"If you're looking for a great day on the water, you absolutely must book with Captain Rip! He is incredibly knowledgeable and an all-around awesome captain. I can promise you he will get you on some good fish!" - Allison. "This was an awesome experience! I will definitely be doing it again. We caught a cooler full of fish and enjoyed a very chill day on the water. The Captain and his crew mate are incredibly knowledgeable and patient—they took me from not knowing how to open my bail to casting and reeling in fish entirely on my own. They did an awesome job! 10/10 experience." - Brandon. "Captain Brian quickly got us onto a hot spot! We reached our fishing limit within the first hour, and spent the rest of the trip having a blast with catch-and-release fishing. It was an absolute pleasure fishing with Captain Brian." - Lisa.
Grey snapper are the bread and butter of Marathon's reef fishing scene, and for good reason. These smart, scrappy fighters typically run 2-5 pounds in these waters, though bigger ones definitely show up when conditions are right. They're structure-oriented fish, hanging around coral heads, ledges, and artificial reefs where they can ambush smaller baitfish. Spring through fall offers the most consistent action, but winter fishing can surprise you on warmer days. What makes grey snapper so popular with anglers is their combination of fight and flavor – they'll test your drag on the way up, then make for some of the best table fare you'll find in Florida waters.
Lane snapper bring the numbers game to your fishing trip, often showing up in schools that keep your rod bent all day long. These smaller cousins to the grey snapper rarely exceed a pound, but they make up for size with sheer enthusiasm. Lane snapper are less spooky than their bigger relatives, making them perfect for kids or beginning anglers who want to stay busy. They hit cut bait readily and put up a respectable fight for their size. While some anglers consider them panfish, lanes have their own dedicated following who appreciate their willingness to bite and their sweet, flaky meat.
King mackerel are the speed demons of the charter, capable of blistering runs that'll have your reel screaming. These pelagic predators cruise Marathon's waters year-round but really turn on during spring and fall migrations. Kings typically range from 10-30 pounds in local waters, though bigger fish always lurk in the deeper water. They're primarily caught while trolling, hitting spoons, live bait, or diving plugs with authority. The initial run of a hooked king mackerel is pure adrenaline, and their razor-sharp teeth and acrobatic jumps keep things exciting all the way to the boat. They're also fantastic on the grill or in the smoker.
Blacktip sharks bring the wow factor that gets everyone's attention, especially when they start jumping clear of the water during the fight. These athletic sharks are common in Marathon's shallower waters, typically running 20-50 pounds and known for their aerial displays. Blacktips are active year-round but peak during warmer months when they move into the shallows to feed and breed. They're relatively easy to handle and release, making them perfect for anglers who want the shark experience without dealing with truly massive fish. The combination of hard runs, jumps, and manageable size makes blacktips a customer favorite on every trip.
Bull sharks represent the heavyweight division of your potential catch list, with the power and attitude to back up their reputation. These thick-bodied predators can show up anywhere from shallow flats to deeper offshore waters around Marathon, and they range from modest
The Papa 23 is your ticket to some serious snapper and shark action in Marathon's productive waters. This 26-foot Proline packs a 250hp Suzuki that'll get you to the fishing grounds fast, hitting speeds up to 45 knots when you need to chase the bite. Built specifically for up to 4 anglers, she's rigged with outriggers to spread your lines and a live bait tank to keep your bait fresh and lively. The fish finder takes the guesswork out of locating structure and schools, while GPS keeps you on the productive spots. Between fights, stay comfortable with the onboard icebox for cold drinks and a multimedia system for tunes. Whether you're after mangrove snapper around the reefs or hoping to tangle with a blacktip shark, this boat handles both the shallow backcountry and deeper offshore waters where these species thrive. The setup lets beginners learn the ropes while giving experienced anglers the tools they need for a productive half-day on the water.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are the acrobats of the shark world, known for their spectacular jumps and energetic fights. These sleek sharks average 4-6 feet around Marathon and are easily spotted by those distinctive black-tipped fins. They cruise our shallow flats and reef edges in 20-100 feet, often in small groups feeding on mackerel and sardines. Spring and summer bring the best action when they're most active in warmer water. Guests love them because they fight hard, jump repeatedly, and aren't intimidating like bigger sharks. They're curious but skittish, so once you hook one, expect others to scatter. The secret is getting a good chum slick going with oily fish like mackerel – the smell draws them in from distance. Use circle hooks and 30-50 pound braided line to handle their sudden runs and jumps.
Carcharhinus LeucasBull sharks are the heavyweights you don't mess around with – thick, powerful fish that can push 8-12 feet and 200+ pounds in our waters. They're gray on top, white below, with that unmistakable blunt snout and stocky build. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, around inlets, and surprisingly far up into brackish areas where other sharks won't go. Summer months bring the best chances when they're actively hunting. What makes them special is their sheer power and unpredictability – they fight like bulldozers and never give up. We practice catch and release with these impressive predators. Fresh eel is the ultimate bull shark bait due to its high oil content and tough skin that stays on the hook. Set up with heavy tackle, circle hooks, and be ready for a serious battle when one decides to take your offering.
Lutjanus GriseusAlso called Mangrove Snapper, these guys are some of the smartest fish you'll encounter around Marathon's docks and structure. They run 1-3 pounds inshore, with that distinctive greyish-red color and dark stripe through the eye. You'll find them hanging around mangroves, bridges, and rocky bottom in 10-40 feet of water. They're notorious for being picky eaters and will inspect your bait closely before committing. The meat is outstanding – white, flaky, and perfect for the dinner table. Best action happens around dawn and dusk when they move up to feed. My go-to trick is using the smallest hook you can get away with and letting live shrimp sit motionless near the bottom. Any movement or heavy line spooks them fast, so patience pays off with these wary fish.
Scomberomorus CavallaKings are the speed demons of our waters, hitting trolled baits at 30+ mph and putting on aerial shows that get everyone's attention. These silver bullets typically run 15-30 pounds around Marathon, though we see some pushing 50+ during peak season. They patrol the blue water from 40-150 feet, especially around temperature breaks and current edges. Fall through spring is prime time when they're thick on our reefs and wrecks. What makes them special is that raw power – they'll scream drag and make long runs that test your arms. The meat is rich and excellent smoked. Wire leader is absolutely essential since their razor teeth will slice through mono instantly. I like to run live blue runners or slow-troll spoons just off the bottom around structure where baitfish concentrate.
Lutjanus SynagrisLane snappers are the pretty little cousins of the snapper family, with their pink and yellow striped bodies that look like candy canes underwater. They typically run 10-14 inches and make excellent table fare despite their smaller size. You'll find them around coral reefs and grassy bottom in 20-100 feet, often mixed in with other snapper species. March through September is peak season when they're spawning and feeding heavily. What guests love is how aggressive they are compared to other snappers – they'll hit baits readily and put up a scrappy fight for their size. They're less spooky than mangrove snapper, making them great for beginners. Try small pieces of shrimp or cut squid on light tackle around structure. They feed most actively at night, so late afternoon trips often produce the best action.
5.0 out of 5.0If you're looking for a great day on the water, you absolutely must book with Captain Rip! He is incredibly knowledgeable and an a...
This was an awesome experience! I will definitely be doing it again. We caught a cooler full of fish and enjoyed a very chill day ...
The captain made this trip everything we expected it to be. The equipment was great and the captain was very knowledgeable, leadin...
Fantastic day! This Captain is easily the nicest and most experienced I've met, offering tremendous value. The experience was hone...
Captain Brian quickly got us onto a hot spot! We reached our fishing limit within the first hour, and spent the rest of the trip h...
Lisa S., Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.
Our trip was absolutely amazing! We spent two days fishing with Captain Rip, and he truly went above and beyond to ensure we were ...
Brian M., Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip. awesome trip, hurry ...
We had a fantastic time fishing with Captain Rip! His stories were entertaining, and the fishing was an absolute blast. Captain Ri...
Dawn H., Thank you! You folks were awesome. Looking forward to our next trip.
Marathon