Big Sharks Expedition in Marathon, Florida
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Sixhour private charter targets sharks over 300 poundsHeavyduty equipment and custom rods handle massive trophy fishBull, Tiger, Blacktip, and Lemon sharks caught and released
When you're ready to go toe-to-toe with some of the ocean's most powerful predators, this 6-hour private shark fishing charter out of Marathon is exactly what you've been looking for. We're talking about a dedicated big shark hunt that puts you right in the action zone where trophy-sized bulls, tigers, and blacktips prowl the deep waters off the Florida Keys. This isn't your typical reef fishing trip – we're going after the heavy hitters that can easily tip the scales at 300+ pounds and give you a fight you'll remember for years.
Your day starts with us positioning over one of the many productive wrecks that dot the waters around Marathon. These underwater structures are magnets for baitfish, which in turn draw the apex predators we're after. The first part of your trip involves catching live bait – we're talking about loading up on blue runners, bonito, and other prime shark candy that these monsters can't resist. Once we've got our bait wells stocked, it's time to break out the heavy artillery and start the real hunt. You'll have the entire boat to yourselves with room for up to 6 anglers, so there's plenty of space to work multiple lines and maximize your chances of hooking up with something massive. The beauty of this charter is that everyone gets in on the action – when a big shark takes the bait, it often becomes a team effort to land the fish.
We don't mess around when it comes to gear on this trip. Our arsenal includes custom-built rods specifically engineered for big shark fishing, paired with 50 and 80-wide reels that can handle the incredible runs these fish are famous for. The tackle setup is crucial because when a 400-pound bull shark decides it wants to head for deep water, you need equipment that won't let you down. We use circle hooks and wire leaders that can withstand the punishment, along with fresh or live baits that drive sharks crazy. The technique is all about patience and positioning – we'll deploy multiple baits at different depths around the wreck structure, creating a scent trail that pulls sharks in from miles away. When the bite happens, it's all hands on deck. These fish don't give up easy, and fights can last anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour depending on the size of the shark and how much fight it's got left.
Bull sharks are the undisputed kings of these waters, and Marathon's deep channels and wreck sites provide perfect hunting grounds for these stocky powerhouses. Bulls can exceed 400 pounds around here and are known for their bulldozer-like fighting style – once hooked, they'll use every ounce of their strength to break you off. The best action typically happens during the warmer months when these sharks move into shallower waters to feed. What makes bull shark fishing so addictive is their unpredictability – they'll hit baits hard and fast, then wage war all the way to the boat.
Tiger sharks bring a whole different level of excitement to the table. These striped giants are the second-largest predatory sharks in our waters and can grow well over 500 pounds. Tigers are known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked, making them a favorite among serious shark anglers. They're most active during dawn and dusk hours, and Marathon's location puts us right in their preferred hunting zone. The fights with big tigers are legendary – they'll take long, blistering runs that can strip hundreds of yards of line in seconds.
Blacktip sharks round out our target species list, and while they might be smaller than bulls and tigers, they more than make up for it with speed and agility. Blacktips are incredibly fast swimmers and known for their spectacular jumps when hooked. They're consistent biters throughout most of the year, making them reliable targets when the bigger sharks are being finicky. A good-sized blacktip in the 100-150 pound range will give you a workout on lighter tackle and provide plenty of photo opportunities with their aerial displays.
This big shark expedition has become our most requested charter for good reason – it delivers consistent action with genuine trophy potential every single trip. The combination of Marathon's prime shark habitat, our specialized equipment, and proven techniques creates the perfect recipe for an epic day on the water. Remember, we practice strict catch and release for all sharks, so you'll be contributing to the conservation of these amazing predators while experiencing some of the best fishing Florida has to offer. With only 6 spots available per trip and growing demand for this specialized charter, don't wait too long to secure your date. Whether you're a seasoned shark angler or looking to tackle your first big predator, this trip delivers the kind of raw fishing excitement that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are easily spotted by those signature black-tipped fins and their habit of jumping clear out of the water when hooked. These sleek sharks average 4-5 feet but can push 9 feet and 270 pounds. You'll find them cruising wrecks and reefs in 30-100 feet of water, especially during warmer months when baitfish are thick. They're social feeders, so where there's one, there's usually more. What makes them special is that explosive fight - they'll leap, spin, and put on a real show. They're also pretty predictable once you figure out their feeding pattern. Here's the trick: use oily baits like sardines or mackerel, and don't set the hook too hard on the initial bite. Let them run with it a few seconds first.
Carcharhinus LeucasBulls are the bruisers of the shark world - thick, aggressive, and built like tanks. Most run 8-12 feet and 200-300 pounds of pure muscle. What makes them unique is they can handle freshwater, so you might hook one in surprisingly shallow areas near inlets and river mouths. They love hanging around structure in 20-80 feet during summer months when they move inshore to feed. The fight is all about power - no fancy jumps, just bulldogging runs that'll test your drag and your arms. Anglers love them because they're aggressive feeders and will hit almost anything. My go-to secret weapon is fresh eel - the oil content drives them crazy and the tough skin stays on the hook. Cut it into big chunks and let the scent work its magic.
Galeocerdo CuvierTigers are the apex predators everyone wants to tangle with. These massive sharks commonly hit 11-14 feet and 800-1400 pounds, with big females pushing 16+ feet. Those distinctive dark stripes fade as they age, but the power never does. They patrol deeper waters around wrecks and drop-offs, usually 100+ feet down, though they'll move shallow to feed. Summer and fall are prime time when water temps stay warm. What sets tigers apart is their raw strength and that slow, methodical fight that can last hours. They're not flashy jumpers like blacktips, but they'll test every piece of gear you've got. Pro tip: fresh tuna belly or big live baits work best, and always use a long wire leader - their teeth will cut through anything else like butter.
Marathon