Marathon Offshore Fishing - 8 Hour Adventure
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
8hour offshore fishing adventure targeting premium speciesExpert captain guides trips for up to 6 guestsTarget Mahi, Blackfin Tuna, and Sailfish in deep waters
When you're talking serious offshore action in the Florida Keys, Marathon sits right in the sweet spot. This 8-hour deep-water charter puts you in prime hunting grounds where the Gulf Stream pushes nutrient-rich waters close to shore, creating a feeding frenzy that draws in some of the ocean's most prized gamefish. Starting at 8 a.m., you'll spend a full day targeting the big three that make Marathon famous: mahi mahi, blackfin tuna, and sailfish. With room for up to 6 anglers, this trip gives you plenty of elbow room to work multiple lines and maximize your chances at a trophy catch.
Your day kicks off early when you meet your captain at the dock, coffee in hand and tackle boxes loaded. Marathon's unique position means you're looking at a relatively short run to productive water – usually 30 to 45 minutes before lines go in. The offshore grounds here are legendary among serious anglers because of how the continental shelf drops off and the warm Gulf Stream current creates perfect conditions for pelagic species. You'll be fishing in depths ranging from 100 to 600 feet, where the water color changes from green to that deep blue that gets every angler's heart pumping. The boat comes rigged with top-shelf gear, but many regulars bring their own favorite rods for that personal touch when the bite gets hot.
This charter runs a combination approach that's proven deadly in Marathon waters. You'll start with high-speed trolling using ballyhoo and artificial lures to cover ground and locate active fish. Once you mark schools or hit a productive area, the captain will switch tactics – maybe dropping back to slower speeds or setting up a spread with different baits at varying distances. Live bait fishing comes into play when conditions are right, especially for sailfish that can be finicky about presentations. The boat carries everything from 20-pound spinning gear for mahi up to 50-pound conventional setups for when the tuna are running thick. Outriggers keep your spread wide, and the captain knows exactly how to read the water temperature breaks and current edges where gamefish stack up to feed.
Mahi mahi are the bread and butter of Marathon offshore fishing, and for good reason. These fish are absolute dynamite on the line – jumping, tail-walking, and putting on a show that never gets old. They typically run 10 to 25 pounds out here, though bulls pushing 40 pounds aren't uncommon during peak season from April through September. Mahi travel in schools and love structure, so when you find one, there are usually more around. They hit fast-trolled baits hard and their bright colors make for some of the best fishing photos you'll ever take.
Blackfin tuna are the speed demons of the offshore world, and Marathon's waters hold some of the most consistent populations in South Florida. These fish typically range from 5 to 15 pounds but what they lack in size, they make up for in pure fight. Blackfins are available year-round but peak during the cooler months from October through March. They school up in massive numbers and when you hit them right, it's non-stop action with multiple hookups. Their dark red meat makes them a favorite for sashimi, and their blistering runs will test your drag settings.
Atlantic sailfish are the crown jewel of any Marathon charter, and these waters consistently produce some of Florida's best sailfishing. Peak season runs from December through April when fish migrate through in good numbers, but you can encounter them year-round. Sailfish here average 6 to 7 feet and 40 to 60 pounds, with their spectacular aerial displays making them a bucket-list catch for any serious angler. They're known for their intelligence and can be picky about bait presentation, which makes landing one even more satisfying. The conservation-minded release these magnificent fish to fight another day.
Marathon's offshore fishing scene is world-class for a reason – consistent action, diverse species, and relatively short runs to productive water make it a top choice for serious anglers. This 8-hour charter gives you the time needed to really work the grounds and adapt to whatever conditions Mother Nature serves up. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler with mahi for dinner or chase that sailfish of a lifetime, these waters deliver the goods. The boat's 6-person capacity means you can bring the crew without feeling crowded, and starting at 8 a.m. puts you on the grounds during prime morning feeding times. Book your spot with Top Notch Sportfishing and see why Marathon has earned its reputation as one of Florida's premier offshore destinations.
Get ready to fish the deep blue waters of Marathon aboard this spotless 31' Egret center console! This beauty gives you 360-degree fishing access, so everyone can cast their lines without bumping elbows. The spacious layout comfortably handles up to 6 anglers, while the large kill box keeps your daily haul fresh and the generous icebox chills your beverages and snacks. Your professional captain knows these waters like the back of their hand and will put you right on top of the fish using top-tier Garmin electronics. Whether you're targeting Mahi, Blackfin Tuna, or hoping to hook into a Sailfish, this boat's fish finder and GPS will track down the action. The VHF radio keeps you connected, while radar ensures safe navigation in any conditions. With 8 hours on the water, you'll have plenty of time to work the offshore grounds and experience some of the best fishing Marathon has to offer.
Istiophorus AlbicansSailfish are the crown jewel of offshore fishing here in the Keys - there's nothing quite like watching that massive dorsal fin cutting through the water. These blue-water speedsters average 6-8 feet and around 50-60 pounds, with that iconic sail and sharp bill. We find them in 80-300 feet of water along drop-offs and current breaks where baitfish congregate. Winter is prime time here in Marathon, especially December through March when they're thick. What makes sailfish special is the show they put on - multiple jumps, long runs, and that sail flashing as they try to throw the hook. Most anglers consider them the ultimate light-tackle challenge. We practice catch and release to keep this fishery strong. Pro tip: when we get a bite, resist the urge to set the hook hard. Let them eat the bait and start their first run before tightening up - patience pays off with these fish.
Thunnus AtlanticusBlackfin tuna are the smallest of the tuna family but don't let that fool you - these little bulldogs pack serious punch. They typically run 15-30 pounds with dark backs and that signature yellow stripe that fades once they're boated. You'll find them in deeper offshore waters along the continental shelf, usually in 100-400 feet. The best action happens during our cooler months from fall through early spring when they move into our area following bait schools. What guests love about blackfins is their incredible fight - they pull hard and have serious stamina for their size. Plus, the meat is outstanding, whether you're grilling steaks or making sushi. The key to hooking up is scaling down your tackle. These fish have sharp eyesight, so we use lighter fluorocarbon leaders and smaller circle hooks than you'd expect. When we find them, vertical jigging with small metals is often the ticket.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are some of the most stunning fish you'll encounter out here - brilliant gold sides with electric blue and green backs that put on a real light show when they come out of the water. These fast-growing fish average 15-29 pounds and around 39 inches, though we've seen them much bigger. They love hanging around floating debris, weed lines, and current edges in our warm offshore waters. The bite really picks up from spring through fall when water temps are right. What makes mahi special is the combination - they fight hard with aerial jumps, they're absolutely beautiful, and the meat is some of the best eating you'll find. Here's a local tip: when you hook one, keep your eyes peeled because they usually travel in schools. Once we boat the first one, we'll often toss out a few more lines quickly to capitalize on the school.
Marathon