Marathon's Premier 6-Hour Offshore Charter
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Six-hour offshore charter targets Mahi, Blackfin Tuna, and SailfishTop Notch Sportfishing accommodates up to six guests per tripMarathon Florida waters offer prime offshore fishing opportunities
There's nothing quite like the feeling of leaving Marathon's harbor behind and heading out to the deep blue waters where the real action happens. This 6-hour offshore charter with Top Notch Sportfishing takes you beyond the reef line into prime fishing territory where Mahi, Blackfin Tuna, and Sailfish roam. You'll be fishing waters that local captains have been working for decades, and trust me, they know exactly where to find the fish. With room for up to 6 anglers, this trip strikes the perfect balance between having enough hands on deck for excitement and keeping the group small enough that everyone gets their shot at the big ones.
Your day starts early when you meet the crew at the dock in Marathon. The captain will give you a quick rundown of the game plan, safety briefings, and what species we're targeting based on current conditions. Once we clear the harbor, it's about a 20-30 minute run to reach the offshore waters where we'll spend most of our time. The boat cuts through the water with purpose, and you'll feel that anticipation building as the shallow flats give way to the deep cobalt blue of the Gulf Stream. Marathon sits in the perfect spot where the Gulf Stream pushes nutrient-rich water close to shore, creating an underwater highway for pelagic species. The captain reads the water like a book - looking for current edges, color changes, floating sargassum, and bird activity that signals feeding fish below. You'll see the crew rigging lines, checking drags, and preparing the spread while you soak in the views of the endless horizon.
Offshore fishing here is all about trolling, and the crew knows how to run a proper spread. We'll typically have 4-6 lines out at varying distances and depths, using a mix of ballyhoo, artificials, and live bait when we can get it. The outriggers keep the lines spread wide, and the captain varies the boat speed depending on what we're targeting - slower for Sailfish, faster when we're hunting Mahi. The rods are heavy tackle, usually 30-50 pound class, because when something big hits out here, it hits hard and runs fast. You'll hear the crew calling out "fish on" when a rod starts screaming, and that's when the real fun begins. The key to success is staying patient and letting the captain work the water. These fish move around, and sometimes you need to cover ground to find them. Don't worry if you've never fought a big fish before - the crew will coach you through every step, from setting the hook to working the fish to the boat.
Mahi Mahi are the bread and butter of Marathon offshore fishing, and for good reason. These fish are absolute bulldogs that put up an incredible fight, and they're beautiful to look at with those electric blues and greens that light up when they're brought to the boat. They love structure and current, so we'll often find them around floating debris, sargassum mats, or current edges. School Mahi typically run 10-20 pounds, but don't be surprised if we hook into a bull that goes 30-40 pounds. They're also excellent table fare, so you'll be taking home some of the best eating fish in the ocean. Blackfin Tuna are another favorite target that really tests your mettle as an angler. These fish are pure muscle and speed, typically running 15-25 pounds around Marathon. They school up in good numbers, so when you find them, the action can be fast and furious. Blackfin have incredible stamina and will make multiple runs, testing both your arms and the drag system. The meat is sashimi-grade, with that deep red color that tuna lovers crave. Atlantic Sailfish are the crown jewel of any offshore trip here. These magnificent billfish can stretch over 8 feet long and put on an aerial show that'll leave you speechless. Marathon waters see good Sailfish numbers, especially during the winter months when they migrate through. Most captains practice catch and release with Sails, but getting that hero shot with a billfish is something you'll remember forever.
Marathon's offshore waters offer some of the most consistent fishing in the Florida Keys, and this 6-hour charter gives you the perfect window to experience it all. The combination of skilled local knowledge, quality equipment, and prime fishing grounds makes this a top-rated choice for both seasoned anglers and newcomers to offshore fishing. Weather and fish cooperating, you'll return to the dock with a cooler full of fresh fillets, some great photos, and stories that'll last a lifetime. The crew at Top Notch Sportfishing has built their reputation on putting clients on fish, and they know these waters like the back of their hand. Book your spot now and get ready to experience why Marathon is considered one of Florida's premier offshore fishing destinations.
This spotless 31' Egret center console is built for serious offshore fishing in Marathon's deep waters. With 360-degree fishing access around the entire boat, you'll have plenty of room to work whether you're battling a stubborn Mahi or bringing in Blackfin Tuna. The spacious design comfortably handles up to 6 anglers without anyone getting tangled lines. The boat comes loaded with top-tier Garmin electronics including GPS, radar, and fish finders to locate those prime fishing spots where Sailfish cruise. A large kill box keeps your catch fresh while the generous icebox handles all your drinks and snacks for the 6-hour adventure. VHF radio ensures clear communication, and the professional captain knows exactly where to find the best action in these productive Florida waters. Everything you need for a successful day chasing pelagic species in the deep blue.
Istiophorus AlbicansSailfish are the crown jewel of our offshore fishery - there's nothing quite like watching that massive dorsal fin slice through the water. These acrobatic fighters average 40-60 pounds and stretch 6-8 feet, using that signature sail to herd baitfish. You'll find them in 100-300 feet, usually near the edge where blue water meets the reef. Winter months are peak season here in the Keys when they migrate south following bait schools. What makes them special? The aerial show - they'll jump, tailwalk, and put on a display you'll never forget. We practice catch and release to keep the fishery strong. Key tip: when you see that bill come up behind your bait, don't get excited and pull it away. Let the fish eat, count to three, then come tight. Patience pays off with these beauties.
Thunnus AtlanticusBlackfin tuna are the scrappy little brothers of the tuna family, but don't let their size fool you. These 10-30 pound fish pack serious punch and will test your drag system. You'll find them in 80-200 feet near the continental shelf, especially around structure and temperature breaks. They're year-round residents here, but autumn through spring gives you the best shot when they're feeding heavy. What keeps anglers coming back? Pure fight - they dive deep, make long runs, and never quit. Plus, the sashimi-grade meat is outstanding. Here's the trick: scale down your tackle. Use 30-pound fluoro leaders and smaller hooks - these fish have sharp eyes and will spook from heavy gear. Vertical jigs work great, but live pilchards on circle hooks are deadly when you find a school.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are pure gold out here - literally. These fish light up like Christmas trees with brilliant blues and greens until you boat them. Average fish runs 15-29 pounds, but we've seen 40+ pounders that'll test your arms. They love floating debris and weedlines in 100-400 feet of water, especially around current breaks. Spring through fall is prime time when water temps hit 70°+. What makes mahi special? They fight hard, jump like crazy, and taste amazing grilled that same evening. The meat is firm, white, and mild - perfect for picky eaters. Pro tip: when you hook one, look for friends nearby. Mahi school up, so keep a second rod ready and work fast. Once that first fish comes to the boat, his buddies usually stick around looking for an easy meal.
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