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Full-Day Wreck & Reef Fishing in Marathon, FL
- Published Date: September 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Marathon
- $350 - $1,795 price range
Summary
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Reels and Keels
Enjoying a peaceful day of fishing by the water.
Enjoying a day by the water with a catch of the day.
Enjoying a day on the water.
Spending the day on the water, reeling 'em in.
Spent a relaxing day on the water.
Reeling in a great catch on a peaceful day by the water.
Hooked the big one at the lakeside.
Heading out for some Florida fishing fun!
Gone fishing on the lake.
Enjoying a peaceful day by the water.
Enjoying a peaceful day of fishing by the water.
Enjoying a day by the water with a catch of the day.
Enjoying a day on the water.
Spending the day on the water, reeling 'em in.
Spent a relaxing day on the water.
Reeling in a great catch on a peaceful day by the water.
Hooked the big one at the lakeside.
Heading out for some Florida fishing fun!
Gone fishing on the lake.
Enjoying a peaceful day by the water.
Enjoying a peaceful day of fishing by the water.
Enjoying a day by the water with a catch of the day.
Enjoying a day on the water.
Spending the day on the water, reeling 'em in.
Full Day Fishing: Reefs, Wrecks & Offshore
Ready for a full day of non-stop fishing action in the Florida Keys? This 8-hour charter out of Marathon gives you a taste of everything - from reef fishing to wreck drops and even some offshore runs. We'll be targeting a mix of tasty bottom fish and hard-fighting pelagics, so there's never a dull moment. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. Let's dive into what makes this full-day adventure one for the books.
What's On The Menu Today?
We kick off early, loading up the Papa 31 with everything we need for a full day on the water. First stop? Usually the nearby reefs where we'll drop lines for snapper and grouper. As the day heats up, we might run to some wrecks to try our luck with bigger grouper or maybe even some cobia. If conditions are right, we'll push offshore a bit to troll for mahi-mahi or kingfish. The beauty of a full day is we can mix it up based on what's biting and what you're after. Want to focus on bottom fishing? No problem. Dreaming of that trophy pelagic? We'll make it happen. It's your trip, and we're here to put you on the fish.
Gearing Up for Success
Leave your tackle box at home - we've got you covered with top-notch gear. We're talking quality rods and reels suited for everything from light tackle snapper fishing to battling big offshore game. Live bait, cut bait, artificial lures - we'll have a mix on board to match whatever's working that day. For the reef and wreck fishing, we'll likely be using bottom rigs with circle hooks. When we push offshore, expect to see some trolling setups with ballyhoo or maybe even some kite fishing if conditions allow. Don't worry if some of this sounds like Greek to you - the crew's here to show you the ropes and make sure you're comfortable with whatever technique we're using.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Black Grouper: These bruisers are the kings of the reef. They love to hang around structure and put up one heck of a fight when hooked. We typically find them in the 10-30 pound range, but bigger ones aren't uncommon. They're most active in the cooler months, making winter and early spring prime time. Landing a big black grouper is always a highlight - they're not only great eating but also give you some serious bragging rights.
Gag Grouper: Cousins to the black grouper, gags are another sought-after catch. They tend to prefer slightly cooler water, so we often target them in the fall and winter months. Gags are ambush predators, so fishing near ledges and drop-offs is key. They'll test your arms and your drag, often trying to dive back into their rocky lairs when hooked. The challenge of pulling a big gag away from structure is part of what makes them so fun to catch.
Grey Snapper: Also known as mangrove snapper, these guys are abundant year-round but really fire up in the summer months. They might not be the biggest fish in the sea, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and taste. Grey snapper are crafty and quick to steal bait, so a light touch and quick hook-set are crucial. When we find a good school, it's not uncommon to limit out pretty quickly.
King Mackerel: When we push a bit offshore, kingfish are often on the menu. These speedsters are known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics. We typically target them by trolling with live bait or artificial lures. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but you can find kings year-round in the Keys. There's nothing quite like the screaming run of a big king taking line - it's an adrenaline rush every angler should experience.
Mahi Mahi: Also called dorado or dolphinfish, mahi are the crown jewels of offshore fishing in the Keys. Known for their vibrant colors and acrobatic fights, hooking into a school of mahi is pure fishing magic. We usually find them around floating debris or weedlines, often in the warmer months. Mahi are great eating and put on an amazing show when hooked - watching them change colors as they fight is something you won't forget.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
It's not just about the fish - though that's a big part of it. A full day on the water gives you time to really soak in the beauty of the Florida Keys. You might spot sea turtles, dolphins, or even the occasional whale shark if you're lucky. The crew's always ready with local knowledge, fishing tips, and maybe a few bad jokes to keep things lively. By the end of the day, you'll have stories to tell, hopefully some fish for dinner, and that satisfied feeling that only comes from a day well spent on the water.
Time to Wet a Line
So there you have it - a full day of fishing that covers all the bases. From reef to wreck to offshore, we're hitting the best spots Marathon has to offer. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler with tasty bottom fish or chase that trophy pelagic, this trip's got you covered. Remember to bring some snacks, plenty of water, and don't forget the sunscreen - Florida sun is no joke. Oh, and a cooler for your catch wouldn't hurt either. Ready to lock in your date? Give us a shout, and let's get you out on the water. The fish are waiting, and trust me, you don't want to miss out on this action.
Learn more about the species
Black Grouper
Black Grouper are hefty ambush predators, often lurking around reefs and wrecks. They average 2-3 feet long but can reach 5 feet and 125 pounds. You'll find them in depths from 30 to 300 feet, depending on the season. These fish are prized for their firm, white meat and put up a stubborn fight. Spring and fall are prime times to target them. They're not picky eaters, so live or dead bait works well. When you hook one, crank fast and hard to keep it from diving back to structure. Use heavy tackle - at least 80-pound braid and a 100-pound leader. Black Grouper have serious strength, so be ready for a workout. Local tip: look for them around ledges and drop-offs where bait fish gather. Patience is key - let your bait sit near the bottom and wait for that telltale thump.
Gag Grouper
Gag Grouper are tough customers, usually hanging out around rocky bottoms and reefs. They grow slow but can hit 50 pounds, with most catches in the 10-30 pound range. You'll find them from inshore to about 300 feet deep. These fish are popular for their white, flaky meat and strong fighting ability. Fall is prime time as they move to shallower waters. They love live bait like pinfish or squid. When you hook one, lock down your drag and pull hard to keep them from rocks. Use stout gear - 50-pound braid minimum. Gags put up a stubborn battle, so be ready to work. Pro tip: look for them around stone crab traps. They love crabs and often lurk nearby. Keep your bait near the bottom and be patient - when they bite, it's game on.
Grey Snapper
Grey Snapper, also called Mangrove Snapper, are crafty fish that hang around structures like docks and reefs. They typically run 10-14 inches but can hit 20 pounds offshore. You'll find them from shallow flats to depths of 100 feet or more. These fish are prized for their sweet, white meat and can be a challenge to catch. Summer and fall are peak seasons. They're wary, so use light tackle and small hooks. Live shrimp or small baitfish work well. When you get a bite, set the hook fast - they're quick to spit the bait. Grey Snapper fight hard for their size, making them fun to catch. Local tip: fish at night around lighted docks or bridges. They feed more aggressively in low light. Use a small weight to get your bait down and be ready for a sharp strike.
King Mackerel
King Mackerel, or Kingfish, are speedsters that'll make your reel sing. They average 20-30 pounds but can top 90. You'll find them from near-shore to about 150 feet deep, often around wrecks and reefs. These fish are prized for their smoking-hot runs and acrobatic jumps. Spring and fall migrations are prime times to catch them. They're suckers for live bait like blue runners or mullet. When trolling, use wire leaders - their teeth are razor-sharp. Kings hit hard and fast, so be ready. They're not the best eating, but they're a blast to catch. Local trick: look for diving birds. Kings often push bait to the surface, creating a feeding frenzy. Get a live bait in there quick, and hold on tight when that rod doubles over.
Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish
Mahi Mahi are the acrobats of the offshore world. They typically run 15-30 pounds but can hit 80. You'll find them in open water, often near floating debris or weed lines. These fish are famous for their stunning colors and delicious meat. Spring through fall is prime time. They're aggressive feeders, hitting both live bait and lures. When you spot them, cast quickly - they're always on the move. Mahi fight hard with lots of jumps, making them a favorite for light tackle. They also travel in schools, so where there's one, there's often more. Local tip: look for frigatebirds circling. They often lead you to Mahi feeding on flying fish. Troll near the birds with ballyhoo or small lures skipping on the surface. When you hook up, leave one in the water to keep the school around.
