Marathon Fishing Reports

Your Marathon Fishing Experience

Explore the dynamic world of the sea through the Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 Fishing Report, your direct portal to the latest and most exhilarating updates from our marine excursions. Get a real-time glimpse into the diverse marine life encountered during our Marathon fishing charters, experiencing the thrill of the open waters. Immerse yourself in the heart of the action as we share insights into the excitement unfolding during our offshore and deep-sea expeditions. From triumphs to challenges, our Fishing Report provides an unfiltered look at the dynamic experiences of Johnny Maddox Charters Papa

We get these questions often. What fish are biting in Marathon? What is the best time to fish in the Keys? Can you fish Marathon Reef? Well, you can currently expect to find a variety of fish biting, including popular catches like Mahi-Mahi, Wahoo, and Yellowtail Snapper. The offshore waters are especially productive, offering anglers exciting opportunities for a diverse range of species. Explore our fishing reports to discover the firsthand experiences our guests have had while reeling in these incredible fish!

Choose from a range of fishing trips at Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31, spanning from 4 to 10 hours, tailored to your preferred adventure type and desired duration on the water. Recognizing the abundance of resources available for planning your upcoming fishing adventure, we're delighted that you've found our insights valuable. At Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31, we're enthusiastic about imparting our knowledge of this beautiful water expanse to fellow avid anglers like yourself. We look forward to the excitement of fishing with you!

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Mahi Mahi Time fishing report coverpicture

August 20, 2026

Atlantic Ocean Fishing Report on 20th Aug, 2026

six hours offshore chasing the mahi-mahi black men tune. When it was great, the seeds were calm. And we caught some nice fish that day.

A Dream Sailfish Catch at 17 fishing report coverpicture

July 15, 2026

Long Key Bight - Monroe, FL Fishing Report on 15th Jul, 2026

So beyond thankful for the opportunity to catch this beautiful Sailfish, this has been a dream of mine and at only 17 years old i can say that i caught one. @johnnymaddoxcharters hooked us up with an amazing fish

Marathon Wreck Fishing: African Pompano Action with Captain Johnny fishing report coverpicture

May 13, 2026

Anita's crew strikes gold on Marathon wrecks with African Pompano!

One for the books today! Anita and her crew joined us for some spring fishing action, heading out early morning under clear conditions throughout the day. The weather stayed awesome as we worked the waters around Marathon with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31, running our 6 Hour Offshore Action with Captain Johnny Maddox – A Morning Trip for All Skill Levels.

Once the stage was set, we focused our efforts on wreck fishing using a combination of trolling, drift fishing, and jigging techniques. The crew managed to hook up with African Pompano, Yellowtail Snapper and Sharks during our time on the water. Marathon's reef and wreck structure provides excellent opportunities for this type of fishing - the combination of current breaks and baitfish concentrations around these underwater features makes it prime territory for working multiple techniques effectively. We wrapped up the trip with tight lines and good action all around!

Y'all looking to get out on the water down by Marathon should consider booking with us at Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. Our Marathon FL Run and Gun Fishing Charter for Mahi, Tuna, and Wahoo gives anglers the chance to target multiple species using proven techniques like trolling, drift fishing, and jigging around the productive wreck sites. The 6 Hour Offshore Action with Captain Johnny are awesome. The Morning Trip is for All Skill Levels and is perfect for crews wanting to experience what Marathon offshore fishing has to offer. Whether you're working the spread over structure or drifting the wrecks, these waters consistently produce action for anglers willing to put lines in the water. Marathon's location provides access to some of the best Offshore, Reef and Wreck fishing in the Florida Keys. i must say our trips take advantage of prime feeding times when the bite is typically hot.

Marathon Yellowfin Success: Winter Morning Charter Delivers! fishing report coverpicture

February 16, 2026

David's crew hooks solid yellowfin using mixed techniques!

Action-packed day from the get-go! David and their crew joined us for a winter morning trip that started in the early hours with clear conditions throughout the day. The calm weather made for perfect conditions as we headed out for our Inshore Fishing Charter in Marathon, FL – A Perfect Catch Awaits with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. Once the stage was set, we worked a combination of drift fishing, bottom fishing, and trolling techniques to target the inshore waters around Marathon. The crew managed to hook up with some solid yellowfin, and these waters down by the glades really delivered for us. Marathon's inshore fishing grounds are perfect for this kind of mixed approach - the structure holds fish and the current keeps things moving. We had tight lines most of the morning and wrapped up with great catches and smiles all around! If y'all are looking to get out on the water in Marathon, our 4 to 8 Hour Reefs, Wrecks, and Inshore Fishing Charter offers exactly what you need for a productive day of inshore fishing. Marathon's location puts us right in gator country where the fishing opportunities are endless. We run drift fishing, bottom fishing, and trolling techniques depending on conditions and what's biting. The backcountry waters around Marathon hold yellowfin and other species year-round, making it one of the most consistent fishing destinations in the area. Whether you're cruisin' the flats or working deeper structure, our local knowledge of these waters gives you the best shot at success. Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 has been putting anglers on fish in these waters for years, and we know exactly where to find them when the bite is hot.

Marathon Yellowtail Action: Winter Offshore Charter Success Story fishing report coverpicture

February 12, 2026

David's crew his wife and daughter strikes gold on Marathon's productive winter waters!

Hot bite and happy crew! David and his crew ,wife and daughter joined us for an early morning winter offshore fishing charter down in Marathon. Clear conditions throughout the day made for perfect fishing weather as we headed out on our reef and Offshore Fishing Charters in Marathon, FL – Chase the Best Game Fish with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31.

With our gear rigged and ready, we worked the offshore waters using a combination of trolling, drift fishing, and bottom fishing techniques. The yellowtail snapper were cooperative and we managed to put some solid fish in the boat. Marathon's offshore and reef waters are ideal for this type of fishing because the deep water structure and current breaks hold bait consistently, making it prime territory for targeting pelagic species. We wrapped up the trip with tight lines and smiles all around down in gator country!

If y'all are looking to get out on the water and experience what Marathon's offshore fishing has to offer, our 4-6 or 8 Hour Combo Trip Reefs and Wrecks Fishing Charter gives you the perfect opportunity to target multiple species using proven techniques. Marathon sits right in the heart of some of Florida's best offshore fishing grounds, where the Gulf Stream influence creates ideal conditions for Blackfin Tuna, Mahi-mahi and other pelagic species. We run our Offshore Fishing Charter year-round, with winter months often providing some of the most consistent action. Our combo trips let us work both the reefs and wrecks, giving us multiple opportunities to put you on fish using trolling spreads, drift fishing presentations, and bottom rigs. Whether you're after that trophy mahi-mahi or just want to experience the thrill of offshore fishing in the Florida Keys, Marathon's waters deliver the goods. Give us a call to book your next offshore adventure with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31!

Diverse Bounty: Snapper, Seabass, and Sharks in Marathon, FL fishing report coverpicture

April 23, 2025

Reeling In the Catch of a Lifetime: Gray Snapper, Black Seabass, and Sharks Abound in Marathon, FL

Today's Half Day–Grouper/Snapper/Shark (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 in Marathon, FL was a real blast. April is a prime time to target a variety of inshore and offshore species in these waters, and that's exactly what we set out to do with this diverse group of anglers. The weather was perfect - partly cloudy throughout the day, with great water conditions that had us feeling optimistic from the start. We began the day trolling for pelagic species, and it wasn't long before the rods started bending. The group hooked into some feisty Gray Snapper and Black Seabass, putting up a great fight on our light tackle. After a while, we switched gears and tried our hand at some deep-sea fishing, deploying kites and heavy tackle to target the bigger predators. The action was steady, with a mix of species hitting our baits, keeping us all entertained and on our toes. Towards the end of the trip, we even got in some fly fishing for a change of pace. It was a real treat to see these anglers adapt their techniques and put some quality fish in the boat using fly rods. By the time we headed back in, the cooler was full of delicious Gray Snapper and Black Seabass - the perfect end to a memorable day on the water. If you're looking to experience some of the best inshore and offshore fishing Marathon, FL has to offer, be sure to book a Half Day–Grouper/Snapper/Shark (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. Whether you're after hard-fighting Gray Snapper, tasty Black Seabass, or want to try your hand at a variety of techniques, our expert guides will put you on the fish and make sure you have a blast doing it. Give us a call today to schedule your next fishing adventure!

Reeling in Yellowtail Snapper: An Unforgettable Marathon Fishing Adventure fishing report coverpicture

April 17, 2025

Vibrant Yellowtail Snapper Awaiting Your Line in Marathon's Pristine Waters

It was a beautiful day on the water in Marathon, FL as we set out on our 3 Hour Reef & Inshore Fishing adventure with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. The clear conditions were perfect for targeting the Yellowtail snapper that are known to be abundant this time of year. Dave Mercier was eager to get on the water and experience some of the best fishing the area has to offer.

We started the day working the reefs, trying a variety of techniques like deep sea, trolling, fly fishing, heavy tackle, kite fishing, and light tackle. The Yellowtail snapper were definitely in a feeding mood, and it wasn't long before Dave's rod was bent over with a nice fish on the end. He fought it expertly, and we soon had a beautiful Yellowtail snapper in the boat. We continued to work the area, picking up a few more of these spirited fish throughout the morning.

As the day went on, the action stayed strong, and Dave was really getting the hang of things. He was loving the variety of techniques we were able to employ, and it was clear he was having a great time out on the water. Between the steady bites and the beautiful scenery, this was shaping up to be an unforgettable trip.

If you're looking to experience some of the best fishing that the Marathon, FL area has to offer, I highly recommend booking a 3 Hour Reef & Inshore Fishing trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. Whether you're an experienced angler or you're new to the sport, our knowledgeable crew will make sure you have an amazing time out on the water. We use a wide range of techniques to target the most exciting species, and we'll work hard to put you on the fish. So don't hesitate, book your trip today and get ready for an adventure you won't soon forget!

Reeling in Wahoo, Snappers, and Grouper in Marathon, FL fishing report coverpicture

April 8, 2025

Electrifying Action as Mindy Reels in Wahoo, Snappers, and Grouper in Marathon

Heading out for a day of fishing in Marathon, Florida was an absolute blast. Mindy and I had the chance to experience the best of what the area has to offer with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. April is a prime time to target a variety of species, and we were excited to get out on the water. The weather was a bit mixed, with some clouds rolling in, but that didn't dull the action. We started the day with some deep sea trolling, hoping to hook into some big game fish. It didn't take long before Mindy's rod doubled over - she had a monster Wahoo on the line! After an intense fight, we managed to get that beauty into the boat. The action stayed hot as we switched things up, using live bait and fly fishing to target Mutton Snapper and Gray Snapper. The variety kept us on our toes, and the fish just wouldn't quit biting. As the day went on, the weather started to turn a bit, with some storms moving in. But that didn't slow us down one bit. We kept grinding, using heavier tackle to target some Grouper and Sharks. Mindy was an absolute all-star, handling each fish with skill and enthusiasm. Between the variety of species and the ever-changing conditions, it felt like we were really earning every catch. All in all, it was an incredible day on the water. The team at Johnny Maddox Charters knows exactly how to put anglers on the fish, no matter the conditions. From the early morning Sailfish and Wahoo to the afternoon Grouper and Sharks, we had a blast. If you're looking to experience the best of what Marathon, FL has to offer, I can't recommend Johnny Maddox Charters enough. Whether you're an experienced angler or just getting into the sport, they'll make sure you have an unforgettable day on the water. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and get ready for the fishing trip of a lifetime!

Marathon Madness: A Fishing Expedition to Remember fishing report coverpicture

March 27, 2025

Reeling in the Thrill: An Exhilarating Marathon Fishing Odyssey

It was a bright and breezy day as we set out from Marathon, FL for an exciting full-day fishing trip targeting some of the best species in the area. Though the morning started with a bit of rain, the weather cleared up nicely, giving us perfect conditions to get out on the water and put some fish in the boat. We opted for a mixed approach, working different techniques like deep sea fishing, trolling, fly fishing, heavy tackle, kite fishing, and light tackle to cover all our bases. It didn't take long before the African pompano started showing up, putting up a great fight on our lines. We worked hard, staying patient and focused, and managed to land a nice haul of these tough, acrobatic fish. The action was steady throughout the day, with the fish really turning on as the afternoon progressed. Beyond the fantastic fishing, the trip was full of good vibes and great company. Zachary and the rest of the crew were a blast to be around, and we shared plenty of laughs and memorable moments out on the water. Between the bites, we took in the scenic Marathon, FL surroundings, admiring the beautiful flats and wrecks that make this such a premier fishing destination. At the end of the day, we had some excellent fish to show for our efforts, but even more importantly, we created an experience that will stick with us for a long time. If you're looking to enjoy world-class fishing in the beautiful waters around Marathon, FL, I highly recommend booking a full-day trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. Whether you're chasing feisty African pompano, tackling tough species on the flats and wrecks, or just want to spend a memorable day on the water, our team will make sure you have an amazing time. Book your trip today and get ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure!

Marathon Mahi Madness: A Bluewater Adventure for the Books fishing report coverpicture

March 27, 2025

Mahi Mayhem and Marathon Memories: An Unforgettable Bluewater Excursion

What a day out on the water we had with Robert West and the crew! We embarked on an Extended Full – Big Game Bluewater trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31, and it was an absolute blast from start to finish. June is prime time for targeting big game fish in the Marathon, FL area, as the warm summer conditions bring them close to shore, making for some incredible offshore action. We started the day bright and early, meeting up at 7:00 am in Marathon and getting the crew and gear loaded up. With clear skies and great water conditions, we wasted no time getting lines in the water and covering some prime deep-sea territory. The fish were biting aggressively, and it wasn't long before we had our first Mahi Mahi hooked up. Robert handled the rod like a true pro, keeping steady pressure and working the fish until we had it safely in the boat. That set the tone for the rest of the trip, as we continued cycling through a variety of techniques – trolling, kite fishing, fly fishing, you name it – to target the Mahi Mahi that were absolutely crushing our baits. It was one of those days where everything just seemed to come together. The weather stayed cooperative, the fish were active, and the camaraderie among our little crew was top-notch. Between the constant action on the rods and the stunning Marathon scenery all around us, it was hard not to have a good time. And even when the late afternoon rain rolled in, it just added to the excitement, keeping us on our toes as we adapted our approach. If you're looking to experience the best big game offshore fishing Marathon, FL has to offer, then you have to book a trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. The Extended Full – Big Game Bluewater package is truly second to none, with expert guides, top-of-the-line gear, and the opportunity to tangle with some of the most impressive fish in the Gulf. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to the sport, we'll make sure you have an unforgettable time out on the water. So don't wait – get in touch and let's

Yellowfin Frenzy: Chasing Trophy Snappers in the Keys fishing report coverpicture

March 27, 2025

Reeling in Trophy Yellowtails and Muttons: An Epic Keys Angling Odyssey

What a day we had out on the water with the crew today for our Half Day–Reef/Wreck/Insh/Gulf (PM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31! The weather was absolutely perfect, with clear skies and ideal conditions for chasing some quality fish. March is a prime time to target Yellowtail Snapper and Mutton Snapper around the Florida Keys, and that's exactly what we set out to do. As soon as we got the lines in, the action started heating up. We were using a mix of DeepSea, Trolling, FlyFishing, HeavyTackle, KiteFishing, and LightTackle techniques to cover all our bases, and it paid off in a big way. The Yellowtails were absolutely crushing our baits, putting up some great fights before we got them in the boat. And when we hooked into a nice Mutton Snapper, it was game on—those fish really know how to put a bend in the rod! We stayed on the fish throughout the day, adding more Yellowtails and Muttons to the cooler. The whole crew was fired up about the awesome fishing, and the energy on the boat was unreal. I love seeing that kind of excitement, whether it's someone's first time catching a Yellowtail or a seasoned angler adding a new personal best to their list. That's what makes a day like this so special—not just the fish, but sharing the experience with a great group of people. We were all smiles and laughter the whole time, taking in the beautiful Florida Keys scenery and enjoying every minute on the water. If you're looking to get in on some incredible reef, wreck, inshore, and Gulf fishing in the Keys, I can't recommend the Half Day–Reef/Wreck/Insh/Gulf (PM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 enough. Whether you're after Yellowtails, Mutton Snappers, or want to see what else the fishing has to offer,

Casting Memories: A Reef Inshore Gulf Fishing Excursion in Marathon, FL fishing report coverpicture

March 27, 2025

Chasing the Reef: A Vibrant Inshore Fishing Escapade in Marathon, FL

It was a beautiful day in Marathon, FL, and I was excited to take Greg Kennemer and his guest out for a Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. March is a fantastic time to be out on the water in this area, as the warming temperatures bring the fish into shallower waters, making for some fantastic inshore and reef fishing opportunities. We met up at the launch in Marathon at 8:00 AM and got the boat loaded up and ready to go. The conditions were ideal - clear skies and calm, comfortable waters. As we headed out, I pointed out a few spots I was eager to hit, knowing this time of year the fish tend to be congregating on the reefs and in the channels. We started off trying a mix of techniques, from deep sea trolling to kite fishing, and even some fly fishing just to see what the fish were most interested in. Though we didn't manage to land any big prize catches, we had a great time working different areas and experimenting with different methods. The best part was just being out on the water, feeling the sun on our faces and the light breeze in our hair. We took in the beautiful Marathon scenery, kept an eye out for any signs of fish activity, and chatted about our favorite fishing spots and techniques. It was a laid-back, enjoyable trip where the focus was simply on having a good time and making the most of the day. If you're looking to experience some of the best fishing Marathon, FL has to offer, I highly recommend booking a Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. Whether you're an experienced angler or just looking to try your hand at light tackle fishing, fly fishing, or even some deep sea trolling, we'll make sure you have an unforgettable time on the water. The variety of techniques and fish species in this area is truly impressive, and we'll work hard to put you on the action. So don't hesitate - get in touch and let's get you out on the water for an amazing fishing adventure!

Yellowtail Snapper Frenzy: An Inshore Reef Fishing Adventure fishing report coverpicture

March 20, 2025

Rods Bent as Yellowtail Snapper Launch into Feeding Frenzy on Reef Fishing Excursion

We had a fantastic morning out on the water with the crew for our Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. March is a prime time to target inshore and reef species around Marathon, FL, as the warming waters bring the Yellowtail Snapper into a feeding frenzy. With clear conditions throughout the day, we knew we were in for an exciting trip. As soon as we started chumming the waters and got our lines out, the Yellowtail Snapper started smashing our baits. The rods were bent left and right as we worked to land one fish after another. The action was nonstop, and every time we thought the bite had slowed, another school would show up and fire up again. In between the Yellowtail onslaught, we also managed a few other reef species, keeping the variety and excitement high all morning long. The great fishing was just one part of an all-around fantastic trip. The clear water allowed us to spot the baitfish and gamefish, and the calm conditions made the ride out and back a breeze. But beyond the fishing, it was just an enjoyable day on the water with good company. We shared plenty of laughs, swapped stories, and made memories that'll have us counting down the days until our next trip. If you're looking to experience some of the best inshore and reef fishing Marathon, FL has to offer, I can't recommend the Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 enough. Whether you're after hard-fighting Yellowtail Snapper, tasty Mangrove Snapper, or want to mix it up and chase a variety of reef species, our experienced team will put you on the fish and make sure you have an unforgettable day on the water. Book your trip today, and let's get you out there for some incredible fishing!

Reefs, Wrecks, and Combo: An Exhilarating Fishing Adventure in Marathon fishing report coverpicture

March 14, 2025

Cast Away on an Exhilarating Reef, Wreck, and Combo Fishing Odyssey in Marathon

It was another great day on the water with the crew from the 3/4 Day Trip – Reef, Wrecks,Combo with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31. We met up early at 7:30 am, ready to dive into some world-class fishing around Marathon, Florida. Though the weather was clear throughout the day, the conditions were perfect for getting after a variety of species, whether that was working the reefs, exploring the wrecks, or trying our hand at some combo fishing. With a mix of deep sea, trolling, fly fishing, heavy tackle, kite fishing, and light tackle techniques at our disposal, we were able to cover a ton of water and target a wide range of fish. The clear conditions and great visibility made it easy to spot baitfish and other signs of life, keeping us on our toes and ready to react as the action unfolded. While we didn't manage to land any big catches, it was still an incredibly fun and productive day. The best part was just being out on the water, surrounded by good company and chasing after whatever species decided to bite. Between the camaraderie, the chance to try out different techniques, and the excitement of the hunt, it was the perfect way to spend a day in Marathon. Whether you're an experienced angler or a complete beginner, the 3/4 Day Trip – Reef, Wrecks,Combo offers an unbeatable opportunity to explore some of the best fishing in the area. If you're planning a trip to the Florida Keys, don't miss your chance to join us for an unforgettable day on the water. Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 has the knowledge, the gear, and the passion to deliver an amazing experience, no matter your skill level or what you're hoping to catch. From targeting trophy-sized game fish to simply enjoying the thrill of the hunt, this is an adventure you won't soon forget. So what are you waiting for? Book your 3/4 Day Trip – Reef, Wrecks,Combo today and get ready for an epic day on the water!

Unforgettable Yellowtail Snapper Fury in the Florida Keys fishing report coverpicture

March 8, 2025

Reel in the Adrenaline Rush as Yellowtail Snappers Dominate the Florida Keys

Today's half-day reef and inshore fishing trip out of Marathon, Florida was an absolute blast. The weather was perfect, with clear skies all day, and the water conditions couldn't have been better - just glassy calm and crystal clear. The Yellowtail Snapper were really fired up, and we had some phenomenal action. As soon as we got the lines in the water, the fish started crushing our baits. We were using a mix of techniques - deep sea, trolling, fly fishing, heavy tackle, kite fishing, and light tackle - to target the Yellowtails as well as some other inshore species. The snappers were really aggressive, and we had a ton of fun fighting these powerful, acrobatic fish. Michael, one of our anglers, absolutely crushed it, landing several nice Yellowtails that put up incredible fights. In between the hot fishing action, we got to take in the beautiful Marathon scenery. Seeing the tropical fish darting through the clear water below the boat was just mesmerizing. And the calm, comfortable conditions made for such an enjoyable day on the water. That's what I love most about these inshore and reef fishing trips - it's not just about the number of fish you catch, but the whole experience of being out on the water, surrounded by nature, and creating amazing memories with a great group of anglers. If you're looking to experience some of the best reef and inshore fishing that the Florida Keys have to offer, I highly recommend booking a trip with Johnny Maddox Charters Papa 31 out of Marathon. Whether you're an experienced angler or just getting into the sport, our Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) trips are the perfect way to target an array of species, from hard-fighting Yellowtails to other inshore favorites. We've got all the right techniques and top-notch gear to put you on the fish, and you'll get to enjoy a fun, comfortable day on the water in one of the most beautiful fisheries in the world. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip with us today and let's go catch some fish!

Day in the Bay fishing report coverpicture

November 27, 2024

Long Key Bight Fishing Report on 27th Nov, 2024

11.27.2024 - Anthony Toric brought his brother-in-law and nephew, Andrew and Luke from Mississauga Ontario Canada to fish with Capt’n Brian and Mate Nick of Johnny Maddox Charters. A fun day on the water - dinner is served ❤️🎣