Ready to feel that rod bend and reel scream? Hop aboard our 40' Hatteras for a day of hard-fighting fish and salty thrills in the deep blue waters off Marathon. We're talking 6 to 10 hours of non-stop action, chasing down some of the most prized game fish in the Florida Keys. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your sea legs, our experienced crew will put you on the fish and make sure you have a blast doing it.
As soon as we clear the marina, it's go time. We'll cruise out to the offshore grounds where the big boys play. You'll be fishing with top-notch gear, ready to tangle with everything from acrobatic mahi-mahi to bulldogging tuna. Our 40-footer gives us the range to hit the hotspots and the stability to fish comfortably all day. With a max of 6 guests, there's plenty of elbow room and personalized attention from the crew. We'll mix up the techniques based on what's biting - maybe some trolling, maybe some live baiting, or even some kite fishing if the conditions are right. Just be ready for some serious pull when that line goes tight!
Offshore fishing in the Keys is a whole different ball game from inshore or reef fishing. We're talking about covering some serious water, often 20 miles or more from shore. Out here, it's all about reading the signs - temperature breaks, weed lines, bird activity - to find where the pelagics are feeding. We'll be using heavy-duty conventional reels spooled with 50-80 lb test line, paired with sturdy rods that can handle the big boys. Trolling is often the name of the game, pulling a spread of ballyhoo, lures, or a mix of both. When we mark fish or see activity, we might switch to live baiting with goggle-eyes or blue runners. It's a team effort out here - everyone's eyes on the water, ready to grab a rod when that unmistakable "Fish on!" rings out.
Blackfin Tuna: These torpedoes are pound-for-pound some of the hardest fighting fish in the ocean. They school up in good numbers off Marathon, especially in the cooler months. Expect blistering runs and deep dives. They're also excellent eating, perfect for some fresh sashimi right on the boat.
Atlantic Sailfish: The acrobats of the sea, sailfish are known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked. They're more common in the winter and early spring, often found along the edge of the reef in 120-180 feet of water. Watching a sail light up in its electric blue colors as it greyhounds across the surface is a sight you'll never forget.
Blue Marlin: The holy grail of offshore fishing. While not as common as their smaller cousins, when a blue marlin shows up in the spread, it's all hands on deck. These massive predators can top 1,000 pounds and put on epic, hours-long battles. Even a "small" 200-pounder will test your stamina and leave you with the fish story of a lifetime.
Mahi Mahi: Also known as dorado or dolphinfish (no relation to Flipper), these neon-colored speedsters are a summertime favorite. They often travel in schools, so when you find one, get ready for multiple hookups. Mahi are known for their acrobatic jumps and hard runs. They're also one of the best-eating fish in the ocean - nothing beats fresh mahi tacos after a long day on the water.
Wahoo: If you want to see your reel smoke, hope for a wahoo. These streamlined predators are built for speed, capable of 60 mph bursts. They're often found near dropoffs and underwater structures. Wahoo tend to be loners, but when you find one, it's usually a good-sized fish. Their firm, white meat is excellent grilled or in fish dip.
There's something special about fishing the waters off Marathon. Maybe it's the crystal-clear blue water, or the way the sun paints the sky as we head out in the morning. Could be the rush of watching a sailfish tail-walk across the surface, or the satisfaction of putting a fat tuna in the box for dinner. Whatever it is, once you've experienced it, you'll be itching to get back out there. Our repeat customers tell us it's the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement - a chance to unplug from the world and plug into the rhythm of the ocean. And let's be honest, there's nothing like the camaraderie that builds over a day of fishing, swapping stories, and cheering each other on as the rods bend and the drags sing.
Listen, the fish are out there, and they're not going to catch themselves. Whether you're looking to check that bucket-list billfish off your list, fill the cooler with some tasty mahi, or just spend a day on the water with good company, we've got you covered. Our 40' Hatteras is ready to take you on the offshore adventure of a lifetime. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait. Give us a call, and let's get you out on the blue water where the big ones roam. Trust me, once you feel that first hit and hear that reel start screaming, you'll be glad you did. See you on the water!
Atlantic Sailfish are the acrobats of our offshore waters. Reaching up to 7 feet long and 50-80 pounds, these beauties are known for their stunning sail-like dorsal fin and incredible aerial displays when hooked. You'll find them in the warm, blue waters off Marathon, usually within 30 miles of shore. Winter and early spring are prime sailfish season here. Anglers chase them for the thrill of the fight - expect powerful runs and jaw-dropping leaps. To target sailfish, we often slow-troll live baits like ballyhoo or pilchards. A local tip: when you see one bill a bait, don't set the hook right away. Give it a few seconds to fully swallow, then start reeling. The fight that follows will be one you'll never forget.
Blackfin Tuna are the speed demons of the Keys, typically reaching 30-40 inches and 15-30 pounds. You'll find them in open water near the surface, often around weed lines or floating debris. They're most active here from fall through spring. Anglers love Blackfins for their aggressive fights and excellent table fare. These tuna hit hard and run fast, so be ready for some serious action. To increase your odds, try vertical jigging or chunking with live bait. Scale down your leaders and hooks - Blackfins have sharp eyes. A local trick is to use live pilchards as chum to get them fired up. Just remember, a 5-year-old Blackfin is considered old, so we focus on sustainable fishing to keep populations healthy.
Blue Marlin are the true giants of our offshore waters. Females can reach over 1,000 pounds, while males top out around 300-400 pounds. These apex predators roam the deep blue waters beyond the reef, typically in depths over 250 feet. Summer and early fall are your best bet for hooking into one of these monsters. Blue Marlin are the ultimate trophy fish - they're rare, powerful, and put on an incredible show with their acrobatic jumps and blistering runs. To target them, we usually troll large lures or rigged baits at high speeds. A local secret: keep an eye out for frigate birds. They often follow marlin as they push bait to the surface. Catching a Blue Marlin is a true test of skill and endurance - be prepared for a fight that can last hours.
Mahi Mahi, also called dorado or dolphinfish, are one of our most popular offshore targets. They typically run 15-30 pounds, with some bulls pushing 50+. You'll find them around floating debris and weed lines, often within sight of the reef. Mahi fishing is good year-round, but really heats up in summer. Anglers love them for their acrobatic fights, stunning colors, and excellent eating quality. To catch mahi, we usually troll ballyhoo or small lures, or pitch live baits when we spot them. Here's a local tip: when you hook one, keep it in the water. The rest of the school will often stick around, letting you catch multiple fish. Just be ready for chaos when several mahi are hooked at once!
Wahoo are the speed demons of the deep. These streamlined predators can hit 60 mph and typically range from 20-40 pounds, with some topping 100. You'll find them in the open ocean, often near drop-offs or underwater structures. Fall through early spring is prime wahoo season here in the Keys. Anglers target them for their blistering runs and excellent table fare. To catch wahoo, we usually troll fast - 12-15 knots - with wire leaders and lures like bullet heads or jet heads. A local trick: try incorporating a planer or downrigger to get your baits deeper where the big ones lurk. When a wahoo hits, hold on tight. Their initial run can smoke a reel if you're not careful!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cummins
Maximum Cruising Speed: 25
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 660