REEF FISHING MARATHON, FL.

---

The Florida Keys, spanning 120 miles, are home to the continental United States' only living barrier coral reef. This critical ecosystem supports over 500 fish species and 1,400 types of marine life, playing a key role in maintaining the area's biodiversity. The reef serves as an essential habitat for countless organisms and sustains the rich marine life that defines the region. Its ecological importance and unique underwater landscapes make it a global destination for anglers and divers seeking to explore its diverse and vibrant environment.

Reef fishing in the Florida Keys provides an opportunity to target a diverse range of species, such as Yellowtail Snapper, Mangrove Snapper, Mutton Snapper, Gag Grouper, Black Grouper, Goliath Grouper, Hogfish, Barracuda, Jacks, Sharks and so many more. These charters are ideal for anglers of all skill levels and are conducted in shallow waters close to shore.

Reef fishing in the Florida Keys utilizes a variety of methods to target different species. Anglers commonly use light spinning tackle with 10–20 lb. test line, along with a mix of live bait, cut bait, and lures, depending on the fishing conditions and the target species. The process begins with the boat anchoring over specific reef spots, where fish are attracted by chumming. Once the fish gather in the chum line, anglers cast live or cut bait into the schools, providing an effective way to catch a wide range of species. This method ensures an engaging and productive fishing experience.

Reef fishing in the Florida Keys is an excellent choice for families, including those with small children. The shallow, calm waters, typically ranging from 10 to 30 feet deep, make for a safe and enjoyable environment for anglers of all ages. With plenty of action and a variety of fish species to catch, even young children can experience the thrill of reeling in their first fish. The slower-paced, easy-to-learn fishing methods also ensure that beginners and families can enjoy the experience together, making it a memorable outing for everyone. Additionally, the close proximity of the reef to the shore means less time spent traveling and more time spent fishing, making it perfect for shorter trips with young kids.

As an experienced guide and the owner of Outbound Charters in Marathon, FL, Captain Charles knows all there is about Reef and Wreck Fishing in the area. Yellowtail Snappers can be found in shallow waters near reefs and rocky areas and are a popular target for anglers of all skill levels, including young kids.

Captain Charles recommends using live bait and light tackle to catch yellowtail snapper. These fish are known for their excellent taste and make for a delicious meal. The best time to target them is during the summer months when they tend to school in large numbers.

Overall, fishing for yellowtail snapper with Captain Charles and Outbound Charters in Marathon, FL, is an exciting and rewarding experience. With his local knowledge and expertise, you're sure to have a successful and memorable fishing trip.

Mangrove snapper fishing is a popular activity in the Florida Keys, which is known for its abundant marine life and diverse fishing opportunities. These fish are highly prized for their delicious taste and fighting spirit, making them a favorite target among anglers of all skill levels.

To catch mangrove snapper, anglers typically use a variety of techniques and bait, including live shrimp, pilchards, pinfish, and small crabs. These fish are most commonly found in shallow waters near mangrove trees, rock formations, and other structures that provide cover and protection.

One of the best places to go mangrove snapper fishing in the Florida Keys is Marathon, which is located in the middle of the island chain and offers easy access to a variety of fishing spots. Some popular locations for mangrove snapper fishing in Marathon include the Seven Mile Bridge, the reef and the Gulf of Mexico.

Overall, mangrove snapper fishing in Marathon, FL offers a fun and rewarding experience for anglers of all ages and skill levels. With its clear waters, abundant marine life, and scenic surroundings, this area is a top destination for anyone looking to enjoy a day of fishing in the Florida Keys.

As avid fishermen ourselves, we understand the importance of having the right gear to make the most of your time on the water. That's why we offer a wide selection of high-quality fishing gear and accessories at competitive prices. From fly fishing to deep sea fishing, we have everything you need to reel in the big one. And if you're not sure what you need, our knowledgeable staff is always on hand to offer expert advice and recommendations.

Black grouper can be found in the waters surrounding the Florida Keys year-round, but the best time to fish for them is during their open season, which runs from May 1st to December 31st. These fish are known for their aggressive nature and can grow up to 80 pounds.

To catch black grouper, it is important to use the right gear and techniques. I prefer using a 60-80 pound test line with a circle hook and a weight of around 6-12 ounces. Live bait, such as pinfish or grunts are most effective.

When fishing for black grouper, it is important to be patient and persistent. These fish can be found in deeper waters, often around 100-200 feet, and are known to be territorial, so it's important to have your bait on the bottom and to be in the right spot.

One of the best places to find black grouper is near the reef line, especially around wrecks and ledges. I usually recommend anchoring near these structures and dropping bait down to the bottom, as black grouper tend to stay close to the structure.

Black grouper are known for their fighting ability, and reeling one in can be a thrilling experience. 

As a guide in Marathon, FL, I can tell you that mutton snapper fishing in the Florida Keys is a popular and exciting experience for both novice and experienced anglers alike.

Mutton snapper can be found in the waters surrounding the Florida Keys year-round, but the best time to fish for them is in the spring and fall when they are most active. These fish are known for their delicious taste and can grow up to 30 pounds.

To catch mutton snapper, it is important to use the right gear and techniques. I recommend using a 20-30 pound test line with a circle hook and a weight of around 2-4 ounces. Live bait, such as pilchards or ballyhoo, works well, but artificial lures like jigs can also be effective.

When fishing for mutton snapper, it is important to be patient and let the fish take the bait before setting the hook. These fish are known to be cautious and will often spit out the bait if they feel any resistance.

One of the best places to find mutton snapper is on the reef line ocean side of Marathon Fl in depths of 80-150 feet. I usually recommend anchoring near the reef and chumming the water to attract the fish. Once you start getting bites, it is important to keep the chum flowing to keep the fish around.

Mutton snapper are known for their fighting ability, and reeling one in can be a thrilling experience. As a captain, I always release any undersized or unwanted fish to ensure the sustainability of the fishery and encourage others to do so as well. 

Overall, mutton snapper fishing in Marathon, FL, can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With the right gear, techniques, and a little bit of patience, anglers can have a successful day on the water and bring home some delicious mutton snapper for dinner.

King mackerel fishing with live bait is a popular and exciting activity in Marathon, Florida. These fish are known for their fast and aggressive behavior, making them a challenging target for anglers of all skill levels.

To catch king mackerel with live bait, anglers typically use a variety of techniques and gear, including spinning rods, reels, and a variety of live bait such as ballyhoo, pilchards, and threadfin herring. These fish are most commonly found in deeper waters, ranging from 60 to 120 feet, around wrecks, reefs, and other underwater structures that provide cover and attract baitfish.

One of the best times to go king mackerel fishing in Marathon is in the fall, when these fish migrate from the north to the warmer waters of South Florida. During this time, king mackerel can often be found in large schools, providing ample opportunities for anglers to hook these hard-fighting fish.

African pompano are a highly prized game fish that can be found in the waters surrounding Marathon, Florida, throughout the year. They are known for their impressive size, with some specimens weighing up to 50 pounds.

To catch African pompano, it is important to use the right gear and techniques. I prefer using a 50-pound test line with a circle hook and a weight of around 4-8 ounces. Live bait, such as blue runners or goggle eyes, works well, but dead bait like butterflied ballyhoo can be just as effective.

When fishing for African pompano, it is important to be patient and persistent. These fish can be found in deeper waters, often around 100-200 feet, and are known for their elusive nature. I usually recommend drifting along the reef line and dropping bait down to the bottom, as African pompano tend to stay close to the reef.

Once you hook an African pompano, be prepared for a challenging fight. These fish are known for their strength and will put up a good fight. It is important to keep a steady pressure on the fish and avoid jerking the rod, as this can cause the hook to come loose. If you do catch a legal-sized African pompano, they are highly prized for their delicious taste and make for a great meal.

Amberjacks are a highly sought-after game fish that can be found around the wrecks surrounding Marathon, Florida. They are known for their impressive size, with some specimens weighing up to 100 pounds.

To catch amberjacks, it is important to use the right gear and techniques. I prefer using a 80-100 pound test line with a circle hook and a weight of around 8-16 ounces. Live bait, such as blue runners or pilchards, works well, but dead bait does the job as-well.

When fishing for amberjacks, it is important to be persistent and to look for them in deeper waters, often around 100-200 feet. I usually recommend trolling planners around wrecks or other underwater structures, as amberjacks tend to congregate in these areas.

Once you hook an amberjack, be prepared for a challenging fight. These fish are known for their strength and will put up a good fight. It is important to keep a steady pressure on the fish and avoid jerking the rod, as this can cause the hook to come loose.