Damn Good Flats Fishing Charters In Marathon

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Recently Booked Flats Fishing Charters In Marathon, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Marathon

Marathon Backcountry Flats

NEW
20 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Marathon

Morning 1/2 Day

NEW
25 ft 1 - 8 People From $800
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Marathon

Tarpon On Natural Bait

100% (5)
17 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Marathon

Everglades Inshore Trip

100% (10)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Marathon

Flats Fishing - 17' Maverick

100% (1)
1 - 2 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Marathon

Florida Keys Skinny Water

100% (2)
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $500

Top Types of Flats Trips in Marathon

Top Species for Flats Fishing in Marathon

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Target Species in Marathon

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  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
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More Flats Fishing Charters In Marathon, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Marathon

Islamorada Inshore And Flats Fshing

NEW
24 ft 1 - 8 People From $700
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Marathon

Back Country Bonanza

100% (3)
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $600
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter near Marathon

Everglades Fishing Trip

100% (1)
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Marathon

Big Pine Key Fly Or Light Tackle

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18 ft 1 - 2 People From $750
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Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Marathon

Islamorada Fishing Adventure

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17 ft 1 - 2 People From $700
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Fishing in Destin
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Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter near Marathon

Islamorada Angling Excursion

100% (10)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $850
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Everything to Know About Booking a Marathon flats fishing charter

What are the best flats fishing charters in Marathon?

Why should I book a flats fishing charter in Marathon with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 39 flats trips in Marathon, and the most popular trips in the area are Marathon Backcountry Flats guided by Larry and Morning 1/2 Day guided by John.

Our guides in Marathon are rated a 4.95 out of 5 based on 3716 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly flats guides / fishing lessons in Marathon? Check out our beginner and family friendly flats guides in Marathon.

What types of flats fishing charters are common in Marathon?

The most commonly sought after species for flats fishing are: 1. tarpon, 2. redfish, 3. permit, 4. snook, and 5. bonefish.

The most common fishing techniques in Marathon are light tackle fishing, live bait fishing, and artificial lure fishing but fly fishing and drift fishing are popular as well.

How much do Marathon flats fishing charters cost?

Prices for flats fishing in Marathon can range anywhere from about $600 to $1,800, but the average price for a half day trip for flats fishing in Marathon is $881. The average price for a full day trip for flats fishing in Marathon is $1,162.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for flats fishing in Marathon?

The most popular season for flats fishing in Marathon is summer, and most anglers book their trips 13 days in advance.

Do I need a Marathon fishing license and what are the bag limits in Marathon?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Marathon, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Marathon. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Marathon.

What is flats fishing in Marathon all about?

Flats fishing in Marathon, Florida offers anglers a gateway to some of the most prolific and diverse fishing grounds in the Florida Keys. Situated in the heart of the island chain, Marathon boasts an intricate network of shallow flats, mangrove-lined channels, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with an abundance of marine life. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice looking to cast your first line, the pristine waters and rich fishing opportunities of Marathon provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable fishing adventure.

One of the defining features of flats fishing in Marathon is the chance to target a wide variety of species, ranging from bonefish and permit to tarpon and snook. These prized game fish can be found prowling the shallows, tailing on the flats, or lurking around mangrove islands, offering anglers a diverse array of angling challenges and experiences. Whether you're sight-fishing for tailing bonefish on the flats or casting topwater plugs for explosive strikes from hungry tarpon, Marathon offers something for every angler, regardless of skill level or experience.

Guided fishing charters are a popular option for anglers looking to make the most of their flats fishing experience in Marathon. Local guides possess intimate knowledge of the area's waters, tides, and fish behavior, ensuring a productive and rewarding day on the water. Whether you're seeking expert instruction, insider tips, or simply a hassle-free fishing excursion, these experienced guides can tailor the trip to your preferences, maximizing your chances of success and creating memories to last a lifetime amidst the natural beauty of Marathon, Florida.

What are the most popular months to go flats fishing in Marathon?

Flats fishing in Marathon, Florida offers anglers a year-round playground, with each season presenting unique opportunities and challenges. Spring signals the beginning of prime fishing season, as warming waters bring a flurry of activity to the flats. This season sees an influx of baitfish and the arrival of migratory species like tarpon and permit, making it an exciting time for anglers to target these prized game fish in the shallow waters around Marathon. With the weather warming up and fish becoming more active, spring offers excellent conditions for sight-fishing and casting to feeding fish on the flats.

Summer in Marathon brings hot temperatures and bustling flats, as schools of baitfish and predatory game fish congregate in search of food and shelter. This season offers anglers the chance to target a variety of species, including tarpon, bonefish, and permit, amidst the lush seagrass beds and mangrove-lined channels that characterize the area. From sight-fishing for tailing bonefish to casting topwater plugs for explosive strikes from hungry tarpon, summer flats fishing in Marathon promises exhilarating action and memorable catches.

As summer transitions to fall, flats fishing in Marathon enters a period of transition marked by shifting fish behavior and changing weather patterns. With the onset of fall, migrating baitfish begin their journey southward, drawing predatory game fish like tarpon, snook, and redfish into the shallows in pursuit of food. This season offers anglers the chance to target a variety of species using a range of techniques, from live bait fishing to fly fishing, amidst the tranquil beauty of Marathon's coastal landscapes. Whether you're casting to rolling tarpon along the flats or probing the mangrove-lined channels for trophy snook, fall flats fishing in Marathon provides an immersive and rewarding angling experience amidst the natural splendor of the Florida Keys.

What techniques are popular for flats fishing in Marathon?

Flats fishing in Marathon, Florida offers anglers a diverse range of techniques tailored to the area's unique ecosystem and target species. One popular method is sight-fishing, where anglers scan the shallow waters for signs of feeding fish such as tailing bonefish, cruising tarpon, or lurking permit. This technique requires patience, keen observation, and precise casting to present baits or lures effectively to the targeted fish without spooking them. Whether you're poling a flats skiff or wading the shallows, sight-fishing in Marathon provides an immersive and exhilarating angling experience amidst the stunning coastal scenery.

Another effective technique for flats fishing in Marathon is using live bait or artificial lures to entice fish in shallow waters. Live bait such as shrimp, mullet, or pilchards can be freelined or rigged under a popping cork to target species like snook, tarpon, and redfish. Alternatively, anglers can opt for artificial lures such as soft plastics, spoons, and jigs to mimic the movement of natural prey and entice strikes from hungry predators prowling the flats. Experimenting with different presentations, retrieves, and lure colors can help anglers dial in on what's working best on any given day, adding an element of excitement and discovery to their fishing adventure.

Fly fishing is another popular technique for flats fishing enthusiasts in Marathon, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience amidst the area's pristine coastal waters. Armed with lightweight fly rods and meticulously tied flies, anglers can target a variety of species including bonefish, tarpon, and permit in the shallow flats and mangrove-lined channels of Marathon. Precision casting, delicate presentations, and keen observation are key skills in fly fishing, as anglers must accurately present their flies to wary fish without spooking them. Whether you're stalking tailing bonefish in the flats or casting to rolling tarpon along the shoreline, fly fishing in Marathon provides an immersive and unforgettable angling experience amidst the natural beauty of the Florida Keys.

What species are popular for flats fishing in Marathon?

Flats fishing in Marathon, Florida offers anglers the opportunity to target a diverse range of species, each with its own allure and challenge. One of the most coveted catches in these shallow waters is the bonefish, often called the "gray ghost" for its elusive nature and blistering speed. These sleek predators roam the sandy flats in search of crustaceans and small baitfish, providing anglers with thrilling sight-fishing opportunities and heart-pounding battles. With their keen senses and lightning-fast reflexes, bonefish present a formidable challenge for anglers seeking a true test of skill and patience in the flats of Marathon.

Another prized species for flats fishing enthusiasts in Marathon is the tarpon, renowned for its aerial acrobatics and brute strength. These silver giants migrate through the area's shallow waters in search of prey, offering anglers the chance to target them with a variety of techniques including sight-fishing, live bait fishing, and fly fishing. Whether you're casting to rolling tarpon along the flats or drifting live baits in the tidal currents, targeting these powerful game fish in Marathon promises exhilarating action and memorable battles against one of the ocean's most iconic species.

In addition to bonefish and tarpon, flats fishing in Marathon offers opportunities to target a variety of other species, including permit, snook, and redfish, among others. These prized game fish can be found prowling the shallows, lurking around mangrove islands, or seeking refuge in the tidal creeks and channels that crisscross the area. Whether you're casting artificial lures, live baits, or flies, the flats of Marathon hold a wealth of angling opportunities for those willing to explore and adapt their tactics to the ever-changing conditions.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Eric was great we were catching fish the entire time. I wanted to catch a tarpon and in 10 minutes we had landed one. Exceptional trip tarpon snook and grouper. I would recommend to anyone who wants to catch fish

    Walter L. | October 21, 2024

    Trip: Back Country Bonanza

  • ★★★★★
    Tyler was awesome! Super nice guy who is incredibly knowledgeable about fishing the Everglades. We hooked multiple tarpon and Tyler cleaned our mangrove snapper which made for some great fish tacos that night. Highly recommend him to anyone looking for a unique Everglades experience!

    Michael S. | September 9, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing trip! Lots of laughs and tons of fish! We even got our target fish which was tarpon. Captain mark is great and we will definitely use him again.

    Angela F. | September 6, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip, would recommend without hesitation!

    Steven B. | August 31, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Live Action Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time with Captain Chris today. Caught a lot of fish and had a lot of laughs. Had an unforeseen technical issue but Captains Mike and Chris took care of it with grace and humor. We’ll be back.

    Jesse S. | June 25, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Live Action Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Randy comes highly recommended. This was a retirement trip for my brother and it was truly amazing!! Captain Randy went above and beyond to make sure our 2 day trip was full of action, and adventure. His love for The Florida Keys is contagious. He will put you on the fish! If you seriously love fishing, he’s your guy! Captan Experiences made booking and paying our Captain so much easier than doing it over the phone. Everything was seamless and I look forward to booking with them and Captain Randy again.

    Dave A. | June 24, 2024

    Trip: FL Keys Flats Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Randy was kind, very knowledgeable of the area as well as where to find the giant Tarpon. We had a wonderful time talking about everything, getting to know one another and We appreciated his extensive knowledge of fishing the Islamorada waters. His equipment is new and tackle is spot on and we enjoyed every moment of our trip.

    Dave A. | May 24, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Tarpon on the Fly

  • ★★★★★
    Great day out with Captain Billy B that I strongly recommend. When I said I wanted to catch trout, I was not expecting to catch over 50 on a 6 hour trip. Not only does Captain Billy know his fishing spots in the Everglades but he will also take the time to teach you how to improve your techniques. How to catch a fish at almost every cast. am sure he is great with kids. If you are looking for a monthly rental, or even buying a house in the area, he is also your man.

    Cornelissen M. | May 20, 2024

    Trip: Chasing Tarpon

  • ★★★★★
    Some times you are fortunate to meet people that leave a deep impression an impregnation on you. Captain Mark is one of these rare persons. I was fortunate to go fishing with him today and we had a blast. He is so kind, so full of knowledge, that I do recommend going fishing with him. His repeated actions around the wounded warrior project are a tribute to his care about his peers and good people in general.

    Cornelissen M. | May 19, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent guide. Worked hard to get us into the fish. Caught over 40 fish. Having snapper and trout for dinner!

    Unknown U. | May 18, 2024

    Trip: Epic Islamorada Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Great guy, great trip

    Doug K. | May 4, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Angling Excursion

  • ★★★★★
    We had a fantastic trip with Robert, he got us into plenty of action including an 80lb Tarpon with a couple other hook ups. We then poled an area and caught some juvenile Tarpon that was a blast. And last but not least, Robert put us on some screaming bonefish, my buddy and I each landed a pair of bones. Thanks for an Awesome trip Robert. Tight lines👍

    Thomas M. | May 3, 2024

    Trip: Big Pine Key Action

  • ★★★★★
    Fishing with Captain Randy was a blast caught plenty of bonefish and some sharks Randy is a cool dude really enjoyed my trip

    Rick B. | April 13, 2024

    Trip: FL Keys Flats Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent day, excellent fishing and Brandon couldn’t have been a better guide!

    Vic T. | April 10, 2024

    Trip: Inshore shark trip

  • ★★★★★
    If you want to be inspired to be a better person, laugh, and catch the most fish out of the Islamorada marina Captain Mark is the way to go. Thanks Mark for a great day. Also thank you for your service to our country and continued surrport of disabled veterans!

    Brian S. | April 6, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Great work Captain Phil. Had a good time on the boat and caught fish all through the 8 hour day. Even when the bite slowed down captain phil ran all over to get back on the bite. We had our trout limit within the first hour of the fishing. He showed me allot of tips for casting under mangroves. Looking forward to another trip soon.

    Shaun T. | April 4, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Live Action Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent service! Will definitely use again. Very knowledgeable about the area and put us in the fish. Loved every minute of it and highly recommended to anyone who wants to go fishing!

    Jonathan L. | March 21, 2024

    Trip: Summerland Key Flats Action

  • ★★★★★
    We truly enjoyed our fly fishing trip with Capt GW. His boat was clean and comfortable and Capt GW was very personable and knowledgeable. We had some tougher conditions with wind that allowed him to give me so much needed help and encouragement on techniques to help my skills. But alas, no adrenaline moments of catching backwater fish, just the adrenaline of trying to make the right cast in the right spot. We saw a great deal of sea life as an addition to the friendly camaraderie, and that was a bonus.

    David H. | March 16, 2024

    Trip: Islamorada Flats and Backcountry

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Ron is a true pro and so nice. My family had a great fishing trip. 10 out of 10🙂

    Mark L. | March 15, 2024

    Trip: Epic Islamorada Inshore

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Ron was awesome! Tons of fun. Caught dozens of fish. He was super helpful. Knew the good spots. Would totally recommend for a great family or couples excursion.

    Cameron S. | February 25, 2024

    Trip: Epic Islamorada Inshore

Other Types of Fishing in Marathon

How are fishing conditions in Marathon?

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