Ana Banana's Renowned Marathon Offshore Charters

Offshore Fishing in Marathon: Big Game Awaits

Get ready to chase some serious pelagics off the Florida Keys with Ana Banana Fishing Company. We're talking sailfish, mahi-mahi, and blackfin tuna—the heavy hitters of offshore fishing. Our Marathon-based charters put you right in the action zone, where the Gulf Stream brings in the big boys. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time offshore, Captain Joel Brandenburg knows how to put you on the fish. We've got trips ranging from quick half-day runs to full-day adventures, so you can pick what fits your schedule and ambition.

What to Expect on the Water

Offshore fishing in Marathon is no joke—we're heading out where the water turns that deep cobalt blue. You'll be fishing anywhere from 5 to 30 miles out, depending on where the bite's happening. Our boat's equipped with top-notch gear, and we'll show you how to use it. Expect to do some trolling for billfish and mahi, maybe some kite fishing if the conditions are right. When we mark a good school of tuna, we might switch to chunking or live baiting. It's all about adapting to what the ocean gives us that day. And don't worry about seasickness—our vessel's stable and comfortable, but if you're prone to it, pop a Dramamine before we head out.

Techniques That Land Lunkers

Out here, it's all about reading the water and knowing where the fish are hanging. We use a mix of techniques to maximize our chances. Trolling's our bread and butter—we'll set out a spread of ballyhoo and artificial lures, maybe drag some teasers to get those billfish fired up. For mahi-mahi, we keep our eyes peeled for floating debris or weed lines where they like to congregate. When we're after tuna, we might switch to live bait or chunking if we find a good school. Captain Joel's always tweaking the approach based on conditions, so you'll learn a ton about offshore tactics just by watching and asking questions. Don't be shy—we love sharing our know-how!

Top Catches This Season

The offshore bite's been on fire lately. We've been seeing some monster mahi in the 30-40 pound range, and the sailfish action has been steady, especially on the edge of the reef. Blackfin tuna have been showing up in good numbers too, perfect for some fresh sashimi if that's your thing. Every trip's different, but that's the beauty of offshore fishing—you never know when that record fish is gonna hit.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Swordfish: These deep-dwelling gladiators are the stuff of legends. We target them at night or during the day using specialized deep-drop techniques. Swordfish can grow over 1,000 pounds, though most we catch are in the 100-300 pound range. They're known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps. The meat is prized for its firm texture and mild flavor.

Blackfin Tuna: These speedsters might be smaller than their yellowfin cousins, but they more than make up for it with their fight. Blackfin typically range from 15 to 30 pounds and school in large numbers. They're most active at dawn and dusk, so early morning trips can be particularly productive. Their dark red meat is excellent for sushi or grilling.

Atlantic Sailfish: The sailfish is the poster child of Florida Keys sportfishing. These acrobatic fish are known for their stunning aerial displays when hooked. They're abundant in our waters year-round but peak from November to May. While they can reach over 100 pounds, most we catch are in the 30-80 pound range. It's all about the thrill of the catch with these beauties—we practice catch and release to keep the population healthy.

Blue Marlin: The apex predator of the offshore world, blue marlin are the trophy every angler dreams of. These giants can exceed 1,000 pounds, though fish in the 200-400 pound range are more common in our area. They're rare catches, but when one hits, it's an unforgettable battle that can last hours. Blue marlin are most active in our waters from late spring through fall.

Mahi Mahi (Common Dolphinfish): Don't let the name fool you—these aren't dolphins, they're fish, and they're delicious. Mahi are known for their vibrant colors and acrobatic fights. They're fast-growing and can reach up to 50 pounds, though most we catch are in the 10-30 pound range. Mahi are great eating and abundant, making them a favorite target year-round, with peak season from April to September.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks come back to fish with us because, well, we put 'em on fish. But it's more than that. It's about the whole experience—the anticipation as we clear the harbor, the rush when a rod goes off, the teamwork it takes to boat a big one. Captain Joel's got decades of experience in these waters, and he's always happy to share his knowledge. Whether you're looking to tick a species off your bucket list or just want to enjoy a day on the water with family and friends, we've got you covered. Plus, there's nothing like coming back to the dock with a cooler full of fresh mahi or tuna for dinner.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to get out on the blue water and tangle with some offshore monsters, now's the time to lock in your date. Our calendar fills up fast, especially during peak season. Remember, that deposit's non-refundable, so make sure you're good to go before you book. Whether you're after a quick 4-hour trip or want to spend a full day out there maximizing your chances, we've got options. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a light jacket—it can get breezy out there. Oh, and a camera—you're gonna want proof when you tell your buddies about the fish you caught with Ana Banana Fishing Company. So what are you waiting for? Let's go fishing!