Epic Marathon FL Offshore Fishing with Ana Banana

Offshore Action: Marathon's Big Game Hotspot

Ready to chase some of the most exciting fish in the Florida Keys? Ana Banana Fishing Company's offshore charters out of Marathon are your ticket to the blue water action. We're talking sailfish that'll make your reel sing, blackfin tuna that fight like freight trains, and wahoo that'll test your drag. Whether you're a seasoned salt or it's your first time going after the big ones, Captain Joel Brandenburg knows how to put you on the fish. So grab your hat and sunscreen - we've got some lines to wet!

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're aboard a 50-foot Bertram, one of the most respected names in offshore fishing. As Marathon fades into the distance, the anticipation builds. Captain Joel's got decades of experience under his belt, and he'll be sharing all the local knowledge you need to land a trophy. We run trips from 4 to 10 hours, so you can choose anything from a half-day taste to a full-on offshore marathon. The boat's equipped with top-notch gear, so all you need to bring is your game face. And don't worry if you're new to this - we'll show you the ropes and have you feeling like a pro in no time.

Techniques That Fill the Fish Box

Out here in the deep blue, we mix it up to keep the fish coming. Most days, we'll be trolling - that's dragging lures or baits behind the boat to entice the predators. It's a great way to cover water and find the active zones. When we mark fish on the sounder or spot a weedline, we might switch to live baiting. There's nothing quite like watching a frisky goggle-eye get inhaled by a sailfish on the surface. For the tuna and wahoo, we often go deep with planers or downriggers. And if the bite's tough? We might even break out the kites to present baits right in the strike zone. Captain Joel's always got a few tricks up his sleeve to keep the rods bending.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Let's talk about the stars of the show - the fish that'll have you coming back for more. First up, the Atlantic sailfish. These acrobatic beauties are the pride of the Florida Keys. They're known for their spectacular aerial displays and can reach speeds of up to 68 mph. Spring and fall are prime time for sails, but you can catch them year-round here. When a sail lights up in that electric blue and purple, it's a sight you won't forget.

Next, we've got the blackfin tuna. Don't let their smaller size fool you - pound for pound, these guys are some of the hardest fighting fish in the ocean. They school up and feed aggressively, so when you find them, it's often fish-on for the whole crew. Late fall through winter is the peak season, but we see good numbers in spring and summer too. Fresh blackfin sashimi back at the dock? Yes, please!

Wahoo are the speed demons of the deep. These streamlined predators can hit speeds over 60 mph and strike with incredible force. They're not as common as some other species, but when you hook into one, you'll know it. The initial run can peel off hundreds of yards of line in seconds. Winter and early spring are your best bet for wahoo, but we catch them year-round on the offshore grounds.

Mahi-mahi, also known as dolphin or dorado, are a summertime favorite. These colorful acrobats are a blast to catch and even better to eat. They often travel in pairs or small schools, so when you hook one, keep your eyes peeled for its buddies. The cow dolphin (females) can grow over 30 pounds, while the bulls (males) can top 50 pounds in our waters.

Last but not least, we've got the mighty swordfish. These deep-dwelling gladiators are the ultimate prize for many offshore anglers. We target them primarily at night or on specialized daytime deep-drop trips. Swords can grow to enormous sizes - fish over 300 pounds are not uncommon in the Florida Straits. It takes patience and skill to hook up with one of these giants, but the reward is well worth the effort.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Marathon's offshore waters are a fish magnet, plain and simple. We're perfectly positioned to access both the Atlantic and the Gulf, giving us options no matter which way the wind's blowing. The Florida Keys have some of the most diverse fisheries in the States, and Marathon puts you right in the middle of it all. Plus, with Ana Banana Fishing Company, you're not just getting a ride - you're tapping into a lifetime of local knowledge. Captain Joel knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's always keeping tabs on where the bite's hot. Whether you're chasing your first sailfish or looking to tick a swordfish off your bucket list, we've got you covered.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, let's cut to the chase - if you're itching to get out there and tangle with some serious offshore game, Ana Banana Fishing Company is your ticket to success. We've got the boat, the gear, and the know-how to put you on fish. Remember, we can take up to 6 anglers, so grab your crew and let's make it happen. Just keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable - that's how we keep the calendar honest and the boat ready to roll for serious anglers like you. Whether you're dreaming of that cover shot with a lit-up sail or just want to fill the cooler with some of the tastiest fish in the sea, we've got your back. Don't let another season slip by - give us a call and let's get your offshore adventure locked in. The big ones are out there waiting, and trust me, you don't want to miss out on this action!