Marathon's Best Inshore Fishing with Ana Banana

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Marathon
$995 - $2,695 price range

Summary

Ready for a great day of offshore fishing in Marathon, FL? Captain Joel's got you covered with his 50ft Bertram and years of local knowledge. You'll head out to prime spots for snappers, groupers, permits, and more. The boat's decked out with top-notch gear, so you're all set to reel in some impressive catches. It's a 4 to 10 hour trip, perfect for both seasoned anglers and folks new to offshore fishing. With room for up to 6 guests, you can bring along family or friends for a day of fishing, sun, and good times on the water. Just remember, this is an offshore adventure, so come prepared for bigger swells and the chance at bigger fish. Ana Banana Fishing Company's got a solid reputation in Marathon, and they'll make sure you have a blast out there.

Marathon's Best Inshore Fishing with Ana Banana

Offshore Action Shots

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Fishing Day Everyday In Marathon

Snapper of the day: Yellowtail

Guided Florida Fishing

Offshore Fishing Adventure in Marathon, FL

Ready to hit the big blue for some serious fishing action? Captain Joel's got you covered with his 50ft Bertram, the perfect vessel for chasing down monster fish in the crystal-clear waters off Marathon. Whether you're after a trophy catch or just want to feel the thrill of battling offshore giants, this trip's got something for every angler. We're talking about hooking into snappers, groupers, permits, and a whole lot more. So grab your sunscreen and let's get after it!

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're cruising out on a sweet 50-footer, the sun's warming your face, and you've got miles of prime fishing grounds ahead. That's what you're in for with Ana Banana Fishing Company. Captain Joel knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you're in for a day of non-stop action. We're not messing around with rinky-dink gear either - you'll be using top-notch tackle that can handle whatever decides to bite. From the moment you step on board until you're heading back to the dock with a cooler full of fish, you're in for a day you won't forget.

Techniques & Gear Rundown

Offshore fishing is a whole different ballgame, and we've got all the plays. Depending on what's biting, we might be trolling for pelagics, bottom fishing for grouper, or sight casting to cobia. Captain Joel's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, like using live bait to entice those big boys or dropping jigs for a more active approach. The Bertram's decked out with everything you need - from fish finders to outriggers. And let's not forget about the fighting chair - trust me, when you're hooked up to a big one, you'll be glad it's there!

Top Catches This Season

Alright, let's talk fish. Marathon's offshore waters are teeming with some real beauties. We've been hauling in some monster mutton snappers lately - these guys put up a great fight and make for some killer dinner. The permit fishing has been on fire too, especially around the wrecks. And if you're looking for a real adrenaline rush, we've been tangling with some beast bull sharks. Just last week, we had a customer land a 200-pounder after an epic 45-minute battle. Now that's what I call a fishing story!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Permit: These silver discs are the holy grail for many anglers. They're smart, spooky, and strong as hell. We usually find them cruising the wrecks and reefs, and when you hook one, hold on tight! They'll make blistering runs that'll have your drag screaming. Best time to target them is spring through fall.

Cobia: Also known as ling or lemonfish, these bruisers are a favorite around here. They love structure and often hang around wrecks or even sharks. Cobia can grow over 100 pounds and put up one heck of a fight. They're curious fish, so sight-casting to them can be a blast. Peak season is typically spring and fall.

Bull Shark: If you want to test your mettle against a true apex predator, bull sharks are your ticket. These guys are thick, muscular, and mean business. We often find them in shallower waters, which makes for an intense fight. They're around year-round, but summer tends to be prime time.

Mutton Snapper: Don't let their pretty pink color fool you - these snappers are tough customers. They love to hang around reefs and rocks, and they've got a knack for running straight for cover when hooked. Muttons can grow over 20 pounds and make for some of the best eating fish in the sea. They're biting all year, but really heat up in the summer months.

Spanish Mackerel: These speedsters are a blast to catch on light tackle. They travel in schools, so when you find them, it's often non-stop action. Spanish macks are known for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps. They're most abundant in the cooler months, from fall through spring.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, I've been running charters out of Marathon for years, and I'll tell you why folks keep booking with us. It's not just about the fish - although we catch plenty. It's about the whole package. You're out there on a top-notch boat, with gear that can handle anything from a frisky mackerel to a bulldozing shark. Captain Joel's not just some guy with a boat - he's a local legend who lives and breathes fishing. He'll put you on the fish, sure, but he'll also share stories, teach you new techniques, and make sure you're having a blast the whole time. And let's be real - there's nothing like that feeling when your rod bends double and line starts peeling off the reel. That's the kind of rush you can't get sitting on the couch!

Time to Book Your Spot

So what are you waiting for? The fish are out there, and they're not going to catch themselves. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time offshore, we've got you covered. Bring your buddies, bring your family, heck, bring your boss if you want to score some brownie points. Just remember, these trips fill up fast, especially during peak season. So if you're ready to make some memories (and maybe set a new personal best), give Ana Banana Fishing Company a call. We'll get you set up with everything you need for an epic day on the water. Just don't forget to bring a camera - you're gonna want proof when you're telling your fish stories later!

Learn more about the species

Bull Shark

Mutton Snappers are the prize catch of our reefs. These olive-colored beauties can grow up to 20 inches long, with adults hitting weights of 15-20 pounds. You'll find them hanging around rocky areas and coral reefs, typically in depths of 130-230 feet. They're loners, so spotting one often means there's more nearby. Anglers love Muttons for their hard fights and excellent table fare. Spring and early summer are prime times, especially during their spawning runs. To land one, use fresh bait and a light touch. Here's a local secret: let your bait drift in the chum slick with minimal weight. Muttons can't resist it. When you hook one, be ready for a battle – they'll try to dive back into structure. The real thrill is seeing that flash of pink as you reel them up through clear blue water. It's a sight that never gets old.

Cobia

Bull Sharks are the bruisers of our coastal waters. These stocky predators typically run 8-12 feet long and can weigh up to 300 pounds. You'll find them in shallow, warm waters year-round, but they're especially active in summer. Bull Sharks are unique – they can handle both salt and freshwater, so don't be surprised to spot one in rivers or estuaries. Anglers target them for their powerful fights and the sheer thrill of landing a shark. To hook one, use heavy tackle and natural baits like whole fish or cut mackerel. Here's a tip: try freshwater eel as bait. The high oil content drives Bulls wild. Remember, these aren't beginner's fish. They're strong, aggressive, and need careful handling. We practice catch and release to keep populations healthy. It's all about the experience and the story you'll tell later.

Mutton Snapper

Cobia are the wanderers of our waters. These sleek, dark-brown fish can reach 6 feet and tip the scales at 100 pounds. You'll find them around reefs, wrecks, and buoys, usually in 30-70 feet of water. They're most active here from late spring through fall, often spotted near the surface. Anglers prize Cobia for their powerful fights and excellent eating. To catch one, try sight fishing with bucktail jigs or live bait. Here's a pro tip: look for them following large rays or sharks – they often tag along for easy meals. When you hook a Cobia, be ready for long runs and acrobatic jumps. They're not called "crab eaters" for nothing – they're tough and won't give up easily. The meat is firm and delicious, making them a favorite for the dinner table too. Just remember, they grow slowly, so we're careful about how many we take.

Permit

Spanish Mackerel are sleek, speedy fish that'll give you a run for your money. These silver bullets with yellow spots usually run 1-2 feet long and weigh 8-11 pounds. You'll find them in schools near the surface, often around structures in open water. They're most active in warmer months, coming closer to shore as the water heats up. Anglers love 'em for their fast-paced action and tasty meat. To hook one, try trolling or drifting with light tackle. Use shiny spoons or live bait like sardines or mullet. Here's a local trick: when you spot a school, don't charge in. Drift quietly and cast just beyond them – Spanish Mackerel spook easy. They're not just fun to catch; they're delicious too. Grill 'em up for a mild, flaky treat packed with omega-3s. Just remember to check regulations, as we've had to limit catches to keep populations healthy.

Spanish Mackerel

Permit are the holy grail for many anglers. These silver discs with deeply forked tails typically run 2-3 feet long and can weigh up to 60 pounds. You'll find them tailing on shallow flats or hanging around offshore wrecks. They're here year-round, but spring and summer are prime time when they gather to spawn. Permit are famous for being picky eaters and incredibly strong fighters. To hook one, you need patience and precision. Live crabs are the go-to bait, but fly fishers love the challenge of fooling them with crab imitations. Here's an insider tip: watch for their fins breaking the surface on calm days – it's a dead giveaway. When you hook up, hold on tight. Permit will make blistering runs and use their broad sides to fight the current. Landing one is a true accomplishment, and most anglers practice catch and release to keep the challenge alive for others.

About the Ana Banana Fishing Company

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Detroit Diesel

Maximum Cruising Speed: 20

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 450

Get ready for an awesome day out on the water with Captain Joel and the Ana Banana Fishing Company in Marathon, FL. You'll be cruising on a sweet 50ft Bertram, fully decked out with all the gear you need to reel in some impressive catches. Whether you're after snappers, groupers, permits, or other local species, Captain Joel knows all the best spots to maximize your chances. With room for up to 6 people, it's perfect for a fun trip with friends or family. The clear blue waters around Marathon are teeming with fish, so expect plenty of action as you try your luck offshore. Don't forget your camera - you'll want to capture the moment you land that big one! Just keep in mind that deposits can't be refunded, so make sure you're good to go before booking. Get ready for an amazing day of fishing in one of Florida's most beautiful locations.

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