Marathon's Inshore Fishing Gems with Ana Banana

Marathon's Best Fishing: 4-10 Hour Adventures

Get ready to hit the waters of Marathon, FL for some of the best fishing the Florida Keys has to offer. Captain Joel Brandenburg of Ana Banana Fishing Company knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's itching to get you on some monster fish. Whether you're looking for a quick 4-hour trip or want to make a full day of it with a 10-hour excursion, we've got you covered. We're talking about hooking into bull sharks that'll make your arms ache, cobia that'll test your stamina, and permit that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's get after it!

What to Expect on the Water

When you step aboard with Captain Joel, you're in for a treat. He'll have the boat stocked with all the gear you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. We can accommodate up to 6 anglers, so bring your buddies or the whole family. As we cruise out of Marathon, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, sea turtles, and maybe even a manatee or two. Once we hit our fishing grounds, it's game on. We'll be targeting a mix of species, so be ready for anything from the hard-fighting bull shark to the tasty mutton snapper. Captain Joel's got a knack for putting clients on fish, so listen up and get ready to reel 'em in!

Techniques That Land the Big Ones

Fishing in Marathon isn't just about dropping a line and hoping for the best. We use a variety of techniques to maximize your chances of landing a trophy. For permit and cobia, we might do some sight fishing, scanning the flats and wrecks for those telltale shadows. When we're after bull sharks, we'll likely set up a chum slick and use heavy tackle to battle these beasts. For Spanish mackerel, trolling with Clark spoons or small lures can be deadly effective. And when it comes to mutton snapper, bottom fishing with live bait is often the ticket. Captain Joel will walk you through each method, so even if you're new to fishing, you'll be jigging and casting like a pro in no time.

Top Catches This Season

Let me tell you, the fishing in Marathon has been on fire lately. We've had clients pulling in bull sharks pushing 300 pounds, cobia so big they barely fit in the cooler, and permit that'll make you the envy of the dock. Just last week, a group from Ohio hooked into a school of Spanish mackerel that had their arms burning and smiles plastered on their faces. And don't even get me started on the mutton snapper – we've been finding some real beauties that make for some of the best eating you'll ever have. Remember, half the fun is in the fight, but there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of bringing home dinner for the family.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Bull Shark: These bad boys are the heavyweight champs of our inshore waters. Growing up to 8 feet long and weighing in at 300+ pounds, hooking a bull shark is like picking a fight with a Mack truck. They're around all year, but summer is prime time. When that line starts screaming and the rod bends double, hold on tight – you're in for the battle of a lifetime!

Cobia: Also known as ling or lemonfish, cobia are like the marathoners of the sea. They're strong, they're fast, and they don't know when to quit. We typically see them from spring through fall, often hanging around structures or following big rays. They can grow over 100 pounds, and trust me, every ounce of that is pure muscle. The fight is awesome, and the meat is even better – firm, white, and delicious.

Permit: If there's a holy grail of flats fishing, it's the permit. These wary fish are notoriously difficult to catch, which is exactly why anglers go nuts for them. They've got excellent eyesight and they're picky eaters, so landing one is a real feather in your cap. Spring and summer are your best bet for permit. When you see that forked tail cutting through the water, get ready for some heart-pounding action.

Mutton Snapper: Don't let the name fool you – there's nothing sheepish about mutton snapper. These gorgeous red and yellow fish are prized for their fight and their flavor. They love structure, so we often find them around reefs and wrecks. They're around all year, but they really turn on during the summer months. When you hook one, be ready for some strong, determined runs before you can get them to the boat.

Spanish Mackerel: If you want non-stop action, Spanish mackerel are your ticket. These speedsters travel in schools, and when you find them, it's often fish after fish. They're here in the cooler months, usually from fall through spring. Light tackle and fast retrieves are the name of the game. They might not be the biggest fish in the sea, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and taste – they're excellent on the grill!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks, I've been running charters in Marathon for years, and let me tell you, there's a reason why people keep coming back. It's not just about the fish – although, hot damn, the fishing is good. It's about the whole package. The crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys stretching out as far as the eye can see. The excitement of never knowing what might grab your line next. The camaraderie that comes from sharing a boat and swapping stories. And let's not forget the bragging rights when you land that monster fish you've been dreaming about.

Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to test your skills against some of the toughest fighters in the sea, or a newbie just looking to dip your toes into the world of offshore fishing, we've got you covered. Captain Joel's got the patience of a saint and the knowledge of a local encyclopedia. He'll make sure you're not just fishing, but catching. And at the end of the day, when you're heading back to the dock with a cooler full of fish and a camera full of memories, you'll understand why Marathon is a top-rated fishing destination.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, anglers, you've heard the pitch, now it's time to grab your spot on the boat. Whether you're looking for a quick 4-hour trip to squeeze in between other Keys activities, or you want to go all-in with a full 10-hour day on the water, Ana Banana Fishing Company has got you covered. Remember, we can take up to 6 people, so bring the whole crew. Just keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable – but trust me, once you're out there battling bull sharks and reeling in cobia, you won't be thinking about refunds.

Don't let another season go by without experiencing the world-class fishing Marathon has to offer. The fish are biting, the sun is shining, and Captain Joel is ready to put you on the catch of a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call, book your trip, and get ready for an adventure you'll be talking about for years to come. The big ones are out there – let's go get 'em!