Sportfishing in Marathon, Florida
Sportfishing in the Florida keys out of White Marlin Marina, Marathon with Captain Jeff Shelar.
With over 20 years experience, captain Jeff has made the Florida Keys his home and place of work. Fishing aboard the “Catch ‘Em All”, a 2006 custom Stamas 290 tarpon, she boasts twin 250hp Yamaha 4 stroke engines, providing you with a quick, quiet, reliable and most importantly, a smoke free ride to the Marathon keys fishing grounds.
All tackle, rigs, lures and terminal gear are top of the line, and Captain Jeff is continuously testing cutting edge lure and tackle technology in order to stay ahead of the sportfishing game and outsmart the fish.
What fish species can I expect to find in Marathon?
Fishing from Marathon you can expect to find Dolphinfish (Mahi-mahi), Amberjack, Blackfin Tuna, Blue Marlin, the almighty Goliath Groupers, Sailfish, Sharks, Tarpon, Wahoo, White Marlin, and Yellowfin Tuna, along with many more species.
All species will vary depending on the type of fishing charter booked, which include Reef Fishing, Offshore Fishing, Wreck Fishing/ Deep Sea or Tarpon Fishing.
Tarpon Fishing
Tarpon fishing offers the opportunity to put anglers to the ultimate test. Who will get tired first? You or the fish? Tarpon are incredible with their prehistoric design, huge scales and are even equipped with lungs to gulp oxygen at the surface and get more fuel for high-speed runs and acrobatic leaps.
Wreck Fishing / Deep Sea
Marathon Florida is home to many Sunken wrecks and airplanes. These artificial reefs are the home to many large species of fish. Captain Jeff can help you target these bottom dwelling monsters such as Amberjack, Grouper, fully grown Snapper and even huge Sharks. Add a Deep Sea option as well, and hunt for the monsters of the deep in over a thousand feet of water!
Offshore Fishing
Offshore fishing is extremely popular in the Florida Keys as it is exciting and this fishing entails hunting for pelagic species such as Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Tuna and more.
Reef Fishing
Reef fishing is a great way to get beginners and kids out on the water. It is also the best option if you have a limited budget. With reef fishing you can spend a half day on the water, catch delicious fresh fish and be back on land by lunchtime.
Do I need to bring any tackle or bait with me to Marathon?
You will be provided with top of the line Shimano rods and reels, so there is no need to bring any equipment with you. Captain Jeff has invested in some of the best equipment available to ensure that once you hook up to a leviathan the only thing that you will have to worry about is the back and arm ache whilst reeling it in!
Will I get a fishing guide in Marathon?
Yes, you will be fishing with Captain Jeff Shelar, who has over 20 years fishing experience, and who is, in our opinion, one of the hardest working skippers in this area. Even when not fishing, you will find Captain Jeff cleaning his boat, maintaining his tackle or out catching live bait for his next trip.
What is the accommodation like in Marathon?
There is no dedicated accommodation for this trip, so you will need to book accommodation local to the area. We are able to provide you with details of places to stay if you choose to fish with Captain Jeff.
What else is there to do in Marathon?
Located in Marathon, there is an abundance of attractions nearby, from the Turtle Hospital, the famous Seven Mile Bridge, Crane Point Museum & Nature Centre, The Dolphin Research Centre, the list goes on and on so if you choose to add additional days to your accommodation you will find plenty to keep you entertained.
Is food and drink included with my booking at Marathon?
No food or drink is included with this trip. Anglers must provide their own food and drink whilst on board for the day, and there are plenty of local restaurants and bars nearby to keep you satisfied when back on dry land.
How do I get to Marathon?
The best place to fly in to is Key west, and then after hiring a car, Marathon is just over an hours drive from the airport depending on the local traffic.
Alternatively you can choose to fly in to Fort Lauderdale or Miami and drive from these areas. Many anglers often choose to add a few extra days at the beginning or end of their trips when flying in to these destinations to take advantage of seeing more local attractions whilst in the area.
We do not provide flights but can advise you on routes and can also put you in touch with our recommended agent who will be able to find you the best price and arrange these on your behalf if required.