Ready for some serious offshore action in the Florida Keys? Look no further than our 6-7 hour trip out of Marathon. We're talking big game fishing at its finest, targeting those hard-fighting mahi mahi and tasty tuna. It's not just fishing - it's a full-on hunt on the high seas. Fair warning: the fish aren't the only ones who might get hooked. Once you experience the rush of battling these offshore giants, you might find yourself coming back for more!
Picture this: You're cruising out past the reef line, the Miami skyline fading behind you. The deep blue of the Gulf Stream stretches out in all directions. That's when things get real. We'll be using a mix of trolling and live bait tactics to target the pelagic predators that call these waters home. Mahi mahi (also known as dorado or dolphin fish) are the showstoppers - they're known for their acrobatic fights and stunning colors. Then there's the tuna - yellowfin and blackfin - which will test your stamina and reward you with some of the best sushi-grade meat you've ever tasted. Just remember, it's called fishing, not catching - but we'll do our darndest to put you on the fish.
This ain't your grandpa's fishing trip. We're running state-of-the-art gear and electronics to find the fish and give you the best shot at landing a trophy. We'll be using a combination of techniques depending on what's biting. Expect to do some trolling with spreader bars and cedar plugs to cover ground and locate the schools. Once we're on the fish, we might switch to live bait - nothing gets a big mahi fired up like a frisky goggle-eye dangling in front of its nose. For the tuna, chunking with cut bait can be deadly effective. Don't worry if you're new to this kind of fishing - Capt. Alex will show you the ropes and have you working the gear like a pro in no time.
Mahi Mahi: These are the rock stars of offshore fishing. Also known as dorado or dolphinfish, mahi are famous for their electric blue and gold coloration. They're fast-growing and can reach sizes over 50 pounds, though 15-30 pounders are more common. Mahi are surface feeders and love to hang around floating debris and weedlines. When you hook one, be ready for an aerial show - they're known for their spectacular leaps and runs. The meat is mild and delicious, perfect for grilling or making fish tacos.
Yellowfin Tuna: The heavyweight champion of our offshore waters. Yellowfin can grow to over 200 pounds, though 30-80 pounders are more typical on our charters. These fish are built for speed and endurance - hooking one is like being tied to a freight train. They often travel in schools, so when we find them, the action can be fast and furious. Yellowfin are prized for their rich, red meat that's perfect for sashimi or seared rare on the grill.
Blackfin Tuna: The smaller cousin of the yellowfin, blackfin typically range from 15-30 pounds. What they lack in size, they make up for in numbers and fight. These guys often school up in big numbers, which can lead to some crazy multiple hookups. Blackfin meat is similar to yellowfin but with a slightly stronger flavor. They're excellent eating whether you're grilling, smoking, or enjoying them raw.
Look, I could go on all day about the fish, but it's more than that. It's about the experience of being out there on the open ocean, miles from shore, with nothing but blue water in every direction. It's the anticipation as the outriggers start to bounce and the reels start screaming. It's the satisfaction of working as a team to land a fish bigger than you are. And let's be real - it's also about coming home with a cooler full of some of the best-eating fish in the sea. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time offshore, there's something special about fishing these waters that keeps folks coming back year after year.
Alright, let's talk logistics. This trip runs 6-7 hours, which gives us plenty of time to get out to the good fishing grounds and put in some serious fishing time. We can take up to 4 anglers, so it's perfect for a group of friends or family. Now, here's the deal with fuel - it's not included in the base price. We typically burn through 40-50 gallons on a trip like this, so factor that into your budget. Trust me, it's worth it when you're hooked up to a 50-pound mahi or a school of hungry tuna. We don't provide meals on board, so pack a cooler with snacks and drinks to keep you fueled up for the day.
If you're still reading this, chances are you're already imagining yourself out there on the water, rod bent double, fighting the fish of a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Spots on these trips fill up fast, especially during peak season. Give Capt. Alex a call and lock in your date. Whether you're a die-hard angler or just looking for a day of adventure on the water, this trip delivers. Just remember to bring your A-game, a good attitude, and maybe some seasickness pills if you're prone to getting green around the gills. The big ones are out there waiting - let's go catch 'em!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 175