Backcountry Fishing Charters in Marathon, Florida

Call or Text: (786) 508-2483

The backcountry waters of the Florida Keys are a fishing paradise unlike anywhere else in the world. While often confused with flats fishing, backcountry fishing focuses on targeting species like Snook, Redfish, Tarpon, and Speckled Sea Trout in calm, shallow, and remote areas tucked away from the open ocean. At Angling Adventures in Marathon, Captain Rich Smith has spent a lifetime exploring these hidden waterways—guiding anglers of all skill levels to unforgettable catches. Whether you’re an expert looking for a trophy fish or a family wanting a fun, relaxing day on the water, backcountry fishing is an adventure everyone can enjoy.

Backcountry Fishing Charter Options & Pricing

Half-Day Charter (4 Hours)
Great introduction to backcountry fishing. Perfect for targeting specific species in shallow, protected waters. Ideal for families or anglers with limited time.

3/4-Day Charter (6 Hours) ⭐ Most Popular
Our recommended option for serious backcountry fishing. Enough time to explore multiple hidden waterways, target different species, and experience the full adventure. Perfect balance of exploration and fishing action.

Full-Day Charter (8 Hours)
Maximum time on the water for the ultimate backcountry experience. Explore remote areas, target multiple species throughout the day, and enjoy the pristine wilderness. Perfect for experienced anglers wanting comprehensive coverage.

For pricing and availability, visit our Booking & Reservation Page →

The Marathon Backcountry Fishing Season: When to Book

Year-Round Fishing Playground
One of the best parts about backcountry fishing in the Florida Keys is that it’s productive all year long. Depending on the season, you might find yourself chasing tailing Redfish in the fall, Tarpon rolling at sunrise in the spring, or schools of Jacks busting bait in the summer. Every month offers a unique mix of species and fishing opportunities.

Seasonal Highlights
Different species peak at different times throughout the year, ensuring consistent action regardless of when you visit. The protected backcountry waters provide excellent fishing even when offshore conditions are rough.

Why Captain Rich Smith is Your Best Bet for Backcountry Fishing

Authentic Florida Keys Backcountry Adventures
Captain Rich doesn’t just run fishing trips—he delivers authentic Florida Keys backcountry adventures. His deep knowledge of tides, wind, and seasonal fish patterns means you’ll be in the right place at the right time for the best chance at landing your dream catch.

Lifetime of Exploring Hidden Waterways
After spending a lifetime exploring these hidden waterways in Marathon, Captain Rich knows exactly where to find fish based on conditions. Whether you’re a hardcore angler looking to sight-cast a fly to a tailing Permit or a first-time fisherman wanting the thrill of your first Redfish, this is your chance to fish some of the most untouched and beautiful waters in the country.

Shallow Water Expertise
Most of our backcountry spots are less than six feet deep, making for an exciting and intimate fishing experience. Don’t let the shallow water fool you—these waters hold big fish, including Tarpon over 100 lbs that will test your skills and stamina.

What Makes Backcountry Fishing Special

The backcountry waters offer calm, shallow, and remote areas tucked away from the open ocean. Species we target in the backcountry:

Snook
Aggressive ambush predators that thrive in backcountry mangroves and channels. These hard-fighting fish provide explosive strikes in shallow water.

Redfish
Powerful fish known for their distinctive tail-wagging behavior. Sight-casting to tailing Redfish in the fall is an unforgettable experience.

Tarpon
The Silver King of backcountry waters. Tarpon over 100 lbs test your skills and stamina in shallow, protected environments. Watch them roll at sunrise in the spring.

Permit
The ultimate challenge for sight-casting anglers. Finding and hooking a Permit in backcountry waters is one of fishing’s greatest achievements.

Speckled Sea Trout
Great targets for light tackle fishing. These spotted beauties provide consistent action and excellent table fare.

Barracuda
Aggressive predators perfect for visual strikes and explosive action. These toothy fish add excitement to any backcountry trip.

Jacks
Schools of Jacks busting bait in the summer provide non-stop action. Hard-fighting fish that test your tackle on light gear.

And More Depending on the Season
The backcountry’s diversity means new opportunities throughout the year. Every trip offers different species and experiences.

Logistics: Boats, Location, and What to Expect

Our Backcountry Fishing Fleet

18′ Flats Skiff (1-2 Anglers)
Purpose-built for shallow backcountry waters. Gets into skinny water less than six feet deep where big fish hide. Perfect for serious anglers wanting an intimate fishing experience.

23′ Bay Boat (1-4 Anglers)
Comfortable platform for families and small groups. Perfect for exploring backcountry while maintaining comfort. Great all-around option for various skill levels.

Backcountry Fishing Techniques

Light Tackle Spinning Gear:

• 10-50 lb braided lines for precision and power
• Perfect for fighting big fish in shallow water
• Sight-casting to visible fish
• Intimate fishing experience

Fly Fishing:

• Top-quality gear available (advance notice required)
• Sight-casting in true stalking style
• Ultimate challenge for experienced anglers
• Test your skills on trophy fish in shallow water

Shallow Water Advantages:

• Most spots less than six feet deep
• Exciting and intimate fishing experience
• Big fish in shallow water (Tarpon over 100 lbs)
• Visual fishing for incredible photo opportunities

What’s Provided:
All fishing gear, tackle, lures, bait, licenses, cooler with ice

What to Bring:
Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses (essential), hat, camera, rain jacket, food and drinks. Check our Getting Prepared page for a complete packing list.

Wildlife Encounters

It’s not just about the fish—the wildlife encounters are just as memorable. On any given trip, you may spot:

• American Alligators & Saltwater Crocodiles
• Manatees gracefully drifting by
• Dolphins playing in the channels
• A variety of coastal birds like Ospreys, Egrets, and Herons

Departure Point

Angling Adventures
Island Fish Company Restaurant
Mile Marker 54, Oceanside
Marathon, FL 33050

Get Directions on Google Maps →

Marathon’s location provides perfect access to pristine backcountry waters throughout the Middle Florida Keys.

Backcountry Fishing FAQ

What species can we catch?
Snook, Redfish, Tarpon, Permit, Speckled Sea Trout, Barracuda, Jacks, and more depending on the season. The backcountry’s diversity ensures varied opportunities throughout the year.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses (absolutely essential), hat, camera, rain jacket, food and drinks. We provide all fishing equipment, licenses, and tackle. Check our Getting Prepared page for a complete list.

Are fishing licenses included?
Yes. All Florida fishing licenses are covered under your charter.

Do I need backcountry fishing experience?
Not at all! We welcome anglers of all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. Whether you’re an expert or a family wanting a fun day, backcountry fishing is an adventure everyone can enjoy.

Is backcountry fishing family-friendly?
Absolutely! The calm, shallow, protected waters make backcountry fishing perfect for families. Kids love the wildlife encounters and the excitement of sight-casting in crystal-clear water.

What’s the best time of year for backcountry fishing?
All year long! Fall brings tailing Redfish, spring offers Tarpon rolling at sunrise, summer features schools of Jacks busting bait. Every month offers unique opportunities.

Can we fish with fly rods?
Yes! We can outfit you with top-quality fly gear (advance notice required). Backcountry waters offer excellent sight-casting opportunities for fly anglers wanting to stalk fish in true stalking style.

How shallow is the backcountry water?
Most spots are less than six feet deep, making for an exciting and intimate fishing experience. Don’t let the shallow water fool you—these waters hold big fish, including Tarpon over 100 lbs.

What wildlife will we see?
American Alligators, Saltwater Crocodiles, Manatees, Dolphins, Ospreys, Egrets, Herons, and various other coastal wildlife. The backcountry offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities beyond just fishing.

The Backcountry Experience

Backcountry fishing offers a unique combination of pristine wilderness, shallow water excitement, and diverse species opportunities. The calm, protected waters make it perfect for all skill levels while still holding trophy-sized fish that challenge even experienced anglers.

Hidden waterways tucked away from the open ocean provide an intimate fishing experience you won’t find anywhere else. From sight-casting to tailing Redfish to watching 100+ lb Tarpon roll at sunrise, every moment in the backcountry delivers authentic Florida Keys adventure.

See the Action: Watch More Epic Videos

Watch More Epic Videos →

Additional Backcountry Resources

For more information about specific backcountry species and techniques, explore our specialized fishing pages. Each type of fishing offers unique opportunities in Marathon’s pristine backcountry waters.

Book Your Marathon Backcountry Fishing Trip Today!

Explore the untamed backcountry of the Florida Keys. Hidden waterways, shallow water big fish, and year-round opportunities await. From sight-casting to tailing Redfish to battling 100+ lb Tarpon in less than six feet of water, backcountry fishing delivers authentic Florida Keys adventures. Perfect for all skill levels, from hardcore anglers to families wanting a relaxing day on pristine waters.

Call or Text: (786) 508-2483
Email: info@captainrichsmith.com

Visit our Booking & Reservation Page for pricing and availability.

Check our Getting Prepared page for what to bring on your trip.

Final Thoughts

Marathon’s backcountry waters represent some of the most pristine and productive fishing environments in the world. The combination of shallow water, diverse species, abundant wildlife, and expert guidance creates unforgettable experiences for anglers of all levels.

Related Fishing Charters

• Marathon Snook Fishing – Backcountry snook
• Marathon Tarpon Fishing – Backcountry tarpon
• Flats Fishing – Shallow flats fishing
• Everglades Backcountry Fishing – Extended backcountry
• All Types of Fishing