Florida Keys Fishing Charter FAQ

Everything you need to know before booking your fishing trip in Marathon, Florida Keys.

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Fishing Regulations & Licenses

 

Do I need a fishing license in the Florida Keys?

No — when you fish with Angling Adventures and Captain Rich Smith, your fishing license is included in the trip. Our Florida state-issued charter permit covers all guests onboard, so you don’t need to purchase anything extra. If you choose to fish on your own time yes, you do need a fishing license to fish in Saltwater & Freshwater. You can purchase one from a local Bait and Tackle Shop or by visiting the FWC Website.

Are there size or bag limits for the fish we catch?

Yes — Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations apply. We always fish within legal limits.

Can I keep the fish I catch?

Yes — as long as the fish meets legal size and season regulations. We will fillet and bag your catch for free. Many local restaurants, including Island Fish Company, offer “cook your catch” services.

Do you offer catch-and-release fishing?

Yes — especially for sport fish like tarpon, bonefish, permit, and shark species. Catch-and-release helps conserve our fishery for future generations.

Fish Species & Seasonal Information

 

What species of fish can I catch in the Florida Keys?

Depending on season and location, we target: Tarpon, Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Wahoo, Tuna, Grouper, Snapper, Permit, Cobia, Amberjack, Bonefish, Sharks, and more.

What is the best time of year to fish in the Florida Keys?

Fishing is great year-round, but certain species peak in specific seasons:

  • Tarpon – March through June (peak migration during Spring Tarpon Season)
  • Mahi Mahi (Dolphin Fish) – April through August
  • Sailfish – December through March
  • Snapper & Grouper – Year-round, but especially good in spring and summer

If you have a dream fish in mind, we can recommend the best month to target it.

Best time to catch tarpon in Marathon, Florida Keys?

The absolute best time is mid-March through early June during the annual tarpon migration. However, juvenile tarpon can be caught year-round in warm, calm conditions in the backcountry.

What fish are biting right now in the Florida Keys?

Fishing changes with the seasons. Check our monthly Florida Keys Fishing Reports for up-to-date details on species and hotspots.

Do Florida Keys fishing charters run year-round?

Yes — we fish all year, adjusting our target species and locations with the seasons.

What’s the biggest fish I can catch in the Florida Keys?

Possibilities include:

  • Tarpon over 150 lbs
  • Goliath Grouper over 400 lbs
  • Sharks over 8 feet
  • Offshore pelagics like blue marlin, sailfish, and tuna

Charter Types & Trip Options

 

What types of fishing charters do you offer in Marathon, FL?

  • Offshore Fishing – Mahi, Tuna, Sailfish, Wahoo
  • Wreck & Reef Fishing – Snapper, Grouper, Permit, Amberjack
  • Backcountry & Flats Fishing – Tarpon, Bonefish, Snook, Redfish, Jacks, Barracudas, Sharks
  • Shark Fishing – Blacktip, Lemon, Bull, Tiger, Nurse, are all year and lots of them here!

How long are fishing trips in the Florida Keys?

Common options:

  • 4 Hours – Half-day
  • 6 Hours – 3/4 day
  • 8 Hours – Full-day
  • Specialty Trips – 3-4 hours for sunrise/sunset tarpon fishing

Do you offer half-day and full-day trips?

Yes — common options include 4-hour, 6-hour, and 8-hour trips. We also offer specialty sunrise/sunset trips for tarpon and shark fishing.

Do you offer fly fishing charters?

Yes — we have specialized flats and backcountry trips for bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook and more.

Do you offer night fishing trips?

Yes — we run night trips for tarpon fishing during peak seasons.

Can we target multiple species in one trip?

Yes — depending on time and conditions, we can target a mix of inshore, reef, wreck, or offshore species.

How far offshore do you go?

  • Reef & Wreck Fishing – 5–15 miles offshore
  • Offshore Pelagics – 10–40+ miles
  • Backcountry & Flats – 0–5 miles from shore

Booking & Reservations

 

How far in advance should I book my Florida Keys fishing charter?

For peak seasons (March–June for tarpon, April–August for mahi mahi), we recommend booking at least 4–6 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and time. Off-season bookings are usually more flexible.

Do you require a deposit to book a trip?

Yes — we require a small deposit to confirm your reservation. This ensures your date is locked in and the boat is ready for your trip.

What happens if I need to cancel my fishing trip?

We understand plans can change. If you cancel outside of 30 days before your trip, your deposit can be applied toward a future trip or refunded according to whatever works best for the customer.

How many people can join a fishing charter?

Most of our boats are licensed for up to 6 passengers by the U.S. Coast Guard. For optimal comfort and fishing efficiency, we recommend:

  • Offshore trips: 1-6 anglers
  • Flats/backcountry trips: 1–3 anglers

Do you offer private fishing charters?

Yes — all of our trips are private, meaning you won’t be paired with strangers. This allows us to customize the day to your preferences.

Can I share a fishing charter with other anglers to split the cost?

We currently do not offer split charters, but we can refer you to local options if you’re looking to join a group trip.

Pricing & What’s Included

 

How much does a fishing charter cost in Marathon, Florida Keys?

Prices vary by trip type, boat size, and duration:

  • Half-Day Trips (4 Hours) – Starting around $700–$900
  • Full-Day Reef (8 Hours) – $800–$1,400 depending on Bay Boats or Center Consoles
  • Full-Day Offshore (8 Hours) – $1,000-$2,500 depending on exact type of boat

Call for exact pricing and seasonal specials.

What’s included in the price of a fishing charter?

All trips include:

  • Professional licensed captain
  • All fishing gear, bait, and tackle
  • Cooler with ice and bottled water
  • All fishing licenses and permits
  • Filleting and bagging of your catch

Do you provide all bait and tackle?

Yes — we supply everything you need, including live bait, cut bait, lures, and fly fishing gear when requested.

Can I bring my own fishing gear on the charter?

Yes — you’re welcome to bring your own rods, reels, and tackle if you prefer. Please let us know before you arrive so we can make sure we know to leave extra space for your gear.

Trip Preparation & What to Bring

 

What should I bring on my Florida Keys fishing trip?

We provide:

  • All fishing gear & bait
  • Cooler with ice
  • Fishing licenses

You should bring:

  • Food & drinks
  • Sunscreen (non-spray type)
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Hat & lightweight clothing
  • Camera or GoPro

What should I wear for a fishing trip in the Florida Keys?

Lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, polarized sunglasses, and non-marking shoes are best. Bring a light jacket for early morning trips in cooler months.

Can kids go on Florida Keys fishing charters?

Absolutely! We specialize in family-friendly fishing trips and can tailor the day to match your child’s age and comfort level. Calm-water options, shorter trip lengths, and plenty of action keep the younger anglers engaged. Ages are totally up to the parents. We have actually had a few babies onboard and they did great. But that is a rare. Ages 3-5 are usually good for just a 4 hour trip. Ages 5 and above it all depends on the particular child. We fish lots of full day trips with ages 5 and above.

Is the fishing trip suitable for first-time anglers?

Absolutely! We guide anglers of all skill levels, from complete beginners to tournament pros.

Boat & Trip Experience

 

What kind of boats do you use?

  • 30′ – 36′ Center Consoles – Offshore & wreck trips
  • 23’ – 24′ Bay Boats – Inshore flats, Reef, Patch Reefs, Everglades
  • 18’ Flats Skiff – Shallow-water sight fishing in the backcountry

Will there be shade or a bathroom on the boat?

Our larger center console boats have shaded areas and some have marine restrooms. Flats skiffs and bay boats do not have bathrooms, but we can arrange quick stops if needed.

Do you allow alcohol on board?

Yes — moderate consumption is allowed. Please avoid glass bottles for safety.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Your safety is our top priority. If conditions are unsafe, we will reschedule or refund your trip. On windy days, we often fish in protected backcountry waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Your Captain watches the weather 24 hours a day. The Captain is the one who makes the call if we fish or not. Lightning is a very dangerous condition on the water. We do NOT leave the dock if lightning is present in the area. If a storm comes up while on a fishing trip we make every effort to keep our guests safe. We try to avoid rain when possible so the trip is more enjoyable.

Location & Logistics

 

Where do your fishing charters depart from in Marathon, FL?

We depart from Island Fish Company Restaurant, conveniently located in the middle of the Florida Keys. Address: 12648 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Is there parking available near the dock?

Yes — free parking is available in the overflow lot. A path leads directly to our boats so you do NOT need to walk through the restaurant.

How far is Marathon from Key West or Key Largo?

  • Key West – About 50 miles (1-hour drive)
  • Key Largo – About 50 miles (1-hour drive)

Do you provide transportation from hotels to the dock?

We do not currently provide shuttle service, but taxi and rideshare options are available locally.

Are there hotels or lodging nearby?

Yes — we can recommend local accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels.

Can you recommend restaurants that will cook my catch?

Yes — Island Fish Company and several other local restaurants offer “hook and cook” services.