Full-Day 8-Hour Fishing Charters

If you’re a die-hard angler ready to make the most of your Florida Keys adventure, our full-day 8-hour trip is for you. These trips are perfect for experienced fishermen who want to venture far from the dock in search of bigger fish and more challenging action.

On some days, we travel over 50 miles across the water, hitting multiple hot spots and chasing the species that make the Florida Keys famous.

Types of Fishing You Can Experience

1. Gulf Wreck Fishing

Target: Mangrove Snapper, Mutton Snapper, Yellowtail Snapper, Jacks, Grouper, and Goliath Grouper.

Expect powerful fights and the thrill of pulling fish up from deep wrecks and structures.

2. Everglades Backcountry Fishing

Target: Snook, Redfish, Tarpon, and Trout.

Fish the pristine, winding channels of the Everglades for a more scenic—and often action-packed—experience.

3. Combination Trip: Reef & Shark

Start by catching dinner-worthy species like Mangrove Snapper, Yellowtail Snapper, and Grouper.

Then, switch gears and sight-fish for 4–10 foot sharks in just 3 feet of crystal-clear water.

This trip is perfect for anglers who want both fresh fish for the table and the thrill of battling a true predator.

Trip Schedule

Start Time: Usually between 6:00 – 8:00 AM

Why so early? With so much to do, an early start ensures we have enough daylight to explore all our fishing opportunities.

Meeting Location

📍 Island Fish Company Restaurant

12648 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Mile Marker 54, Bayside

What’s Included

All fishing licenses

Live bait, lures, or flies

Rods, reels, and tackle

Cooler with ice for your drinks

Everything you need for a successful day of fishing

What to Bring

Food and drinks

Hat and polarized sunglasses (a must for sight fishing)

Sunscreen

Rain gear if needed

Camera for those trophy shots

Containers to transport your catch (if you plan on keeping fish)

Please do not bring large coolers—space is limited. Small soft coolers can usually be stored in a hatch.

Keeping Fish to Eat

Want to keep a few fish for dinner? No problem. We’re happy to clean your catch free of charge.

Catch & Release Philosophy

While we enjoy fresh fish, most of our trips focus on Catch & Release to preserve the fishery for future generations.

Protected species that are always released include:

Tarpon

Bonefish

Snook

Redfish

Permit

Goliath Grouper

Sharks

If your goal is to “limit out” and fill a cooler, we may not be the right fit—but if you’re after unforgettable fights, world-class species, and sustainable fishing, you’ve found your charter.

Where to Grab Food for Your Fishing Charter in Marathon, Florida

A day on the water calls for plenty of energy—and that means bringing along the right food and drinks. Here in Marathon, Florida, we have a few favorite local spots that are perfect for stocking up before your fishing charter with Captain Rich Smith.

1. Publix Supermarket – Prepared Meals & Snacks

Publix is our top recommendation for fishing trip provisions. They’re famous for their crispy fried chicken, fresh handmade subs, and a wide selection of grab-and-go snacks. You can also find drinks, fruit, chips, and just about anything else you’ll need for your day on the water.

Pro Tip: Order ahead through the Publix app to save time. Mornings can be very slow at this location, so we strongly recommend getting your food and drinks the day before to ensure we leave the dock on time.

📍 Address: 5407 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

📞 Phone: (305) 289-2920

2. Marathon Bagel Co. – Fresh Breakfast & Sandwiches

If you’re looking for fresh bagels, breakfast sandwiches, or lunch wraps, Marathon Bagel Co. is a fantastic choice. Everything is made fresh, and they’re known for their great coffee too.

Pro Tip: Order ahead—this place is popular, especially in the mornings.

📍 Address: 11090 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

📞 Phone: (305) 517-6393

🌐 Menu: marathonbagelco.com

3. King’s Seafood – The Famous Cuban Sandwich

If you’re in the mood for something flavorful, King’s Seafood makes an incredible Cuban sandwich—perfect for taking on the boat. They also have other delicious seafood options and sides to round out your cooler.

📍 Address: 10925 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

📞 Phone: (305) 735-4132

Our Advice for a Smooth Start

-Order ahead whenever possible.

-Pick up your food the day before your charter to avoid morning delays.

-Pack drinks and snacks to keep your energy up throughout the trip.

By planning ahead, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your day fishing without any last-minute rush.