½-Day Fishing Charters (4 Hours)

Our ½-day fishing trips are the most popular charters we offer in Marathon, Florida Keys. Perfect for families, first-time anglers, or anyone who wants a fun fishing adventure without taking up the entire day.

With most fishing spots just 5–15 minutes from the dock, you’ll spend more time catching fish and less time riding in the boat.

Types of Fishing We Offer

-Patch Reef Fishing – Target Mangrove Snapper, Yellowtail Snapper, and Jacks.

-Nearshore Wreck Fishing – Catch Mangrove Snapper, Mutton Snapper, Jacks, and Grouper.

-Bottom Fishing – Go after Snapper, Mutton Snapper, Yellowtail, Jacks, and Grouper.

-Winter/Spring Gulf of Mexico Fishing – Mackerel, Snapper, and Jacks.

-Shallow Water Sight-Fishing – Hunt Sharks on the flats in just 3 feet of water.

-Live Bait Tarpon Trips (April–June) – Fish for giant Tarpon near Bahia Honda Bridge.

Trip Times

-Morning Charters: Depart between 7:00–8:00 AM

-Afternoon Charters: Depart between 12:00–1:00 PM

Meeting Location

Island Fish Company Restaurant & Marina

12648 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Mile Marker 54 Bayside

What’s Included

We provide everything you need for a successful trip:

-All fishing licenses

-Live bait, lures, or flies

-Rods, reels, and tackle

-Cooler with ice for your drinks

-All other fishing essentials

What to Bring

-Food and drinks

-Hat and polarized sunglasses

-Sunscreen (Please NO SPRAY SUNSCREEN)

-Rain gear (if needed)

-Camera

-Small soft cooler (optional – hard coolers not recommended due to space)

-Cooler for transporting your catch if you plan to keep fish for dinner kept in vehicle

Keeping Fish to Eat

We’re happy to clean and fillet your catch free of charge. Common keepers include:

-Mangrove Snapper

-Mutton Snapper

-Yellowtail Snapper

-Pompano

-Trout

-Spanish Mackerel

-Grouper (in season)

Catch & Release Philosophy

While we enjoy keeping a few fish for dinner, we strongly promote Catch & Release whenever possible. We encourage guests to keep only what’s needed for a meal or two.

The following species are always released to protect future generations:

-Tarpon

-Bonefish

-Snook

-Redfish

-Permit

-Goliath Grouper

-Sharks

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.