Barracuda Fishing

Barracuda Fishing Charters in Marathon, Florida

Barracuda Fishing Marathon Florida

Barracuda fishing is one of the most exciting types of fishing we have in the Florida Keys. These predators are downright mean and aggressive on light tackle as they stalk shallow water flats and demolish artificial lures with explosive strikes. At Angling Adventures in Marathon, Captain Rich Smith puts you on these toothy creatures year-round. Be ready to bring your fishing muscles! There’s lots of casting involved, but the payoff is catching dozens of these silver missiles in a single trip.

Barracuda Fishing Charter Options & Pricing

Barracuda Fishing Florida Keys

Half-Day Charter (4 Hours)
Perfect for anglers wanting fast-paced action. Ideal for families or first-timers who want to experience the aggressive barracuda bite without a full-day commitment.

3/4-Day Charter (6 Hours) ⭐ Most Popular
Our recommended option for serious barracuda fishing. Enough time to work multiple flats and structure, maximizing your shots at catching dozens of fish.

Full-Day Charter (8 Hours)
Extended time for combination trips. Target barracuda alongside tarpon, permit, or other species. Perfect for groups wanting variety.

All charters accommodate up to 6 anglers.

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

The Marathon Barracuda Season: When to Book

Peak Season (April – October)
Warm water brings the most aggressive feeding behavior. Shallow flats come alive with barracuda stalking baitfish in crystal-clear water.

Year-Round Opportunities
Unlike many species, barracuda remain active through cooler months. They’re always here, always biting. That’s why they make a perfect target any time of year or when other species slow down.

Why Captain Rich Smith is Your Best Bet for Barracuda

Marathon FL Barracuda Fishing

Proven Light Tackle Techniques
We specialize in light tackle spinning gear loaded with 10 lb braided line and artificial lures. This setup maximizes the fight and makes every catch exciting. If you’re a bass fisherman or pike fisherman, this should be on your bucket list.

Accessibility for All Skill Levels
Targeting barracuda is fun for just about any skill level. If you can cast 15 feet, chances are you’ll catch fish with us. We teach you the techniques that work, from spotting fish on the flats to making accurate casts that trigger strikes.

Catch Dozens in a Single Trip
Unlike finicky permit or seasonal tarpon, barracuda are aggressive and abundant. We regularly catch dozens of these fish using our proven techniques, which offer non-stop action and keep everyone engaged.

What Makes Barracuda Special

The great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) can be found inshore as well as offshore throughout warm tropical waters. In the Florida Keys, they prowl shallow water flats stalking small baitfish with remarkable aggression.

Size Potential:

World Record: 5.5 feet long, 103 lbs
Florida Record: 67 lbs
Marathon Average: 10-35 lbs (with trophy fish 35+ lbs)

Conservation Note: Numbers in Florida have been declining, which is why FWC has imposed new regulations on harvesting. We always consider barracuda as a catch and release species to protect this incredible fishery for future generations.

Logistics: Boats, Location, and What to Expect

Our Barracuda Fleet

18′ Flats Skiff
Ideal for light tackle barracuda fishing on shallow flats. Gets into skinny water where big barracuda stalk prey. Perfect for the visual excitement of sight fishing with artificial lures.

Center Console Boats
Versatile platforms for working multiple areas: flats, structure, and backcountry. Comfortable for groups and families.

Gear We Use

Light Tackle Spinning Setup:

10 lb braided line for maximum sensitivity
Custom spinning rods built for casting all day
Rapala lures and other proven artificials
Wire leaders (mandatory for those razor-sharp teeth)

Why Light Tackle?
Using lighter gear makes every fight more exciting and challenging. A 20-pound barracuda on 10 lb line is an arm-burning experience you won’t forget.

Departure Point

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

Get Directions on Google Maps →

Barracuda Fishing FAQ

Is it catch and release?
Yes. Due to declining populations and FWC regulations, we practice catch and release for all barracuda. The fight is the reward with these fish.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, hat, camera, food and drinks. We provide all fishing gear, licenses, lures, and tackle. Check out our Getting Prepared page for more information.

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

Do I need fishing experience?
Not at all! If you can cast 15 feet, you can catch barracuda with us. We teach you everything you need to know.

What lures work for barracuda?
Bass and pike anglers will recognize many of our lures, which includes anything shiny that makes noise. We use Rapala plugs, spoons, tube jigs, and topwater lures. If it’s shiny and makes noise, they’ll eat it.

How many fish can we expect to catch?
On a good day, we regularly catch dozens of barracuda. They’re aggressive, abundant, and willing. Barracuda fishing is perfect for anyone who enjoys non-stop action.

Why Bass & Pike Fishermen Love Barracuda

If you are used to fishing for bass or northern pike, barracuda fishing will feel familiar but turned up a notch. You’ll get the aggressive strikes and visual excitement you love, plus the thrill of seeing barracuda move faster, jump higher, and put up even tougher fights in the clear tropical flats.

Many of the lures you already own will work here. That’s the beauty of barracuda fishing. It’s accessible, exciting, and delivers consistent action for anglers of all backgrounds.