Florida Keys Inshore & Nearshore Fishing Options: Marathon, FL.

 

Florida Keys Inshore Flats Fishing Charters

Whether you’re a seasoned angler chasing bucket-list fish or a family looking for a fun, action-packed day on the water, inshore flats fishing in the Florida Keys offers an unforgettable experience without venturing into the open ocean.

Our inshore waters are calm, scenic, and teeming with life—perfect for anglers of all ages and skill levels. You’ll avoid the rough seas and seasickness while still enjoying incredible fishing action targeting some of the most exciting species the Keys have to offer.


What We Target Inshore

Fishing the flats and nearshore waters around Marathon and the Middle Keys, we target a wide variety of gamefish year-round. Depending on the season and conditions, you might hook into:

Bonefish – Fast, spooky, and a favorite among sight-fishing purists.

Permit – Elusive and powerful; the ultimate flats challenge.

Tarpon – The “Silver King,” known for their acrobatic fights.

Snook – Hard-hitting and structure-loving.

Redfish & Trout – Found in shallow bays and grassy flats.

Barracuda & Jack Crevalle – Aggressive predators perfect for topwater action.

Sharks – A thrilling option for anglers looking for a serious tug-of-war.


Boats for Every Group Size

We offer a fleet of specialized boats designed for inshore fishing, so you can choose the best option for your group:

18′ Flats Skiff – 1–2 anglers

Ideal for shallow water sight-fishing on the flats.

23′ Bay Boat – 1–4 anglers

Perfect for families or small groups who want comfort and versatility.

30′-36′ Boats – 1–6 anglers

Great for larger groups looking to mix inshore fishing with light offshore options.


Seasonal Inshore Fishing Highlights

Fishing in the Florida Keys is excellent year-round, but the best species to target can vary by season. Here’s what to expect throughout the year:


Tarpon Season (March – June)

Live bait bridge fishing for migrating Tarpon is a thrilling experience. These giants range from 40–200 lbs and put on an aerial show unlike anything else. We use light tackle (20–50 lb spinning rods) and fish with a maximum of two rods at a time—so bigger groups will take turns.

Note: Tarpon are catch-and-release only. Conditions matter—tides, weather, and “fish karma” all play a role. When it’s on, we see hook-up rates as high as 95%.


Winter Action (November – March)

When water temps drop, we shift to Gulf wrecks and bottom fishing, focusing on action and variety. We anchor up and chum the water to draw in aggressive feeders. Expect to catch 4–10+ species per trip, including:

Spanish Mackerel, Kingfish ,Cobia, Snapper, Redfish, Trout, Grouper & Goliath Grouper

This is an ideal trip for families and anglers looking for steady bites and non-stop fun.


Year-Round Flats Action (Best Outside July – October Heat)

Flats fishing around Marathon offers exciting sight-casting opportunities for:

Jack Crevalle, Yellow Jacks, Barracuda, Sharks, Juvenile Tarpon

Using light spinning rods (10–15 lb), we cast topwater and subsurface Rapala lures—making for heart-pounding visual strikes and aggressive fights. This is a favorite among lure fishermen and kids alike.


Booking Your Florida Keys Inshore Fishing Charter

We offer 4, 6, and 8-hour trips to fit your schedule and experience level. Whether you’re chasing a trophy fish or looking to introduce your family to the thrill of saltwater angling, we’ll customize the perfect day on the water for you.

👉 Ready to fish? Visit our Booking & Reservation page to secure your inshore charter today.