Wreck Fishing Charters in Marathon, Florida
Call or Text: (786) 508-2483
The Florida Keys is home to thousands of shipwrecks that have transformed into thriving underwater ecosystems, attracting an incredible variety of gamefish. These wrecks can be found in both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, offering anglers year-round opportunities for exciting catches. At Angling Adventures in Marathon, Captain Rich Smith specializes in light tackle wreck fishing charters, perfect for anglers of all skill levels who want a hands-on, action-packed experience. From battling giant Amberjacks to catching tasty Mutton Snapper, every moment is an adventure.
Wreck Fishing Charter Options & Pricing
Half-Day Charter (4 Hours)
Great for families or anglers with limited time. Perfect for targeting nearby wrecks in the Gulf (10-20 ft depths) or nearshore Atlantic wrecks. Ideal introduction to Florida Keys wreck fishing.
3/4-Day Charter (6 Hours) ⭐ Most Popular
Our recommended option for serious wreck fishing. Enough time to work multiple wrecks, target different species, and maximize your shots at trophy fish. Perfect balance of travel time and fishing action.
Full-Day Charter (8 Hours)
Maximum time on the water for the ultimate wreck fishing adventure. Explore both Gulf and Atlantic side wrecks, targeting multiple species throughout the day. Perfect for experienced anglers wanting variety.
Boats Available:
- 36′ Boat – 1-6 anglers (maximum comfort and capacity)
- 23′ Boat – 1-4 anglers (ideal for smaller groups)
For pricing and availability, visit our Booking & Reservation Page →
The Marathon Wreck Fishing Season: When to Book
Peak Season (September through June)
Mutton Snapper fishing is at its best during these months. These powerful fish are most active in cooler water and provide excellent table fare along with hard fights.
Year-Round Opportunities
Wreck fishing in the Florida Keys is excellent year-round. Depending on the season and weather conditions, we target a variety of prized species. Gulf side wrecks offer protection during rougher weather, while Atlantic side wrecks provide deeper structure for different species.
Why Captain Rich Smith is Your Best Bet for Wreck Fishing
Unmatched Local Knowledge
After 25+ years fishing Marathon’s waters daily, Captain Rich knows exactly where the productive wrecks are located. We target proven hotspots in both the Gulf of Mexico (10-20 ft depths) and Atlantic Ocean (100-250 ft depths), choosing the best side based on conditions and target species.
Light Tackle Specialization
Our Marathon wreck fishing charters focus on light tackle spinning gear loaded with 10-20 lb test line for most species, ensuring a fun, sporty fight. For giants like Goliath Grouper, we switch to heavy-duty conventional reels designed to handle their immense power.
Convenient Departure Location
Our trips start at Island Fish Company Restaurant in Marathon, the heart of the Middle Florida Keys. Gulf side wrecks are 20-60 minute boat ride. Ocean side wrecks are just 5-7 miles offshore (20-40 minute ride).
What Makes Marathon Wreck Fishing Special
Depending on the season and weather conditions, our wreck fishing trips target a variety of prized species:
Mutton Snapper
Known for powerful runs and great eating. Florida Keys state record is 30 lbs 4 oz. We often use VMC 6/0 circle hooks with live pinfish, pilchards, or crabs to entice these powerful fish, especially between September and June when they’re most active.
Amberjack
Nicknamed “Reef Donkeys” for their unmatched strength. These powerful fish test your tackle and stamina with deep, punishing runs from the wreck structure.
Gag Grouper & Black Grouper
Big, aggressive predators that ambush prey around wreck structure. Excellent table fare and hard fighters.
Goliath Grouper
Massive wreck-dwellers weighing hundreds of pounds. These giants require heavy-duty tackle and provide unforgettable battles. Catch and release only.
Mangrove Snapper
Hard-fighting and delicious. A staple of Florida Keys wreck fishing that provides consistent action.
Yellowtail Snapper
A Keys favorite for the dinner table. These colorful fish provide excellent eating and steady action around wrecks.
Cobia
Strong fighters often found cruising above wrecks. These aggressive predators provide explosive strikes and powerful runs.
Permit
Smart, elusive, and highly sought after. Finding permit on wrecks adds an extra challenge to the day.
Logistics: Boats, Location, and What to Expect
Our Wreck Fishing Fleet
36′ Boat (1-6 Anglers)
Maximum comfort and capacity for larger groups. Fully equipped for both Gulf and Atlantic side wreck fishing. Stable platform for fighting big fish.
23′ Boat (1-4 Anglers)
Ideal for smaller groups wanting a focused wreck fishing experience. Perfect balance of maneuverability and comfort.
Fishing Locations We Target
Gulf Side Wrecks
Depths: 10-20 feet
Distance: 20-60 minute boat ride
Perfect for: Calmer conditions, family-friendly trips, shallower structure fishing
Atlantic Ocean Side Wrecks
Depths: 100-250 feet
Distance: Just 5-7 miles offshore (20-40 minute ride)
Perfect for: Deeper structure, different species variety, more challenging fishing
Gear & Tactics We Use
Light Tackle Spinning Gear:
- 10-20 lb test line for most species
- Ensures a fun, sporty fight
- Perfect for Snapper, smaller Grouper, Cobia
Heavy-Duty Conventional Reels:
- For Goliath Grouper and large Amberjack
- Designed to handle immense power
- Necessary for deep wreck structure
Bait Options:
Live Baits:
- Shrimp, pilchards, pinfish, mullet, and crabs
- VMC 6/0 circle hooks for Mutton Snapper
- Fresh live bait for maximum attraction
Artificial Lures:
- Jigs, soft plastics, and other proven wreck fishing lures
- Effective for Amberjack and Cobia
- Great for anglers who prefer lure fishing
What’s Provided:
All fishing gear, tackle, lures, bait, licenses, cooler with ice
What to Bring:
Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, hat, camera, rain jacket, food and drinks. Check our Getting Prepared page for a complete packing list.
Departure Point
Angling Adventures
Island Fish Company Restaurant
Mile Marker 54, Oceanside
Marathon, FL 33050
Get Directions on Google Maps →
Convenient location in the heart of the Middle Florida Keys. We choose between Gulf side and Atlantic Ocean side wrecks based on weather, conditions, and target species.
Wreck Fishing FAQ
What species can we catch?
Mutton Snapper, Amberjack, Gag Grouper, Black Grouper, Goliath Grouper, Mangrove Snapper, Yellowtail Snapper, Cobia, and Permit. Species variety depends on season, location, and conditions.
What should I bring?
Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, hat, camera, rain jacket, food and drinks. We provide all fishing equipment, licenses, bait, and tackle. Check our Getting Prepared page for a complete list.
Are fishing licenses included?
Yes. All Florida fishing licenses are covered under your charter.
Do I need wreck fishing experience?
Not at all! We welcome anglers of all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. We teach you the techniques that work: proper bait presentation, fighting fish around structure, and landing trophy fish from deep wrecks.
Is wreck fishing family-friendly?
Absolutely! Wreck fishing offers steady action perfect for families and anglers of all ages. Both Gulf side (shallower, calmer) and Atlantic side wrecks provide excellent fishing opportunities.
What’s the best time of year for wreck fishing?
Year-round fishing is excellent. September through June is peak season for Mutton Snapper. Other species like Amberjack, Grouper, and Cobia are available throughout the year depending on conditions.
Gulf side or Atlantic side – which is better?
Both offer excellent fishing with different advantages. Gulf side wrecks (10-20 ft) are calmer and great for families. Atlantic side wrecks (100-250 ft) offer deeper structure and different species variety. We choose based on weather, conditions, and your target species.
Can we keep fish for dinner?
Yes! Most species are excellent table fare (except Goliath Grouper which are catch and release only). We’ll clean and bag your catch. The Island Fish Company Restaurant will also cook your catch for you.
How deep are the wrecks?
Gulf side wrecks: 10-20 feet deep
Atlantic side wrecks: 100-250 feet deep
We target different depths based on target species and your experience level.
See the Action: Wreck Fishing Video Gallery
Book Your Marathon Wreck Fishing Trip Today!
World-class wreck fishing in the Florida Keys. Target trophy Amberjack, delicious Mutton Snapper, powerful Grouper, and more. Year-round action on thousands of productive wrecks in both the Gulf and Atlantic. Light tackle fun for all skill levels.
Call or Text: (786) 508-2483
Email: info@captainrichsmith.com
Visit our Booking & Reservation Page for pricing and availability.
Check our Getting Prepared page for what to bring on your trip.
Related Fishing Charters
- Offshore Deep Sea Fishing – Deep offshore wrecks
- Patch Reef Fishing – Shallow reef alternative
- Light Tackle Fishing – Wreck light tackle
- Winter Fishing – Winter wreck season
- All Types of Fishing
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