Florida Keys Fishing Charters

Wreck Fishing

Wreck Fishing

Florida Keys

The Atlantic Ocean or as we call it here in the keys “Oceanside” is home to a countless number of wrecks. These habitats are home to lots of underwater creatures. Amberjacks, Mutton Snapper, Vermillion Snapper, Yelloweye Snapper, Sailfish, and Grouper just to name a few. Most of these wrecks we fish are just outside the Florida Keys reef line. They are often times in 150′-300′ of water and full of life marine life.

Man sitting on a boat holding a large amberjack fish, with two Yamaha outboard motors in the background, showcasing a successful catch during wreck fishing in the Florida Keys.
Sign showcasing Captain Rich Smith's Angling Adventures, featuring a variety of fish including snapper and tuna, with details on fishing trip options and contact information.

Hard Fighting & Tasty

Our Florida Keys wrecks hold an impressive mix of hard-fighting, great-tasting fish that keep anglers coming back year after year. These drag screamers prowl the structure, picking off any baitfish that gets too close. Hooking one tight to the wreck usually means an instant, blistering run as the fish dives for cover, testing both your reflexes and your tackle. The payoff isn’t just the adrenaline rush, but also a cooler of fresh fillets ready for the dinner table..

Man holding a large amberjack while fishing in the Florida Keys, with blue ocean waters and boat motors in the background, showcasing the thrill of wreck fishing.

Amberjack Delight

Hooking an amberjack on a Florida Keys wreck is like tying into a freight train with fins. These powerhouse fish stack up around the structure, hovering in the current and smashing any live bait that drifts too close. The bite is sudden and violent, followed by a brutal, head-down run straight for the wreck as the Amberjack tries to bury you in the debris from the wreck. Every pump of the rod feels like a tug-of-war you might not win, testing your gear, your stamina, and your skills.

Two anglers proudly holding large African pompanos on a fishing charter in the Florida Keys, with a vibrant blue ocean and clear sky in the background.

African Pompanos

Hooking an African pompano or “APs,” as we like to call them on a Florida Keys wreck is like suddenly finding a turbocharged kite on the end of your line. These broad, silver fish glide just above the structure, picking off stray baitfish in the current. They are known for long steady runs that push your tackle to the limit. Instead of diving straight into the wreck like an Amberjack, an African Pompano usually fights higher in the water column, turning the battle into a test of finesse.

Marathon Wreck Fishing (Florida Keys)

Hands-on, light-tackle action over proven wrecks in both the Gulf and Atlantic—great for first-timers and die-hards alike, year-round.

What We Catch

  • Snapper: Mangrove, Yellowtail, Mutton (powerful runs; peak activity Sept–June)
  • Grouper: Gag, Black, Goliath (catch & release)
  • Pelagics & Wreck Regulars: Cobia, Permit, Amberjack (“Reef Donkeys”), Kingfish, Wahoo

Gear & Tactics

  • Light spinning gear (10–20 lb) for most species—sporty fights, constant action.
  • Heavy conventional setups for true brutes (e.g., Goliath grouper).
  • Baits: Live shrimp, pilchards, pinfish, mullet, crabs.
  • Lures: Jigs and proven wreck plastics.
  • Pro Tip (Mutton Snapper): VMC 6/0 circle hooks with live pinfish, pilchards, or crabs.

Where We Fish

  • Gulf-Side Wrecks: Shallow 10–20 ft, 20–60 min ride.
  • Ocean-Side Wrecks: 100–250 ft, 20–40 min run, just 5–7 miles offshore.
    Trips depart from Island Fish Company in Marathon—the perfect launch spot in the Middle Keys.

Trip Lengths

  • 4 Hours: Quick-hit action, ideal for families.
  • 6 Hours: Balanced time on the wrecks with flexible targets.
  • 8 Hours: Maximize range and species variety.

Tell us your goals and group size—we’ll dial in the right wrecks, gear, and game plan for an unforgettable day.