Inshore Flats Fishing

Inshore Flats Fishing

Florida Keys

We have over 5,000 square miles of inshore backcountry fishing that can be productive 12 months out of the year. Depending on the time of year and what the weather is doing will determine what is the best species to target on your day of fishing with us.

Man fishing from a boat in the clear turquoise waters of the Florida Keys, wearing an AFTCO shirt, showcasing inshore flats fishing experience.
Tarpon jumping out of the water, showcasing splashes, during peak fishing season in the Florida Keys.

Spring Fishing

In the months of March – June South Florida gets a huge migration of Tarpon. We call it our “Tarpon Season.” This is the time to book if you are looking for large Tarpon as well as everything else that swims in the sea.

Group of anglers on a fishing boat celebrating a catch of a large Snook, showcasing the excitement of inshore flats fishing in the Florida Keys.

Summer Fishing

During the months of June – October we like to get up super early and target species like juvenile Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Trout, and many more.

Girl holding two Spanish Mackerel on a fishing dock in the Florida Keys, showcasing a successful fishing trip.

Fall Fishing

Starting in November and usually lasting until the end of March we like to do a lot of Gulf Side fishing. We have a large number of Spanish Mackerel, Pompano, Cobia, and many more fish flooding our waters.

Florida Keys Inshore & Flats Fishing (Marathon)

Skip the open ocean—our protected flats and nearshore waters are calm, scenic, and full of life. It’s the perfect way for families, first-timers, and seasoned anglers to enjoy fast action without rough seas or seasickness.

What We Target

Flats Icons: Bonefish, Permit, Tarpon
Inshore Regulars: Snook, Redfish, Speckled Trout
Fast & Furious: Barracuda, Jack Crevalle
Big Pulls: Sharks

Boats & Group Sizes

  • 18′ Flats Skiff (1–2 anglers): Ultra-shallow sight-fishing on the flats.
  • 23′ Bay Boat (1–4 anglers): Comfortable, versatile platform for families and mixed skill levels.

Seasons at a Glance

  • Tarpon (March–June): Live-bait bridge fishing for 40–200 lb “Silver Kings” and incredible aerial fights. We fish two rods at a time; larger groups rotate. Catch-and-release only. Conditions (tide, weather) matter.
  • Winter Variety (November–March): Gulf wrecks and anchored chum slicks for steady action and 4–10+ species per trip—Spanish mackerel, kingfish, cobia, snapper, trout, grouper, and more. Ideal for kids and anyone who loves constant bites.
  • Flats, Year-Round : Sight-casting and light-tackle lure fishing for jack crevalle, yellow jacks, barracuda, sharks, and juvenile tarpon—tons of visual strikes and fun fights. In the Everglades you can expect Snook, Redfish, Trout, and Triple Tail.

Trip Options

Choose 4, 6, or 8 hours. We tailor each trip to your group, goals, and the day’s conditions—whether you’re chasing a bucket-list fish or introducing the family to saltwater fishing.

Ready to plan your day on the water in Marathon? Let’s lock in your date and build the perfect inshore adventure.