What to Expect
When you fish with Always Late Charters, you're not getting a tourist experience — you're getting on the water with a Marathon native who's been doing this his entire life. Captain Lucas Ponzoa is a 3rd-generation fisherman who has spent his entire life on Florida Keys waters — running Always Late Charters for 10+ years. He knows these grounds the way most people know their own backyard.
Always Late Charters takes care of everything. Rods, reels, live bait, tackle, licenses, and a first mate are all included. All you need to bring is food, sunscreen, and a camera.
Experience our
Fishing Charter Adventures
in the Florida Keys
Whether you want to chase Mahi and Tuna in the deep blue, bottom fish the reefs for Snapper and Grouper, or watch your kids reel in their first catch inshore — we have a trip for you. Always Late Charters runs year-round out of Captain Hook's Marina in Marathon, FL, accommodating up to 6 guests on a 32-foot SeaVee.
An Adventure for Everyone
Always Late Charters welcomes all ages and all experience levels — from young kids on their first trip to experienced anglers targeting specific species. Not a fisherman? No problem. Never been offshore? We've got you. If you can get to Marathon, Captain Lucas will handle the rest.
Don't take our word for it — here's what our guests say:
Jeffrey G
These guys really know their stuff. Everything was perfect - boat, equipment and local knowledge of how to get it done. Livewells were blacked out to start the trip! Would highly recommend and will book them again.
John S
Awesome day on the water. 21 keeper mangrove snapper. Lucas is a killer captain and Mike had us in fish and laughs the whole time. In Marathon, book with always late
Dylan M
Captain and mate were real good guys and they knew what they were doing we ended up with 16 mahi 5 tuna. We lost a couple tuna to sharks. I will for sure be booking with them again when I come back to the Florida keys.
Creating Lifetime Memories on the Water — Marathon, Florida Keys
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of fishing charters do you offer in Marathon, FL?
Always Late Charters offers offshore fishing, reef and wreck fishing, shark fishing, inshore and nearshore fishing, and island eco tours. All trips depart from Captain Hook's Marina at 11833 Overseas Highway in Marathon, Florida.
How much does a fishing charter in the Florida Keys cost?
Rates start at $700 for a 2-hour island eco tour. Offshore fishing runs $1,350 for a half-day (4 hours), $1,600 for a 3/4-day (6 hours), and $1,850 for a full day (8 hours). Reef, wreck, and bay fishing starts at $1,150 for a half-day, $1,350 for a 3/4-day, and $1,550 for a full day. Shark fishing starts at $950 for a half-day and $1,150 for a 3/4-day. All trips are for up to 6 passengers.
What fish can I catch in Marathon, Florida?
Depending on the season you can target Mahi Mahi, Blackfin Tuna, Wahoo, Sailfish, Yellowtail Snapper, Black Grouper, and Mutton Snapper. Captain Lucas knows exactly what's running and will put you on fish.
Do I need fishing experience to book a charter?
No experience necessary. Always Late Charters welcomes all skill levels — from first-timers and young children to seasoned anglers. Captain Lucas and the first mate will guide you every step of the way.
What is included in the charter price?
All charters include rods, reels, tackle, live bait, lures, fishing licenses, water, a first mate, and catch cleaning and filleting at the dock. Just bring food, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
How far in advance should I book a Florida Keys fishing charter?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially during peak offshore season when demand is highest. Contact Captain Lucas at 305-394-1582 to check availability.
What is the best time of year to fish in Marathon, Florida?
The Florida Keys offer world-class fishing year round. Spring and summer are prime for offshore species like Mahi Mahi, Blackfin Tuna, and Wahoo. Fall and winter are excellent for Yellowtail Snapper and Black Grouper on the reef. Always Late Charters runs trips every month of the year.
How many people can come on the charter?
Always Late Charters accommodates up to 6 guests on a 32-foot SeaVee powered by twin 300 HP Yamaha engines, with a flybridge and full Garmin navigation electronics.
Where do you depart from?
All charters depart from Captain Hook's Marina, 11833 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050.
Can kids come on the fishing charter?
Absolutely. Always Late Charters is family-friendly and welcomes children of all ages. It's a great experience for kids and one of the most memorable things to do in the Florida Keys.
How experienced is Captain Lucas?
Captain Lucas Ponzoa grew up fishing the Florida Keys waters — spending over 20 years on the water with his family before establishing Always Late Charters, which has been operating for 10+ years. He is a 3rd-generation Marathon native with a USCG-approved OUPV captain's license who knows these waters better than anyone.
Can we keep the fish we catch?
Yes — all legal catch is yours to keep. Captain Lucas and the first mate clean and fillet your fish at the dock before you leave, included on every trip. Learn more about keeping your catch →