Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa” 

4.7/5 (206 reviews)
 
Federally permitted
 3502 Gulfview Ave, Marathon, FL 33050, United States

Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa” 

 
Federally permitted
4.7/5 (206 reviews)
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3502 Gulfview Ave
Marathon, FL, United States
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Veteran Owned
Johnny Maddox Charters SportFishing Adventures runs year round fishing trips out of Marathon, FL. Whether you want to explore the reefs or head offshore towards the Atlantic, Capt. Johnny has you covered. These trips can work for novice anglers and veteran fishermen. You will be in safe hands, with one of the most knowledgeable captains in the area.

The waters out of Marathon offer amazing fishing. Around the reefs you can get Snapper, Grouper, and Critters Shark. When in season, Big Mackerel will also make their run around here. More seasoned anglers will love fishing offshore, targeting Tuna, Marlin, Sailfish, Swordfish, Wahoo & Mahi. Capt. Johnny loves fishing blue waters and will help you out, whether it’s trolling or Deep Drop bottom fishing.

Capt. Johnny has started fishing at a young age. Fishing with his dad, Capt. Johnny mastered the craft and has perfected it over the years. He knows the Marathon waters well 25 years in and will make sure you have an enjoyable trip.

You will be fishing aboard a stable vessel that can take up to six people. She is a 31’ Ocean Master Express boat, fit to rule these waters. The boat is powered by a twin 300 HP Suzuki engines and can reach the speeds of up to 40 knots. The boat features a flybridge which gives you great view of the area, a full private toilet, and a fighting chair. She is equipped with GPS, a fishfinder, has a live well, an ice box, and outriggers.

The crew will provide all the fishing gear and will take care of the license. You should pack food and drinks, as well as a cap, sunglasses, sunblock, and comfortable clothes.

The captain and first mate work hard to ensure that you have as much fun as possible on their trips, so gratuity is appreciated very much. The first mate works for tips, with 20% being the standard in this area.

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Customer reviews

Rating summary

4.7/5
out of 5 stars from 206 reviews
Boat
4.7/5
Crew
4.8/5
Experience
4.7/5

Photos & videos by reviewers (351)

Book it!
Keys annual trip
Keys annual trip
+348

Angler rating

166
22
5
5
2

Anglers claimed

Good experience

92%

Appropriate for children

94%

Friendly captain

99%

Satisfied with the boat

98%

Recommend this charter

92%

Caught fish

89%

Showing 1 - 5 of 206 reviews
Showing: 5 of 206 reviews
Scott D.
Scott D.
4.7/5

Jun 15, 2025

6 Hour Run & Gun- Mahi,Tuna,Wahoo

Mahi trip

VERIFIED

We had a great time for a Father's Day trip with Brian and Cody. The crew worked hard to put us on the fish and make sure that we had a great trip. I would recommend them for anyone looking for a great experience. My only complaint was actually with Fishing Booker and not because of Johnny Maddox. I would think most trips would be shared and Fishing Booker has no option to partially pay for the trip so everyone can pay in advance. That simple fix would help greatly. Luckily the captain was good about splitting the trip on the morning of our trip, but would be nice to have everyone pay in advance through Fishing Booker.

We had a great time for a Father's Day trip with Brian and Cody. The crew worked hard to put us on the fish and make sure that...  

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 Scott D. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

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 Scott D. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

Mark review as helpful


Eric P.
Eric P.
5.0/5

Dec 23, 2024

6 Hour Run & Gun- Mahi,Tuna,Wahoo

Xmas 2024!

VERIFIED

Went out for a 6hr trip and it was spot on! Brian and Nick are a great team and know how to get it done. They put us on fish and everything went flawless. Both truly enjoy what they do and are a wealth of knowledge about fishing in the keys and where to go for the best of local favorites. Went to Lazy Days South with our catch per thier recommendation and it was fantastic. Johnny was on hand as well at the docks and he is just as helpful and friendly as his guys. His equipment is well taken care of and service is top notch.

Went out for a 6hr trip and it was spot on! Brian and Nick are a great team and know how to get it done. They put us on fish...  

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Captain replied
 Eric P. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

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 Eric P. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

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undefined (The Captain)
Replied on January 3, 2025
Brian and Nic gives you guys 5 STARS RIGHT BACK! Thanks for the great review.

Michael Y.
Michael Y.
5.0/5

Mar 24, 2025

Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM)

Great trip, lots of Snapper

VERIFIED

Booked a half day inshore trip to expose my young boys to salt water fishing. Captain Brian and First Mate Cody were both amazing. Not only did they put us on the fish which provided dinner for a few nights, but they also were patient with my boys and answered ALL their questions!!! I would definitely book them again and recommend them to anyone coming to Marathon!

Booked a half day inshore trip to expose my young boys to salt water fishing. Captain Brian and First Mate Cody were both amazing....  

Captain replied
 Michael Y. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

Mark review as helpful

 Michael Y. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

Mark review as helpful

undefined (The Captain)
Replied on March 29, 2025
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Stephen B.
Stephen B.
5.0/5

Jun 12, 2025

Extended Full – Big Game Bluewater

Successful 10hr Trip

VERIFIED

My son and I had an incredible first fishing experience in the Keys! We had a fantastic day catching Mahi, thanks to the wonderful captain and deckhand. Their knowledge and perseverance ensured we'll be enjoying delicious meals for the rest of our time in Marathon. Thank you again for a memorable day on the water.

My son and I had an incredible first fishing experience in the Keys! We had a fantastic day catching Mahi, thanks to the wonderful...  

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Captain replied
 Stephen B. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

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 Stephen B. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

Mark review as helpful

undefined (The Captain)
Replied on June 13, 2025
Thank you. Brian & Cody said come back anytime. Y’all were great!
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Gary M.
Gary M.
5.0/5

Mar 12, 2025

Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM)

Great day of fishing

VERIFIED

Went out this morning with Captain Brian and Mate Cody. Brian put us on the fish on our first drop and we didn’t need to leave that spot with a constant bite all morning. Cody was always quick to bait our hooks and unhook the fish to go in the cooler. The guys have great personalities and we had good conversations all morning. This was our third year in a row with Johnny Maddox fishing no need to look elsewhere. Thanks for another great fishing experience guys.

Went out this morning with Captain Brian and Mate Cody. Brian put us on the fish on our first drop and we didn’t need to leave...  

 Gary M. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

Mark review as helpful

1 person finds this review helpful
 Gary M. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

Mark review as helpful

1 person finds this review helpful

Trip availability and prices

Trip Date:
Days:
Group Size:
Select date to see availability
September 2025
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Number of days
1
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
Almost there...
Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM)
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 Hour Trip, starts at 8:00 AM
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US $850 
Entire boat: up to 6 people
Half Day – Snapper/Shark Special
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 Hour Trip, starts at 8:00 AM
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US $850 
Entire boat: up to 6 people
Half Day–Reef/Wreck/Insh/Gulf (PM)
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 Hour Trip, starts at 1:00 PM
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US $850 
Entire boat: up to 6 people
3/4 Day Trip – Reef, Wrecks,Combo
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 Hour Trip, starts at 7:30 AM
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US $1,195 
Entire boat: up to 6 people
6 Hour Run & Gun- Mahi,Tuna,Wahoo
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 Hour Trip, starts at 7:30 AM
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US $1,195 
Entire boat: up to 6 people
Full Day Trips–Reef,Wrecks,Gulf
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 Hour Trip, starts at 7:30 AM
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US $1,295 
Entire boat: up to 6 people
Full Day – Offshore or Combo
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 Hour Trip, starts at 8:00 AM
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US $1,495 
Entire boat: up to 6 people
Extended Full – Big Game Bluewater
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
10 Hour Trip, starts at 7:00 AM
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US $1,795 
Entire boat: up to 6 people

Customer reviews

Rating summary

4.7/5
out of 5 stars from 206 reviews
Boat
4.7/5
Crew
4.8/5
Experience
4.7/5

Photos & videos by reviewers (351)

Book it!
Keys annual trip
Keys annual trip
+348

Angler rating

166
22
5
5
2

Anglers claimed

Good experience

92%

Appropriate for children

94%

Friendly captain

99%

Satisfied with the boat

98%

Recommend this charter

92%

Caught fish

89%

Showing 1 - 5 of 206 reviews
Showing: 5 of 206 reviews
Scott D.
Scott D.
4.7/5

Experience:

4.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Mahi trip

VERIFIED

6 Hour Run & Gun- Mahi,Tuna,Wahoo on June 15, 2025

We had a great time for a Father's Day trip with Brian and Cody. The crew worked hard to put us on the fish and make sure that we had a great trip. I would recommend them for anyone looking for a great experience. My only complaint was actually with Fishing Booker and not because of Johnny Maddox. I would think most trips would be shared and Fishing Booker has no option to partially pay for the trip so everyone can pay in advance. That simple fix would help greatly. Luckily the captain was good about splitting the trip on the morning of our trip, but would be nice to have everyone pay in advance through Fishing Booker.

We had a great time for a Father's Day trip with Brian and Cody. The crew worked hard to put us on the fish and make sure that we had a great trip. I would recommend them for anyone looking for a great experience. My only complaint was actually with Fishing Booker and not because of Johnny Maddox. I would think most trips would be shared and Fishing Booker has no option to partially pay for the trip so everyone can pay in advance. That simple fix would help greatly. Luckily the captain was good...  

Review media 0
Review media 1
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Review media 4
 Scott D. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

Mark review as helpful


Eric P.
Eric P.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Xmas 2024!

VERIFIED

6 Hour Run & Gun- Mahi,Tuna,Wahoo on December 23, 2024

Went out for a 6hr trip and it was spot on! Brian and Nick are a great team and know how to get it done. They put us on fish and everything went flawless. Both truly enjoy what they do and are a wealth of knowledge about fishing in the keys and where to go for the best of local favorites. Went to Lazy Days South with our catch per thier recommendation and it was fantastic. Johnny was on hand as well at the docks and he is just as helpful and friendly as his guys. His equipment is well taken care of and service is top notch.

Went out for a 6hr trip and it was spot on! Brian and Nick are a great team and know how to get it done. They put us on fish and everything went flawless. Both truly enjoy what they do and are a wealth of knowledge about fishing in the keys and where to go for the best of local favorites. Went to Lazy Days South with our catch per thier recommendation and it was fantastic. Johnny was on hand as well at the docks and he is just as helpful and friendly as his guys. His equipment is...  

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 Eric P. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

Mark review as helpful

undefined (The Captain)
Replied on January 3, 2025
Brian and Nic gives you guys 5 STARS RIGHT BACK! Thanks for the great review.

Michael Y.
Michael Y.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Great trip, lots of Snapper

VERIFIED

Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) on March 24, 2025

Booked a half day inshore trip to expose my young boys to salt water fishing. Captain Brian and First Mate Cody were both amazing. Not only did they put us on the fish which provided dinner for a few nights, but they also were patient with my boys and answered ALL their questions!!! I would definitely book them again and recommend them to anyone coming to Marathon!

Booked a half day inshore trip to expose my young boys to salt water fishing. Captain Brian and First Mate Cody were both amazing. Not only did they put us on the fish which provided dinner for a few nights, but they also were patient with my boys and answered ALL their questions!!! I would definitely book them again and recommend them to anyone coming to Marathon!  

 Michael Y. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

Mark review as helpful

undefined (The Captain)
Replied on March 29, 2025
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Review media 1

Stephen B.
Stephen B.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Successful 10hr Trip

VERIFIED

Extended Full – Big Game Bluewater on June 12, 2025

My son and I had an incredible first fishing experience in the Keys! We had a fantastic day catching Mahi, thanks to the wonderful captain and deckhand. Their knowledge and perseverance ensured we'll be enjoying delicious meals for the rest of our time in Marathon. Thank you again for a memorable day on the water.

My son and I had an incredible first fishing experience in the Keys! We had a fantastic day catching Mahi, thanks to the wonderful captain and deckhand. Their knowledge and perseverance ensured we'll be enjoying delicious meals for the rest of our time in Marathon. Thank you again for a memorable day on the water.  

Review media 0
 Stephen B. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

Mark review as helpful

undefined (The Captain)
Replied on June 13, 2025
Thank you. Brian & Cody said come back anytime. Y’all were great!
Review media 0
Review media 1
Review media 2
Review media 3

Gary M.
Gary M.
5.0/5

Experience:

5.0/5

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Overall

Great day of fishing

VERIFIED

Half Day – Reef Inshore Gulf (AM) on March 12, 2025

Went out this morning with Captain Brian and Mate Cody. Brian put us on the fish on our first drop and we didn’t need to leave that spot with a constant bite all morning. Cody was always quick to bait our hooks and unhook the fish to go in the cooler. The guys have great personalities and we had good conversations all morning. This was our third year in a row with Johnny Maddox fishing no need to look elsewhere. Thanks for another great fishing experience guys.

Went out this morning with Captain Brian and Mate Cody. Brian put us on the fish on our first drop and we didn’t need to leave that spot with a constant bite all morning. Cody was always quick to bait our hooks and unhook the fish to go in the cooler. The guys have great personalities and we had good conversations all morning. This was our third year in a row with Johnny Maddox fishing no need to look elsewhere. Thanks for another great fishing experience guys.  

 Gary M. recommends Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

Mark review as helpful

1 person finds this review helpful

FAQs about Johnny Maddox Charters “PapaPapa”

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The fish you can target

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What is the boat like?

Boat Image
Boat category
Sportfishing boats
Capacity
6 persons
Boat length
31 ft
Year built
2005
Restored in
2023
Boat manufacturer
Ocean Master
Boat type
Sportfishing

Engine model
Suzuki
Powered by
2 x 300HP
Max cruising speed
40 knots
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