Hey to whomever may answer,

Ive rented a "22ft 2007 Sea Chaser 150HP" for a trip with some buddies down to Marathon Key for Early-Mid March 2011. I know how to drive the dang thing, but we all are wondering how far is far for a boat that big? As in, whats the farthest offshore one would feel safe in that boat and or its limit for its size?

Also, we are looking to snag some Mahi Mahi (dolphin) down there, any suggestions?(locations, reefs, wrecks, anything will help)

thanks guys!

I used to live in Key Colony Beach, which is basically Marathon. I ran a 22' Bay Boat with a 225 Merc. while I was there. As long as the weather was nice, it was no problem to venture 20-25 miles offshore. Make sure you have a radio and cell phones with SeaTow, the Coast Guard, FWC and any other numbers you can call if you need to.

You are going a bit early for the good dolphin bite, but you could easily hook a sailfish right off the reef at the first drop. If you are looking for some eats, try snapper on the reef.

On a nice day, head out and try some trolling. You never know what you might find. As with anywhere, don't try to hard focusing on a species that you are having difficulity catching. Go with what is biting. I don't know if Dave is still doing his Thursday night semiinars at World CLass Angler - if he is, there is good information to be had for free.

http://www.worldclassangler.com

Here's a good general keys fishing calendar.

http://fishfloridakeys.com/chart.html