(MEGALOPS ATLANTICA)

Tarpon Fishing

Truly one of the most magnificent fish that occupy the waters of Southwest Florida. Thousands of people each year, from all over the world, congregate here from early March to July to experience the massive run of Tarpon. Although Tarpon can be found here year round, this is the peak of the spring run. We also get migration in September and October depending on weather. There are a few ways that we can fish for Tarpon. Live bait presentations are a thrill, either drifting or anchored. Cut baits presented in a chum line bring multiple hookups that bring mass chaos and excitement is something you will never forget. We can also use artificial and fly tackle for the ultimate expreience.

Once hooked, the Tarpon displays a series of gill rattling jumps and smoking runs that will leave you speechless. Tarpon sizes can range from 5 lbs. to a whopping 200 lbs.!!! Our typical tarpon here is 100 lbs. and 5 feet long.

Fly fishing for tarpon is my favorite thing to do. Personally, I think catching a tarpon on fly is ultimate fly fishing experience offshore. Tarpon are eager eaters and you would be amazed that a 130 lb. tarpon would eat a 3 inch fly but they are also lazy, very lazy and precise casting is very important. You don't need to know how to cast 100 feet to catch a tarpon, accuracy is the more important aspect. Usually a 40 ft. cast is plenty. The tarpon I fish for are feeding fish in pods that will roll right at the boat. It is easier to target tarpon in large groups, than a moving single target on the flats, but don't get me wrong it is still hard no matter how you look at it. You know what they say, "good things come to those that cast well." A reminder, practice your casting before your fishing trip. Place some cups or stuffed animals in the backyard and practice your accuracy. The better you get the better the chance you have at catching a tarpon.

Weights range from 5 to 200 lbs.
Coloration is silver body with dark blue or green back and large scales
Best times to fish for tarpon are April, May and June but can be caught all year round
Diet: All baitfish, shrimp, crabs
Favorite Tarpon fly patterns: Half & Half, The Inhaler.

Home | How to Book | Welcome Aboard | Rates | E-Mail Us