Best Tarpon Fishing Spots & Charters in Florida (Full Guide)
Florida is known for its excellent fishing spots, especially for catching tarpon. Aside from being near the Gulf Stream and various reefs, Florida also has plenty of rivers and bays ideal for fishing tarpon.
This article will talk about some of the best places to catch the silver king in Florida. We’ll give you some of the best charters to book with throughout Florida.
1. Sarasota, FL
Situated near the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota is outstanding for nature lovers. Its white sandy beaches, numerous parks, and mangrove forests are some of the highlights of this area.
One of the best areas in Florida for fishing is the city of Sarasota, which is known for its resident tarpon. This area is also a popular destination for those who want to catch this fish. Whether you are fishing near the beaches or in the backcountry, targeting this fish is a popular activity.
Early May and early June are when the large schools of tarpon start to show up. By the third week of May, they have broken up into smaller schools; by late July, the fish have started to thin out. Although the fish still bite well during the late season, they are less abundant than earlier.
High-Class Hooker Charters
With over 18 years of experience, Captain Camille of High-Class Hooker Charters has developed a wide range of saltwater fishing charters that are ideal for everyone. These trips are usually conducted in the waters of Sarasota Bay and the surrounding areas. Price Range: $600 – $1,000
Reel Tight Fishing Charters
The several types of fishing trips this company offers are customizable, allowing clients to select the type of fish they would like to catch. The crew members will provide all the necessary equipment; all you need to do is get on the water and fish. Price Range: $600 – $1,000
Reel Knowledge Fishing
Captain Josh will bring all the necessary equipment for a successful day and clean and prepare the fish if you decide to keep it. This is the perfect charter for a family fishing trip. Remember your snacks and drinks. Price Range: $400 – $550
Reel Knowledge Fishing (Sarasota) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker
2. Miami
There are a lot of reasons to visit Miami. Its beautiful beaches, great weather, and nightlife make it the Magic City. However, most people need to realize that the city’s fishing is just as fantastic. There are plenty of fish in the area’s waters, but you can also catch them from shallow flats to the ocean.
The large, silver-colored fish known as the tarpon inhabits the waters of Miami throughout the year. They are usually best caught in December to June.
May, June, and July are great times to fish for tarpon. From late spring to mid-summer, the tarpon fills the Miami waters. You can still catch them later in the season; however, they might not bite as great.
Lucky Hook Charters
With over 20 years of experience, Captain Jorge Fernandez of Lucky Hook Charters has developed a reputation for providing the best fishing experiences in the area. He can guide you through some of the unique fishing spots in the world. Price Range: $700 – $1,000
Miami Inshore Fishing Charters
Regardless of your level of expertise, you should consider fishing with Captain Alex Genetau of Miami Inshore Fishing. He is dedicated to providing the best possible experience for his clients, and he can guide them through some of the unique areas in South Florida. Price Range: $600 – $950
SoFlo Inshore Charters
SoFlo Inshore offers year-round fishing trips in the area, and they are partnered with Captain David, who has been fishing in this region for over 30 years. His goal is to provide his clients with the best possible experience, and he can guide them to the best possible results. Price Range: $700 flat
SoFlo Inshore Charters (Miami Beach) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker
3. Fort Myers
The city of Fort Myers is located in southwest Florida, and it can accommodate a variety of distinct types of travelers. Whether you are planning on visiting the area for Spring Break or a family holiday, it has something for everyone.
It’s no secret that the area has plenty of other attractions for visitors, such as its beautiful beaches, diverse dining and shopping options, and exquisite golf courses. However, it’s also amazing for fishing!
Tarpon are usually spotted off the coast of Fort Myers during spring. They then move inland and flood the inlets, canals, and beaches until October. The biggest ones tend to move toward the Boca Grande Pass in May. This area is where most of the action takes place.
SWFL Premier Charters
With over 30 years of experience, Captain Nick of the professional fishing company SWFL Premier Charters can provide you with the best fishing experience. He will guide you through the waters of Southwest Florida and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip. Price Range: $475-$875
Indigenous Charters
The waters surrounding Pine Island Sound are known for their several types of fishing. Whether you are looking to catch a giant tarpon or mangrove snapper, Captain Tyler will ensure you have the best possible experience. Price Range: $600 – $1,200
Indigenous Charters (Fort Myers) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker
Gulf Coast Charter Service
The Gulf Coast Charter Service provides fishing trips in Fort Myers, Florida. Captain Fabian Guerrero will guide you to some of the best spots in the area. You can also explore the waters around Pine Island. Captain Fabian also provides licenses and snacks to ensure that you have a wonderful time. Price Range: $550 – $,1050
4. St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg is known for its vibrant culture and tropical weather. It also has plenty of tourist attractions, such as its exquisite beaches, diverse dining options, and fishing.
The migration of tarpon attracts international anglers to Florida. During this period, schools of these fish can be seen in inshore and coastal waters near St. Petersburg.
The water temperatures begin to increase in late April and May, which means that the migration of the tarpon begins to reach St. Petersburg’s coastal waters. Schools of these fish can be spotted in both inshore and deep waters.
Lock it Down Sportfishing
The St. Petersburg area has plenty of things to offer and Lock it Down Sportfishing can help you explore the region’s waters. Whether you are an expert fisherman looking for a trophy or a beginner who wants to have a fun day on the water with the family, Captain Hunter will provide you with the ideal experience. Price Range: $500 – $1,000
Glo#1 Fishing Charters Captain Juan Herndon
With a wide range of fish to choose from, Captain Juan Herndon and his team at Glo#1 Fishing Charters can provide you with the best inshore fishing in the Tampa Bay area. He is enthusiastic about helping others land their dream catch and enjoys seeing the smiles on their faces when they succeed. Price Range: $320 – $750
Big Daddy SportFishing
You’ll be provided with all the necessary equipment for a successful fishing trip, such as high-quality fishing rods and reels. Captain James will also clean the fish after the trip ends. Before you start fishing, make sure that you have some snacks ready and are ready to rock and roll. Price Range: $600 – $,1600
5. Panama City
Panama City is known for its numerous water sports activities, such as surfing, kayaking, and sailing. It is also an excellent location for families and individuals looking for a fun day of fishing. There is a wide range of charter boats that can provide you with various types of inshore and offshore activities.
The season for tarpon in Panama City varies depending on the season. The high season is in July, and the low season is from January to May and December. Book your charter during these times for the highest chance to catch these fish.
Hurricane Charters
With Hurricane Charters, you can experience the area’s beautiful beaches and bays with a professional guide. Captain Eric Nelson is an extremely passionate fisherman with over 40 years of experience in inshore and offshore fishing. The goal of each trip is to create a relaxing and enjoyable experience for the entire family. Price Range: $500 – $600
Hurricane Charters (Panama City Beach) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker
Double W Charters
You can choose to fish in the flats or try out offshore angling. Captain Chris will take you wherever you want to go, and he’ll be happy to accommodate you. The most common species you can catch on your trip include tarpon, snapper, and king mackerel. Price Range: $550 – $1,200
Reel Fun Charters
Captain Terry will provide you with high-quality fishing equipment, such as reels, rods, and tackle. He will also take care of your fishing license and supports the concept of catch and release. Make sure to bring your kids along with you, as they’ll most likely enjoy the experience. Price Range: $400 – $1,200
6. Key West
The former pirate town of Key West has turned into a tropical island in the Florida Keys. The island’s free-spirit attitude, unique “Floribbean” vibe, and vibrant history are all powerful draws for people interested in art, nature, water sports, and more.
Although you can catch giant migratory tarpon outside of their usual migration period, they are known to be more populous within the Florida Keys. The ideal time to catch them is when the temperature gets high enough in April, May, June, and July.
These are typically the months when the large fish are most active. If you’re only planning on fishing for two months, the best time would be April and June.
Reel A Salt Charters
With Reel A Salt, you can experience the best of the productive waters of the Florida Keys. Captain John Jackson is a native of the area and has a passion for fishing, and he can provide you with the best possible experience. Price Range: $650 – $1,500
Reel A Salt (Key West) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker
Easy Does It Charters
Easy Does It aims to provide you with an enjoyable adventure in the waters of the Florida Keys. You’ll be able to catch fish while watching the various creatures that live in this area. You don’t have to bring any equipment aside from your sunscreen. Price Range: $650 – $1,200
Reel Easy Charters
The best way to experience the area’s productive waters is through a Backcountry fishing trip. This activity involves using live bait, such as pilchards, crabs, and mullets. You’ll be able to catch various species, such as redfish, grouper, and tarpon. Price Range: $650 – $1,500
7. Islamorada
The town of Islamorada is known for its unique small-town atmosphere and is a great place to visit for people looking for a vacation. It’s also a great place to enjoy various activities, such as fishing and boating.
The biggest challenge that fly fishing and sight-fishing enthusiasts face is the capture of a large tarpon. They are often spooked and put up a hard fight once hooked.
The best times to fish for Tarpon in Islamorada are during April-July, March, and August. The area’s best-known fishing is for the large and often monster-sized Tarpon commonly found in the spring and throughout the year.
Florida Backcountry Fishing
Florida Backcountry Fishing offers a variety of fishing trips that are designed to accommodate different interests. Each trip is tailored to your specific needs and includes a captain with extensive experience. Price Range: $475 – $850
Islamorada Backcountry & Offshore
Captain Jeff Beeler is a native of Islamorada and has over 30 years of experience in offshore and backcountry fishing. He enjoys fishing for giant and often monster-sized Tarpon during the spring and summer and sailfish during the winter. Price Range: $600 to $1,000
Islamorada Backcountry & Offshore (Islamorada) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker
Hooligan Sportfishing
Captain Sal’s passion for fishing is unmatched, and he is dedicated to teaching others how to fish the best way possible. He also enjoys instructing children about the sport. He is very patient and thorough with his students and always makes their fishing experience memorable. Price Range: $450 – $1,150
8. Marathon
The Florida Keys’ central community of Marathon is located in Monroe County. It is a wonderful place to visit for families and individuals looking for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. The area has plenty of great attractions, such as fantastic beaches, a variety of shops, and world-class fishing.
The best time to catch a large tarpon in Marathon is from March to July. However, the season in the Florida Keys for this fishing activity is almost year-round. During the spring and summer, the waters are warm enough to allow people to catch these fish.
Callion Fishing Charters
Through Callion Fishing Charters, you and your family can enjoy a great fishing experience in the waters of the Marathon. Captain John Callion has been in the fishing business for over 30 years and is very knowledgeable about the area’s various fishing techniques. Price Range: $800 flat
Callion Fishing Charters (Marathon) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker
Captain Buddy LaPointe
With Captain Buddy LaPointe, you and your family can enjoy a great fishing experience in the waters of Marathon, Florida. He is very knowledgeable about the area’s various fishing techniques and is dedicated to making his trips a memorable experience for his clients. Price Range: $600 – $900
Captain Jay Charters
Captain Jay of Captain Jay Charters is dedicated to providing his clients with the best fishing experience in the Florida Keys. All the equipment, including the rods, reels, and bait, is included in the price. Make sure you bring your water and snacks. Price Range: $625 – $1,400
9. Key Largo
The Florida Keys’ first city, Key Largo, is known for being the “dive capital of the world.” It also boasts various fascinating sites, including the world’s most extensive artificial reef. It’s a beautiful place with plenty of water sports opportunities, including fishing.
The fishing season in Key Largo for tarpon is different throughout the year, and it’s usually May to September, with the peak being May and June.
Westward Expeditions Flats Fishing
With over 20 years of experience, Captain Jake Leon has the knowledge and skills to guide you through the waters of the Florida Keys and the Miami area. He can also provide you with various fishing opportunities in the area. Price Range: $650 – $1,500
Off-Course Charters – Everglades
You and your friends can enjoy an enjoyable day on the water with Henry, a captain from Off Course Charters, in Key Largo. The area’s waters are full of exciting fishing opportunities, and he can offer you a variety of inshore fishing trips and will teach you how to fish. Price Range: $400 – $950
Off Course Charters – Everglades (Key Largo) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker
A2 Fishing Charters
You and your companions can enjoy an action-packed, fun-filled fishing adventure with Captain Armando of A2 Fishing Charters. He is a highly knowledgeable and experienced guide who recently won the 4th Annual Hook ’em tournament. Price Range: $750 – $1,050
10. Clearwater
The city of Clearwater is a long-time Florida vacation destination that’s known for its white sand beaches, restaurants, and fun social scene. It also serves as a great base to go fishing for some bigger game, including Tarpon!
In Clearwater, fishing for tarpon can be fairly variable. The high season is from June to August, and the low season is from January to December. There is also no closed season.
Full Throttle Fishing Charters
If you’re planning to have a great fishing adventure in Clearwater, Florida, with Full Throttle Fishing, you’ll be able to enjoy a great day with Captain Garrett Larson. He will guide you through the area’s waters and provide you with the necessary skills to catch a big fish. Price Range: $350 – $950
JT Fishing Charters
You’ll be able to catch a lot of fish in Clearwater with the help of Captain Jace Tyler of JT Fishing. He is a veteran of the Marine Corps and a true outdoors person who enjoys sharing his knowledge and experiences with others. Price Range: $550 – $1,025
Rebel Coast Charters
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive fishing trip with a professional crew and a customized experience, then you’ll want to book a trip with the team at Rebel Coast Charters. Captain William is a highly experienced guide who specializes in family-oriented trips. He will ensure that the kids have a great time and develop their confidence in the water. Price Range: $300 – $700
Rebel Coast Charters (Clearwater) – Updated 2023 Prices – FishingBooker
For a complete breakdown of the best fishing spots for tuna in Florida, check out this guide. For a complete breakdown of the best times to catch tarpon in the Florida Keys, check out this guide. For a complete breakdown of the best times to catch tarpon in Florida, check out this guide. Click here to see a breakdown of the best weather for tarpon fishing.
