Tarpon Fishing in Florida
Catch and release only (1 per day with kill tag)
75 inches minimum (if harvesting)
Year-round
Overview
The Tarpon is a popular saltwater game fish found throughout Florida. The tarpon, known as the "silver king," is widely considered the most spectacular gamefish in the world.
Best Waters in Florida
- Everglades — river. Species: largemouth-bass, bluegill, snook, tarpon, redfish.
- Florida Keys — ocean. Species: tarpon, snook, mahi-mahi, grouper, red-snapper, king-mackerel.
- Tampa Bay — bay. Species: redfish, speckled-trout, snook, tarpon, sheepshead, flounder.
Local Techniques & Baits
Techniques
- live-bait
- fly-fishing-basics
- jigging
Baits & Lures
- Live mullet (large)
- Live crab (pass crab or blue crab)
- Live threadfin herring
- Live pinfish
- Large streamer fly (tarpon toad, black death)
- DOA Baitbuster soft plastic
- Jig with soft plastic body
- Cut mullet (for juvenile tarpon)
- Suspending twitch bait
Seasonal Guide for Florida
SpringSpring Fishing
Tarpon begin their annual migration northward along the Florida coast in April and May as water temperatures reach the mid-70s. Fish stage in passes, channels, and along beaches. Spring is the start of the prime tarpon season in the Florida Keys and Southwest Florida, with massive schools moving through Boca Grande Pass and the Keys bridges.
SummerSummer Fishing
Summer is peak tarpon season throughout Florida, the Gulf Coast, and as far north as the Carolinas. Huge schools migrate along the beaches and stack up in passes during the spawn. June and July at Boca Grande Pass and in the Florida Keys offer the most legendary tarpon fishing in the world. Fish are aggressive and plentiful.
FallFall Fishing
Tarpon begin their southward migration in fall as water temperatures drop. Fishing remains productive through October in most Gulf Coast areas. Resident tarpon in South Florida canals and backcountry provide year-round opportunities. Late-season fish can be less pressured and more willing to eat.
WinterWinter Fishing
Most tarpon migrate to warmer southern waters or Central American and Caribbean wintering grounds. Resident populations remain in the Florida Keys, Everglades, and warm-water refuges year-round. Winter tarpon fishing can be productive in South Florida on warm days, particularly around bridges and in backcountry creeks with dark, warm water.
Regulations
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current regulations with Florida Fish & Wildlife. Information shown was last updated 2025-01-01.
| Bag Limit | Catch and release only (1 per day with kill tag) |
| Size Limit | 75 inches minimum (if harvesting) |
| Season | Year-round |
| Notes | A Tarpon Tag ($51.50) is required if you intend to harvest a tarpon. |