Featured Tarpon Charters in Big Pine Key
Expert captains ready to take you on your next tarpon adventure.
Flying Thief Charters
Big Pine Key, Florida
Key West Tarpon Fishing with Flying Thief Charters. Let us be your guide to the best Bonefish Spin Fishing, and excellent Flats Fishing in the Florida Keys.
Key West Fly Fishing Guides
Contact Key West On Fly for fly fishing charter information for Key West, the Florida Keys and the Everglades. We specialize in shallow water fly fishing for tarpon, permit, bonefish, barracuda, snook and redfish. We are year-round professional fishing guides.
Florida Keys Island Fishing Charters
About The Captain Captain Tony, a seasoned guide, offers unique fishing charters around Big Pine Key and Bahia Honda Key. With a passion for mutton snapper, yellowtail snapper, tarpon, and sharks, he provides unforgettable experiences on the water. Note from Captain Tony Hi, I’m Captain Tony. Originally from the Jersey Shore, I grew up in…
Hot Rod Fishing Charters
Tarpon, offshore, reef, back country fishing guide and charter for Big Pine Key and Lower Florida Keys Captain Marcus Williams of Hot Rod Fishing Charters
Best Time to Catch Tarpon
Tarpon can be caught year-round in Big Pine Key. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tarpon
Chasing silver kings around Big Pine Key is a unique experience. The backcountry waters and channels surrounding the Key are prime tarpon habitat, offering both shallow water flats fishing and opportunities in deeper channels. Peak season is generally during the warmer months, from April to July, when the tarpon are migrating and actively feeding. Focus your efforts around bridges like the Bahia Honda Bridge and areas with strong tidal flow. Live bait like crabs and pinfish are always productive, but don't overlook casting artificial lures like swimbaits and large profile flies, especially at night. Remember to adjust your leader strength based on the size of the fish you're targeting and the structure you're fishing around. A key local tip: the flats on the oceanside of Big Pine Key offer excellent sight fishing opportunities during calm mornings. Always practice catch and release to help preserve this incredible fishery.
How to Catch Tarpon
Tarpon Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
Catch-and-release only, except for harvest with a Tarpon tag
Size Limit
Must possess a Tarpon tag to harvest
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
Tarpon tags are obtained through a lottery or purchase for certain circumstances. There are gear restrictions; use of treble hooks to harvest tarpon is prohibited.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a tarpon I catch in Big Pine Key, Florida?
Generally, tarpon fishing in Florida is catch-and-release only. You must possess a tarpon tag to harvest one.
Do I need a license to fish for tarpon in Big Pine Key?
Yes, you'll need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license to target tarpon. Make sure to check for any additional regulations.
What are some effective baits for catching tarpon around Big Pine Key?
Live bait such as crabs, pinfish, and shrimp are excellent choices for tarpon. Artificial lures like swimbaits and large flies can also be productive.
Is there a specific time of year that's best for tarpon fishing in Big Pine Key?
Tarpon are present year-round, but the peak season is generally during the warmer months, from spring through summer.
More Tarpon Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Big Pine Key
Ready to Catch Tarpon in Big Pine Key?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.