Featured Tarpon Charters in Islamorada
Expert captains ready to take you on your next tarpon adventure.


Capt. Geoff W. Colmes - Fishing Guide
Florida Keys fly fishing guides, fly fishing and light tackle fishing charters in the Florida Keys and Everglades for tarpon, bonefish, permit snook and redfish.


Florida Fishing Headquarters
Fishing Florida Keys with Capt. Steve Murray -popular flats and fly fishing guide, for bonefish, tarpon, permit, snook, redfish and sea trout, on light tackle spin or flyrod


Captain John Johansen Fishing Charters
Islamorada Florida fishing guide John Johansen specializes in light spin tackle and fly fishing off Islamorada, Florida Keys. Lets go on a Tarpon fishing charter adventure!


Islamorada Fishing Charters Florida Keys
Islamorada fishing charters Florida Keys near Key West and Miami: backcountry Islamorada fishing for tarpon, bonefish, permit; and offshore Islamorada fishing for sailfish, dolphin, snapper.


Capt. Tony Horsley - Bowed Up Fishing Charters
Capt. Tony Horsley is a Backcountry Fishing Guide in Islamorada that charters out of World Wide Sportsman in the Florida Keys. Known as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, Islamorada offers superior fishing for tarpon, snook, redfish, trout, bonefish, snappers, groupers and much more.


Capt. Easy Charters
Florida Keys Fishing charters in Islamorada Florida. Offshore, reef, and tarpon fishing on the charter boat Captain Easy with Captain Bruce Andersen.


Stray Cat Charters
Islamorada Fishing Guides and Charter Services for the Florida Keys provided by Stray Cat Charters. Offering backcountry fishing, Reef and Sail Fishing around Islamorada. Tarpon fishing in the Florida Keys with our Charter Captains is an experience of a lifetime. Book your fishing charter with us today (305) 394-7484


Bamboo Charters
Fishing in the Florida Keys varies from a simple day of snapper fishing in a quiet Florida Bay channel with your wife and kids to a one-on-one brawl with a 150 lb. tarpon.


Robbie's of Islamorada
Welcome to Robbie’s Marina, home of the world-famous tarpon feeding! Discover the exciting things to do in Islamorada during your stop here.
Best Time to Catch Tarpon
Tarpon can be caught year-round in Islamorada. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Tarpon
Islamorada, the 'Sport Fishing Capital of the World,' is a prime location for Tarpon, particularly during their annual migration. These silver kings are drawn to the shallow waters and bridges around Islamorada, especially during the warmer months. Fishing around the bridges at night, using live shrimp or crabs, can be incredibly productive. Focus on areas with strong tidal flow. A local tip: be mindful of the current and position your boat accordingly to present your bait naturally. Also, the channels around Channel 5 bridge are well known access points. Tarpon fishing requires patience and skill, but the reward of landing one of these magnificent fish is well worth the effort. Make sure to check local regulations, as Tarpon are primarily catch-and-release.
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
What's the best bait to use for Tarpon in Islamorada?
Live bait like crabs, pinfish, and mullet are highly effective for Tarpon in Islamorada. Artificial lures, especially those mimicking these baitfish, can also produce good results. Focus on presenting your bait naturally around bridges, channels, and backcountry waters.
Can you keep Tarpon you catch in Islamorada, Florida?
Generally, Tarpon fishing in Islamorada is catch-and-release only. You must possess a Tarpon tag to harvest one. Check the current regulations for tag availability and specific rules.
Do I need a license to fish for Tarpon in Islamorada?
Yes, you need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license to target Tarpon in Islamorada. Make sure your license is up-to-date before heading out on the water.
When is the peak season for Tarpon fishing in Islamorada?
While Tarpon can be caught year-round in Islamorada, the peak season is generally from April to July. During this time, large migratory Tarpon gather in the area, offering excellent fishing opportunities.
More Tarpon Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Islamorada
Ready to Catch Tarpon in Islamorada?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.





