Featured Tarpon Charters in Key West
Expert captains ready to take you on your next tarpon adventure.
Shadowcaster Flats Fishing
Welcome to Key West, a truly year round and world class fishing destination. Charter a flats fishing trip to the Back Country of Key West to catch the most sought after game fish in the ocean: tarpon, permit, bonefish and other species are plentiful with light tackle and fly rods. [button …
Seize The Day Charters Key West Tarpon Fishing Charters
Key West Fishing; Seize the Day Charters - Specializing in tarpon fishing charters and also Wrecks, Reefs and Offshore Fishing. Call me at 305-923-4412.
Tarpon Diem
Key West flats fishing charters. See the unspoiled Great White Heron National preserve in the area north of the Florida Keys know locally as the back country. Fish the back country for tarpon, shark, barracuda, bonefish, permit, jacks, and trout.
All Water Charters
Key West fishing charters with Capt. Kyle Kelso. Flats, backcountry, reef, wreck, tarpon, sharks, and more! FL Native Key West fishing guide.
Hook 1 Charters
Fly Fishing Guide for Tarpon, Redfish, Snook, Permit in Matlacha, Pine Island Sound, Sanibel, Captiva, North Captiva, Cayo Costa, Cabbage Key, Useppa Island.
Dream Catcher Charters
Key West fishing with Dream Catcher Charters. Professionals in flats, tarpon, backcountry, deep sea and reef fishing in Key West since 1994
Best Time to Catch Tarpon
Tarpon can be caught year-round in Key West. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tarpon
Chasing tarpon in Key West is a truly unique experience, blending shallow flats fishing with bridge and channel ambushes. The warmer months, particularly April through July, are prime time as these 'silver kings' are abundant and active during their spawning migration. Focus your efforts around the bridges, channels, and mangrove shorelines that characterize the backcountry. A well-placed live shrimp or crab, fished near the bottom or under a dock light at night, can be irresistible. Be mindful of the strong tides that rip through these channels, as they dictate tarpon movement and feeding patterns. The flats off of Bahia Honda State Park offer excellent sight fishing opportunities, but require a shallow-draft boat or kayak. Remember to practice catch and release to help maintain 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
What's the best bait for catching tarpon in Key West?
Live bait like crabs, pinfish, and mullet are excellent choices for tarpon in Key West. Some anglers also have success with artificial lures.
When is peak tarpon season in Key West?
While you can catch tarpon year-round, the best time to fish for them in Key West is generally from April to July, during their migration.
Can I keep a tarpon I catch in Key West?
Generally, tarpon fishing in Florida is catch-and-release only. You must possess a Tarpon tag to harvest one.
Where are some good spots to fish for tarpon around Key West?
Look for tarpon around bridges, channels, and nearshore structures in Key West. Popular spots include the bridges along the Overseas Highway.
More Tarpon Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Key West
Ready to Catch Tarpon in Key West?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.