Tarpon

Chasing tarpon near Midway, Florida, offers a different experience than the state's more well-known tarpon hotspots. Here, you'll find a more secluded fishery in the marshy estuaries and coastal rivers that feed into Apalachee Bay. These tannin-stained waters hold resident tarpon that can be targeted throughout the warmer months, typically from May through September. Focus your efforts around bridge pilings, creek mouths, and deep channels where tarpon ambush prey. Live mullet or pinfish are excellent bait choices. A useful piece of local knowledge: the Steinhatchee River, a short drive from Midway, is a known tarpon haunt. Be prepared for strong currents and submerged structure. While the tarpon in this area might not reach the massive sizes seen elsewhere, they are still challenging and rewarding to catch. Catch and release is strongly encouraged to preserve this unique fishery.