Featured Tarpon Charters in Sarasota
Expert captains ready to take you on your next tarpon adventure.
Top Priority Charters
Sarasota, Florida
deep sea sarasota,Casey Key , inshore tarpon, grouper family fishing charters out of Venice, Siesta Key, Sarasota, Englewood and Casey Key Florida with Top Priority Fishing Charters
Captain Jack Hartman
Sarasota, Florida
941-587-9852 WEB specials ! Sarasota fishing Charters. Siesta Key Fishing charters, Longboat Key fishing charters.Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Snook, and More in Sarasota, Florida
Reelin And Chillin Charters
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Best Time to Catch Tarpon
Tarpon can be caught year-round in Sarasota. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tarpon
Sarasota is a prime location for chasing the Silver King, with opportunities arising from spring through summer as Tarpon migrate into the area. These magnificent fish can be found in various habitats, from the passes and bridges to the backcountry creeks and mangrove shorelines. Boca Grande Pass, just south of Sarasota, is world-renowned, but plenty of Tarpon can be found closer to home. Success often hinges on understanding their movements and feeding habits. Live crabs and threadfin herring are top baits, fished either on the bottom or suspended under a float. Artificial lures, such as swimbaits and large plugs, can also entice strikes. A crucial tip for Sarasota: the bridges spanning the Intracoastal Waterway are known Tarpon hangouts, especially at night. Be prepared for a long fight and handle these fish with care, as they are a prized and fragile species. Always check and adhere to local regulations, including required permits and responsible handling practices.
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 Sarasota?
Live bait like pinfish, crabs, and shrimp are very effective for tarpon in Sarasota. Artificial lures such as swimbaits and jerkbaits can also produce good results.
When is the peak season for tarpon fishing in Sarasota?
Tarpon fishing in Sarasota is best during the warmer months, typically from April through September. This is when they migrate into the area's waters.
Do I need a special permit to harvest a tarpon in Florida?
Yes, you need a tarpon tag to harvest a tarpon in Florida. Otherwise, tarpon fishing is catch-and-release only.
What size tarpon can I expect to catch around Sarasota?
In Sarasota, you can catch tarpon ranging from juvenile fish to giants exceeding 100 pounds. The average size is between 40 and 80 pounds.
More Tarpon Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Sarasota
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