Featured Tarpon Charters in St. Petersburg
Expert captains ready to take you on your next tarpon adventure.
Imperial Sportfishing | Premium Fishing Charters
Imperial Sportfishing is a charter fishing experience in Tampa bay. Fish inshore, nearshore, for tarpon and shark in Tampa Bay and the surrounding waters.
Inverted Fishing Charters
Inverted Fishing Charters provides year-round fishing charters from St. Pete, FL to the tarpon-rich waters surrounding St. Pete and Anna Maria
Native Sportfishing Services
Meet Capt. Kyle, a St. Pete native with decades of experience. Join him for unforgettable adventures targeting Tarpon, Snook, Redfish & more!
Best Time to Catch Tarpon
Tarpon can be caught year-round in St. Petersburg. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tarpon
Chasing tarpon in St. Petersburg, Florida is an experience unlike any other. These silver kings frequent the waters of Tampa Bay and the surrounding areas, offering anglers a chance to test their skills against a powerful adversary. The best time to target tarpon is during the spring and summer months when they migrate into the area. Focus your efforts around bridges, channels, and passes where tarpon congregate. Live crabs and threadfin herring are popular baits, but artificial lures like swimbaits and jerkbaits can also be effective. A local hotspot is the Skyway Bridge, where tarpon often stage up. Be prepared for a long fight and make sure you have the proper tackle, including a heavy-duty rod and reel and plenty of line. 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 near St. Petersburg?
Generally, tarpon fishing is catch-and-release only in Florida. You must possess a Tarpon tag to harvest one legally.
Do I need a license to fish for tarpon in St. Petersburg?
Yes, you need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license to target tarpon. If you intend to harvest one, you will need a Tarpon tag.
What's the best time of year to fish for tarpon around St. Petersburg?
Tarpon are most commonly targeted during their migration in the warmer months, typically from May to September. However, they can be found year-round.
What kind of bait should I use to catch tarpon in St. Petersburg?
Popular baits for tarpon include live crabs, pinfish, and threadfin herring. Artificial lures, such as swimbaits and jigs, can also be effective.
More Tarpon Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in St. Petersburg
Ready to Catch Tarpon in St. Petersburg?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.