Key West
Tarpon
Fishing Charter
Tarpon fishing in key west
Tarpon are celebrated for their spectacular leaps and fighting prowess, making them a legendary catch in the sportfishing community. These large, powerful fish are primarily targeted for the thrill of the catch rather than for culinary purposes, as their bony structure and notoriety for being a game fish make them unsuitable for consumption.
technique we use
Live bait is highly effective for attracting Tarpon, particularly in inshore waters where they feed. Using live bait such as goggle-eye mimics the natural prey of Tarpon, appealing to their predatory instincts and increasing the chances of eliciting their legendary acrobatic strikes.
Recommended charter
A half day inshore charter is well-suited for targeting Tarpon, especially in areas like flats, mangroves, and river mouths where these fish are known to frequent. This duration allows anglers to experience the excitement of Tarpon fishing without committing to a full day, making it a popular choice for both seasoned anglers and novices.
Bait utilized
Goggle-eye are particularly favored as bait for Tarpon due to their size, hardiness, and active swimming behavior. Their movements and the vibrations they emit in the water are effective at attracting the attention of Tarpon, known for their keen ability to detect struggling fish.
Peak season
The peak season for Tarpon fishing is from April to June, when Tarpon migrate through inshore waters, making them more accessible to anglers. This period coincides with their pre-spawning aggregations, when Tarpon are most active and feeding aggressively, providing the best opportunities for a successful catch.
Table fair
Tarpon is not consumed due to its tough, bony flesh and the strong ethical and sporting traditions that surround Tarpon fishing. The practice is predominantly catch-and-release, focused on the conservation of the species and the sport of the fight rather than the table.
Tarpon
- Best Charter: Half Day Inshore
- Techniques We Use: Live Baiting
- Peak Season: Apr – Jun
- Bait We Use: Goggle-eye
- Table Fare: No Consumption
