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Tarpon Fishing

Take On the Challenge of Tarpon Fishing in Tampa Bay

One of the fish species St. Petersburg is most known for is our tarpon. The tarpon migration in Tampa Bay is one of the largest in Florida and the world. Although the peak months for tarpon migrating are June and July, experienced captains like those at Reel Charters can help you catch these fish all year long. We see anglers worldwide come to St. Petersburg, FL, for a chance to reel in a “Silver King.” With Reel Charters, we can take you across Tampa Bay’s backwaters and shallows, targeting the spots where tarpon is the most abundant. Call today to schedule your tarpon fishing charter!

A tarpon jumping out of the air while Tarpon Fishing in St. Petersburg FL

What’s Tarpon Fishing Like?

Tarpon are among the most challenging fish species to catch while inshore fishing near St. Pete Beach. These monsters of the shallows are an excellent prize for trophy hunters and experienced anglers looking for more of a challenge reeling in their bounty. A tarpon will often jump, twist and flip to get away, testing the strength and endurance of the most serious fisherperson. Reel Charters takes our passengers along the coast, into shallows, and Tampa Bay’s estuary to target tarpon where they’re most likely to spawn.

Quick Tarpon Facts!

Why is tarpon such a popular fish to catch? It’s as much about the experience as the fish itself. Tarpon fishing is an exciting and challenging venture, providing fun and enjoyment for more seasoned fisherpersons. Best of all, tarpon can be caught off Florida’s coast all year (with some months better than others). Here are some quick tarpon facts that help explain why so many anglers love them:

  • Tarpon are remarkable fish that can reach sizes of up to 8 feet long and weigh more than 200 pounds. Their impressive growth rate makes them one of the largest game fish anglers seek.
  • Tarpon can live for several decades, with some individuals known to live up to 50 years. The oldest tarpon ever recorded lived to be 63 years old!
  • Tarpon prefer warm coastal waters and can often be found in estuaries, bays, and around bridges or tidal rivers. They thrive in water temperatures between 75°F and 85°F, making the Tampa Bay region ideal for fishing throughout the year.
  • These predatory fish feed on smaller fish, crustaceans, and occasionally mollusks. Their diet can vary based on the season and available prey.
  • Due to their diminishing populations and status as a sport fish, tarpon in Florida waters are catch-and-release only. This helps maintain sustainable fish populations while allowing the thrill of the catch.

What Does a Tarpon Fishing Charter Entail?

Tarpon fishing requires special bait, tackle, and heavy-duty rods and reels if you expect to catch anything. Thankfully, Reel Charters has everything necessary to make your tarpon fishing excursion successful! On every Reef Charters boat, we provide:

  • Rods and reels
  • Tackle
  • Bait
  • Licensing
  • Bottled water
  • Personal flotation devices

Additional Information

  • Inshore
    • 4-Hour Charter @ $550
    • 6-Hour Charter @ $750
    • 8-Hour Charter @ $950
    • Rates for 1-2 People. $50 per additional person up to 6
    • Vessel: 25’ C-Hawk– 300 Yamaha
  • Near Shore
    • 4-Hour Charter @ $750
    • 6-Hour Charter @ $1000
    • 8-Hour Charter @ $1250
    • Charter Rates Based on 1-4 People
    • Vessel: 26’ Sportsman – Twin 200 Yamahas
  • Depart from Blind Pass Marina
  • We Clean What You Catch!
Happy fisherperson pulling in a tarpon during Tarpon Fishing in St. Petersburg FL

Book Your Tarpon Fishing Charter Today

Want a chance at catching the most popular game fish in Tampa Bay? Take “silver kings” head-on when out tarpon fishing with Reel Charters! We ensure your fishing adventure is full of fun, excitement, and plenty of fish. If you are interested in tarpon fishing or our other charter fishing trips, including deep-sea, inshore, shark fishing, sunset cruises, sandbar trips, and dolphin tours, call 727-433-4225.