Tarpon Fishing in Tampa Florida
The crew embarks off the coast of Tampa Florida in search of the silver king, the monster, the Giant Tarpon.
The Tarpon
Tarpon (Silver King), primarily identified as Megalops atlanticus, thrive in the Gulf of Mexico, known for their impressive size—up to 8 feet and over 200 pounds.
The Gulf’s warm, shallow waters provide an ideal habitat for these fish, celebrated for their massive size, and spectacular acrobatics when hooked.
While the Megalops atlanticus dominates the Gulf, its cousin, Megalops cyprinoides from the Indo-Pacific region, shares similar traits.
Tarpon are a cornerstone species in the Gulf’s recreational fishing scene, prized for their challenging fight.
Get ready for some hot fishing action as Landed Fishing heats up with its latest episode! The crew ventures to the Florida coast in search of the mighty Silver King, also known as the Tarpon – a prized catch weighing over 120+ lbs. The team teams up with Captain Joe Burruezo of Slobby Joe fishing Charters for this challenging expedition.
How To Catch Tarpon (Silver King)
(M. atlanticus)
Beach, Bridge and Pass Fishing Tips and fishing gear recommendations for catching Tarpon in Tampa Florida.
Catching Tarpon in Boca Grande, FL
Explore Boca Grande as the crew fishes the pass for Tarpon in May of 2024. Join Captain Shaw and Austin from Reaper Rods as they hook up with some early season Tarpon.
Catching Tarpon in Boca Grande, FL
Explore Boca Grande as the crew fishes the pass for Tarpon in May of 2024. Join Captain Shaw and Austin from Reaper Rods as they hook up with some early season Tarpon.
Catching Tarpon in Tampa, FL
In this episode, the crew travels 600 miles to Tampa, Florida, wastes no time, and heads straight to sea to catch some redfish and Snook before heading out to the Tarpon grounds.
Catching Bait for Tarpon
As the crew reaches the Tarpon grounds, the excitement builds up, and they gear up to hook the Tarpon. Experience the intense fight as the crew battles to land the massive fish.
Get Hooked Up with Tarpon
Catching tarpon while fishing in Florida can be a thrilling and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels.
Tarpon are large, powerful fish that can grow up to 8 feet in length and weigh over 200 pounds, making them a challenging and exciting target for anglers.
Best Time to Catch Tarpon in Florida
The best time to catch tarpon in Florida is typically from May to August, with peak season occurring in June and July.
During this time, tarpon migrate along the Florida coast and can be found in a variety of locations including inshore bays, rivers, and estuaries, as well as offshore in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
Best Time By Month, Tarpon Fishing in Florida
| Month | Rating |
|---|---|
| January | Good |
| February | Good |
| March | Good |
| April | Better |
| May | Best |
| June | Best |
| July | Best |
| August | Best |
| September | Better |
| October | Good |
| November | Good |
| December | Good |
Angling Tips: Best Bait for Tarpon Fishing
Live bait for Tarpon is generally the best option for catching the Silver King, with crabs, shrimp, and small fish being the most effective.
Artificial lures for Tarpon such as jigs, plugs, and topwater lures can also be used with success. It’s important to choose the right bait and technique based on the location and conditions, as well as the preferences of the tarpon.
Heavy Tackle and Lines for Tarpon
When targeting tarpon, it’s important to use heavy tackle and strong fishing lines, as these fish are known for their strength and ability to put up a fight. Anglers should also be prepared to use a variety of techniques to entice the tarpon to bite, such as jigging, trolling, and casting.
The Challenge of Catching Tarpon
Tarpon are notorious for their acrobatic jumps and strong runs, making them a challenging fish to land. It’s important to use proper fishing techniques and equipment to avoid losing the fish, including using a strong, sharp hook and ensuring a tight line while reeling in the fish.
Catching tarpon while fishing in Florida is an unforgettable experience for anglers who are up for the challenge.
With the right bait, technique, and equipment, you can increase your chances of landing one of these impressive fish and enjoying the excitement of the catch.
Saltwater Fishing Tips, Guides and Stories
Tarpon Fishing Florida FAQs