Seasonal · Late Spring Through Summer
Tarpon Fishing Charters in Tampa Bay
Chase the “silver kings” on Tampa Bay and in Boca Grande with USCG Licensed Master Captain Jim Pollard.
Big Daddy Sportfishing runs seasonal tarpon fishing charters in Tampa Bay and Boca Grande from late spring through summer, when large schools of tarpon migrate through the area. Trips are private for up to four anglers: $900 for 6 hours and $1,100 for 8 hours, with licenses, heavy tarpon tackle, bait, water and ice included.
When Is Tarpon Season in Tampa Bay?
Tarpon fishing charters in Tampa Bay and Boca Grande are most popular from late spring through summer, when large schools of “silver kings” migrate through the area. Tarpon fishing is best from May to July. The tail end of the tarpon season also overlaps the early fall mullet run, and there are still fish to be found for anglers who want a shot at one.
Why Fish Boca Grande for Tarpon?
Boca Grande is the Tarpon fishing capital of the world, and its legendary pass draws anglers from all over in pursuit of these powerful fish. Whether you are chasing silver kings on the flats of Tampa Bay or in the famous waters of Boca Grande, tarpon provide one of the most thrilling experiences in charter boat fishing in Tampa, FL.
How Do We Catch Tarpon?
Captain Jim Pollard uses proven techniques such as sight casting with live bait or artificial lures to target rolling tarpon. Nothing is as thrilling as chasing schools of tarpon, and Captain Jim loves putting clients on the infamous “silver kings”. We will catch them by sight casting plugs or live bait to rolling fish.
What Tackle Do You Use for Tarpon?
Tarpon trips run heavier gear than our inshore trips: Temple Fork Outfitters 8’ 50 pound rods paired with Daiwa BG 6500 reels spooled with 50lb braided line. The boat carries a Deck Gear fighting chair for battling large tarpon and gamefish.
Seasonal Tarpon Rates
- 6 Hour Tarpon Trip Special (PM)(4 Anglers)$900/Day
- 6 Hour Tarpon Trip (AM)(4 Anglers)$900/Day
- 8 Hour Tarpon Trip(4 Anglers)$1,100/Day
- Fishing for 4 Anglers (MAX 6 passengers)
- Fishing licenses
- Rods, reels, all bait and tackle
- Bottles of water and Ice
- Storage for personal items on-board
- Yeti Cooler for your food and other beverages
- Post-charter fish cleaning and preparation
Common Questions
Tarpon Fishing Charters in Tampa Bay FAQs
More answers on the FAQ page. More ways to fish with us:
When is the best time for tarpon fishing in Tampa Bay?
Tarpon fishing is best from May to July. Tarpon charters are most popular from late spring through summer, when large schools migrate through Tampa Bay and Boca Grande.
How much is a tarpon charter?
A 6 hour tarpon trip is $900 (morning, or the afternoon special) and an 8 hour tarpon trip is $1,100. Rates are per trip for up to four anglers, not per person.
Why do tarpon trips cost more than inshore trips?
Tarpon trips require specialized heavy tackle and more time on the water, so they are priced a little higher than a standard inshore trip.
Do I need a fishing license?
No. Your fishing license is covered under the charter, so it is already included in the price.