Tarpon Fishing in Tampa Bay can be a hectic, but joy-filled, experience. Anglers are eager to hook into one of the best saltwater game fish. There’s no doubt that Tampa Bay has some of the best Tarpon-fishing locations in Florida. There are many miles of warm, habitable water. It is also home to a variety of sea creatures and bait fish. These fish can also be found in a number of different places. Find out how to hook a large Tarpon by reading on!
Book Your Tarpon Fishing Now!When Is the Best Season to Do a Tarpon Fishing in Tampa Bay?
First things first. When is the best time to go Tarpon fishing on Tampa Bay? Tarpons are more likely to be found in areas with warmer water. You may find them all year round in Tampa Bay. From April to September is the best time of year for catching some of the largest Tarpons in Tampa Bay. May and June are the most popular months. This is the time of year when Tarpon migrates and thousands arrive in the area.
Tarpons are most likely to be caught on calm days, with calm water and no wind. Tarpons have also been caught during heavy rains and strong winds for some reason.
Tarpon fishing is best done in Tampa Bay early in the morning when the sun just rose, or in the late evening as the sun sets. There is still enough light to observe the fish and their movements, but it doesn’t cause a heatstroke. This is particularly true during the summer. You are not the only one who needs to take a break from sun exposure! During these times you will see Tarpon and baitfish rolling around on the surface.
What’s the Best Area for Tarpon Fishing in Tampa Bay?
Tarpon fishing is available in Tampa Bay from both land and boat. On land, the best places to fish are from piers and beaches. On a boat, you can cruise the bays, channels, passes, and nearshore points.
You can also book a fishing charter to take you to the best spots. Fishing Booker will provide you with the names of experienced and great charter captains who can take you on a fishing trip to remember.
When it comes to Tarpon Fishing in Tampa Bay, there are several places that expert fishermen recommend. The top spot on the list is Boca Grande Pass. This place has been called the “Tarpon Fishing Capital of the World” by many. Tarpons gather in large groups here as the current pushes crabs, shrimp, and other baitfish out of the past.
Tarpons are feisty and will chase any bait they see. This gives you the chance to hook one if your bait is heading in their direction. You’ll see many boats lining up in the past and fishermen throwing out lines from the shore if you are in the area. You can tell if you’re at a great fishing spot by the number of boats in the pass and fishermen throwing lines out from shore.
The Skyway Bridge, Pier, and Boca Grande Pass
All great places to fish for Tarpon in the area. It is ideal for all types of fishermen, as it offers both boat and land fishing. It is ideal for fishing because it allows you to access deeper waters. The marine life in the area, such as bait fish that attract Tarpons, is also abundant.
Skyway Pier charges $4 for vehicle entrance and $4 per person to fish. The pier has several bait shops and does not require a fishing license. There are many amenities available and plenty of fish for you to catch. This is a great place to visit.
Tarpon Fishing in Tampa Bay is The Best!
As we mentioned above, Fishing Booker will help you find some great guides who can take you out on the water to catch some Tarpon. Booking a fishing charter can be a great way to catch Tarpon in Tampa Bay.
If you are on a boat, try fishing around bridges, passes, and along beaches or points. On land, you can try any place that will take you to deeper water where currents are pushing through. Baitfish is also plentiful.
Bring along some artificial lures or bait fish for the Tarpon. They like crabs, pilchards, and threadfin herring. Mullet, shrimps, ladyfish, and pinfish are also popular live bait. If you’re into artificials, bring out your jigheads and swimbaits. flukes are also good options. When using live bait, use a leader with a circle hook. You can also add a sinker to your bait if you feel the current is too strong.
The bait you use will depend on the way they strike. If you use live or dead/cut lures, the strike will usually be felt, not seen.
I think the sensation of a Tarpon biting is unlike any other. The sensation will make your heart race instantly and you will recognize it in the future. The bite is fast, strong, and sudden. You will feel your rod thump hard and hear the drag scream. Then you will see acrobatic leaps.
You can also feel this under the surface when you are using jigheads, swimbaits, or, but the line will run in the opposite direction. Topwater bait is unmatched by other bait for some anglers. As you move your topwater lure along the surface, the Tarpon will blow up your bait. It’s like having a mini-heart attack!
Book Your Tarpon Fishing Now!Tarpon Fishing Tips for Every Angler
Use the right tackle when fishing for Tarpon in Tampa Bay. These fish are strong and feisty. They also have some experience with gymnastics. These fish are known to do flips, and turns, and jump high above the water before crashing through the surface. The fish are also heavy, fast, and have sharp teeth that can cut through ropes or your hands if you grab one.
There are many risks when you hook up a Tarpon. Be sure to use a sturdy rod, a dependable reel, a heavy leader, and strong hooks. You may also want to prepare some gloves.
Tarpon Fishing on Tampa Bay: A Dream Come True
Here is my guide to Tarpon Fishing in Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay offers a wide range of dining and entertainment options. You can add fishing to your itinerary. Tarpon is one of the many creatures that can be found in nature when you go fishing.
Tarpon fishing will bring you and your family a lifetime of memories. If you are looking for somewhere to go on your next vacation, then consider heading down to the Bay to search for “Silver King”.
Tarpon Fishing Regulations for Tampa Bay
Before you go out, you should get your license for saltwater fishing. If you are caught fishing without a license, you could be fined. The cost of a fishing license is not too high and it’s cheaper than a fine!
Online, by phone, in a local store, or even at the tax office. The license can be printed immediately or mailed directly to you.
The regulations will remain the same whether you are fishing from a boat or land. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation protects Tarpon and has put in place regulations to keep them safe.
You Must First Keep Tarpons Over 40 Inches Deep in the Water
It allows water to pass through their mouths and gills. If you are taking out smaller fish, be sure to hold them horizontally and support their stomach. It is best to only keep them out of the water for a short time.
You’ll see that Tarpons like to “roll” when they take a big gulp of oxygen to help regulate their swim bladder. This is important to remember and also to ensure that they get enough water to cover their entire body. Keep the bigger fish in the water if you want to remove a hook, take a picture, or tag the fish. If necessary, you can hang over the side or get into the water.
It is the same method for reviving them. Keep them submerged with their mouths and gills facing forward. The water will flush through their bodies and prepare them for recovery. When the Tarpon is revived and ready to swim down, you should hear a loud kick. When you see the Tarpon kick, it’s time to let go. The FWC encourages all to release Tarpon safely and always.
In addition to the regulations above, at no time can Tarpon be harvested. If you have been granted a Tarpon tag, this is the exception. You can keep one Tarpon per year, but only in the pursuit of a state or world record.
You can go Tarpon Fishing in Tampa Bay as long as you respect the fishery and understand the importance of releasing your Tarpon safely.
Ready to a Family Fishing Adventure?
If you’re looking to make the most of your inshore fishing adventures and tarpon fishing in Tampa Bay, don’t hesitate to reach out for consultation with Copeland Outdoors. Their expert advice and local knowledge will help ensure that your fishing trips are both successful and enjoyable. Contact now!
Book Your Tarpon Fishing Now!