Tarpon fishing in the Everglades isn’t just a bucket-list adventure—it’s a test of skill, patience, and adrenaline. Nicknamed the “Silver King,” the tarpon is one of the most prized gamefish in Florida, known for its raw power and wild aerial displays. But a trip like this is about more than just the catch—it’s about the entire experience, from the first cast to the quiet moments between battles.
If you’re booking a tarpon fishing charter in Everglades National Park, here’s what you can realistically expect—and how to make the most of every minute on the water.
Before we talk logistics, it’s worth knowing why tarpon are such a big deal. These fish can reach sizes over 150 pounds, with most catches in the Everglades ranging from 60–120 pounds. They’re strong, fast, and acrobatic. Once hooked, tarpon will leap into the air, shake violently, and fight hard for as long as it takes.
Tarpon are also catch-and-release only in most of Florida, especially within Everglades National Park. That means the focus isn’t on taking one home—it’s about the chase, the fight, and the story.
In the Everglades, April through July is peak tarpon season. This is when warmer water temperatures and favorable moon phases bring the fish into shallower flats and coastal creeks where they can be targeted more effectively.
Your guide—especially someone who knows the area like Capt. Mitch—will plan your trip around tide shifts and moon phases, which significantly impact tarpon movement. Morning trips during outgoing tides are often prime time, but conditions vary daily. A good charter adjusts to them, not the other way around.
Most tarpon fishing charters in the Everglades use shallow-draft boats designed for backcountry travel. You’re not dealing with big offshore rigs here. Instead, expect something compact and nimble, usually 20–24 feet long, with enough room for a few anglers and gear.
We run a 23ft custom Seahawk, built for comfort and versatility. These boats glide over the shallows, slip through tight creeks, and offer stability when you’re battling a big tarpon in open water.
When you show up, you won’t need to bring much—quality charters provide all rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Tarpon setups usually include:
Fly fishing for tarpon is also an option if you’re experienced, though it requires a different kind of preparation. Make sure to ask your guide in advance.
Tarpon fishing isn’t about casting blindly—it’s about timing, location, and patience. Expect your captain to:
Unlike other species, you don’t “set” the hook on a tarpon with a big jerk. You let the circle hook do the work, keep steady pressure, and prepare for chaos once the fish realizes it’s hooked.
Here’s where things get intense.
When a tarpon hits, it’s often explosive. You’ll feel the hit, then see the fish launch out of the water in a wild attempt to shake the hook. The adrenaline kicks in immediately, and from there it’s a test of endurance. Fights can last anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes, sometimes longer.
Throughout the battle, your captain will be coaching you:
This isn’t a strength contest—it’s about finesse.
One of the best things about fishing for tarpon in the Everglades is the setting. Between casts, you’ll be surrounded by one of the most pristine, biodiverse landscapes in North America. You might see:
Even if the fish are quiet, the experience never is. The stillness of the mangroves, the sound of water lapping against the hull, and the sight of a massive fish tailing in the distance—it’s a kind of wild you don’t get anywhere else.
You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy a tarpon charter. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned angler, a good guide tailors the trip to your level. You’ll get instruction, support, and the kind of inside knowledge that only comes from fishing these waters for decades.
If you’re looking for a trip that combines sport, nature, and local knowledge, this is it. And if you’re with someone who just wants to ride along for the scenery, that works too—plenty of guests come for the peace and beauty, not just the fishing.
While most of the gear is provided, you should come prepared with:
Ask in advance if your captain supplies drinks or lunch—Capt. Mitch’s trips typically include a cooler onboard, but it never hurts to double check.
A tarpon fishing charter in the Everglades is the kind of trip that stays with you. It’s not just about landing a giant—it’s about learning, seeing, and experiencing something that few people ever get to. You’ll come back with sore arms, better stories, and a deeper appreciation for this wild corner of Florida.
Whether you’re coming for the fight or just to feel the heart of the Everglades from a front-row seat, a guided charter with someone like Capt. Mitch puts you in the right place at the right time—so all you have to do is hold on and enjoy the ride.
The Florida Everglades is more than just a stretch of wetlands—it’s one of the most biologically rich, visually stunning, and fish-filled places in North America.
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The Everglades, a sprawling network of wetlands in southern Florida, is a haven for anglers seeking diverse fishing experiences. Its unique blend of freshwater, saltwater,
Tarpon fishing in the Everglades isn’t just a bucket-list adventure—it’s a test of skill, patience, and adrenaline. Nicknamed the “Silver King,” the tarpon is one
Fishing in the Everglades is unlike any other experience. The vast wetlands, winding waterways, and unique wildlife create a spectacular backdrop for anglers chasing tarpon,
First things first, not all bad weather means your trip is doomed. A passing rain shower, a cloudy morning, or a breezy afternoon often doesn’t
Everglades Fishing Tour With Capt. Mitch
Let Capt. Mitch lead you on a guided Everglades fishing tour like no other. With decades of local knowledge and a comfortable custom boat, you’ll navigate peaceful waters, cast into hidden hotspots, and experience the best of Florida’s backcountry fishing in the Everglades National Park.
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