Southwest Florida has long been known as the Tarpon Capital of the World. In fact, it’s said that the first tarpon was caught near Sanibel Island in, what is now aptly known as, Tarpon Bay. Since that first tarpon was caught, fishermen have been flocking to this tarpon sanctuary.  

Stretching from south Fort Myers up to Boca Grande, the tarpon tunnel is most active between April and August when the water is nice and warm.

A Complete Guide to Tarpon

Known as “The Silver King,” tarpon are enormous fish that can grow more than 7 feet long and weigh over 300 pounds. They stay large on a hefty diet of shrimp, smaller fish, and their favorite, crab. Tarpon stay close to the shore to eat their fill and gulp air every now and then.

Catching tarpon is a task that requires the right tools, tackle and hooks. The majority of tarpon are over 100 pounds and are always up for a fight. Captain Sullivan is an experienced tarpon fisher and has the right line to combat the heavy fish’s thrashing and jumping.

Essential Tarpon Fishing Tips

There’s nothing like wrangling your first tarpon! Catching tarpon requires skill, patience, and a fair bit of elbow grease.

Captain Sullivan guides you to the best spots and provides the best instruction to catch one of these elusive fish. The trick is waiting until the tarpon takes the bait and is busy swimming way to begin reeling in your catch.

Once hooked, the tarpon will begin to thrash, and that’s when the real fun begins. If the tarpon jumps in the air, slack the line to avoid a snapped line. Once the tarpon’s back in the water raise your rod and start reeling.

Catching a tarpon is difficult but it’s not impossible. Captain Sullivan is there to help you reel in The Silver King. .

Book a Fishing Charter

Experience tarpon fishing with an experienced guide! Call to book a tarpon fishing charter with Captain Sullivan today.