Tarpon Fishing Trip (Summer) - Apalachicola
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fullday tarpon fishing adventure in Apalachicola watersLearn fly fishing techniques with experienced local guidesSmall group experience limited to two guests maximum
Picture this: you're standing on deck in crystal-clear Florida waters, fly rod in hand, when a 100-pound silver king rockets out of the water just 50 feet away. That's what you're signing up for with Apalach Inshore's summer tarpon trip in Apalachicola. This isn't your average day of fishing – it's a full-day adventure where you'll master fly fishing techniques while targeting one of the most sought-after gamefish in the Gulf. Whether you're bringing your fishing buddy or introducing someone special to the sport, this intimate 2-person charter puts you right in the heart of tarpon country during prime season.
Your day starts early when you meet your captain at the dock in Apalachicola Bay. The morning air is cool, but you know it's going to heat up fast once the action begins. Apalach Inshore provides everything you need – top-shelf fly rods, reels spooled with backing and fly line, plus a selection of tarpon flies that have been proven in these waters. The boat heads out toward the deeper channels and flats where tarpon cruise during summer months, usually within a 30-minute run from the marina. Your guide knows these waters like the back of his hand and has been tracking fish movements for weeks leading up to your trip. The first hour is spent covering water and looking for rolling fish or bait schools that attract hungry tarpon. When conditions are right, you'll see them – dark shadows gliding through the water or explosive surface activity that gets your heart racing immediately.
Don't worry if you've never thrown a fly rod before – your captain will walk you through everything step by step. Tarpon fly fishing is all about timing and presentation. You'll learn the double haul cast, which gives you the distance and accuracy needed to get your fly in front of moving fish. The key is leading the tarpon by several feet and letting your fly sink to their cruising depth. Popular patterns include large streamers, crabs, and baitfish imitations in sizes 2/0 to 4/0. Your guide will tie on the right fly based on water conditions and what the fish are eating that day. The drag system on these reels is crucial because tarpon make blistering runs that can strip 200 yards of line in seconds. You'll practice your casting technique on the way to the fishing grounds, and by the time you hook your first fish, you'll feel confident handling the gear. The boat positioning is just as important – your captain constantly adjusts to wind, tide, and fish movement to give you the best possible shots.
Tarpon are the undisputed kings of Apalachicola's summer waters, and there's good reason why anglers travel from around the world to fish here. These silver-sided giants average 80 to 120 pounds in local waters, with some monsters pushing 150 pounds or more. Summer is prime time because tarpon migrate through the area from May through September, with July and August offering the most consistent action. What makes them so special to catch on fly gear is their explosive fighting style – they'll jump 6 feet out of the water repeatedly, throwing their heads and gill-rattling to throw the hook. A typical fight lasts 30 to 45 minutes, testing every ounce of your strength and the gear's limits. Tarpon have incredibly hard mouths, so hook sets need to be firm and repeated. The real magic happens when you see one coming to your fly – that moment of anticipation as a massive fish decides whether to eat is pure adrenaline. They're also known for their intelligence, often following a fly for several strips before deciding to strike or turn away. The clear waters around Apalachicola let you watch the entire sequence unfold, making it as much a visual experience as a physical one.
Summer tarpon fishing in Apalachicola fills up fast, and for good reason. This world-class fishery combines perfect water conditions, abundant bait, and experienced guides who know how to put you on fish. Apalach Inshore's full-day format gives you the best chance at multiple hookups, and the 2-person limit means you're not sharing the action with a crowded boat. The fact that all gear is included removes any guesswork – you just show up ready to fish. Pack some snacks and drinks since meals aren't provided, but trust me, you'll be too busy fighting fish to think about food. The memories you'll make battling silver kings on fly gear will last a lifetime, and the skills you learn will make you a better angler wherever you fish. Don't wait until the last minute to book – the best dates disappear quickly once word gets out about the bite.
Apalachicola, FL