Tampa Tarpon Fishing Charter, Targeting Trophy Tarpon
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Sixhour charter targeting trophy tarpon in Tampa Bay watersAll gear, live bait, and catch cleaning included with tripMaximum two guests for personalized angling experience
Get ready for some serious tarpon action in Tampa Bay with Captain David, who's built his reputation on putting anglers on trophy silver kings. This focused 6-hour charter targets up to two guests at a time, which means you'll get the personal attention and prime fishing spots that make all the difference when you're after these legendary fighters. Whether you're an experienced angler looking to add a Tampa Bay tarpon to your list or newer to the sport but ready for the challenge, this trip delivers the kind of quality fishing that keeps people coming back season after season.
Captain David runs morning trips starting around 8:00 am and afternoon sessions beginning at 2:00 pm, but he's smart about timing – departure depends on tides and weather because that's what puts fish on the hook. You'll fish Tampa's prime inshore and nearshore waters where tarpon gather, from the flats near the Skyway Bridge to deeper channels where these giants roll and feed. The captain provides all your tackle, fresh live bait, drinks, and handles the catch cleaning afterward. His license covers both guests, so all you need to bring are snacks and your camera for the hero shots. With just two anglers aboard, you'll have room to fight these powerful fish without getting tangled up, plus Captain David can focus on teaching techniques that'll make you a better tarpon angler.
Tarpon fishing requires the right approach, and Captain David comes equipped with heavy spinning gear and conventional reels that can handle 100+ pound silver kings without breaking a sweat. You'll fish with live bait – typically crabs, shrimp, or baitfish depending on what's working that day – presented on circle hooks that reduce deep hooking and improve survival rates when you release your catch. The techniques vary based on conditions: sometimes you'll anchor up in a channel and wait for rolling tarpon to move through, other times you'll sight-fish to individual fish on the flats. Captain David teaches proper fighting techniques too, including how to bow to the king when they jump (and they will jump), managing your drag, and working the fish efficiently. Tampa Bay's structure – from bridges to channels to grass flats – gives tarpon multiple feeding opportunities, and your captain knows how to read the water and position you for success.
Tarpon are the undisputed kings of Tampa Bay, and for good reason. These prehistoric giants can reach 200+ pounds and 7+ feet long, though most fish you'll encounter range from 80-150 pounds – still plenty big enough to test your tackle and your muscles. What makes tarpon special isn't just their size, it's their aerial displays. When hooked, they launch themselves completely out of the water in spectacular jumps that'll get your heart racing and give you stories to tell for years. Tampa Bay hosts tarpon year-round, but the best action typically runs from April through October when water temperatures warm up and baitfish are abundant. These fish feed on crabs, shrimp, and baitfish throughout the bay, often rolling on the surface as they gulp air to supplement their oxygen intake – a behavior that helps anglers locate them. The fight is what tarpon are famous for: powerful runs, multiple jumps, and endurance that can test even experienced anglers. Most anglers practice catch and release with tarpon since they're primarily sport fish, and there's something special about watching a fish you just battled swim away strong. Captain David's waters around Tampa Bay are renowned for holding quality fish, and the bay's healthy ecosystem supports tarpon throughout their range here, from juvenile fish in the back country to mature giants near the passes.
This Tampa Bay tarpon charter offers the kind of focused, quality fishing experience that serious anglers appreciate – small groups, expert guidance, and prime waters that consistently produce trophy fish. Captain David's approach combines local knowledge with the right techniques and timing to give you the best shot at hooking into Tampa Bay's legendary silver kings. Whether you're looking to check tarpon off your bucket list or you're a seasoned angler wanting to fish with someone who knows these waters inside and out, this 6-hour trip delivers the goods. The personal attention you'll get with just two anglers aboard makes a real difference when you're learning new techniques or fighting the fish of a lifetime. Tampa Bay's tarpon fishing is world-class, and Captain David's charter puts you right in the middle of it. Book your spot and get ready to experience why tarpon are called the silver king – these fish will test your skills, your tackle, and your endurance in the best possible way.
Our 22' Nautic Star center console is built for serious tarpon hunting in Tampa Bay's challenging waters. The 225 HP Mercury Verado delivers the power you need to reach those prime fishing spots where trophy tarpon cruise, while the stable center console design keeps you comfortable during long fights with these silver kings. Advanced Garmin GPS gets you to the hottest areas quickly, and the fish finder helps locate baitfish schools that attract hungry tarpon. The wireless trolling motor lets you position silently over structure without spooking fish, while the livewell keeps your bait fresh and lively all day. When you hook into a 100+ pound tarpon, you'll appreciate the open deck layout that gives you room to work the fish properly. The icebox keeps drinks cold during those hot Tampa Bay afternoons when the tarpon bite heats up. Whether you're sight-fishing the flats or working deeper channels, this boat handles Tampa's varied inshore waters with ease, giving you the best shot at landing the tarpon of a lifetime.
Tampa