Key West Sunset Tarpon Fishing Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target Tarpon during prime season from April through JuneEvening departure creates optimal fishing conditions at sunsetCaptain provides equipment, licenses, and fish cleaning services
When tarpon season hits Key West, serious anglers know there's nothing quite like hooking into these silver kings as the sun dips toward the horizon. Captain Ryan's evening tarpon charter puts you right in the thick of the action during peak season, from April through late June when these monsters are most active in our local waters. This isn't your typical half-day fishing trip - it's four hours of pure adrenaline targeting one of the most sought-after game fish in the world, right here in the legendary waters surrounding Key West.
We kick off at 5 PM, giving us the perfect window to capitalize on tarpon feeding patterns as daylight starts to fade. You'll be fishing prime tarpon grounds where these fish have been congregating for generations, and Captain Ryan knows exactly where to position the boat for the best shots. The evening departure isn't just about timing - it's strategic. Tarpon become more active as temperatures cool and baitfish start moving, creating ideal conditions for hookups. With space for up to four anglers, this trip keeps the group size manageable so everyone gets quality time on the water without feeling crowded. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to tarpon fishing, Captain Ryan adapts his approach to match your skill level, making sure everyone has a legitimate shot at landing one of these bucket-list fish.
Captain Ryan comes prepared with everything you need - heavy-duty rods and reels specifically rigged for tarpon, plus a full arsenal of tackle proven effective in Key West waters. We're talking about serious gear here, because when a 100-pound tarpon decides to go airborne, you want equipment that can handle the fight. The captain sets up live bait presentations and artificial lures depending on conditions, and he'll walk you through proper fighting techniques before the action starts. Tarpon fishing requires specific skills - knowing when to bow to the fish during jumps, managing drag pressure, and staying patient during those epic battles that can last 30 minutes or more. Don't worry about licenses or any of the technical stuff; it's all handled so you can focus on fishing. At trip's end, any keeper fish get cleaned and filleted, though many anglers choose to release these magnificent fish to fight another day.
Key West tarpon fishing consistently delivers some of the most memorable battles in sportfishing. These silver kings average 80 to 150 pounds in our waters, with fish over 200 pounds always a possibility during peak season. What makes tarpon so special isn't just their size - it's their fighting ability and spectacular aerial displays when hooked. The moment a tarpon feels steel, it launches into a series of gill-rattling jumps that'll have your heart pounding and camera clicking. April through June represents prime time because this is when mature tarpon migrate through the Florida Keys, staging in our backcountry and nearshore waters before continuing their spawning journey. The fish are aggressive, well-fed, and at peak fighting condition. Evening hours often produce the most action as tarpon move into shallower areas to feed, rolling on the surface and giving away their locations to experienced captains like Ryan who know how to read the signs.
This seasonal charter books up fast, and for good reason - there's a limited window to target tarpon at their absolute best in Key West waters. Captain Ryan's evening departure time maximizes your chances during those magic hours when tarpon are most active, and his local knowledge of productive fishing spots gives you a serious advantage. With all gear, tackle, and licenses included, plus professional fish cleaning service, this trip delivers serious value for dedicated anglers. The small group size ensures personalized attention and plenty of fishing time for everyone aboard. Cold water is provided, and you're welcome to bring your own beverages and snacks to fuel up during the action. Don't wait on this one - tarpon season waits for nobody, and the best dates fill up quickly among anglers who know what they're after.
Your tarpon fishing adventure begins aboard a sleek 24' Pathfinder bay boat, perfectly designed for Key West's shallow waters and built to get you to the hottest tarpon spots fast. This proven fishing machine is powered by a reliable 250 HP Yamaha that cruises at 40 knots, cutting through the water to maximize your fishing time during those prime sunset hours. The boat's shallow draft lets Captain Ryan position you right where the silver kings are rolling, while the wireless trolling motor keeps things whisper-quiet when stealth matters most. Modern fish finder technology helps locate schools beneath the surface, and GPS navigation ensures you hit the most productive tarpon grounds around the island. An onboard icebox keeps your drinks cold during the 4-hour evening trip, and there's plenty of deck space for up to four anglers to work these powerful fish. Built for serious tarpon fishing with all the safety gear and electronics you need for a successful sunset session on Key West's legendary waters.
Key West