5.0(1 Reviews)Silver King Strike Charter - Florida Keys
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Backcountry Fishing
Target trophy tarpon in Florida Keys saltwater flatsCaptain Andrew guides groups up to four anglersFourhour backcountry charter with Local Grown Charters
When anglers dream of the perfect fish fight, they're thinking about tarpon. These silver kings are the heavyweight champions of the flats, and the Florida Keys serve up some of the most consistent tarpon action you'll find anywhere. Captain Andrew Atwill runs a top-rated operation that puts you right where these massive fish cruise the shallow waters, ready to test your drag and your nerves. This isn't your typical half-day trip – it's four hours of pure hunting in backcountry waters where tarpon have been ambushing bait for generations. You'll fish prime spots that most weekend warriors never see, guided by someone who's made these waters his life's work.
Your day starts early because that's when tarpon feed best. Captain Drew knows exactly where to position the boat based on tide, wind, and seasonal patterns that change throughout the year. The flats around Key Largo hold fish year-round, but the real magic happens when conditions line up just right. You'll be sight-fishing in water so clear you can watch these giants cruise beneath the surface before they even know you're there. The boat accommodates up to four anglers, which gives everyone plenty of room to fight fish without tangling lines. Expect to move between several productive spots throughout the trip – tarpon are nomadic, and successful guides stay mobile. The whole experience revolves around reading water, understanding fish behavior, and being ready when that silver torpedo decides your bait looks like breakfast.
Tarpon fishing in the Keys requires specific gear and techniques that Captain Atwill has dialed in over years of guiding. You'll be using medium-heavy spinning gear or conventional reels spooled with enough line to handle long runs – these fish regularly peel off 100+ yards on their initial charge. Live bait is the name of the game here, typically crabs, shrimp, or pilchards depending on what's available and what the fish are keyed in on. The captain handles all bait procurement and rigging, so you can focus on the actual fishing. Circle hooks are mandatory for tarpon conservation, and Drew will show you proper hookset technique since tarpon have incredibly hard mouths. You'll fish both on anchor and while drifting, adjusting tactics based on fish behavior and current conditions. The key is presenting bait naturally in the strike zone while staying ready for explosive takes that happen without warning.
"Captain Drew is a professional who will put you on the fish. Its not hard to understand why he refers to himself as Locally Grown. He really knows the waters and history of Key Largo. He provided an awesome experience for my son and grandchildren today in less than favorable conditions. He is great captain and a better person. We cant wait to come back next year." - Andy
Tarpon are the undisputed kings of the flats, and for good reason. These prehistoric-looking giants can reach over 200 pounds and grow longer than six feet, making them one of the most powerful fish you'll ever tangle with. What makes tarpon special isn't just their size – it's their attitude. When hooked, they launch themselves completely out of the water in spectacular aerial displays that'll have your heart pounding and your drag screaming. Peak season runs from April through July, but the Keys hold resident fish year-round. Smaller tarpon in the 20-80 pound range are perfect for building skills, while the true giants that show up during migration season will test every piece of gear you've got. They're catch-and-release only, which means the fishery stays strong year after year. The fight is the reward, and tarpon deliver fights that anglers talk about for decades. Their silver scales flash like mirrors when they jump, earning them the nickname "silver kings." These fish are smart, spooky, and absolutely addictive once you've felt that first powerful run strip line off your reel.
The Florida Keys tarpon fishery is world-class, and Captain Andrew Atwill knows how to put you on fish even when conditions aren't perfect. His local knowledge runs deep, built through years of reading these waters and understanding how tarpon move and feed. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to check tarpon off your bucket list or someone ready to step up to serious game fish, this trip delivers the goods. Four hours gives you enough time to work multiple spots and adapt to changing conditions, while the small group size ensures personalized attention and room to fight fish properly. Remember that deposits are non-refundable, so plan accordingly. Don't wait too long to book – the best guides fill up fast, especially during peak tarpon season. Contact Local Grown Charters today and get ready for some of the best fishing the Keys have to offer.
The 2018 Pathfinder is your ticket to serious tarpon action in the backcountry waters of the Florida Keys. This 24-foot fishing machine packs a 300hp Yamaha that'll push you to prime fishing spots at speeds up to 52 knots, getting you on the flats fast when the bite is hot. Built for up to 4 anglers, she's rigged with GPS navigation to hit those honey holes, radar for when morning fog rolls in, and a fish finder to locate those silver kings lurking in the shallows. Captain Andrew knows these waters like the back of his hand, and this shallow-draft boat can slip into skinny water where the big tarpon feed. Whether you're sight-casting to rolling fish or working the edges of channels, this Pathfinder gives you the platform and power to battle these legendary gamefish in their own backyard.
5.0 out of 5.0Captain Drew is a professional who will put you on the fish. Its not hard to understand why he refers to himself as Locally Grown....
Key Largo, FL