Full-Day Tarpon Fishing Charter – Saint Petersburg
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fullday tarpon fishing charter in Saint Petersburg watersLight tackle targeting tarpon, grouper, snapper, and sharksAccommodates up to 4 guests of all skill levels
Picture yourself on Tampa Bay at sunrise, light tackle in hand, scanning the water for those telltale silver flashes that get every angler's heart racing. This full-day tarpon fishing charter out of Saint Petersburg puts you right in the action, targeting the "Silver King" around some of Florida's most productive waters. Captain and crew from Pocket Change Inshore Fishing Charters know these reefs like the back of their hand, and they're ready to put you on fish from dawn to dusk.
This isn't your typical half-day trip – we're talking a full commitment to chasing tarpon and whatever else decides to bite. You'll start early, hitting prime spots around the bay and near the iconic Skyway Bridge where tarpon stack up during their seasonal runs. The beauty of this charter is the variety – while tarpon are the main event, these waters hold grouper, snapper, sheepshead, kingfish, sharks, and cobia. That means even if the silver kings are being picky, there's always something pulling on your line. The boat accommodates up to four anglers, so you're not fighting crowds for deck space or rod holders. Whether you've never held a fishing rod or you're a seasoned pro, the crew adjusts their approach to match your experience level. They'll coach beginners through their first tarpon jump and challenge advanced anglers to perfect their technique.
We're talking light tackle fishing here – the kind that makes every fish feel like a monster and every hookup a real battle. Using spinning reels spooled with 20-30 pound test, you'll present live bait like crabs, shrimp, and pinfish to cruising tarpon. The crew knows when to switch between free-lining baits in open water and working structure around bridge pilings and reef edges. For the mixed bag of species, expect to use everything from circle hooks for grouper to wire leaders when kings and sharks show up. The Skyway Bridge area is legendary for holding bait, which draws in predators from tarpon to massive goliath grouper. You'll learn to read the water, watch for diving birds, and spot those rolling tarpon that can make or break your day. Don't worry about bringing gear – everything's provided, though seasoned anglers are welcome to bring their favorite rods if they prefer.
Tarpon are the undisputed stars of this show, and for good reason. These prehistoric-looking giants can reach over 200 pounds and are famous for their acrobatic fights – expect multiple jumps, long runs, and a battle that'll leave your arms burning. In Saint Petersburg waters, tarpon show up in late spring and stick around through early fall, with peak action typically in May through July. What makes tarpon special isn't just their size – it's their intelligence and the challenge they present. They're notorious for throwing hooks, breaking lines, and testing every knot you've tied. Landing one is a badge of honor that separates casual anglers from serious fishermen.
But don't sleep on the supporting cast. Grouper around these reefs range from smaller gag grouper to massive goliaths that can weigh several hundred pounds. They're ambush predators that hit hard and immediately head for structure, making for intense battles in tight quarters. Red snapper, when in season, provide some of the best eating you'll find in the Gulf, while sheepshead around bridge pilings test your ability to detect subtle bites. Kingfish bring speed and razor-sharp teeth to the mix – they'll scream drag off your reel on blistering runs. Sharks add an element of surprise, especially when you're fighting what you think is a grouper only to see a hammerhead or bull shark surface beside the boat. Cobia, often called the "brown sharks" for their appearance, are fantastic fighters that often travel in small schools, meaning multiple hookups are possible.
This full-day charter represents serious fishing for serious anglers – the kind of trip that becomes the standard by which you measure all others. With Pocket Change Inshore Fishing Charters, you're getting local knowledge that can't be bought, access to prime fishing grounds, and the chance to tangle with some of Florida's most sought-after species. The four-person limit means personalized attention and plenty of room to fight fish properly. Saint Petersburg's year-round fishing opportunities and world-class tarpon grounds make this a bucket-list destination for any angler. Whether you're looking to check tarpon off your life list or add to your growing count of silver kings, this charter delivers the full Gulf Coast experience. Book now and get ready for a day of fishing that'll have you planning your return trip before you even hit the dock.
Your tarpon adventure awaits aboard this well-equipped 24' Carolina Skiff, built for serious fishing in Saint Petersburg waters. The 175HP Suzuki engine delivers smooth performance whether you're cruising to the reefs or positioning around the Skyway Bridge for those trophy tarpon shots. This 2015 center console handles choppy bay conditions with ease while keeping your group of up to 4 comfortable during the full day on the water. The wireless trolling motor lets you move quietly into prime fishing spots without spooking the fish, while the GPS and radar keep you on course and safe. The fish finder becomes your best friend when hunting for schools of tarpon, snapper, and grouper. With speeds up to 45 knots, you'll spend more time with lines wet and less time traveling between hotspots. Perfect setup for targeting everything from massive tarpon to tasty sheepshead using light tackle techniques.
St. Petersburg, FL