Henry David Thoreau once said, “many men fish their whole lives without knowing, it’s not the fish they are after.” Today, it was about the fish. About fulfilling a lifelong dream. About checking something off my bucket list, thanks to Captain Tim Strakos. I was able to carry out that very dream.  At 6:30 a.m., Laura and I met Tim Strakos at his boat slip, the early light just beginning to spill across the Port O’Connor marina. Tim greeted us with his easy confidence, and we loaded up, anticipation buzzing between us. We set out across the bay, the air still cool, heading for a promising flat where we quickly hooked a few spirited redfish. The rods bent, the reels sang, and laughter echoed across the water. After about an hour, as the sun tried to break through the overcast sky, Tim looked back with a glint in his eye and said, “Let’s go get a tarpon.” Excitement surged as we motored out to the jetties, the boat slicing through gentle swells. Here, the hunt truly began. We set up for our drift along the rocks, adrenaline and hope mingling with the salt air. On the first pass, nothing. But on the second drift, as we bounced live croakers over the bottom, I suddenly felt a jolt—a heavy slam at the rod tip that sent my heart racing. It was just after 8 a.m., the morning gray and expectant, when the Silver King struck. The line screamed and the fight began, twenty-five minutes of raw power and determination. The tarpon leapt, scales flashing, tail slapping thunder into the air. My arms burned, sweat beaded my brow, and Laura captured the chaos on camera and video, even handing me a bottle of water as I struggled to keep my grip. Tim’s calm instructions kept me focused as the 85-pound beast tried every trick to throw the hook. Finally, slowly, I wore the tarpon down. With Tim’s help, we hauled the magnificent fish aboard for a quick photo session, Laura beaming behind the lens, me grinning with the exhaustion and exhilaration of victory. The Silver King’s image was immortalized to share with friends and family, a memory I knew I’d carry with me for a lifetime before we gently released him back to the wild, where he vanished with a single flick of his mighty tail. That day, alongside Laura and with Tim’s expert guidance, I joined the ranks of Port O’Connor’s tarpon anglers, forever bonded by the battle with the Silver King. Thank you, Tim, for the trip of a lifetime!   

Had an amazing fishing experience with Reel Salty Charters! Captain Timothy was knowledgeable and skilled at finding the best spots. Caught some impressive Black Drum and Redfish. Highly recommend!

Our trip with Reel Salty Charters exceeded all expectations. Captain Timothy was friendly, professional, and made sure we had a blast. Caught a variety of fish including Speckled Trout and Flounder. Will definitely be back!

Five-star experience with Reel Salty Charters! Captain Timothy took us to some fantastic fishing grounds. The equipment provided was top-notch, and we had a successful day catching Blacktip Shark and more. Can't wait to book again!

Outstanding charter fishing trip with Reel Salty Charters. Captain Timothy's expertise ensured a memorable day on the water. We reeled in some sizable Black Drum and Redfish. Highly recommend this charter!

Reel Salty Charters provided an unforgettable fishing adventure! Captain Timothy was patient and accommodating, making it a great experience for our group. Caught plenty of Flounder and Speckled Trout. Would book again without hesitation!