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Your Captain
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Michael Vorderstrasse
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If you’re planning a fishing trip in Goodland, Sunset Tide Charters is the perfect way to experience the action of Southwest Florida. Captain Mike Vorderstrasse leads every trip, sharing decades of knowledge and a genuine passion for helping anglers connect with Tarpon in the 10,000 Islands and the Everglades. These waters hold impressive game fish, and Tarpon are the star of the show. Capt. Mike targets them 365 days a year, taking advantage of this rich pass-through zone where migrating fish move in and out daily. Any day has the potential to deliver memorable moments, whether you’re sight casting or watching a fish explode on a lure presentation.
Most days are spent casting artificial baits to rolling Tarpon, with cutbait used when the fish are laid back. Fishing for Tarpon on these trips is catch and release, but if you hook into something else that makes good table fare, Capt. Mike is happy to clean it for you. He welcomes anglers of all skill levels, including kids, making this a great way for families to unplug and enjoy time together. If you have young anglers, be sure to ask about child-sized life vests or bring your own.
Your ride for the day is a 24' Skeeter bay boat built for shallow water access and steady performance in the backcountry. It carries up to three guests comfortably and comes equipped with quality rods, reels, and lures. Your fishing license is included, so you can focus on fishing without any extra steps. You’ll want to bring sunglasses, sunblock that isn’t spray-based, and any snacks you like. Water and ice are provided. You’re welcome to bring additional drinks, and alcohol is fine in moderation as long as you avoid glass bottles or hard liquor.
Captain Mike’s background sets him apart. He grew up chasing largemouth bass in Nebraska, then moved west and spent years fishing Rocky Mountain trout streams and competing in walleye tournaments across the Midwest. Those experiences shaped his patient, detail-oriented style and his focus on putting anglers in the right position to connect. Today, he channels all of that into guiding Tarpon in the backwaters of Marco Island, Everglades City, and the 10,000 Islands. His favorite part of the job is sharing the moment when a Tarpon takes off and an angler feels that first surge of power. Whether it’s your first trip or your hundredth, Capt. Mike brings the same level of care, attention, and excitement to every charter.
What's Included
This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
Read about the licensing details that is / is not covered in the below trips.
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
What's Included
This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
Read about the licensing details that is / is not covered in the below trips.
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
This half day beginner tarpon trip gives two guests four hours of guided fishing, with the option to add more anglers for fifty dollars each. Captain Mike designs this experience specifically for newcomers, focusing on simple techniques, steady coaching, and calm water areas that help build confidence. All rods, reels, lures, and safety gear are provided, and the captain explains each step clearly so first time anglers can learn at a comfortable pace. Guests will practice casting, spotting fish, and understanding basic tarpon behavior as they explore productive zones around the 10000 Islands. It is a relaxed introduction to tarpon fishing that teaches the fundamentals while still offering chances to connect with powerful fish. Deposits are non-refundable.
Pick Your Date
This half day tarpon fishing trip covers four productive hours on the water for up to two guests, with the option to add more anglers for fifty dollars each. Captain Mike focuses on seasonal tarpon patterns in the 10000 Islands and nearby backcountry, giving you steady opportunities to cast at active fish. All rods, reels, lures, and safety gear are provided, and the captain will guide you through each step so beginners and seasoned anglers feel comfortable. The trip is designed to be relaxed but purposeful, with plenty of time spent watching for rolling fish and setting up smart shots. It is a great choice for families or anglers looking for a shorter adventure that still offers strong potential for action. Deposits are non-refundable.
Pick Your Date
This sunrise to sunset tarpon charter gives two guests a full day of uninterrupted time on the water, with the option to add more anglers for one hundred dollars each. Captain Mike uses the extended daylight window to follow tarpon through shifting tides, allowing you to fish key areas as conditions evolve from early morning through late afternoon. All rods, reels, lures, and safety gear are included, and the captain adjusts techniques to match fish behavior so guests of any skill level can participate comfortably. The long format offers steady opportunities for sighting, casting, and tracking fish as they move across the 10000 Islands and surrounding backcountry. It is an excellent choice for anglers who want a deep, unhurried tarpon experience with maximum time on productive water. Deposits are non-refundable.
Pick Your Date
This full day tarpon trip is designed for skilled anglers who want eight focused hours on the water, priced for two guests with the option to add more anglers for one hundred dollars each. Captain Mike uses advanced strategies throughout the 10000 Islands and nearby backcountry, targeting prime zones where experienced anglers can take advantage of precise casting and refined presentations. All rods, reels, and lures are supplied, and the captain adjusts techniques based on tides and fish behavior to keep the day productive. The extended schedule allows for steady movement across varied habitat, giving seasoned anglers the chance to work multiple patterns as conditions shift. It offers a detailed, technique driven tarpon experience built for anglers who want to maximize their time and skill on the water. Deposits are non-refundable.
Pick Your Date
This full day tarpon charter gives you eight focused hours on the water for two guests, with the option to add additional anglers for one hundred dollars each. Captain Mike uses the extended time to cover more ground in the 10000 Islands and nearby backcountry, increasing your chances of finding active tarpon throughout changing tides. All fishing gear is supplied, and the captain adjusts techniques to match conditions so beginners and experienced anglers can participate with confidence. The longer schedule allows for patient sighting, steady casting, and unhurried time spent working prime areas as fish move through. It is an ideal choice for guests who want a deeper, more detailed tarpon experience that benefits from a full day on the water. Deposits are non-refundable.
Pick Your Date
Sunset Tide Charters
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
24 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Skeeter
Model Year:
2018
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Yamaha
# of Engines:
1
Horsepower Per Engine:
300
Maximum Cruising Speed:
30
Features: Bait Tank Fish Finder GPS
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This 24' Skeeter bay boat is built for fishing the 10,000 Islands and Everglades, offering a smooth, stable ride for up to 3 guests. It’s equipped with quality gear, ample deck space, and everything you need for a productive Tarpon trip with Captain Mike.
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Sunset Tide Charters
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
24 ft
Vehicle Details