Two Day Tarpon Fishing Charter in Florida
If you're serious about chasing silver kings, Captain Steve Gould's two-day tarpon charter out of Goodland, FL is exactly what you've been looking for. This isn't your typical half-day trip where you're watching the clock - we're talking about maximizing your time on prime tarpon waters with an overnight stay right on the boat. Starting at 7:00 AM and running through the next day, this top-rated charter gives you the best shot at hooking into these legendary fighters while the pressure's off and the fish are biting. At $950 for up to three anglers, you're getting world-class access to some of Florida's hottest inshore action.
What to Expect on the Water
Captain Steve knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's designed this charter to hit all the sweet spots where tarpon, permit, snook, sheepshead, and Spanish mackerel hang out. You'll start early when the bite is hot, fish through the prime feeding windows, and then settle in for the night right where the action is. No rushing back to the dock, no missing that evening bite when the tarpon start rolling - you're staying put in fish-holding water. The overnight setup means you can fish late into the evening, grab some rest, and be back on the rods at first light when these silver kings are most active. With room for up to five guests total, there's plenty of space to spread out and work different techniques without bumping elbows.
Techniques & Tackle
This charter covers all the bases when it comes to fishing methods. Captain Steve brings the complete arsenal - bottom fishing rigs for those sheepshead and permit, jigs for working structure where snook love to hide, spinning gear for casting to rolling tarpon, and light tackle that makes every fight feel like a championship bout. Whether you're a seasoned angler who knows how to work a live bait or someone who's never held a fishing rod, the captain adjusts his approach to match your skill level. All gear is provided, so you don't need to worry about bringing the right tackle or figuring out what works in these waters. The boat is rigged with quality equipment that can handle everything from 5-pound Spanish mackerel to 150-pound tarpon, and Captain Steve will walk you through each technique as conditions change throughout the trip.
Target Species You'll Hook
Tarpon are the undisputed kings of this fishery, and Florida's waters around Goodland offer some of the most consistent tarpon action you'll find anywhere. These silver bullets can range from 80 to 200 pounds, and they're most active during the warmer months when they migrate through these coastal waters. What makes tarpon so special isn't just their size - it's the way they fight. When a tarpon hits your bait, it explodes out of the water in a series of spectacular jumps that'll get your heart racing. They're smart fish too, often throwing the hook with their acrobatic displays, which makes landing one feel like a real achievement.
Permit are the ghosts of the flats - spooky, smart, and absolutely beautiful fish that test even experienced anglers. These disc-shaped fighters average 10 to 30 pounds and are notorious for their selective feeding habits. They cruise the shallows looking for crabs and small baitfish, and when you hook one, they make blistering runs that'll test your drag system. Permit fishing is active year-round in these waters, but they're particularly aggressive during the spring and fall months when they're feeding heavily.
Snook are Florida's signature inshore gamefish, and for good reason. These ambush predators love structure - docks, mangroves, bridges - anywhere they can hide and attack unsuspecting baitfish. They hit hard, fight dirty, and make powerful runs toward whatever cover they can find. Snook range from slot-sized fish around 28 inches up to trophy specimens over 40 inches. They're most active during warmer water periods and are particularly aggressive during the summer months when they're feeding up for the spawn.
Sheepshead might not be the prettiest fish in the water, but they're absolutely delicious and surprisingly fun to catch. These black-and-white striped convicts have human-like teeth that they use to crush barnacles, crabs, and shellfish around structure. They're notorious bait stealers, requiring finesse and quick hook sets. Most sheepshead run 2 to 8 pounds, but the occasional doormat over 10 pounds will really bend your rod. Winter months are prime time for sheepshead fishing when they gather around structure in large numbers.
Spanish mackerel are speed demons that provide non-stop action when they're around. These torpedo-shaped fish rarely exceed 5 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and aggression. They hit fast, fight hard for their size, and are excellent table fare. Spanish mackerel are most active during the cooler months, often showing up in large schools that create feeding frenzies. They're perfect for anglers who want consistent action and are great confidence builders for beginners learning how to fight fish.
Time to Book Your Spot
Captain Steve's two-day tarpon charter fills up fast, especially during peak season when these silver kings are most active. You'll need a valid Florida fishing license, and remember that deposits are non-refundable - this trip is popular enough that last-minute cancellations hurt everyone involved. The meeting point is right on Goodland Drive in Goodland, FL, making it easy to find and get started on time. With all gear provided and expert guidance throughout both days, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure and maybe some snacks since meals aren't included. This is your chance to fish like a pro without the pressure of watching the clock, so grab your spot and get ready for some of the best tarpon action Florida has to offer.