Tarpon Time at Useppa Island: Fishing for the Great Silver King!

With a typical 80-day season, producing an average 5,000 tarpon landed, it's no secret that the world's best tarpon fishing happens around Useppa Island. 

Believed to be the birthplace of tarpon fishing, Useppa and the surrounding areas of Boca Grande, Gasparilla Island and Cayo Costa come alive between April, May and June. Anglers from all of the world come to Southwest Florida to try their hand at landing these majestic creatures. 
  

Photo Credit: http://www.sanibelcaptivafishing.net/

Tarpon fishing is a catch-and-release only fishery. And with great stamina and power, these fish are explosive and acrobatic fighters that have made their name as one of Florida’s most challenging and exciting nearshore sportfish! 

Photo: Eric Strachan

  
If you want to know more about the season and rules of Tarpon fishing? Check out the latest from Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC) here. 

Looking to try your luck at landing a Tarpon? Here are a few fishing charters we recommend in the Southwest Florida area:

Hoke Fishing Charters: Captain Dave Hoke

• Offering 1/2, 3/4 and full day fishing charters. Bring the kids and join this native guide for a memorable fishing excursion battling tarpon, redfish, snook, trout, sharks and more! Also available for private shelling, dinner and sunset cruises.

Falling Tide Charters: Captain Cory McGuire

• Light Tackle Back Country Fishing for Snook, Redfish, Trout, as well as Tarpon fishing the world famous Boca Grande Pass. Half, 3/4 and Full Day Trips Available. Customized family trips, Fishing Tournaments and Night Fishing Trips. 

Old School Charters: Captain Bryan Dollar

• Specializes in full day and half day charter fishing along the inland waters of the Boca Grande and local waters of Pine Island sound for inshort and near shore light tackle fishing.