Miami Tarpon Fishing

Nicknamed the "Silver King," tarpon are among the most famous game fish found in South Florida. Their massive size, powerful runs, and acrobatic leaps make them one of the most challenging and rewarding species anglers can pursue. Miami offers outstanding tarpon fishing through much of the year, with peak action during the spring and early summer migration.

Adult tarpon commonly exceed 100 pounds and occasionally top 150 pounds. Their large chrome scales and ability to launch several feet into the air create a fishing experience unlike any other. Even experienced anglers often find themselves humbled by the power and endurance of a mature tarpon.

Tarpon can be found throughout Miami's bays, beaches, inlets, bridges, and nearshore waters. During the migration, large schools move along the coastline and create exceptional sight-fishing opportunities. Night fishing around bridges and channels is also highly productive as tarpon gather to feed under lights and around current breaks. Many of these fish stage in Key Biscayne fishing charters waters and the flats of Biscayne Bay.

Our tarpon fishing charters rely on live bait as the preferred method for hooking large fish. Mullet, pilchards, threadfin herring, and crabs consistently draw strikes from tarpon cruising near the surface or staging around structure. Patience is essential, as tarpon often inspect a bait before committing to the attack.

The hookup is only the beginning. Tarpon are famous for their violent head shakes and aerial displays. Anglers must keep steady pressure while giving the fish room to run, and battles often last well over an hour when a larger specimen is hooked. Our live bait fishing setups are rigged with the heavy fluorocarbon leaders these fish demand.

Tarpon are regarded as one of the premier sport fish in the world. Their size, intelligence, and fighting ability have earned them legendary status. Since they are managed as a catch-and-release fishery, the focus is on enjoying the fight and safely releasing the fish to swim another day.

Experienced anglers chase a personal best while first-time visitors hope for a trophy. For either one, few things match watching a giant Silver King explode from the water with the Downtown Miami fishing charters skyline behind it.

To target the spring run, contact Captain Orly and reserve your trip.