Fishing For Tarpon: Marathon, Fl

Tarpon, often called the "Silver King," is the most popular fish to catch in Marathon, Florida. With plenty of fishing locations offering a plethora of species to target, Tarpon stand out due to their impressive size, strength, and acrobatic fights. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner looking to embark on a memorable fishing adventure, Marathon's diverse fishing grounds and favorable regulations make it an ideal location to pursue these hard-fighting fish.

Bag Limit for Tarpon

In Florida, tarpon are primarily a catch-and-release species. Anglers can catch tarpon, but they must release them immediately unless they have purchased a special tarpon tag. This tag is required if an angler wishes to possess and harvest a tarpon, which is typically only for record purposes.

Size Limit

There is no minimum size limit for tarpon in Florida, as they are typically released after being caught. The special tarpon tag allows for the harvest of one tarpon over 40 inches per year.

Special Tagging Program

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has a Tarpon Genetic Recapture Study program. Anglers who catch tarpon are encouraged to collect a DNA sample and submit it to the FWC. This helps with research and conservation efforts, tracking tarpon movements, and population dynamics.

Do I Need a Fishing License?

Anglers aged 16 and older are required to have a valid Florida fishing license to fish for tarpon. Licenses can be obtained online through the FWC website or from local authorized retailers.

Season: When is Tarpon Season?

Tarpon can be caught year-round in Marathon, but they tend to be more active during the warmer months, typically from April to September. The peak season for tarpon fishing in Marathon is during the spring and summer months when the waters are warm and the fish are more abundant.

Where to Catch Tarpon

Tarpon can be found in various habitats around Marathon, including inshore waters, bridges, channels, and flats. Some popular areas in Marathon to target tarpon include the Seven Mile Bridge, Vaca Cut, Long Key Bridge, and the Flats and Mangroves.

Methods

Live Bait Fishing

Tarpon can be caught using live bait such as mullet, crabs, and pinfish. Fishing near bridges, channels, and flats can be productive when using live bait.

Artificial Lures

Anglers also have success using artificial lures like soft plastic baits, plugs, and jigs. Targeting structures like bridges and drop-offs can be effective with artificial lures.

Fly Fishing

Fly fishing for tarpon is a popular and challenging method. Using large flies that mimic baitfish, anglers can target tarpon in shallow waters and flats.

Kayak and Wade Fishing

Marathon offers excellent opportunities for kayak and wade fishing. Areas like the flats and mangroves provide ideal conditions for targeting

Book Your Marathon Tarpon Trip

Tarpon are highly sought after, and Marathon is a prime location to target this species. If you’re looking to fish for tarpon, consider booking a trip with one of our local and professional fishing guides through our Marathon tarpon charters. They can provide valuable insights and enhance your chances of landing a memorable catch.