Task Force Fishing Charters

Punta Gorda, Florida
Sheepshead Fishing in Punta Gorda, Florida

About Your Guide

Profile photo of Captain Experiences guide Mike Downs

Mike Downs

Independent Guide
Captain Mike was born and raised in Southwest Florida. A third-generation Floridian, his family were fishermen on Marco Island long before a bridge connected it to the mainland. Today, Capt. Mike and his family live on the Peace River. These waters are his backyard and he knows how to get away from the crowds to find un-pressured fish. He spends countless hours on the water, sharpening his knowledge and observing fish behavior, determined to provide you with the best possible fishing experience.

A steward of the environment, Capt. Mike practices responsible conservation to ensure healthy, thriving fisheries for future generations. He and his wife, Alycia, coordinate a non-profit event, C.A.S.T., for Kids Charlotte Harbor through which they share their love for fishing with children in their community. The event allows kids to get out on the boat (many for the first time) with experienced captains and catch their first fish.

When not fishing, Capt. Mike can be found on Charlotte County's Marine fire boat, protecting citizens and waterways. Serving as a Marine Operations Firefighter-Paramedic, you can guarantee that safety is...

About Your Guide

Profile photo of Captain Experiences guide Mike Downs

Mike Downs

Independent Guide
Captain Mike was born and raised in Southwest Florida. A third-generation Floridian, his family were fishermen on Marco Island long before a bridge connected it to the mainland. Today, Capt. Mike and his family live on the Peace River. These waters are his backyard and he knows how to get away from the crowds to find un-pressured fish. He spends countless hours on the water, sharpening his knowledge and observing fish behavior, determined to provide you with the best possible fishing experience.

A steward of the environment, Capt. Mike practices responsible conservation to ensure healthy, thriving fisheries for future generations. He and his wife, Alycia, coordinate a non-profit event, C.A.S.T., for Kids Charlotte Harbor through which they share their love for fishing with children in their community. The event allows kids to get out on the boat (many for the first time) with experienced captains and catch their first fish.

When not fishing, Capt. Mike can be found on Charlotte County's Marine fire boat, protecting citizens and waterways. Serving as a Marine Operations Firefighter-Paramedic, you can guarantee that safety is
priority #1. Capt. Mike is an experienced boat captain who operates at the highest level of boater etiquette and will make you feel safe and comfortable while aboard his vessel.
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Punta Gorda Tarpon Special

NEW 1 - 4 People 6 - 8 Hours From $920
Punta Gorda Tarpon Special
Punta Gorda Tarpon Special
Punta Gorda Tarpon Special
Tarpon Fishing in Punta Gorda, Florida
Punta Gorda Tarpon Special
Punta Gorda Tarpon Special

About Your Trip

Water Type

Inshore

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Weather

You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather

Are you ready for a fish that will test your strength, stamina, and fishing skill? If you can handle the challenge, the “Silver King” is the fish for you. The majestic Tarpon has become the most sought-after game fish in the Florida Keys—especially between April and July. During this short window, these mammoth fish move up and down the coast, hunting for food. Tides, weather, and the phases of the moon play essential roles in...

About Your Trip

Are you ready for a fish that will test your strength, stamina, and fishing skill? If you can handle the challenge, the “Silver King” is the fish for you. The majestic Tarpon has become the most sought-after game fish in the Florida Keys—especially between April and July. During this short window, these mammoth fish move up and down the coast, hunting for food. Tides, weather, and the phases of the moon play essential roles in Tarpon behavior, but in the spring and early summer these kings of the inshore are always hungry, biting on both live and artificial bait. Get out there and test yourself against these prime gamefish with Captain Mike, an experienced Tarpon fisherman and one of our top guides in Southwest Florida.

On the day of the trip, you'll set out aboard Captain Mike's 22' Shearwater bay boat—the perfect boat for fishing the Florida inshore. It's equipped with everything you could possibly need for a successful and comfortable trip, including GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, and an Ice Box for your eating fish. Captain Mike will provide everything you need, including top-of-the-line rods, reels, bait, and tackle, so that all you have to do is cast out, hook up, and then hold on for the fight of your life!

To maximize your time on the water, make sure to bring proper clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera! Any trip with Captain Mike is sure to be picture-worthy, and Tarpon are a particularly photogenic fish.
Amenities

Water Type

Inshore

Skill Levels

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Tackle

All rods, reels, and tackle are included.

Fish Cleaning

This guide will clean your catch for you.

Beer

Feel free to enjoy responsibly, but please no glass.

Live Bait

Live bait is included for this trip.

Weather

You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather

Kid Friendly

This trip can cater to kids.

Flexible Cancelation

This trip can be canceled for a refund up to 7 days before the trip.

Boat Restroom

No, this boat does not have a bathroom on board.

Disability Friendly

This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.

Lunch

Please provide your own food / snacks.

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About Your Boat

Boat photo for Punta Gorda Tarpon Special
Boat Type
Bay Boat
Boat Manufacturer
Shearwater
Year Built
2007
Boat Length
22'

About Your Boat

Boat Type
Bay Boat
Boat Manufacturer
Shearwater
Year Built
2007
Boat Length
22'
Engine Manufacturer
Suzuki
Total Horsepower
200
Number of Engines
1
Additional Amenities
GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Wireless Trolling Motor, Ice Box
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Potential Target Species

Color-coded seasonality below is based on .
January February March April May June July August September October November December
Tarpon
Good
Good
Great
Great
Great
Good
Good
Good
Good
Great
Great
Good
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  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

Techniques

Heavy Tackle Fishing
Live Bait Fishing

Type of Fishing

Inshore

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