key west florida tarpon

[remi]

going to key west the end of march.any one ever fish there for tarpon,if so any information on charters .best time of year,tackle ect.would be very helpful.


thank you

[Dead Ringer]

I can't recommend any specific charters since I haven't used any, but I will say that tarpon can be caught from the many bridges in the keys. Much tougher to land one from a bridge as they will likely spool you or hang you up on a piling, but it can be done. Crabs and pinfish would be good bets for baits. Tackle: if you think it's too big, go bigger. If you are fishing from shore, you will have to give HUNDREDS of yards of line. I like a braided line b/c you can fit more on a spool and use a Penn 8500. Sometimes that isn't big enough. For the rod, a good medium to heavy, 7-9 ft, depending on whether you will need to cast for distance or just freeline baits in the current.

If you can afford it, a guide service will be the best bet. The guide will get the bait and allow you to be mobile to find the fish. Also will allow you to follow the fish and increase your chances of actually landing one. I believe it will cover your fishing license too (not sure for non-res), which is a big savings. Lots of guides on FL Sportsman fishing forum, but that doesn't mean they are all reputable. Do your homework if you are going to be spending the bucks.

[Thumperrr]

Start lifting weights,these things are tough....but you won't lose the smile for days...everything Dead Ringer said is right on,no need to add to it.

[dano19]

Would love to land a big tarpon one day!
Good luck!