Without understanding the true nature of this fish and where they're found, it might be hard to understand why so many fishermen are hooked on Florida Keys tarpon fishing. Truth is, flats fishing for tarpon has enough substance to write a book about, some have. With so much attention geared towards tarpon fishing one thing remains true, tarpon are the “mega”, when in shallow water.
Strengthening runs that don’t quit, spectacular aerial displays, tarpon set themselves apart from any other fish when caught from the flats.
Often romanticized, the remote inshore waters tarpon occupy each spring are what make Florida Keys tarpon fishing so special. Watching a 100+ pound tarpon swim through crystal clear water is downright intimidating. Sight-fishing for tarpon in the Florida Keys provides untouched excitement.
Tarpon on fly holds a special place in the Florida Keys. Calm mornings with fly rod in hand watching tarpon gulp air from the surface is intoxicating. Often ferocious eaters within close proximity of a quiet flats boat. This simple fact makes tarpon entirely unique when saltwater fly fishing.
The double-haul cast is a must know when fly fishing for tarpon, (as well as all other saltwater gamefish for that matter). Tarpon can and will eat a fly very close to the boat at times; yet a 30 to 50 ft cast from a 12 wt rod should be common practice for an angler who is fly fishing for large tarpon in shallow water.
Not all tarpon of the flats need be targeted with a fly rod. Straight forward methods for the angler wishing to target tarpon with a light-tackle spin outfit can easily be achieved from the flats.
Light-tackle tarpon fishing is best accomplished during particular points of a day’s given tide. Being in the right spot, during the right tide will produce unmatched action when hookup occurs. Producing the explosive hit one would expect from such a large fish.
Tarpon are found in the Florida Keys year round. That being said, tarpon fishing consistency is seasonal in the Florida Keys and should be fished accordingly. In other words, there is a best time of year to witness great tarpon fishing during a relatively short season. This “tarpon season" begins with the annual warming water temps which follow winter. Sometimes early, sometimes late, each year is different. March is always a solid bet when predicting their first arrival. April, May, and June are seen as the best months for Florida Keys tarpon fishing.
Today, most all fishing guides and anglers alike practice safe methods ensuring the survival of tarpon once caught and released. As long as we continue to practice new and proven methods in conserving these and many other fish and their environments, we can continue to enjoy the sport in tarpon fishing for generations to come.
