Tarpon Charters

A true Islamorada specialty. Peak spring through early summer.

Islamorada INshore Fishing

Targeting Tarpon in Islamorada

Islamorada is famous for its tarpon migration, delivering some of the most reliable big-fish action in the Florida Keys. These “silver kings” stack along bridges, channels, and oceanside flats each spring, creating world-class sight-fishing and live-bait opportunities. With fish commonly ranging from 60–150 pounds, every hookup is a serious battle—long runs, explosive jumps, and pure adrenaline. Our captains specialize in timing the tides, positioning perfectly, and presenting baits naturally to produce consistent shots at trophy tarpon. For anglers chasing a bucket-list catch, our Islamorada tarpon charters offer the best chance at landing the fish of a lifetime.

Charter Highlights

Trip Essentials

Everything needed for the fishing itself is provided. A few personal items will make the day more comfortable.

What’s Included

Light-tackle spinning rods and all required tackle
Live bait and/or artificial lures
Fishing licenses for every guest
Bottled water and ice
All safety equipment
Fish cleaning and bagging

What to Bring

Reef-safe sunscreen
Polarized sunglasses
Hat or sun protection clothing
Snacks or additional drinks
Camera or GoPro
Small cooler for fillets to go(optional)
"Little Guru"

24’ Shallow Sport

Little Guru is a 24’ Shallow Sport set up for quiet, shallow-water approaches and comfortable days in the backcountry. The boat’s draft allows us to reach flats and channels that larger vessels cannot, while the open deck layout gives anglers plenty of room to cast and move. It’s a stable, practical platform for sight-fishing tarpon, snook, redfish, and trout, and an ideal setup for kids, families, and anglers who prefer calm water.

  • Yamaha VF250LB outboard
  • 12-inch shallow draft
  • Front and rear casting decks
  • Poling platform for sight fishing
  • Multiple livewells
  • Built-in coolers
  • Rod storage + dry storage
  • Power-Pole anchoring system
  • Quiet, efficient performance
  • Non-skid flooring + ergonomic seating

Ready to Fish Islamorada Inshore?

Offshore or inshore, half day or full day, your charter is private, fully equipped, and run by captains who know these waters well. Pick the trip that fits your style and we’ll handle the rest.

Close-up of a bonefish swimming underwater above seagrass on the ocean floor.
FAQs

FAQs About Tarpon Charters in Islamorada

Here’s what most guests want to know before they book, from licenses and weather, to what to bring and what we're catching.

How many people can we bring on a charter?

Inshore charters accommodate up to 5 guests on the 24’ Shallow Sport. This limit ensures comfort, safety, and the right fishing experience on the flats.

Where do inshore trips depart from?

All inshore and backcountry trips leave from:
IslaMarina
85920 Overseas Hwy
Islamorada, FL 33036

What do we need to bring?

Sunscreen, snacks, drinks beyond water, light layers, and a camera. Everything related to fishing — rods, reels, tackle, bait, and ice — is already on board.

When is the best time to fish inshore?

There is consistent fishing year-round. Specific species peak at different times, and the captain can recommend the best windows based on conditions and seasonal movement.

What if the weather looks bad?

If conditions are unsafe, the captain will reschedule or cancel. Weather-related cancellations receive a full refund or credit.

What should we bring?

Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, drinks or snacks, personal medications, and a small cooler for fillets. We provide all tackle, bait, water, and licenses.

Is the trip suitable for children or beginners?

Yes. Calm water and steady action make inshore trips a strong option for families and anyone new to fishing.

What is your cancellation policy?

Full refund with 7+ days notice (minus 4% booking fee)
50% refund with 48 hours–7 days notice
No refund within 48 hours
Weather cancellations are fully refunded or rescheduled

Is the boat accessible for guests with mobility needs?

The boat is suitable for most guests, but please let us know ahead of time if anyone in your group has mobility considerations. This allows the captain to prepare and ensure safe, comfortable boarding and movement around the deck.

Smiling man wearing glasses and a cap holding a large fish on a boat with ocean and blue sky background.
Man wearing sunglasses and a cap giving thumbs up next to a large fish hanging in front of a white boat docked in a marina.
A mint green and white flats fishing boat floating on clear green water under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
Man wearing sunglasses and a cap holding a large fish on a boat with ocean and clear blue sky background.
A man and woman standing barefoot on a boat platform holding freshly caught fish with calm water and blue sky in the background.