Everglades Tarpon

Fly Fishing Everglades Tarpon

Every spring as the water temperature starts to stay constantly above 75 degrees, big tarpon start to show up in the Everglades en masse. Tarpon are a migratory fish and relatively little is know about exactly how they operate. Many believe that big schools of tarpon inhabit the offshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico and when conditions are right they just sort of appear inshore. As spring progresses into summer, tarpon migrate to their spawning grounds and spend time on their journey feeding and resting in the Everglades before continuing on to the north.

Although tarpon can be found and caught year-round in the Everglades, the months of March through June are what many consider “tarpon season”. Early season (March and April) usually brings the biggest fish of the year. We see more fish over 150 pounds earlier in the migration for reasons that no one is sure of. As the migration progresses so to do the number of fish. During the peak of tarpon season (May-June) it is not uncommon to see upwards of 100 fish a day that are larger than 50 pounds. Later in the year (July-October) the water in the Everglades gets above 90 degrees, and the tarpon thin out. When we do encounter tarpon this time of year, it is usually near deeper moving water. During the months of November through February (the off season), efforts are usually put towards chasing snook and redfish. The water temperature is usually too cool for tarpon, but if there is a stretch of warm, calm, stable weather magic sometimes happens. Some of the best tarpon fishing of the year can happen if the conditions allow. It doesn’t usually last for long but days of jumping 10+ fish are not uncommon. Unfortunately it is not something we can plan for. You just have to be here for it.

Fly fishing for juvenile tarpon in the Everglades.
Fly fishing for tarpon in the Everglades.
Fly fishing for juvenile tarpon in the Everglades.
Fly fishing for big tarpon in the Everglades.

Other Popular Everglades Fish

Fly fish for snook in the Everglades.

Snook

Sight fishing a big Everglades snook with a fly rod in shallow water is without a doubt one of the greatest hunts in North America. Snook inhabit almost every corner of the Everglades, yet their wariness and tendency to allude anglers adds to their appeal.

Fly fish for redfish in the Everglades.

Redfish

Do not underestimate the awesomeness of the redfish. They are one of the heartiest species of fish that inhabit the waters of the Gulf coast and Southeastern United States. The Everglades is their Sothernmost range and a great place to chase them.

Everglades Tarpon Fly Fishing Charters

Capt. Jeff Letgutki offers full day and half day tarpon fly fishing trips from Naples , Marco Island and Everglades City year-round for anglers of all abilities. Multiple boats are available for groups of more than 2 people. Contact us for current rates and availability. All trips include tackle/flies, fuel costs, launch fees, and a cooler with water and ice.

Payments And Deposits

  • Cash, Check, or Venmo

  • Credit cards through Venmo (service charges may occur)

  • $100 per day per guide deposit for all trips

  • Mail deposits to:
    Jeff Legutki
    1229 Lake Shore Dr.
    Naples, FL 34103

What To Bring

  • Polarized sunglasses (copper, amber, and green lenses preferred)

  • Hat and any needed sun protection (mask/gloves)

  • 9, 10, 11, & 12 wt. rods (if own gear is preferred)

  • Quick drying sun protective weather appropriate clothing

  • Rain gear, jackets and pants

  • Shoes with non-marking soles

  • Any food or drinks needed for the day