TideStrikeSouth Florida
All species
Tarpon
inshore

Tarpon

Megalops atlanticus

The Silver King — a catch-and-release-only icon famous for aerial leaps and reel-screaming runs. Pure sport fishing.

Where to find them

Passes, beaches, bridges, and backcountry basins; migratory schools stage along the coast in late spring.

Regulations by Region

Atlantic Coast

Season open
Size limit
Catch and release only
Bag limit
0 (no harvest)
Season
Open year-round (release only)

A tarpon tag ($50) is required only to possess/harvest a tarpon over 40" for IGFA record pursuit. Otherwise must remain in water if over 40".

Gulf Coast

Season open
Size limit
Catch and release only
Bag limit
0 (no harvest)
Season
Open year-round (release only)

Same statewide release rules apply.

Top Baits

live crabslive mulletlarge pilchardsswimbaits