Florida Keys
Tarpon FIshing Charters
Experience the legendary inshore fishing of the Florida Keys starting from Key Colony Beach Marina. Our seasonal Tarpon trips target the “Silver King” during morning and evening tides, fishing live bait at the iconic Seven-Mile, Long Key, and Bahia Honda bridges. Year-round, our light tackle charters explore the calm waters of Florida Bay, bridge pilings and flats for Mangrove Snapper, Grouper, Jacks, Redfish, Snook and more.
With four, six, and eight-hour options available, you can tailor your trip to chase a trophy Tarpon or enjoy steady action on light tackle.
Inshore Action: Tarpon Battles and Light Tackle Fun
For over a century, anglers have flocked to the Keys to do battle with fishing’s ultimate prize, the Silver King! Tarpon fishing represents one of the most exciting opportunities in the Middle Keys, with fish frequently exceeding 100 pounds. While seasonal Tarpon trips offer the chance to fight a giant, our year-round inshore trips provide steady action in calm waters.
Why Choose a Tarpon or Inshore Trip?
This category offers two distinct experiences depending on your goals: the adrenaline of big game hunting or the consistent fun of light tackle fishing.
The Ultimate Sport: If you want to check a major item off your bucket list, this is the trip. Tarpon are famous for their explosive jumps and long runs. It is a pure sportfishing experience—strictly catch-and-release—ideal for anglers who prioritize the fight over filling the cooler.
Calm Water Comfort: Our inshore light tackle trips are the perfect solution for those who want to avoid the open ocean swell. We stick to the calm waters of Florida Bay and the bridge pilings, making it a stress-free environment for families or those prone to seasickness.
What We Target
The target species depends heavily on whether you book a seasonal bridge trip or a year-round light tackle trip:
The Silver King: During Spring and Summer, our primary focus is Tarpon. We fish live bait at the Long Key, Seven-Mile, and Bahia Honda bridges during morning and evening tides to target these giants. We offer evening trips from May 1 through September 30 during peak season.
Bridge Dwellers: We fish the pilings year-round for Mangrove Snapper and Grouper, both of which are excellent table fare.
Backcountry Favorites: Our inshore trips also target highly sought-after sport fish like Redfish and Snook along the mangrove edges and flats.
Bay Species: Venturing into Florida Bay offers shots at Jacks, Sharks, and Snapper in shallower, protected waters.
The “Bonus” Fish: While targeting Tarpon or bottom fishing, it is not uncommon to hook into Barracuda or huge Sharks looking for an easy meal.
What’s Included
- Private Captain: A knowledgeable US Coast guard licensed Captain for your trip.
- Mate: A friendly experienced Mate that is patient with children.
- Fuel: Fuel is included in the price, we do not add surcharges for distance either.
- Fishing Licenses: No need to get fishing licenses we have that covered.
- Group Size: Group sizes up to 6 persons are allowed.
- Ice Coolers: We have coolers to keep your food, beverage, and catch on ice.
- Fish Cleaning: Your catch will be filleted and bagged for transport.
What To Bring
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are highly recommended.
- Backpack: A small backpack to carry your personal items, water, and snacks.
- Food & Beverage: Participants under 18 must provide a signed consent form from a parent or legal guardian.
- Seasick Medicine: You might want to take the night before and the day of your trip to reduce drowsiness side effects. Always, follow package instructions and consult your physician.
- Weather: Trips run rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe. We’ll notify you of any cancellations or reschedules.
Ready to start your inshore adventure?
Get ready for a world-class light tackle battle with Best Bet Sportfishing, specializing in Marathon’s legendary inshore and tarpon action. Book your trip online to experience the rod-bending excitement of the Florida Keys, or contact us to plan your custom backcountry adventure.
Questions? Call us!