What's Biting FLFlorida Keys
Tarpon in Florida Keys
Live crabs and threadfins in the passes and along beaches during the spring migration, fly and artificials on the flats and at bridges.
Next seven days
| Day | Bite | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Fri, Oct 30 | 4 | Storms possible, fish early and watch the sky |
| Sat, Oct 31 | 4 | Storms possible, fish early and watch the sky |
| Sun, Nov 1 | 2 | Storms possible, fish early and watch the sky |
| Mon, Nov 2 | 2 | Storms possible, fish early and watch the sky. Weak tides |
| Tue, Nov 3 | 2 | Storms possible, fish early and watch the sky. Weak tides |
| Wed, Nov 4 | 2 | Light wind. Weak tides |
| Thu, Nov 5 | 2 | Light wind. Weak tides |
Seasonal pattern
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Editorial baseline for Florida. Green months are prime, yellow fair, red slow. Preferred water temperature 74–88°F.
Regulations that apply here
Applies to: State and Federal Waters of the Gulf and Atlantic · Licenses: One tarpon tag per person per year may be purchased when in pursuit of a Florida state or world record
| Species / zone | Season | Size | Bag | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tarpon Statewide | open now Open year-round | None. Tarpon over 40 inches MUST remain in the water unless in pursuit of a state or world record using a tarpon tag. Keep tarpon, especially the gills, in as much water as is safely possible. | Tarpon is a catch-and-release only fishery. One tarpon tag per person per year may be purchased when in pursuit of a Florida state or world record. Vessel, transport and shipment limited to one fish. | Hook and line only. Snagging, snatch hooking, spearing and the use of a multiple hook in conjunction with live or dead natural bait is prohibited Tarpon over 40 inches MUST remain in the water unless in pursuit of a state or world record using a tarpon tag Tarpon is a catch-and-release only fishery Vessel, transport and shipment limited to one fish |
- Tarpon is an iconic saltwater fish. When handled properly, these silver kings are more likely to survive release and evade predators.
- Tarpon over 40 inches MUST remain in the water by rule, unless in pursuit of a state or world record using a tarpon tag purchased before fishing begins.
- Tarpon smaller than 40 inches should only be handled with wet hands and be supported horizontally under the belly, if removed from the water.
- Keep the gills of tarpon in the water to minimize air exposure.
- Avoid dragging tarpon over the gunnel of a boat or over rocks or railings.
- It is recommended to avoid fishing for tarpon from bridges or piers.
Source: FWC, extracted 2026-10-29.