Boca Grande, Florida Fishing Report

Capt. Andy Boyette
May 19, 2002
Boca Grande - Saltwater Fishing Report

Tarpon Time Boca Grande Pass and Charlotte Harbor

Every year during these months I switch gears and take advantage of the most spectacular tarpon run that can be found any where in the world. Charlotte Harbor and The World Famous Boca Grande Pass are spawning grounds for these mighty beasts. Also known as Silver Kings these tarpon show up in thousands and fill the passes and the harbor. From floating crabs under a bobber to tossing threadfin herring to pods of fish cruising the beaches are deep gigging the pass, nothing gets me more excited then a 100 plus pound tarpon taking those wild and crazy jumps attached to a customer on the front of my boat.

From mid April-August I chase these magnificent creatures in search of the adrenaline rush from explosion of the first hit to bringing these almost prehistoric fish to the boat for a photo. When the tarpon show up in our area the average size is well over 100lbs with the average at about 150lbs. There are weekly tournaments that pay as much as $5000 to the heaviest fish caught tagged weighed and released alive. It is common to hook up with anywhere from 5-10 tarpon in a day and depending on the skill of the angler and some good old lady luck bring a couple boat side. If you plan to be in our area and you can’t resist going trying you luck in Boca Grande Pass it takes a lot of skill to work this area. I highly recommend hiring a guide there are numerous seasoned Capt’s including myself that can help you get started in the right direction. And if you search out the beach fish or the harbor fish remember stealth is the key to success, and don’t forget if you see other boats in the area where there are Tarpon chances are they are also working the pod be courteous and approach under trolling motor power only or you just blew your chances as well as someone else’s.

“Good Things Come To Those With Bait”

Capt Andy Boyette

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