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Tarpon Fishing Charters In Crystal River

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Recently Booked Tarpon Fishing Charters Near Crystal River, Fl

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Fishing in Crystal River

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Crystal River

Crystal River Near And Inshore

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $475
Fishing in Largo

Deep Sea, Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Offshore Catch And Release

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Tarpon Springs

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Full-Day Tarpon Special

NEW
1 - 2 People From $875
Fishing in Tampa

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Tampa Tarpon Fishing

NEW
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Riverview

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Half Day Trip

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $300
Fishing in Hudson

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Premier Gulf Coast Trip

NEW
23 ft 1 - 2 People From $400

Most Popular Types of Tarpon Trips in Crystal River

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

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More Tarpon Fishing Charters Near Crystal River, Fl

Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Clearwater Flats fishing in Clearwater

Captain Tyson specializes in fishing the inlets and beaches for world-class saltwater fish species. The pristine waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast including Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, Indian Rocks Beach, Redington Beach and Tampa Bay are home to an incredibly diverse variety of gamefish including: snook, trout, redfish and the king of inshore fishing…the mighty tarpon. Come fish with us! Whether you're a serious angler wanting to pursue a quest for a trophy fish or a novice wanting to learn the basics of saltwater fishing, he can do it all. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Clearwater Flats Fishing

100% (5)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Reel Salty Sportfishing Tarpon fishing in Clearwater

Tarpon fishing only! May- September Read More

Flats, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Reel Salty Sportfishing Tarpon Fishing

NEW
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $750
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Clearwater Inshore Special in Clearwater

Come fish the beautiful waters off the coast of Clearwater, FL with Captain Jim! Whether you want to stay inshore for big Redfish, Speckled Trout, and various Snapper species, or head a bit further offshore to troll for Spanish Mackerel, Bonito, and Cobia, Captain Jim knows where the fish are biting. Captain Jim uses his 27’ Pro Cat Catamaran, equipped with state-of-the-art marine electronics and safety gear, to take up to 6 anglers fishing in comfort. He has nearly 30 years of experience fishing here, and can put you right on target, whatever species you want to chase. All fishing licenses, rods, reels, and tackle are provided by Captain Jim, so all you need to bring are your favorite snacks and drinks, sun protection, and camera to capture your trophies. Bring your family or friends and get out there! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Clearwater Inshore Special

100% (1)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $505
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Shallow Water Sightfishing in Clearwater

Sight cast redfish, snook and tarpon with light tackle or fly aboard a beautiful Floyd skiff. Captain Tyson is a local guude of 20 years in the Clearwater area. All top notch equipment is provided. Read More

Flats Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Shallow Water Sightfishing

NEW
18 ft 1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Tampa
Fishing in Tampa
Fishing in Tampa
trip description for Tampa Bay Fishing Trip in Tampa

Attention anglers! If you're looking for the ultimate fishing adventure, look no further! This inshore focused trip with Captain Christopher in Tampa , Florida is one of the best charters on Florida's Gulf coast, and is an absolute blast for anglers of all levels. Captain Christopher is a seasoned pro with years of experience navigating the waters of Tampa Bay, and he knows exactly where to find the best Snook, Redfish, and Trout in the area. On this trip, you'll be stalking the mangrove channels and brackish inshore cutaways looking for big-time Snook. These aggressive predatory fish are something like a saltwater version of the Pike, and are known for blowing up baits and lures on topwater and really bringing the fight! But it's not just about the fishing. Captain Christopher's charters are all about creating a unique and memorable experience for his guests. His custom-built 21’ Clearwater 2000CC bay boat is fully equipped with all the necessary gear and amenities, including a shaded T-top and an open deck for soaking up the sun. The sleek design of this shallow-draft vessel allows for a comfortable drift through even the shallowest areas, so you can get into the "skinny" water where big Snook hang out. There’s also a Bluetooth stereo, so feel free to bring your favorite playlist! Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the beauty of Tampa, Florida's waterways and catch some of the most sought-after fish in the Gulf. Book your Snook charter fishing trip with Captain Christopher today and make your fishing dreams a reality! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Tampa Bay Fishing Trip

100% (5)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $300
Fishing in Cedar Key
Fishing in Cedar Key
Fishing in Cedar Key
trip description for Fly Fishing the "Big Bend" in Cedar Key

Looking to experience the thrill of reeling in some of Florida's most sought-after fish? Join Captain Travis on a charter fishing trip in beautiful Cedar Key! With his expert guidance, you'll be casting your line using fly fishing and light tackle techniques to catch Redfish, Snook, Tarpon, and Tripletail. As you cruise the crystal clear waters of Cedar Key, keep your eyes peeled for the dolphins and manatees who call these waters home. After a day of adventure, kick back and relax on the boat as you watch the stunning sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Book your trip today and get ready for an unforgettable day on the water! All of Travis' freshwater and saltwater fishing charters include a Florida fishing license for up to four anglers, top quality rods and reels, cooler with ice for your food and drinks, any tackle or bait needed for your charter of choice, and a fun, friendly, fishing captain with a lot of local knowledge. Get out there and enjoy it for yourself! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Fly Fishing The "Big Bend"

NEW
19 ft 1 - 3 People From $600
See All Tarpon Trips in Crystal River

Everything to Know About Booking a Crystal River tarpon fishing charter

What are the best tarpon fishing charters in Crystal River?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 32 tarpon trip in Crystal River: Crystal River Near and Inshore guided by Kevin.

Our guides in Crystal River are rated a 4.98 out of 5 based on 2791 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Another popular city nearby for booking a Tarpon charter is Homosassa.

Looking for kid friendly tarpon guides / fishing lessons in Crystal River? Check out our beginner and family friendly tarpon guides in Crystal River.

What types of tarpon fishing charters are common in Crystal River?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular for tarpon in Crystal River as well as inshore fishing, flats fishing, and nearshore fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Crystal River are light tackle fishing, artificial lure fishing, and live bait fishing but sight casting and heavy tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much do Crystal River tarpon fishing charters cost?

for tarpon in Crystal River prices can range anywhere from about $450 to $950, but the average price for a half day trip for tarpon in Crystal River is $541. The average price for a full day trip for tarpon in Crystal River is $821.

What month is best for tarpon fishing in Crystal River?

The most popular season for tarpon fishing in Crystal River is summer, and most anglers book their trips 44 days in advance.

Do I need a Crystal River fishing license for tarpon and what are the bag limits for tarpon in Crystal River?

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in Crystal River don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. See here for more information on bag limits and fishing season regulations in Crystal River.

What is tarpon fishing in Crystal River all about?

Tarpon fishing in Crystal River is a thrilling experience that draws anglers from around the world to its pristine waters. Known as "the silver king" for their impressive size and acrobatic leaps, tarpon offer an exhilarating challenge for anglers seeking a memorable catch. Crystal River provides an ideal habitat for tarpon, with its extensive flats, mangrove-lined shorelines, and abundant baitfish populations.

During the tarpon season, which typically runs from spring through early summer, anglers flock to Crystal River in pursuit of these iconic game fish. One of the most popular methods for targeting tarpon is sight fishing in the shallow flats and along the mangrove edges. Anglers often pole or drift quietly in shallow waters, scanning the surface for the distinctive rolling or "rolling" of tarpon as they feed near the surface. Once spotted, anglers cast live baits such as mullet or crabs, or throw artificial lures to entice a strike.

Tarpon are renowned for their powerful runs and spectacular leaps, making them one of the most prized catches in saltwater angling. Anglers must be prepared for a battle of strength and endurance when hooking into a tarpon, as these fish can grow to impressive sizes, often exceeding 100 pounds. Whether fishing from a skiff, kayak, or wading in the shallows, tarpon fishing in Crystal River offers anglers an unforgettable and adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the natural beauty of Florida's Gulf Coast.

What are the most popular months to fish for tarpon fishing in Crystal River?

In Crystal River, the tarpon season is a highly anticipated time for anglers, marking the arrival of these majestic silver giants to the area's waters. Typically, the tarpon season in Crystal River begins in late spring and extends through the summer months, peaking in May and June. During this time, tarpon migrate along the Gulf Coast, passing through Crystal River's estuaries and flats in search of food and favorable spawning grounds.

The timing of the tarpon season in Crystal River coincides with various environmental factors, including water temperature, baitfish abundance, and tidal patterns. As water temperatures rise, tarpon become more active and begin to move into shallower waters, where they are more accessible to anglers. Additionally, the influx of baitfish, such as mullet and pilchards, attracts tarpon to feeding areas along the mangrove shorelines, flats, and channels of Crystal River.

Anglers planning to target tarpon during the season in Crystal River should be prepared for varying conditions and adapt their fishing strategies accordingly. Depending on the weather and tidal movements, tarpon may be more active during certain times of the day or in specific areas of the river. Patience, persistence, and knowledge of tarpon behavior are key to success during the tarpon season in Crystal River, offering anglers the opportunity to connect with these iconic game fish in one of Florida's premier fishing destinations.

What techniques are popular for catching tarpon in Crystal River?

Tarpon fishing in Crystal River requires a combination of skill, strategy, and patience to successfully hook into these powerful and elusive game fish. One effective technique for tarpon fishing in Crystal River is sight fishing, which involves scanning the shallow flats and mangrove-lined shorelines for the distinctive dorsal fins or "rolling" behavior of tarpon. Anglers often pole or drift quietly in the shallows, using polarized sunglasses to spot tarpon as they move through the clear waters. Once a tarpon is sighted, anglers carefully present live bait such as mullet or crabs, or cast artificial lures to entice a strike.

Another popular technique for tarpon fishing in Crystal River is live bait fishing, particularly during periods of strong tidal movement or when tarpon are actively feeding. Anglers typically anchor or drift near channels, bridges, or other areas with moving water, where tarpon are known to congregate to feed on baitfish swept by the currents. Live baits such as mullet, pilchards, or pinfish are rigged on heavy tackle and presented at various depths to target tarpon holding in the water column.

For anglers seeking a more adventurous approach, fly fishing for tarpon in Crystal River offers a thrilling challenge and the chance to test their skills against these acrobatic game fish. Fly anglers often target tarpon in shallow waters, casting large, brightly colored flies to imitate baitfish or crustaceans. Precision casting, quick reflexes, and strong tackle are essential for success when fly fishing for tarpon in Crystal River's dynamic and diverse fishing environment.

What other species are popular in Crystal River?

While tarpon undoubtedly steal the spotlight in Crystal River, the area's diverse ecosystem offers anglers a plethora of other exciting species to target. One such species is the redfish, known for its robust fight and willingness to strike a variety of baits and lures. Found in the shallow flats, grass beds, and around oyster bars, redfish are often targeted using live or cut bait, as well as artificial lures such as spoons or soft plastics. Anglers can enjoy the challenge of sight fishing for redfish in Crystal River's clear waters, where these copper-colored bruisers patrol the shallows in search of prey.

Another popular species for anglers to pursue in Crystal River is the snook, prized for its aggressive strikes and challenging fight. These elusive predators can be found lurking around mangrove shorelines, docks, and bridges, where they ambush baitfish and crustaceans. Anglers often target snook using live bait such as pinfish or mullet, as well as artificial lures like swimbaits or topwater plugs. Fishing for snook in Crystal River requires stealth and precision casting to entice these wary fish out of their hiding spots and into striking range.

In addition to redfish and snook, Crystal River offers opportunities to catch a variety of other species, including speckled trout, sheepshead, black drum, and flounder, among others. Whether fishing from a boat, kayak, or wading in the shallows, anglers can explore the diverse habitats and unique fishing opportunities that Crystal River has to offer. With its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty, Crystal River promises an unforgettable fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Great time, great guide. Can’t wait for the next trip.

    Thomas G. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Chris was a great host!! Took my father uncle and I out on a great fishing trip. Very respectful, kind, and great sense of humor. I got the biggest catch of the day with 21 inches we will 100 percent be back. Thanks again Chris!!

    Kiani L. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome job! We had a great time! Jim and Joe took care of everything. Amazing trip, would definitely go again!

    Kent W. with Jim V. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    The four of us had a great time with Captain Nick. The boat was very clean, comfortable, easy to move around and enjoy the day. We caught real nice fish, Captain was very knowledgeable. I would recommend Captain Nick and would use him again.

    Ken C. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Nick was an amazing captain! He got us on some fish right away! We had a great time!

    Chris S. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Nick tried his best but the fish just weren't biting. Nick was very nice and knowledgeable we just wish we caught more fish.

    Andy G. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Did a nice job trying to get us on fish. Hustled his rear off. Seemed a bit overwhelming having 4 on the boat who had never fished the flats before and several being relative novices for just 1 crew member. As a result about 1/3 the time 1-2 of our party weren’t fishing as we could have been. He was working hard though … much appreciated! Would highly recommend a 2nd crew member when there are inexperienced people it will be a tight fit though but think it would improve the experience. Tyson was nice, polite, knowledgeable and very patient thanks for the experience. Would highly recommend especially if you’ve done this type of fishing before. Thanks Tyson!

    Mike D. with Tyson W. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great guide, great guy, knows his stuff! We will 120% be back.

    Timothy W. with Tyson W. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great experience with Captain Nick! He was very accommodating to me and my 8 and 4 year old. He put us on fish right away, and most important of all he was safe! Great experience.

    Joel A. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Kevin did an awesome job. Although the conditions were difficult we still caught a meal to take home with us. He was very patient with the kids and kept things entertaining and informative. Had a great time!

    Kurt G. with Kevin T. of Crystal River, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great time , enough action . Bad weather, Kevin did a great job

    Kenneth K. with Kevin T. of Crystal River, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great trip with captain nick. Despite the tough conditions we were able to find some fish, will book again.

    Max S. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had Captain Brett for our day of fishing. What an amazing day we had. We caught multiple fish we could keep and multiple fish we couldn’t keep. We had the experience of seeing multiple species that we didn’t catch. We saw a bull shark, a Goliath Grouper, a loggerhead turtle, and a manatee. We hooked in to a giant. Watching Brett and my brother work together to get this fish in was spectacular. The team work that it took as well as the skill. He was also great for those of us that were less experienced. He was so pleasant and kind while helping me change my techniques so I caught fish verses continuously just feeding the fish. He did great with my teenage son. Brett is a great communicator. We will go with Brett again.

    Shellie K. with Cameron F. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great day fishing with Captain Nick Hughs! Trip started on time with nearly perfect weather. Boat was ready to go with all the bait and tackle we needed. Although the fish were hard to find, we did land a nice Snook. Nick worked his fanny off trying to get us on the fish. He’s a great Capt. and great host!

    Jan G. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time! Cameron was personal and knew what he was doing! We would recommend!

    Justin M. with Cameron F. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Nick is a pro!!! We had so much fun and he put us on a variety of fish. Can't wait to eat our trout for lunch now.

    Ken P. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great Fishing Trip. Patience required to catch fush

    Todd G. with Tyson W. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip. Capt Tyler did a great job on finding fish for us to catch. Would definitely go with him again.

    Craig B. with Tyler B. of Belleair Bluffs, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great first experience with Captain Tyler. We had great fishing with tough conditions !!

    Scott O. with Tyler B. of Belleair Bluffs, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip, he put me on fish the whole trip. Caught redfish, snook, Jack crevalle, trout and a 4 ft 60 lb bull shark

    Matt D. with Matt Y. of Riverview, Florida

What's biting in Crystal River?

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