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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 Clearwater

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Fisherman's Choice Trip

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Clearwater

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

Clearwater Flats Fishing

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $560
Fishing in Hudson

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Inshore Fishing Charter

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Fort McCoy

Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Crystal River Inshore

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1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing in Clearwater

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Coastal Clearwater Charter

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $550

Most Popular Types of Tarpon Trips in Crystal River

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More Tarpon Fishing Charters Near Crystal River, Fl

Fishing in Tarpon Springs
Fishing in Tarpon Springs
Fishing in Tarpon Springs
trip description for Fly Fishing Charters in Tarpon Springs

My name is Capt. Gage. We push pole the crystal clear waters of Tarpon Springs and the surrounding waters on my 18’ ankona shadowcast in search red drum, snook, tarpon and all other sorts of fish that we may encounter. We use 9ft fly rods varying from 6wt-11wt depending on species and time of year. A typical day starts out leaving a preplanned selected location on where to launch the boat. From there we will sight fish in crystal clear water in a couple feet or less typically. You will need to have a good pair of polarized sunglasses to help see the fish in the water. All sorts of wild life can be seen on these trips as well from sea turtles, manatees and a variety of birds. Lunch can be brought and kept cold with the on board coolers. There Is a nice twin sitting seat accommodating two people. Fall and spring can always produce great fishing with the change of the seasons. We hope too see you soon! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Fly Fishing Charters

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18 ft 1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Homosassa
Fishing in Homosassa
Fishing in Homosassa
trip description for Flyfishing & Light Tackle for Redfish & Snook in Homosassa

Experience the Nature Coast of Florida with Captain Lacey, a 4th generation Florida Native. Lacey has been guiding the Nature Coast of Florida from Cedar Key, South to Homosassa for nearly a decade specializing in redfish, snook, and tarpon. This area of Florida is still what is considered "Old Florida," with very little development on the coast and the surrounding areas. Fishing this area is like taking a step back in time. Read More

Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Flyfishing & Light Tackle For Redfish & Snook

NEW
17 ft 1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Clearwater Tarpon Fishing in Clearwater

Tarpon fishing is guaranteed to get any angler's heart pumping! There is nothing like the feeling of a giant Tarpon exploding out of the water with a hook in corner! Tarpon fishing has all the thrill of hunting and stalking, along with the skill of fishing, which makes for the ultimate big game experience. Most tarpon range between 50 and 200+ pounds, with the average fish being 70 to 140 pounds. Come and experience one of the world’s most powerful and acrobatic gamefish from the bow of Captain Seth's custom 23’ bay boat. This trip is an experience that you won't soon forget! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Clearwater Tarpon Fishing

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23 ft 1 - 3 People From $1,200
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
Fishing in Riverview
Fishing in Riverview
Fishing in Riverview
trip description for Full Day Tampa Bay Adventure in Riverview

Join Captain Matt and enjoy a beautiful morning and early afternoon of fishing in Tampa Bay, Florida! No matter your age or skill level, there’s a fish out there with your name on it. Captain Matt knows just where the fish bite, so be sure to listen to his advice. For these 6-hour trips, you’ll be testing your casting accuracy as you target Cobia, Gag Grouper, Goliath Grouper, Redfish, Mangrove Snapper, Tarpon, Tripletail, and many more species of fish. You’ll be fishing aboard Captain Matt’s 23-foot bay boat powered by a 200 HP Yamaha engine. This boat is equipped with a GPS, Fishfinder, Live Bait Well, Wireless Trolling Motor, and Ice Box. It can accommodate 4 anglers. Don’t forget to bring food for the day (Captain Matt will have bottled waters on board) as well as a cooler with ice to take home your day’s catch. Captain Matt will provide all rods, reels, and tackle, but feel free to bring your own. Captain Matt catches live bait before the start of each day, as it’s most effective in these waters, so don’t worry about bait! Captain Matt will also clean and fillet your fish at the end of each trip. Get ready for an eventful day on the water with Captain Matt! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Full Day Tampa Bay Adventure

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23 ft 1 - 4 People From $900
Fishing in Tarpon Springs
Fishing in Tarpon Springs
Fishing in Tarpon Springs
trip description for Full-Day Tarpon Special in Tarpon Springs

Picture this: crystal-clear sand flats, lines of giant migrating Tarpon, and you up on the bow with your fly rod in hand. Few things in the world of sport fishing compare to pursuing a Tarpon with a fly rod! These powerful, acrobatic fish are something special, and they'll leave you with an unexplainable emotion that's difficult to put into words. These fish are the top predators in their inshore habitat, and hooking one is the experience of a lifetime. You'll chase bites using purist flyfishing techniques, which are challenging but make the act of hooking a Tarpon all that much better! Tarpon behavior changes depending on the season, the water conditions, and even the phases of the moon, so Captain Tommy's expertise here is absolutely invaluable. He'll make sure you're rigged with the ideal patterns, and has tons of expert advice to improve your presentation, retrieve, and hookset and increase your chances of landing a big fish! The west coast of Florida is a major migration path for the "Silver Kings", due to the bays and riverways along the coast. In fact, several world records have been caught and broken just a short boat ride from where you'll fish, so get out there and throw some lines! Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Crystal River

Full-Day Tarpon Special

NEW
1 - 2 People From $875
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 2769 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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