What is the size limit for Tarpon in Florida?

The current FWC size limit for Tarpon in Florida is N/A — no harvest. Always confirm at MyFWC.com before keeping a fish — regulations can change on short notice.

When is Tarpon season in Florida?

Statewide: Catch and release only, year-round. Season windows vary by FWC management region.

Tarpon in Florida — Regs, Seasons & Tips

Q: What is the bag limit for Tarpon in Florida?

The current FWC daily bag limit for Tarpon in Florida is Catch and release only. A $51.50 tarpon tag is required only if pursuing an IGFA world record or Florida state record; one tag per person per year..

Current FWC regulations

Season

Statewide

Catch and release only, year-round

Size limit

N/A — no harvest

Bag limit

Catch and release only. A $51.50 tarpon tag is required only if pursuing an IGFA world record or Florida state record; one tag per person per year.

Legal gear

Hook and line only. Circle hooks required when using live or dead natural bait. Snagging and spearing prohibited.

Notes

Tarpon over 40 inches MUST remain in the water — no lifting into the boat or onto docks. Boca Grande Pass has additional gear restrictions April-June.

These limits are summarized from public FWC data and reviewed monthly. Florida regulations can change on short notice — always verify at MyFWC.com/Fishing before keeping a fish.

Best time to fish

May-July migration is legendary along the Gulf coast beaches (Boca Grande, Homosassa, Anna Maria). Summer flats fishing throughout the state.

Best baits and tackle

Live crabs (pass crabs on outgoing tide), live pilchards, mullet, threadfins. Artificials: swimbaits, DOA Bait Busters, large streamers on fly.

Where to find them

Passes on outgoing tides during spring migration, bridge shadow lines at night, backcountry basins, beach schools cruising in 5-15 ft.

Sources

FWC — Tarpon

Cross-referenced with the FWC Saltwater Regulations and FWC Freshwater Regulations. Reviewed July 2026.

Species photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons contributors and public agencies (USFWS / NOAA / state fisheries). Licensed CC-BY, CC-BY-SA, or public domain.