Tarpon Fishing in Naples

Florida

Tarpon is one of the species anglers target most around Naples, Florida. MyFishingBuds matches you with local anglers who chase Tarpon on Naples Bay and Gordon Pass so you can share a boat, split costs, and learn the water faster.

63 anglers on MyFishingBuds are targeting Tarpon.

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Tarpon at a glance

Tarpon
Scientific name
Megalops atlanticus
IGFA record
286.56 lbs
Max length
96 in
Preferred water temp
74–90°F

About Tarpon

The silver king — one of the greatest game fish on Earth, known for spectacular aerial leaps

→ Full Tarpon guide: habits, gear & how to catch them

When to fish Naples

Year-round fishery. The cool months (November through April) are the inshore peak — redfish school in the bays and backcountry, snook stack in the passes and residential canals, and seatrout fish well on the grass flats. Tarpon arrive at Gordon Pass and along the beaches in late April and run through July. Nearshore Gulf grouper and snapper fish well spring through fall when seas lay down, and king mackerel run the beaches spring and fall. Pompano work the beaches in the cooler months. Summer is hot and wet with daily afternoon storms; winter fronts push fish into the warmer creeks and canals.

→ Today's best fishing times in Naples (sunrise, sunset & moon)

Where to fish for Tarpon in Naples

  • 📍 Naples Bay
  • 📍 Gordon Pass
  • 📍 Nearshore Gulf reefs & wrecks
  • 📍 Ten Thousand Islands (to the south)
  • 📍 Rookery Bay

🪪 Florida fishing license

Anglers targeting Tarpon in Naples need a valid Florida fishing license. Resident, non-resident, and short-term options are all available — see our complete guide for current 2026 prices and direct purchase links.

Florida fishing license cost 2026 →

Tarpon in Naples: FAQ

Do I need a fishing license to catch Tarpon in Naples?▾

Yes. Anglers fishing in Naples need a valid Florida fishing license (with the right freshwater or saltwater privileges for where you fish). Resident, non-resident, and short-term options are all available — see our Florida guide for current 2026 prices and direct purchase links.

When is the best time to fish for Tarpon near Naples?▾

Year-round fishery. The cool months (November through April) are the inshore peak — redfish school in the bays and backcountry, snook stack in the passes and residential canals, and seatrout fish well on the grass flats. Tarpon arrive at Gordon Pass and along the beaches in late April and run through July. Nearshore Gulf grouper and snapper fish well spring through fall when seas lay down, and king mackerel run the beaches spring and fall. Pompano work the beaches in the cooler months. Summer is hot and wet with daily afternoon storms; winter fronts push fish into the warmer creeks and canals.

How do I find a Tarpon fishing buddy in Naples?▾

Create a free MyFishingBuds profile, set Tarpon as a target species, and pick Naples as your area. You'll be matched with nearby anglers who target the same species and fish a similar style, so you can plan a trip, share a boat, and split the costs.

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Other species to target in Naples

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