Prime Tarpon Fishing Dates 2026
Below is a quick reference for the best dates to plan your Tampa Bay tarpon charter. These windows are based on the strongest tidal patterns and moon phases.
| Month | Prime Dates |
|---|---|
| May | May 1–5, May 15–19 |
| June | June 1–5, June 11–15 |
| July | July 1–5, July 10–15 |
| August | August 1–5, August 12–16 |
Booking within these windows gives you the best chance at hooking tarpon during the most active tides of the 2026 season.
2026 Tampa Bay Tarpon Fishing Guide
Planning to catch a tarpon in 2026? Every year, anglers from across the U.S. call asking,
“When’s the best time to catch tarpon in Tampa Bay?”
This annual 2026 Tarpon Fishing Guide lays out everything you need to know to plan your trip — including the best tidal windows, prime fishing dates, where to stay, pickup location, and how to book your charter.
Best Tarpon Fishing Dates for 2026
For tarpon fishing, the strongest tides and most active fish occur around key lunar windows.
Based on 2026 moon phases and historical patterns, here are the prime dates for Tampa Bay tarpon:
- May 2026: May 1–5 and May 15–19
- June 2026: June 1–5 and June 11–15
- July 2026: July 1–5 and July 10–15
- August 2026: August 1–5 and August 12–16
Booking within these windows gives you the best chance at hooking big tarpon during some of the most consistent tides of the season.
Where to Stay Near the Tarpon Charter Pickup
Skybeach Hotel
This is one of the most convenient hotels for visiting anglers — less than a mile from the pickup location.
Formerly the Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort, it offers waterfront views, a tiki bar, and great food, all at reasonable rates.
The Don CeSar
Known locally as “The Pink Palace,” this legendary resort is just a few miles away.
If you want a luxury stay during your tarpon trip, The Don CeSar offers beachfront rooms, fine dining, and full amenities.
Tarpon Charter Pickup Location
O’Neall’s Marina
6701 Sunshine Skyway Ln S
St. Petersburg, FL 33711
We’ll meet at O’Neall’s Marina before your trip. It has everything we need — clean restrooms, a bait and tackle shop, and snacks, sandwiches, and drinks available before we head out.
What’s Included in Your Charter
- Live bait and all fishing tackle (rods, reels, line, hooks, floats)
- Fishing licenses for all anglers
- Cooler with ice for drinks and snacks
What to Bring
- Polarized sunglasses
- Hat and lightweight, breathable clothing
- Sandals or non-marking deck shoes
- Sunscreen
- Plenty of water and snacks
- Camera to capture your tarpon photo
Book Your 2026 Tarpon Charter
Tarpon season books up fast — especially during these prime windows.
The easiest way to reserve your trip is through our secure online system:
Book Your Tampa Bay Tarpon Charter Online
Have questions about the tides, trip times, or what to expect?
Feel free to contact me or call anytime — I’m happy to help plan the perfect tarpon trip for you and your crew.
Capt. Jason Dozier, Tampa Bay Tarpon Fishing Charters
For more info, explore our related pages: