Tarpon Fishing in Destin, Florida
Tarpon, also known as the “Silver King,” are a prized gamefish known for their size and spectacular leaps. While Destin isn’t as famous as South Florida for tarpon, migratory schools do pass through the Panhandle, offering exciting seasonal opportunities for anglers near the beaches and in the passes.
Where to Catch Tarpon
In the Destin area, tarpon are typically caught:
Cruising just off the beaches during summer migration
In the surf near the jetties and East Pass
At channel mouths and drop-offs holding bait
Sight-fishing from a boat or beach is the most effective way to find and follow them.
Best Time to Fish for Tarpon
| Season | Tarpon Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Few early arrivals possible late in the season |
| Summer | Peak migration along the beaches and passes |
| Fall | Fewer fish, but stragglers may linger into September |
Peak Season: June through August
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Swimbaits, large soft plastics, and topwaters
Bait: Live mullet, pinfish, or crabs
Leaders: 60–80 lb fluorocarbon
Technique: Sight-fish migrating schools near the beach; cast ahead and let bait drift naturally
