Boca Grande Pass
Tarpon Fishing

One small island here that is truly known around the world is the famous Boca Grande.  Situated just south of Gasparilla Island and at the mouth of Charlotte Harbor this little island is truly full of life.  Fishing in Boca Grande Pass has been a tradition for generations, but I must say it’s all about the Tarpon fishing.  This fishery continues to be touted as one of the best tarpon fisheries in the world, because of the conservation efforts of those who fish it along with the detailed “rules of the pass” that are in place.  Everyone that fishes Boca Grande pass is there for one reason and that is to catch tarpon, although the tarpon are there for two reasons, to eat and spawn.  Their annual migration brings thousands of tarpon to feed constantly through the peak part of the season which is mid May though mid June.  There are many different styles of fishing for tarpon. 


 
Boca Grande Pass Fishing Techniques
Many anglers have different views as to what method of fishing works the best, whether it’s jigging or using live bait. During the day artificials are used almost 10 to 1 over live bait.  As the sun starts to go down the live bait world comes to life. The use of live bait consists of small pass crabs or squirrel fish. During the peak part of the season the fishing is world class and anglers travel from all over to battle the mighty “Silver King”.  With tarpon averaging 120 pounds the angler keeps coming back for more.  Fishing one of nature’s most exciting venues keeps the angler young at heart and makes for big smiles along the way.