Boca Grande Tarpon Fishing
Fish the Boca Grande area with Capt. Andy Boyette, a Southwest Florida fishing guide since 1998. Tarpon trips focus on the conditions, the anglers aboard and the fish in front of us.
Why anglers come to Boca Grande
Boca Grande Pass and Charlotte Harbor have drawn tarpon anglers for generations. These powerful fish are known for long runs and sudden jumps, and a fish can change direction in a heartbeat. Capt. Andy has spent decades guiding clients through these waters and adjusts his plan to tides, weather, bait and fish movement rather than promising one spot.
The Boca Grande area can offer a very different day from one week to the next. Some trips focus on fish moving through deeper water, while others call for a careful approach in the harbor or along the coast. Capt. Andy explains the plan and the tackle so both first-time and experienced tarpon anglers know what to expect.
Fishing photos supplied by Capt. Andy, Boca Grande area.
How the season changes
Capt. Andy targets tarpon from April through October. Early in the season, fish may be moving and feeding in Charlotte Harbor and surrounding waters. As the season progresses, Boca Grande Pass and nearby areas can hold large concentrations of tarpon. Later dates can bring a different pace and fishing pressure.
The full and new moon periods from April through July bring stronger tidal flow. Those windows run about three days before and after the moon date. Moon tides in August, September and October can be productive too. Good fishing is possible outside those windows; ask Capt. Andy what the dates you have in mind might offer.
What happens on a tarpon trip?
Fishing methods depend on the season and conditions. Capt. Andy uses quality spinning and conventional tackle and may use live bait or other approaches when appropriate. He helps anglers with the presentation, the fight and careful handling at boatside. Tarpon are wild fish, so hookups and landings cannot be guaranteed.
The boat carries rods, reels, bait, tackle, fishing-license coverage, an onboard cooler and ice. Bring food, drinks, sun protection and polarized sunglasses. If you bring your own cooler, it must be small and soft-sided or collapsible so it can fit below deck.
Talk with Capt. Andy
Contact Capt. Andy to discuss available dates and reserve your trip. Call or text 941-769-1582 or email captandyboyette@gmail.com. Pickup is available at selected locations by arrangement.