Discover expert-guided inshore fishing with Southern Cut Charters, your trusted source for light tackle and fly fishing adventures in Tarpon Springs, FL. Led by Captain Gage Vaughn, a seasoned local guide with deep knowledge of the Florida Gulf Coast, this charter delivers a personalized fishing experience that caters to anglers of all skill levels—whether you're chasing your first Redfish or targeting Snook on the fly. Based out of Tarpon Springs, Southern Cut Charters specializes in fly fishing and light tackle inshore trips, offering full and half-day options ranging from 4 to 8 hours. The local waters are home to prized species like Redfish, Snook, and Tarpon, with seasonal options depending on current conditions. Whether you're an experienced fly angler or a curious beginner, Captain Gage is there to walk you through everything—from casting technique to fish behavior—ensuring a memorable and productive day on the water. You'll fish from a sleek 18' Ankona technical skiff, ideal for navigating the shallow flats and backcountry waters around Tarpon Springs. The boat comfortably accommodates up to 2 anglers, making this a private, one-on-one experience tailored to your preferences. Equipped with a wireless trolling motor for stealthy approaches and an onboard ice box to keep your drinks cold and your catch fresh, the vessel is outfitted for performance and comfort. All gear is included—premium rods, reels, and terminal tackle—so you can travel light. Fishing licenses are also covered, and your catch can be cleaned and kept, provided it's within Florida’s regulations. To make your trip as smooth as possible, bottled water is provided, but feel free to bring your own snacks or drinks. Whether you're booking a family-friendly outing, a couples trip, or a solo fly fishing session, Southern Cut Charters makes it easy to plan a budget-friendly, top-rated, and customizable experience in one of the best fishing spots near Tampa. Hook your next catch with us—book your Tarpon Springs fishing trip today!

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Tarpon season is right around the corner, time to chase the amazing silver king on the fly! Come join us on our emerald green beaches and crystal clear grass flats at a chance to hook up with one over 100 pounds! Prime dates are still available May through July!


Tarpon season 2025

Picturesque view of Tarpon Springs, Florida

A single fisherman holding a large fish caught in Tarpon Springs

Experience world-class inshore action with Southern Cut Charters in Tarpon Springs, FL—where local waters and big Tarpon collide! Book your unforgettable day on the water with Captain Gage today!

Southern Cut Charters is a top-rated fishing charter based in Tarpon Springs, FL, offering expert-guided inshore adventures specializing in light tackle and fly fishing. Led by Captain Gage Vaughn, who has years of experience fishing the Gulf Coast, each trip is tailored to deliver a personalized, productive day on the water. Whether you're targeting Redfish along the flats, stalking Snook under mangroves, or sight-casting for Tarpon in the summer months, Captain Gage brings the knowledge and skill to get you hooked up. His shallow-draft 18' Ankona skiff is ideal for navigating local waters and provides a smooth ride for up to two anglers. Southern Cut Charters offers half-day, full-day, and evening dock light trips for anglers of all experience levels—from beginners to seasoned fly fishers. The Tarpon Springs fishery is rich with opportunity, and species like Tripletail, Mangrove Snapper, Black Drum, Ladyfish, and Sheepshead are common catches, depending on season and conditions. All gear, licensing, and essentials are included, so you can focus on fishing. With a local captain who knows every inch of the flats and backcountry, Southern Cut Charters delivers an authentic Gulf Coast fishing experience built on expertise, professionalism, and passion for the water.

Captain Gage Vaughn is a lifelong angler and the heart behind Southern Cut Charters, one of the top-rated fishing charter operations in Tarpon Springs, Florida. Born and raised in Florida, Gage grew up exploring the Gulf Coast's bays, estuaries, and backwaters, developing a deep appreciation for the area's marine life and fishing traditions. His easygoing personality, strong work ethic, and hands-on guidance make him a trusted captain for families, seasoned anglers, and newcomers alike. Whether you're fly fishing the flats for Tarpon or looking for an exciting Redfish battle on light tackle, Captain Gage ensures every trip is safe, memorable, and dialed in to the conditions. Southern Cut Charters was built around Captain Gage's passion for teaching and sharing the Gulf Coast’s fishing opportunities with others. The business has grown steadily through word-of-mouth and repeat customers who value his attention to detail and deep knowledge of local waters. Unlike large-scale operations, Southern Cut Charters keeps it personal—Gage handles every aspect of the experience, from booking to the final photo of your catch. They specialize in inshore and nearshore fishing trips, tailored to guest preferences and the season’s best bite. Captain Gage's specialty lies in fly fishing and light tackle adventures, particularly targeting Florida favorites like Tarpon, Redfish, and Snook. His calm and instructive approach has helped countless anglers land their first inshore slam or master a challenging double-haul cast. Southern Cut Charters also supports responsible fishing practices and conservation, regularly participating in local fish tagging programs and habitat clean-ups. These efforts, paired with his stellar reviews and growing reputation in the Tarpon Springs fishing community, position Gage as one of the top fishing guides on Florida’s west coast. Guests fish aboard an 18-foot Ankona skiff, purpose-built for navigating the shallow flats and backwaters of Tarpon Springs. This 2014 model is powered by a reliable 25HP Suzuki engine, cruising comfortably at speeds up to 26 knots. The compact design makes it perfect for stealthy approaches to Redfish, Snook, and Tarpon in skinny water. Designed for two anglers, the skiff offers a quiet, smooth ride with minimal draft, allowing access to hard-to-reach areas where larger boats can't go. It's the ideal platform for fly fishing or light tackle trips, prioritizing mobility, precision, and a close connection to the environment. Whether you're stalking laid-up Tarpon at dawn or teaching a youngster how to hook their first Snapper, Southern Cut Charters offers a versatile, high-quality platform to make it happen. The boat's size and maneuverability allow Captain Gage to guide guests into hidden backwaters most larger vessels can’t reach, creating a more intimate connection with the water and its wildlife. With safety, comfort, and fishability at the forefront, this vessel is more than just a boat—it’s a gateway to unforgettable fishing memories in Tarpon Springs.

Meet Captain Gage Vaughn of Southern Cut Charters

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<h3>Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Cut Charters, Prices, and Trip Inclusions</h3> What are the rates for Southern Cut Charters in Tarpon Springs?Southern Cut Charters offers private fishing trips starting at $400 for a 4-hour half-day inshore charter for up to two anglers. Full-day trips are $600, and specialty tarpon fly fishing trips are $700. A 6-hour night trip fishing dock lights is available for $500. What’s included in the trip price with Southern Cut Charters?All trips include expert guide services from Captain Gage Vaughn, fishing licenses, rods, reels, light tackle, fly gear, and terminal tackle. You’ll also find an onboard cooler with water, and fish cleaning is included where regulations allow. What types of trips can I book with Southern Cut Charters?You can choose from half-day, full-day, night dock light trips, and fly-fishing-specific Tarpon charters. All trips target local inshore species based on the season and customer preference. Do you offer night fishing trips in Tarpon Springs?Yes, Southern Cut Charters offers 6-hour night trips focused on dock lights, ideal for targeting Snook, Tarpon, and other inshore species in a unique setting. Trips start at $500 for up to two guests. Are the trips suitable for beginners and kids?Absolutely. Southern Cut Charters offers beginner-friendly, family-safe charters. Captain Gage is patient and experienced in working with all skill levels, including young anglers. What is the cancellation policy?Trips are fully refundable with at least one day's notice. Southern Cut Charters understands that weather and life happen, and we try to be as flexible as possible. What should I bring for my fishing trip?Bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), snacks, and any preferred drinks. A cooler with water is already on the boat. Wear non-marking shoes and dress for the weather. Can I keep the fish I catch?Yes, legal limits apply. Captain Gage will guide you on what species are in season and eligible for harvest. He’ll also clean your catch at no extra charge. How many people can go on the boat?Trips are designed for a maximum of two anglers. This ensures personalized instruction and maximum comfort aboard the 18’ Ankona skiff. Why should I book with Southern Cut Charters?Captain Gage Vaughn offers expert-guided, private inshore trips in Tarpon Springs with a focus on fly and light tackle fishing. You’ll benefit from local insight, premium gear, and a passion for helping anglers catch their target species.

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