Ready to chase some tails on the flats? This full-day fly fishing trip with Southern Cut Charters is your ticket to hooking into some of Tarpon Springs' most prized inshore species. We're talking 8 solid hours on the water, targeting everything from acrobatic tarpon to sneaky snook. Whether you're a seasoned fly angler or looking to pick up some new skills, Captain [Name] knows these waters like the back of his hand and will put you on the fish.
We'll meet up bright and early at 8 AM, load up the skiff, and hit the flats running. This trip is all about sight fishing and stalking fish in skinny water. We'll pole through mangrove-lined backcountry, crystal clear flats, and oyster bars teeming with life. Expect to cast to tailing redfish, schools of snook hugging the mangroves, and if we're lucky, maybe even spot a few tarpon rolling. The beauty of fly fishing these waters is you never know what might show up – from hard-fighting jack crevalle to the oddball tripletail hanging under a floating log.
If you're new to the fly game, don't sweat it. We'll start with the basics – how to load the rod, make a clean presentation, and strip-set like a pro. For you seasoned fly slingers, we can work on dialing in those longer casts or perfecting your double-haul. We'll be using 8-weight rods for most of the day, bumping up to a 10 or 12-weight if we spot some tarpon. Flies? Think Clouser minnows, EP baitfish patterns, and some tasty crab imitations for those redfish. The key here is stealth and accuracy – these fish can be spooky in the shallows, but man, is it a rush when you see one turn on your fly!
Snook: These linesiders are the rockstars of inshore fishing. Known for their explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps, snook love to hang tight to structure. We'll be targeting them around mangrove edges, dock pilings, and underwater points. They're ambush predators, so accurate casts are key. The bigger ones can push 40 inches, and trust me, they'll test your drag and your nerves. Peak season is typically May through September, but we catch 'em year-round in Tarpon Springs.
Tarpon: The "silver king" is the holy grail for many fly anglers. These prehistoric beasts can top 150 pounds, and when they go airborne, it's a sight you'll never forget. We typically see our first push of tarpon in April, with the fishing staying hot through August. Casting to a daisy-chaining school of tarpon is about as exciting as it gets. Just be ready for a fight – these fish are known for their endurance and will have you sweating bullets.
Redfish: If you're into sight fishing, reds are your jam. Nothing beats seeing a copper-colored tail waving in skinny water as a redfish roots for crabs. These bruisers are known for their powerful runs and stubborn fights. We'll look for them tailing on grass flats or cruising the edges of oyster bars. Fall is prime time for big bull reds, but we catch them year-round here. They're not the pickiest eaters, but a well-placed cast with a crab pattern can lead to an instant eat.
Look, I've guided all over Florida, and there's something special about Tarpon Springs. The diversity of fish, the pristine backwaters, and the chance to hook into a trophy on any given cast – it's addictive. Plus, with a full 8 hours on the water, we've got time to really explore and put you on some fish. Whether you're looking to check species off your list or just want to improve your fly casting game, this trip delivers. And hey, nothing beats the satisfaction of fooling a fish on the fly you tied yourself (but don't worry, I've got plenty of proven patterns if you need 'em).
Alright, let's make this happen. This full-day fly fishing charter is perfect for 1-2 anglers looking to really dial in their inshore game. We provide all the gear, licenses, and even bottled water to keep you hydrated under that Florida sun. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure and maybe a lucky hat. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Whether you're a local looking to sharpen your skills or a visitor wanting to experience some of the best inshore fly fishing Florida has to offer, Southern Cut Charters has you covered. Book now, and let's go stick some fish!
Redfish are a staple on our inshore trips. Most run 5-10 pounds but bulls over 20 are possible. Look for their copper-colored backs in super shallow water - sometimes with their tails sticking up as they feed. Oyster bars, grass flats, and mangrove shorelines are redfish magnets. Fall is prime time as they school up, but we catch them year-round. Reds are popular for their hard pulls and excellent table fare. To catch them, I like tossing soft plastics or live shrimp under a popping cork. Work it slowly and watch for that telltale thump. My secret weapon is scented soft baits - reds can't resist that extra smell in the water. Just be ready when they crush it and make a run for deeper water!
Snook are one of our top inshore targets here in Tarpon Springs. These sleek predators usually run 1-3 feet long and put up an amazing fight. You'll find them lurking around mangroves, docks, and other structure in shallow water. Spring and fall are prime seasons when water temps are just right. Snook are prized for their clever nature and powerful runs - hooking one is a real rush. Their meat is also excellent eating when in season. To tempt a snook, I like using live bait like pilchards or pinfish on a light fluorocarbon leader. Let that bait swim naturally by the structure and hold on tight when a snook slams it! Just remember to handle them carefully for a quick release if you're not keeping them for dinner.
Tarpon are the kings of Florida inshore fishing. These prehistoric beasts can top 100 pounds and launch themselves clear out of the water when hooked. We typically find them in 4-10 feet of water around bridges, passes, and deeper flats. Spring and early summer are best as they migrate through. Anglers love tarpon for the insane acrobatics and sheer power - it's a bucket list fish for many. To hook one, we'll often sightfish with live bait like crabs or mullet. Once you're hooked up, be ready for some epic jumps. My best tip is to bow to the king when it leaps - lower your rod to give some slack so it doesn't throw the hook. Patience and stamina are key to landing these giants.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 2
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 28
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 25