Tarpon fishing in Sarasota runs from early May through late July, with the prime time being late May through late June.  Trips start very early, before first light, and run until 1:00 p.m. or so, depending on conditions.  Normally by that time the sea breeze kicks up making it difficult to spot fish.  All tackle, bait, and licenses are provided along with a cooler with ice and water.  Clients should bring Polarized sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, a light jacket, and white soled shoes.  And of course a camera!  Due to the fact that tarpon move around quite a bit, along with local weather conditions, the best guides are flexible about meeting places and will meet clients close to where the "bite" has been the best.  A full day of tarpon fishing is $550 for 1-2 anglers and $600 for 3 anglers. 

I book solid every May, June, and July but I have a network of great guides that I can access to get clients a boat in the event that I am unavailable.  All guides are fully licensed, insured, and have 20+ years of tarpon guiding experience.  I can also assist in accommodations if required.  Please feel free to contact me if I can be of any assistance.

It is highly recommended that clients have contact with their guide well in advance of the trip to insure that the clients needs are met.

There will be times when the chances of catching a tarpon are poor.  There may not be a lot of fish early or late in the season.  There will also be days when a rough surf in the Gulf of Mexico prohibits fishing.  Anglers need to be willing to fish at least a half day inshore if these conditions exist.  The cost of a 4 hour inshore trip is $350.

A deposit of $250 is required for each day of fishing.  This will be fully refunded if the trip is canceled by the captain due to weather or other serious issues.

I am out on the water early most mornings and also go to bed quite early in the evening.  The best way to contact me is via e-mail at captklopfer@comcast.net.  If you need to call, please try and do so between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. EST at (941) 371-1390