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Tampa Bay Tarpon Fishing Regulations 2026

Tampa Bay Tarpon regulations as of 2026-05-07: Gear Prohibited; Daily bag 1 per person per year; Gear Prohibited. Sourced from FWC.

FWCVerified Official source

About Tarpon

Rules (5)

Boca Grande Pass
Gear
Prohibited
bottom-weighted jigs are not allowed
Gulf And Atlantic State And Federal Waters
Daily bag
1 per person per year
(tag required)
State And Federal Waters Of The Gulf And AtlanticCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Max size
40"
Gear
Prohibited
Tarpon is a catch-and-release only fishery. One tarpon tag per person per year may be purchased when in pursuit of a Florida state or world record. Vessel, transport and shipment limited to one fish. MUST remain in the water unless in pursuit of a state or world record using a tarpon tag Snagging, snatch hooking, spearing and the use of a multiple hook in conjunction with live or dead natural bait is prohibited

Frequently asked questions

When is Tarpon season on Tampa Bay?

Tarpon season on Tampa Bay is set by FWC. See the rule table for state- and zone-specific dates.

What is the size limit for Tarpon on Tampa Bay?

Size limits for Tarpon on Tampa Bay vary by state and zone. See the rule table above.

What is the daily bag limit for Tarpon on Tampa Bay?

Daily bag limit for Tarpon on Tampa Bay is 1 per person per year in Gulf And Atlantic State And Federal Waters.

Reference only. Regulations change mid-season. Always verify with the official source before keeping a catch. Last verified .

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