Tarpon Tamer

Business Details

30 Years

experience

Your Trusted Naples Fishing Charter Service

Tarpon Tamer Fishing Charters has been delivering exceptional fishing experiences in Naples, Florida, since 1996. Specializing in backwater and offshore adventures, we cater to both family-friendly outings and serious anglers seeking trophy species. Our 24-foot Sea Hunt bay boat, the Tarpon Tamer, is equipped for comfort and efficiency, accommodating up to six guests. We pride ourselves on expert local knowledge, targeting snook, tarpon, grouper, snapper, and more across Naples Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Everglades.

With decades of combined experience, our team ensures personalized trips tailored to your skill level and preferences. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned pro, we provide all necessary gear, expert guidance, and a commitment to unforgettable adventures. Our reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction has made us a trusted name in Southwest Florida fishing. Join us to explore world-class waters and create lasting memories on the open sea.

Services

Backwater Fishing Offshore Fishing Tarpon Charters Giant Tarpon Fishing Family Fishing Trips Night Fishing Adventures Group Outings Equipment Rental Guided Tours Species Targeting

Details

Year established: 1996

Highlights and features

27+ years of expert local fishing knowledge in Naples and surrounding waters
Customized trips for families, beginners, and serious anglers targeting trophy species
Modern 24-foot Sea Hunt bay boat with shade and comfortable seating for six
Proven success in catching snook, tarpon, grouper, and other prized Florida species
10% discount offered for first-time bookings to enhance accessibility

What people say

Expert local knowledge Family-friendly trips Consistent trophy catches Professional equipment Memorable experiences

Website

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Services

Backwater Fishing

Explore Naples Bay to the Everglades on guided backwater fishing adventures. Target snook, trout, tarpon, and triple tail in scenic mangrove-lined waters. Ideal for families and anglers of all skill levels seeking diverse catches and beautiful coastal scenery. Our expert captains navigate shallow waters to prime fishing spots.

Offshore Fishing

Venture into the Gulf of Mexico for wreck fishing excursions targeting grouper, snapper, cobia, and permit. Our offshore trips utilize advanced techniques to locate fish around underwater structures. Perfect for serious anglers pursuing trophy species in deeper waters with specialized equipment.

Giant Tarpon Fishing

Specialized May-July charters for massive tarpon in Boca Grande and Charlotte Harbor. These high-adrenaline trips focus on catching 100+ pound 'silver kings' using expert casting techniques. Includes specialized gear and strategies for battling these powerful game fish during peak migration season.

Family Fishing Trips

Kid-friendly fishing excursions designed for all ages and experience levels. Our patient captains teach basic techniques while targeting easy-catch species like snapper and trout. Trips include safety instruction, equipment, and flexible pacing to ensure memorable experiences for multi-generational groups.

Night Fishing Adventures

Experience unique nocturnal fishing opportunities under moonlit skies. Night trips target species like snook and tarpon using specialized lighting and lure techniques. Includes safety equipment and expert guidance for navigating and fishing after dark in designated safe zones.

People

Capt. Phil Haley

Captain/Owner

With over 25 years guiding Southwest Florida waters, Capt. Phil combines deep local knowledge with expert angling skills. He specializes in locating trophy fish across diverse ecosystems while ensuring safe, educational experiences for guests of all ages.

Questions

What types of fishing charters do you offer?

We offer backwater fishing in Naples Bay/Everglades, offshore Gulf wreck fishing, and specialized giant tarpon expeditions during May-July season.

What is included in your charter rates?

Rates include boat, fuel, fishing gear, tackle, licenses, and expert captain guidance. Additional costs may apply for special requests or extended hours.

Can children participate in fishing trips?

Yes! We welcome children with appropriate safety equipment and simplified instruction. Family trips include kid-friendly techniques and target species.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept credit cards, PayPal, personal checks, and cash. A 10% deposit is required to book, with full payment due before departure.

What happens if weather conditions are poor?

Trips may be rescheduled due to unsafe weather. We monitor conditions closely and notify guests in advance when possible.

What should I bring on a fishing charter?

We recommend sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, non-slip shoes, and a cooler for catches. We provide all necessary fishing equipment and safety gear.

Videos

Reviews (7)

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Meyer Gates

Jan 19, 2021 Report

Went out with Captain Phil and his 1st mate Tim. I've been on many fishing charters in Florida and nothing beats these guys. Put us on 9 HUGE Tarpon. The wisdom and knowledge both of them had on fishing in SW Florida was unbelievable. 10/10 would recommend. Definitely going to be booking another trip with them soon.

Nico Caridi The Caridi Law Firm Llc

Feb 02, 2020 Report

I take a guided back country trip every year in Naples. Some have been good some have been bad but none like Captain Phil and Tarpon Tamer. I am experienced angler but the four other guys i was with were not. Captain Phil was patient, helpful and best of all - he got us on Fish! A lot of them! My first beautiful tarpon, snook, shark and a ton of Pompano. Great Trip. Highly recommended.

Pete Henderson

Dec 27, 2019 Report

Captain Phil and his close friend Tim provided a tarpon fishing trip you only dream about. Their years of knowledge and experience of where, when, and how to fish for large tarpon was demonstrated when I caught and landed two trophy size tarpon one around 170 lbs. and the other 185 lbs. Phil and Tim shared my excitement and enthusiasm as my first monster tarpon danced on the water eleven times before being landed. I was treated like family with a fishing trip that ultimately was one of a lifetime. Pete H. Santa Rosa, Calif.

Mike Aston

Sep 12, 2019 Report

Captain Phil and deck mate Tim were fantastic! This was the 4th time Ive been out with Phil, and haven taken my 8 yr old daughter the past three times. Very kid friendly, clean boat, best charter Ive ever had.

Sam Beck

Dec 30, 2018 Report

We went deep sea fishing with captain Phil and I had a blast! We were out on the 8 hour backwater trip, and we enjoyed every second of it! One of the best parts is fishing with someone that has so much experience and knowledge about fishing. We watched MANY other fishing charter boats fail at fishing where we were. Every single one of them would stop and watch us, because we just kept on catching fish! I am so thankful that we found Captain Phil, I couldn't imagine being out on one of those other charters. Captain Phil definitely made the experience memorable and exciting!!!

Wendell Ford

Dec 24, 2018 Report

If you want to find a captain that goes out of his way to put you on fish it would be capn Phil. I have fished with capn Phil many times and can tell you he will do his best to put you on fish. My biggest tarpon with capn Phil was 175 lbs.

Dolores Cook

Sep 21, 2018 Report

First time going out deep sea fishing. My daughter ,her friend, 3 grand children and myself. Captain Phil was great with us! Very safety minded and showing us how to fish for the different types of fish. He gave us a wonderful time for us to remember and I would recommend him to every one for a great fishing experience.