A new year brings fresh goals, bold plans, and unforgettable experiences—and there’s no better way to kick off 2026 than stepping offshore with a rod in your hand and the Atlantic at your bow. Whether you’re brand new to fishing or ready to level up your skills, Stuart Sport Fishing is here to turn curiosity into confidence and moments into memories.
Fishing isn’t just about catching fish—it’s about learning the rhythm of the ocean, understanding the gear, and experiencing the thrill of a bite you’ll never forget. From selecting the right tackle to mastering basic casting techniques, every great angler starts with the fundamentals. Safety, conservation, and respect for the water are just as important as what’s on the line.
If you’re just getting started, this first-time fishing guide is a great resource to understand the essentials before you ever leave the dock. Knowing the basics ahead of time means you’ll spend less time guessing—and more time enjoying the action when it matters most.
That’s where we come in.
Based in Stuart, Florida—the Sailfish Capital of the World—Stuart Sport Fishing offers year-round access to world-class offshore fishing just minutes from the St. Lucie Inlet. Our Gulf Stream–fed waters attract Sailfish, Mahi, Wahoo, Kingfish, Snapper, Grouper, and more, making every trip an opportunity for something extraordinary.
Aboard our 36’ Contender Center Console, Captain Chris Britton and crew tailor each charter to your experience level and goals. Want to bottom fish for Mutton Snapper? Slow-pitch jig for trophy Amberjack? Fly the kite for a bucket-list Sailfish? You can do it all—sometimes on the same trip. No pressure. No ego. Just expert guidance and pure offshore excitement.
And if you’re looking for inspiration before your trip, don’t miss the action on our Instagram—real catches, real anglers, and real memories made every week on the water.
Ready to Make 2026 the Year You Get Hooked?
There’s no substitute for hands-on experience—and there’s no better place to start than with a local captain who knows these waters inside and out. Whether it’s your very first cast or your next big milestone, Stuart Sport Fishing is ready to take you there.
The air is buzzing with holiday energy, and for anglers, that means two things: extra time off for casting, and intense anticipation for the world-class fishing season starting in 2026! Whether you’re planning a last-minute holiday getaway to the water or gearing up for the biggest catches of the New Year, your drive to improve and explore new spots is at its peak. To match that excitement, you need insider information, expert strategies, and high-quality entertainment. We’ve compiled the ultimate list of 10 Essential Fishing Podcasts that bring you the latest tips, gear reviews, and techniques to fuel your passion during this prime time.
May the New Year bring you tight lines, calm seas, and full live wells! We wish you success, happiness, and that trophy fish you’ve been dreaming about.
The only way to guarantee your record-breaking catch in the prime conditions of 2026 is to book your date now. Our expert captains are ready to guide you to the hottest spots and apply the techniques you’ve mastered. Don’t miss out on securing your preferred dates for the New Year season! Call at 772-202-0623. Dive deeper into our Instagramhere.
Stuart, Florida, earns its reputation as the “Sailfish Capital of the World” due to an exceptional blend of geographical advantages, rich marine ecosystems, and a well-established fishing culture that draws professional anglers and enthusiasts alike.
The Unique Geography of the St. Lucie Inlet
The primary reason for Stuart’s professional fishing appeal is the St. Lucie Inlet. This natural gateway provides a deep, direct, and swift connection between the Atlantic Ocean and the extensive Indian River Lagoon and Okeechobee Waterway systems. This unique confluence of fresh and saltwater creates a highly fertile estuary, attracting a massive amount of baitfish.
When cold fronts push south during peak season (typically November through March), the cold waters offshore drive large schools of sailfish south, following the Gulf Stream current close to the Florida coast, the geography of the seafloor off Stuart pushes this current closer to shore than in many other parts of Florida, putting the migrating sailfish within mere miles of the inlet.
“Sailfish Alley” and Rich Marine Ecosystems
The convergence of warm ocean currents and inshore resources creates a vibrant marine ecosystem often referred to as “Sailfish Alley.” This rich environment supports an incredible diversity of game fish beyond just sailfish, including.
Mahi-mahi (Dolphin)
Marlin
Wahoo
King Mackerel
Tuna
Inshore fishing is equally robust, with opportunities to catch snook, tarpon, and redfish in the expansive lagoon system. This variety means professionals can target multiple species, ensuring productive tournaments and diverse fishing experiences year-round.
World-Class Infrastructure and Culture
Stuart’s designation is not just about fish; it is supported by decades of fishing heritage and infrastructure tailored to the professional angler. The city boasts numerous top-tier marinas, such as the Sunset Bay Marina & Anchorage, capable of accommodating large sportfishing yachts.
Key factors include:
Expert Captains & Charters: A high concentration of highly experienced local captains and charter services specialize in offshore tournament fishing techniques.
Tournaments: Stuart frequently hosts prestigious fishing tournaments, attracting national and international talent.
Conservation Ethos: The local community strongly supports catch-and-release practices, particularly for billfish, ensuring the sustainability of the vibrant fishery for future generations
For professional anglers seeking the thrill of a lifetime or a reliable spot for high-stakes competition, Stuart’s combination of natural abundance and dedicated support makes it an unparalleled global destination.
There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of a tuna strike — the line screaming, the reel spinning, and the fight that tests both strength and skill. Florida’s deep blue waters are home to some of the best tuna fishing in the world, drawing anglers from across the globe to experience the thrill. From the powerful Blackfin Tuna, known for their aggressive runs, to the majestic Yellowfin Tuna, prized for both their fight and flavor, these pelagic giants make every trip unforgettable.
After doing a bit of research, listening to stories of offshore fishermen, watching videos, and seeing all the cool species anglers catch… It seems like there’s quite a bit! But there’s one experience out there that really puts the icing on the cake – Tuna fishing in Florida. Let’s dive in and see what it’s all about!
Florida Tuna Fishing Regulations
First things first. It’s important to make sure you are aware of the regulations when it comes to Tuna fishing in Florida. Like any other species, rules are put into place to ensure healthy fisheries and to protect the population. It’s no secret that Tuna are heavily hunted and harvested. I mean there are TV shows out there specifically on Tuna fishing!
Something important to note is that some Tuna are considered Highly Migratory Species (HMS). Examples include Bluefin, Bigeye, Albacore, and Yellowfin Tuna. If fishing for these guys in federal or state waters, you’ll need a federal HMS angling permit. In federal waters, the permit issued per vessel will cover everyone fishing on board, but in state waters they apply to anglers individually.
If you catch a Bluefin Tuna, whether in state or federal waters, you have to report it to the NOAA by the next day. If you keep other HMS Tunas, you’ll also have to report it to NOAA within 24 hours. These can be reported over the phone or online.
If you participate in a tournament where you’ll be Tuna fishing in Florida and you come across highly migratory Tuna species, be sure to follow regulations. Usually, the tournament directors will have already taken the regulations into consideration and will communicate with anglers to let them know of any specifications.
For Blackfin Tuna, Atlantic Bonito, and Little Tunny, you won’t need any special permits. The season is open year-round for these guys and there aren’t any minimum size limits. The only thing to keep in mind is the daily bag limit of two fish or 100 pounds, whichever is greater.
However, the good news is that if you’re fishing with a licensed charter in Florida, most of these permits will be taken care of. You can sit back and focus on catching big, delicious fish to take home!
When is the best time to go Tuna fishing in Florida?
Tuna prefer warmer waters, so Florida is a perfect location for them because the water is mostly warm year round. In addition, some regions in Florida such as the Atlantic Ocean, reach good depths quickly, so traveling schools of Tuna can comfortably swim by.
Because they like the warmer conditions, the summer months tend to provide the best opportunities for finding Tuna. Although, depending on the species you can usually find them in Florida year-round.
For example, Blackfin Tuna are in Florida’s waters all year long, while species such as Yellowfin, Atlantic Bonito, Bigeye, Little Tunny, and Bluefin reach their peaks during the summer. Some of these species will migrate away for some time before being found again, while others may still be present but in smaller numbers.
Mostly all Tuna species will be active throughout the day, with peak biting times at dawn and dusk. Some species, such as Bigeye and Yellowfin tuna, often bite during the dark hours of the night as well.
When it comes to the tide, each species has its own taste. While you will be mostly offshore when fighting these guys, the movement of water can be influential, even if you are far out there. Bigeye, Little Tunny, and Blackfin Tuna like slack tides. On the other hand, Yellowfin Tuna and Atlantic Bonito are most active during strong outgoing or incoming tides.
Florida Tuna Fishing Gear
You can use pretty much any gear for Tuna fishing in Florida, depending on what Tuna you’re targeting. If you’re looking for small guys – Little Tunny, for example – you can use any common spinning or fly fishing setup – just like you would use inshore for Snook, Redfish, etc. A spinning setup consisting of a medium rod paired with a 3000 or 4000 reel will work fine.
On the other hand, if you’re going for large Bluefin Tuna, you’ll want to use an extra heavy rod and a 30000-sized reel for a spinning setup. Conventional reels are also common and you can use sizes up to 130 to bring in these beasts. In addition, there are specific jigging and trolling rods and reels out there that suit Tuna fishing.
Braids and fluorocarbon leaders starting at 80 pounds are a good idea. Some Tuna, like Bluefin, can also be skeptical when it comes to seeing a leader. Try to go as low as you can, while still having a strong enough leader to fight these guys. Most anglers recommend using an 8/0 hook. The larger the fish, the higher you should go.
Best Bait for Tuna Fishing in Florida
Some great examples of live bait for Tuna include ballyhoo, threadfin herring, blue runners, pogies, mullet, squid, and flying fish. Using these baits dead or cut up has also been proven to be successful.
If you’re not planning on using real critters for bait, artificials work just fine too. Examples of artificial lures include jigs, feathers, spoons, and strip baits. Anything that seems to shimmer or move, or has a bait-like appearance, such as similar coloring or eyes, will easily catch the attention of a Tuna.
Whether live, dead, or artificial, the best method for Tuna fishing in Florida is to troll your bait behind the boat at a slow and steady speed.
Where to Go Tuna Fishing in Florida
Depending on the area of Florida you’re in, your most productive fishing areas will vary. Let’s take a look at a couple of different locations that boast popular Tuna fishing in Florida and find the best times to visit them.
Let’s start down south with the Florida Keys. Here, you can easily reach deeper waters, and they’re also warm year-round. You can pretty much go Tuna fishing in the Keys all year long. Blackfin and Yellowfin commonly fill the deep waters, and plenty of anglers come from all around looking for the chance to hook one. Going out of Key West is your best bet in the Keys.
Another popular destination to go Tuna fishing in Florida is Destin. Located in the Florida Panhandle, trips here reach the deeper waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Some of the offshore Tuna hotspots include the oil rigs out there that provide shelter for many creatures, with schools of Tuna lurking by. If you travel over 100 miles offshore, you’ll be able to locate them. And the farther you go, the more you’ll find!
How to Go Tuna Fishing in Florida
As mentioned, the offshore waters hold structures where plenty of species take shelter and search for food. It’s best to have an offshore boat that can handle big waves and trips that go miles and miles out. If you don’t have a boat suitable for this – or you don’t have a boat at all – no worries. You can easily find a fishing charter to suit your needs.
There are plenty of options that specialize in Tuna fishing. Just bear in mind that, a lot of the time, the “honey holes” are quite far offshore. That means you’ll need a long time to reach them. Be prepared for at least a full day on the water.
No matter where you go or who you pick, you’re sure to have a blast while Tuna fishing in Florida! Your experienced captain is sure to know exactly how to entice the fish – probably by trolling – so you can head home with a cooler full of fish!
Tuna Fishing in Florida: A Battle for the Ages
I hope this article helped give you some insight into Tuna fishing in Florida. Spending a day in the offshore waters chasing these strong species is a real treat. Who knows, it may be the beginning of a new hobby for you. The strength of these fish will wear you out – but your aim is to do the same to them! Come aboard and catch that bucket-list monster!
When it comes to world-class tuna fishing,Stuart Sport Fishingis the name to know. Based in the “Sailfish Capital of the World,” we take your offshore adventure to the next level with top-tier boats, state-of-the-art equipment, and captains who know every productive reef, ledge, and current break where tuna feed. Whether you’re chasing a personal record or looking to fill your cooler with sushi-grade catches, our crew ensures a smooth, thrilling, and professional experience from dock to deck.
We provide everything you need — bait, tackle, and expertise — so all you have to do is show up and reel in the action. Our charters are tailored for anglers of all experience levels, and our local knowledge means you’ll always be in the right place at the right time.
📞 Ready to feel the drag scream? Don’t leave your tuna trip to chance — book your deep-sea adventure today at 772-202-0623 or visitstuartsportfishing.com.
Follow@stuartsportfishing on Instagram for daily catches, fishing tips, and real footage from our offshore adventures. It’s time to chase the fish of a lifetime — and we’ll get youthere.
Welcome to Stuart Sport Fishing, your premier destination for unforgettable offshore fishing adventures in Stuart, Florida—the Sailfish Capital of the World. With years of expertise and a reputation for excellence, Captain Chris Britton and our crew combine local knowledge, top-tier equipment, and a passion for fishing to deliver trips that are both exciting and successful. Whether you’re an experienced angler chasing your next trophy catch or a beginner eager to get out on the water, our 36’ Contender Center Console is the perfect platform to make it happen.
What makes Stuart so special for anglers is its year-round action. Our warm, Gulfstream-fed waters just a few miles off the St. Lucie Inlet attract a wide range of species, from Sailfish and Tuna to Grouper and Snapper. And while the thrill of offshore fishing never disappoints, we also specialize in diverse techniques to match the conditions and your goals. Whether you want to bottom fish for massive Mutton Snapper, try your hand at slow-pitch jigging for trophy Amberjack, or experience the adrenaline of fishing for Sailfish, our team will guide you every step of the way.
Tarpon fishing in Florida offers a thrilling challenge for anglers who want to test their skills against one of the ocean’s most powerful game fish. Known for their acrobatic leaps and incredible strength, “silver kings” are a prized catch, but landing one requires more than just luck.
List of beach tarpon fishing tips you can use this spring in Florida. Learn about the best baits to use, how to time your trip, catch and release best practices
Tarpon fishing in Florida can be one of the most exciting and adrenaline-fueled experiences for saltwater anglers. Since tarpon can weigh over 250 pounds and are known for making acrobatic leaps when hooked, they are one of the most highly sought-after sport fish in the world. Check out these seven tips to help you successfully target tarpon from the beaches in Florida.
1. Know the Regulations
Before going on a fishing trip for tarpon, know the state fishing regulations. Florida has important laws regarding catch and release best practices (tarpon are exclusively a catch-and-release fishery in Florida). When fishing for tarpon anywhere in Florida, including when fishing from a beach, fish over 40 inches must remain in the water. Abide by all regulations, including gear restrictions and release guidelines.
2. Best Locations
Put effort into researching the best beach locations for tarpon fishing. Tarpon (often referred to as the “silver king”) can be found along both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of Florida. Look for beaches that are close to deep channels, around inlets, or passes where tarpon are known to school up during their seasonal migrations. Places like Miami, Clearwater Beach, Boca Grande Pass, and Sanibel Island are often cited as top beach fishing destinations for tarpon.
3. Timing is Everything
When it comes to beach fishing for tarpon, seasonal timing is crucial to success. Tarpon are most active when water temperatures are between 75- and 90-degrees F, which tends to be from April through September. Large schools (occasionally numbering up to 100 fish or more) migrate through Florida’s warm coastal waters in search of food and suitable spawning grounds during the spring and summer. Time your beach fishing trips based on these water temperatures and a strong moving tide for your best opportunities.
4. Tackle and Gear
When it comes to the best rod and reel for beach tarpon fishing, heavy tackle is essential. Use an 8-foot heavy-duty spinning rod paired with a large 7000 or 8000 series reel that has high line capacity and a quality drag system. Spool the reel with 30 to 50-pound test braided fishing line. As for terminal tackle, rig up with heavy fluorocarbon or monofilament leader (around 80-pound test). You will also need to have a selection of non-stainless, non-offset circle hooks in sizes ranging from 5/0 to 10/0 (the size of the natural baits you use will dictate the hook size). Bigger baits, like mullet or ladyfish, will require the use of a larger circle hook. With smaller baits, like pinfish or threadfin herring, you can use the smaller hooks.
5. Natural Bait and Lures
When beach fishing for tarpon, natural baits are often the most effective. Some of the best choices include mullet, ladyfish, pinfish, crabs, and threadfin herring. Rig your natural baits using a circle hook (as mentioned in the section above) to increase hook-up ratios while minimizing potential harm to the fish. For anglers who prefer to use artificial lures, large swimbaits and plugs can also entice strikes from hungry tarpon patrolling the beaches.
6. Techniques and Strategies
If you want to know how to find tarpon from the beach, look for baitfish scattering along the troughs or silver flashes on the surface of the water. If you don’t see either of those signs, try casting your bait or lure around the edges of sandbars or deep channels. Be prepared to adjust your tactics based on changing tides, currents, and weather conditions. When a tarpon strikes, let the fish make its initial runs and jumps while maintaining steady pressure on the line and not reeling against the drag. One tip to help keep a tarpon hooked when it makes acrobatic jumps is to point your rod tip towards the fish – this is often referred to as “bowing to the king.”
7. Respect and Conservation
When targeting tarpon from the beach, it is important to use conservation-minded fishing practices. For example, use non-offset/non-stainless circle hooks with natural baits to prevent tarpon from swallowing the bait and hook, limit the amount of time it takes you to reel in the fish by using heavy enough tackle, don’t remove the fish from the water or bring it up onto the beach (wade into the water and take photos of the fish in the water), and handle the fish as little as possible when removing the hook. By treating these incredible sport fish with respect and practicing conservation-minded fishing techniques, you can help ensure that we’ll have healthy tarpon fisheries for future generations.
🎣 Ready to put your skills to the test? At Stuart Sport Fishing, our captains know the waters, the seasons, and the secret spots that give you the best chance at landing the fish of a lifetime. Call us today at 772-202-0623 to book your charter, and explore more of our adventures on Instagram@stuartsportfishing.
