Welcome to the world of Captain Rick Stanczyk’s Islamorada Tarpon Fishing! As a second-generation fishing captain based in Islamorada, Florida, Capt. Rick Stanczyk offers unparalleled expertise in tarpon fishing. His family owns and operates the world-renowned Bud n’ Mary’s Marina. Having spent his entire life fishing in the Keys, Rick has dedicated the last 16 years to guiding others in the pursuit of tarpon. He has meticulously trained a team of captains who collectively provide the best tarpon fishing guide service in the Keys.
For those looking to elevate their fishing experience, particularly in catching tarpon, Islamorada offers a unique blend of environment and expertise. Here’s a guide to maximizing your chances of landing the “Silver King” in this Florida paradise.
Choosing the Right Guide and Boat
Capt. Rick is fishing a limited schedule for the 2025 season (3 days a week on his new boat). Capt. Stephen Byrd is running his other Contender full time. Capt. Trentin Leary operates the 20′ SeaCraft Bay Boat, the boat in which Capt. Rick began his guiding career.
Image: Captain Trentin Leary showcases a diverse catch, illustrating his versatility as a fishing guide in Islamorada.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Guide:
- Experience: Opt for guides with years of experience fishing for tarpon in Islamorada, like Capt. Rick and his team.
- Teamwork: A collaborative team shares fishing intel and bait-catching strategies, significantly improving your chances of success.
- Boat Type: Understand the type of boat suited for tarpon fishing in Islamorada’s waters. The 20′ SeaCraft Bay Boat offers a more intimate experience. You can learn more detailed information about the boats they run here.
Prime Time: When to Fish for Tarpon in Islamorada
Islamorada enjoys a long tarpon season, but understanding the peak times can dramatically increase your chances. The best times to catch tarpon in Islamorada are during the warmer months, typically from April through July. Find out more about the best times to catch tarpon in Islamorada here. These months offer the ideal water temperatures and baitfish activity that attract tarpon.
Tactics and Tips for Landing Trophy Tarpon
Landing a trophy tarpon requires more than just luck. It demands skill, patience, and the right tactics. Here are a few tricks to help you land that dream fish:
- Use the Right Bait: Tarpon are opportunistic feeders. Live bait such as crabs, shrimp, and mullet are highly effective.
- Proper Hookset: Tarpon have bony mouths, so a firm hookset is crucial. Use circle hooks and a strong, sweeping motion.
- Drag Settings: Tarpon are strong fighters. Adjust your drag to allow the fish to run without breaking your line, but still apply enough pressure to tire it out.
- Patience is Key: Tarpon fishing requires patience. Be prepared to wait for the right opportunity and fight the fish for an extended period.
- Listen to Your Guide: Experienced guides like Capt. Rick and his team have invaluable knowledge of the local waters and tarpon behavior. Follow their advice.
Image: An angler poses with a tarpon before releasing it, showcasing the catch-and-release practice promoted by Islamorada fishing guides.
Read more on tricks to landing trophy tarpon.
Preserving the Resource: Responsible Tarpon Fishing
Islamorada’s tarpon fishery is a precious resource that requires careful management. Practicing responsible fishing techniques is essential for ensuring the sustainability of this incredible species.
- Catch and Release: Most tarpon fishing in Islamorada is catch and release. Handle the fish carefully and minimize the time it spends out of the water.
- Proper Handling: Use rubberized nets and avoid dragging the fish on the boat deck. Support the fish horizontally when taking photos.
- Follow Regulations: Be aware of and adhere to all local fishing regulations, including size and gear restrictions.
Booking Your Islamorada Tarpon Fishing Adventure
Ready to experience the thrill of tarpon fishing in Islamorada? Booking is available for the 2025 season!
Book Now! – Partnered with Vally to offer on-line booking for 2025! Click here to check out the various offerings from the team of captains and book your trip today.
For a more personalized touch, especially if you have a dream of catching & mounting a trophy tarpon, please email to get your dates locked in. Rick will try extra hard to get you on his personal schedule if you are going to mount a trophy tarpon.
Contact Capt. Rick Stanczyk directly:
Capt. Rick Stanczyk 305-747-6903
Stay connected and get the latest updates:
- Instagram: @richardstanczyk
- Facebook: Islamorada Tarpon Fishing
With the right preparation, guidance, and respect for the resource, your Islamorada tarpon fishing adventure is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
