Savannah Georgia Tarpon Fishing
Fish Savannah, Tybee Island, Blufton, Richmond Hill, and Pooler, GA Lowcountry for tarpon. Anglers of all abilities welcome.
Savannah Tarpon Fishing
Tarpon are the heavyweight champions of the inshore world. Known for their explosive takes, aerial acrobatics, and pure power, these migratory fish offer one of the most exciting experiences in all of saltwater fishing. Along the Georgia coast, we have a seasonal window from June through September when tarpon move into the larger rivers, sounds, and bays around Savannah, Tybee Island, and Richmond Hill as part of their annual migration.
These fish are big. Most Georgia tarpon range from 60 to 120 pounds, although larger fish are not uncommon. They come here to feed on mullet, menhaden, and other baitfish that school up in the sounds and creek mouths during the summer. Tarpon in our area are typically caught rolling near the surface, daisy-chaining in the tide lines, or blowing up bait balls with unmistakable violence.
Conventional Fishing for Tarpon
Fishing for tarpon with conventional gear around Savannah opens up a wider range of tactics and opportunities than fly fishing does. These fish respond well to both natural and artificial offerings depending on their mood and the conditions.
We primarily throw large swimbaits, paddletails, or soft-plastic jerkbaits on heavy jig heads when fish are feeding aggressively. Occasionally, live bait like mullet, pogies, or pinfish are used when fishing artificial lures is not an option. Circle hooks (when applicable) and fluorocarbon leaders are employed to improve hook sets and reduce wear on the fish.
A typical day chasing tarpon may start at first light, scanning for rolling fish in the sounds or river mouths. We’ll quietly idle into range, drift or anchor depending on the setup, and wait for our moment. Sometimes it’s all about patience. Other days, it’s run-and-gun while chasing moving fish and intercepting with fast, accurate casts. When a tarpon eats all chaos ensues-long runs, multiple jumps, and a tug-of-war that can break the spirit of both fish and angler.
Tarpon fishing is challenging, intense, physical, and addicting, and Savannah is one of the most overlooked places to do it.
Fly Fishing for Tarpon
Fly fishing for tarpon in the Georgia Lowcountry is not easy, but it’s worth every bit of the effort. These are large, smart fish that will test the abilities of all levels of fly anglers. But when it comes together, few moments in fly fishing compare.
We typically fish 11- or 12-weight rods with floating lines, strong leaders, and large baitfish (profile) flies that push water and can be seen by fish in murky water. Black-and-purple, chartreuse-and-white, and mullet-imitating patterns are common.
Tarpon often travel in strings or pods, cruising shorelines, channels, or structure edges. Presenting a fly ahead of the lead fish and letting it intercept naturally is key. Most shots happen on calm mornings or slick tides when fish are near the surface. It’s a game of spotting rollers, setting up quietly, and making the cast count.
Tarpon on fly in Savannah is for committed anglers with good eyes, strong casting skills, the patience to wait for the right moment, and the ability to make it happen (or at least have a good time learning when it doesn’t).
Savannah Tarpon Fishing Seasons
Tarpon are migratory, so we only get a few solid months each year to target them in Georgia waters.
Early Season (June): First arrivals start to show in the sounds and around bait schools. These early fish are fresh and eager. Great time to throw flies and soft plastics.
Peak Season (July–August): This is when the bulk of the fish are in the area. Big schools move through, bait is thick, and the conditions are usually calm. Best chance for both fly and conventional success.
Late Season (September): Fish start to thin out, but the ones that remain are typically large and hungry. Cooler nights and lighter pressure can lead to excellent days for those willing to look.
Off-Season (October–May): Tarpon are gone, chasing warmer water farther south. During this time, we focus on resident species like redfish.