Miami Shrimp Run Tarpon
There’s something magical about fishing the spring shrimp run in Miami at night. The city’s skyline glows in the distance, its neon reflection shimmering on the water, while the tide sweeps millions of shrimp out of Biscayne Bay like a conveyor belt of tarpon candy. It’s a sight to behold—tiny crustaceans frantically riding the currents, and in their wake, massive silver torpedoes launching skyward. If you’ve never seen a 100-pound tarpon do backflips under the city lights, you’re missing out on one of the most electrifying fishing experiences South Florida has to offer.
So, why do the shrimp run this time of year? As water temperatures rise and lunar cycles align, shrimp naturally migrate from inshore estuaries to deeper waters offshore. This annual event turns Miami’s waterways into an all-you-can-eat buffet for hungry predators. Tarpon, being the opportunistic feeders they are, stack up around bridges, channels, and seawalls, gorging themselves on the free-flowing feast. But they’re not alone—where there’s tarpon, there are also bull sharks lurking, eager to crash the party and steal your hard-fought catch right off your line.
Now, let’s talk tactics. While live shrimp and crabs are always solid choices, one of the best lures for matching the hatch is the Z-Man Mulletron. This bait’s realistic mullet profile and action make it stand out among all the shrimp washing out of Biscayne Bay and is irresistible to tarpon lurking in the shadows. It's line-thru rigging makes it an ideal choice for Tarpon. As the big poons jump, the bait will side up your line, thus reducing the chances of the fish throwing the hook from their mouths. For those who prefer live bait, a frisky mullet or a hand-sized pilchard freelined with the tide can be just as effective. The key is to let your bait drift naturally with the current, as the silver kings are faced head first into the rip waiting for food to flush into their mouths.
To handle these behemoths, you need serious gear. An 8’ Shimano Teramar extra heavy rod is ideal for controlling big fish in tight quarters, paired with a 6000-size spinning reel like the Shimano Saragosa or Daiwa Saltist MQ. These reels provide the drag strength and durability needed for prolonged battles. Spool up with 40-pound braid for casting distance and strength, and don’t skimp on the leader—60 to 100-pound fluorocarbon is necessary to withstand a tarpon’s sandpaper mouth and the occasional submarine sized Jack Crevalle that cruize the bay.
Of course, Miami’s waters aren’t just challenging because of the fish. The commercial shrimp boats add an extra layer of chaos. Imagine fighting a giant tarpon for 30 minutes, only to have a shrimper’s prop slice through your line like a hot knife through butter. It happens more than you’d think. Add in bridge pilings, channel markers, and boat traffic, and it’s no wonder landing one of these giants feels like winning a championship fight.
But when everything goes right—when the drag screams, the rod bends, and a massive silver king explodes into the air against the glow of the Miami skyline—it’s pure magic. Whether you land the fish or not, the experience is unforgettable. Just watch out for the bull sharks. And the shrimp boats. And the bridge pilings. Okay, so maybe it’s a little chaotic—but that’s what makes it so damn fun.
