Tarpon Tactics, Snapper Setups, and Marlin Encounters

 

Snapper drop-offs, tarpon teasers, and kayak red grouper—seasonal strategy from Pensacola to Panama City.

In this week’s episode of the Northwest Florida Fishing Report, Justin Leake joins the show to to talk all things tarpon. He shares his take on how late-summer heat, water clarity, and fishing pressure are affecting the bite. He offers tips on boat positioning, timing, and bait selection, emphasizing that success this time of year comes down to fishing smarter, not harder.

Brandon Barton shares what’s working inshore and nearshore around Pensacola. He breaks down early morning trout and redfish tactics on the grass flats, how moon phases and bait presence are shaping the bite, and why topwaters are key this time of year. Brandon also offers a deep dive into tarpon fishing from the kayak, covering everything from bait selection and livewell setup to ideal leader strength, drag pressure, and how to handle a bite when it finally happens.

Captain Adam Peeples of One Shot Charters delivers the offshore report, detailing how the thermocline and clean green water are influencing pelagic movement. He highlights the continued success of the swordfish bite, with several fish over 150 pounds, and shares a wild encounter with the biggest blue marlin he’s ever seen. Adam also gives tips on tuna tactics, bait choices, and using Hilton’s data to find the right temperature breaks and current lines offshore.

Harris Scruggs of Team Aquatic Charters checks in from the Panama City area with a report from both nearshore and offshore waters. He shares where he’s finding red snapper, what bait setups are proving most effective, and how conditions have changed over the past few weeks. Harris also discusses trolling strategies for king mackerel, the role of water clarity, and how to make the most of a short window when the bite turns on.

Whether you’re working the flats at dawn or chasing big game offshore, this episode brings the timely insight and local expertise you need to stay dialed in.

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