In 1995 when I won the world's richest Tarpon Tournament I invested my share buying a unit in the only waterfront condo that you can keep your boat right at your door. You're actually only minutes from the fishing area. I've fished these waters since 1967. During the months of May, June and mid-July there's no better place to fish for tarpon. You'll be fishin in a 24 foot Avenger with a tower, using tackle in the 40 pound range catching fish from 70 to 150 pounds. You will not be strapped in a chair and told to crank, you will have to beat these fish with your skill. You will quickly become a seasoned angler when you battle a fish 3 and 4 times the size your tackle was rated for. These maneuverable boats allow us to stay up with the fish, but it's definitely mano-emano, you and the fish.

Fishing slack tides, mostly in the deep water pass at the south end of the island, where you'll see thousands of fish during each tide. You will be so close to the tarpon that at times their tails will splash water on you to cool you down from the sun's rays. We fish hard during slack tides, then eat and sleep and then back to it. The island has great restaurants to build your energy back up for the next fishing period.

We're a short 40 miles from Sarasota and 100 miles from the international airport in Tampa. I could talk for hours about Boca Grande, so call or write for more details. One thing is for sure, once you've fished Boca Grande you will be back!

Update: Gene can no longer accept charters as he fishes the tarpon fishing series and is totally committed to winning the tournaments. Watch us catch the big ones on the Sunshine Channel.