Boca Grande Pass Mullet Run
The deep pass at the south end of Gasparilla Island where Charlotte Harbor meets the Gulf — in the stretch of coast that produces most of Florida's mullet landings.
Updated September 27, 2026
About Boca Grande Pass
Charlotte Harbor is fed by the Peace and Myakka rivers and drains mainly through Boca Grande Pass. The coast from Tampa Bay to Charlotte Harbor accounts for the large majority of Florida's commercial striped mullet landings, so fall mullet movement here is heavy.
The pass is deep and fast, and it is best known worldwide for tarpon. Gasparilla Island State Park sits at the south tip beside the lighthouse.
Why fish here during the run
- The main exit for one of Florida's largest estuaries.
- The score includes Peace River flow, a driver of how hard the harbor flushes.
- Big predators — tarpon, sharks, and jacks — hold in the pass.
Angler tips
- From shore, fish the beach near the lighthouse on the ebb.
- Boaters: the pass is deep with strong current — know the rules and the traffic.
- After heavy rain on the Peace River, expect a stronger, earlier push.
Access & conditions notes
- Gasparilla Island has a causeway toll; the state park charges an entrance fee.
- Wind, pressure, and water temperature come from the NOAA Fort Myers station, about 25 miles away.
- River flow is read from the Peace River gauge at Arcadia.
Map pin: 26.7170°N, 82.2600°W · Boca Grande Pass — Charlotte Harbor outflow; met via Fort Myers
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