Tarpon Fishing in Florida

Florida Tarpon Fishing

Florida is a paradise for anglers, especially those who want to reel-in Tarpon. Tarpon, Megalops Atlanticus in Latin, is easily recognized by their silver sides and belly, green or metallic-blue body, trailed dorsal fin and size. This majestic fish is dubbed the Silver King due to its size and shimmering silver color.

Tarpon are a large species of fish found in the Atlantic and especially off the coast of Florida. According to The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWRI), Florida’s Tarpon can weigh up to 280 pounds, and exceed seven feet in length. The Florida Museum states that female Tarpon can reach 8.2 feet. A fish of this size can be challenging to reel-in, two-hundred-and-eighty pounds of fish exert a tremendous amount of resistance on a fishing rig, however, there’s no reward like catching one of Florida’s Tarpon, the sun and blue waters make for an unforgettable experience.

While fishing for Tarpon, it’s important to use the correct tackle. According to The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWRI), anglers must use barbless, single, non-offset circle hooks for natural bait. Single hooks must be used, rather than treble hooks. It’s advisable to use heavy tackle to reel-in a Tarpon. This minimizes exhaustion and helps the fish avoid predators, after release. .

It’s said that Florida’s Boca Grande possesses the largest concentration of Tarpon in the world – about 5,000 Tarpon are reeled-in each Spring. Anglers find it a thrill to fish this unspoiled region of Florida’s coast. The seventy-foot deep fishing spot attracts Bull Sharks, the Tarpon’s natural predator. While fishing Boca Grande, you may catch a glimpse of one of nature’s most effective predators, the shark.

The popularity of Tarpon fishing dates back to the mid-1800’s. The sport has attracted many noteworthy individuals. According to Charlotteharbortravel.com, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, JP Morgan, Frederick Remington, the Vanderbilts, and the infamous Al Capone fished for Tarpon.

Florida possesses a long history of Tarpon fishing, the plentifulness of the fish and beautiful scenery attracts celebrities, professional anglers, and hobbyists alike. The blue waters are a perfect backdrop for mankind’s oldest sport. There’s no doubt that catching one of Florida’s Tarpon is exhausting, but the experience of retrieving one of these majestic creatures from the blue waters is worth the work.

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