Tarpon Fishing Tips and Techniques

Atlantic Tarpon

 

The Atlantic tarpon (Tarpon atlanticus) is a large, silver colored saltwater game fish found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of North America, the Caribbean Sea, and other regions.

In the USA, tarpon are most common in Florida, although they are sometimes caught as far north as Maryland.

Occasionally reaching weights of 100 pounds or more, many anglers consider tarpon to be the catch of a lifetime.

The Atlantic tarpon was designated the state fish of Alabama in 1955. In 1975 the designation was changed to "state saltwater fish."

Tarpon are often called "the silver king."

Tarpon Fishing Techniques

Tarpon fishermen use a variety of gear, depending on the situation. Experienced anglers employ high quality tackle as these fish have a reputation for destroying cheap gear.

For casting live baits or lures, most anglers use a spinning or bait casting outfit in the 20-30 lb range. Other situations such as fishing near obstructions require heavier conventional reels. Tarpon anglers usually choose reels with smooth drags and fish with high quality lines.

Anglers fish for tarpon with live baits such as spot, croaker, perch, pinfish, menhaden, striped mullet, eels, and large shrimp. Top baits vary with season, location, availability, and personal preference. Some anglers obtain live baits in local tackle shops while others choose to catch their own with cast nets, hook and line, seines, or traps.

Some anglers prefer lures for tarpon fishing. Popular lures for tarpon include soft bodied jigs, swimming plugs, poppers and other lifelike lures. The action and presentation of lures can be critical, as tarpon can be very wary. As with rods and reels, lures and terminal tackle need to be sturdy built to handle the stresses of these brutal fish.

Saltwater fly fishing gear is popular among tarpon anglers. Fly casters seek out fish cruising the flats or around inlets, jetties, wrecks, reefs, bridges, and other structures. Fly rods and reels must be high quality saltwater versions, capable of withstanding powerful runs. Large saltwater flies that mimic local baitfish are often used.