Florida anglers are eagerly pursuing the mighty Silver King as tarpon season hits its peak across the state. In recognition of this popular fishery, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is reminding everyone targeting tarpon to adhere to best fishing practices to ensure the sustainability of these iconic fish for future generations.
These guidelines, developed to promote quick and successful releases, cover everything from selecting the appropriate gear to proper handling and awareness of sharks.
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By following these recommendations, anglers can minimize stress on tarpon and increase their chances of survival after the catch.
Selecting the right tackle is crucial for a swift fight and reduced exhaustion for the fish. The FWC recommends using gear heavy enough for the conditions and the size of tarpon being targeted.
- Spin or Conventional: Opt for medium to extra heavy spinning rods with 5,000 to 10,000 series reels and at least 12 pounds of drag for larger tarpon. Spool up with 50- to 60-pound braid and a 60- to 80-pound monofilament or fluorocarbon leader, adjusted for your chosen knot or crimp system. When using natural bait, non-stainless, non-offset, barbless circle hooks in sizes 6/0 to 10/0 (depending on brand and bait) are recommended. Use single-hook rigs. A fighting belt or chair can provide valuable support during the battle. Keep a long-handled dehooking tool readily available for quick hook removal.
- Fly Fishing: For those pursuing tarpon with a fly rod, 10- to 12-weight rods and lines are advised for larger fish. Incorporate a break section of 15- to 25-pound test in your leader, weaker than the rest of the leader and fly line core, as a safety measure if sharks appear. Crimp down barbs on flies and have a long-handled dehooking tool handy.
Once hooked, employ techniques that aim to land the tarpon as efficiently as possible.
- If a tarpon jumps, “bow” to the fish by lowering your rod tip and reeling to reduce the chance of the hook pulling free.
- Counter the fish’s powerful runs by pulling low and hard with the rod’s backbone in the opposite direction the tarpon is moving, using short, quick turns of the reel to gain line.
- Utilize your hip, a fighting belt, or a chair for leverage.
- Ensure your drag is set tight enough to wear the fish down effectively and quickly.
- If the tarpon attempts to go under or around the boat, move to the bow to prevent line breakage or entanglement.
- Should you need to break the line, point the rod directly at the tarpon and hold the spool or reel, pulling straight back to snap the leader and free the fish.
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Responsible handling is paramount for a successful release. Keep the fish in the water as much as possible.
- Tarpon 40 inches or larger MUST remain in the water unless you are in pursuit of a state or world record and have purchased a tarpon tag beforehand.
- Tarpon under 40 inches, if removed from the water, should only be handled with wet hands and supported horizontally under their belly.
- Always keep the tarpon’s gills submerged to minimize air exposure.
- Avoid touching the gills and eyes.
- Never drag a tarpon over the side of a boat, rocks, or railings.
- If you plan to take a quick photo, have your camera ready to avoid delays in the release.
Prioritizing a Swift Release:
Releasing tarpon quickly reduces stress and improves their chances of recovery.
- Aim for a “no-touch” release by using a long-handled dehooking tool or cutting the line as close to the hook as possible.
- If a tarpon is gut hooked or the hook is lodged in the throat, cut the line as close to the hook as possible.
- If a released tarpon appears lethargic, revive it by holding it horizontally in the water, allowing water to flow through its gills until it regains strength. Be mindful of fight times in the future if fish show signs of exhaustion upon release.
Shark Awareness:
Be aware that sharks may prey on tarpon, especially during and after a fight.
- If a shark appears while fighting a tarpon, quickly bring the tarpon to the boat and cut the line as close to the hook as possible to give the tarpon a chance to escape.
- Consider moving to a different fishing location if sharks are present.
Avoid Bridges and Piers:
The FWC also recommends avoiding fishing for tarpon from bridges or piers. Since tarpon 40 inches or larger must remain in the water, hooking a large tarpon from these structures necessitates cutting the line, leaving a long trailing line that can lead to entanglement and reduce the fish’s survival prospects.
Special Regulations for Boca Grande Pass:
Anglers fishing in the renowned Boca Grande Pass should be aware of specific regulations in this area.
- Bottom-weighted jigs are prohibited year-round. This includes any gear with a weight attached to a hook, artificial fly, or lure in a way that the weight hangs lower than the hook when suspended vertically. Jigs where the weight can slip down the shank to hang lower than the hook are also prohibited. Any such gear must be stowed and not attached to a rod, line, or leader when transiting the Pass.
- From April 1 through June 30, a maximum of three fishing lines may be deployed from a vessel, and breakaway gear is prohibited.
By following these best practices and being mindful of specific regulations in areas like Boca Grande Pass, anglers can contribute to the conservation of Florida’s magnificent Silver Kings, ensuring thrilling tarpon fishing opportunities for years to come.
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