South Florida Thrill Seekers Wanted
Atlantic Tarpons are considered one of the great saltwater game fishes. Because of their size and because of their fighting spirit when hooked they are a prized fish. They are very strong, making mighty leaps into the air into the air to spit out the hook. In Florida and Alabama, a special permit is required to catch and keep a tarpon, so most tarpon fishing there is catch and release. Tarpon flesh is not desirable and extremely boney.
South Florida is known for its thrilling sport fishing, including the almighty tarpon, but also for the unique opportunity to feed fish. Tarpons are greenish or bluish on top and silver on the sides. The large mouth is turned upwards and the lower jaw contains an elongated, bony plate. It’s an interesting fish to observe.
A unique activity to try in South Florida is tarpon feeding. Feeding these giant “Silver Kings” is considered a tourist attraction. The tarpon rises from the water with a powerful flash of silver and green to meet the baitfish as it leaves your hand. It’s a sight to behold! Maybe the “Silver Kings” just come here to see the humans, but toss a baitfish among them and the water churns as these giants and the resident pelicans vie for the snack, causing quite a spectacle.
The Atlantic Tarpon collect at several South Florida marinas and people gather at the waterfronts to feed the huge fish, occasionally even by hand. One of the classic and well-known Tarpon feeding experiences is at Robbie’s Marina in the Florida Keys. The giant tarpon are accustomed to being hand-fed and they congregate to the docks by the dozens. Young and old fish admirers pay only $4 to feed the Tarpon sardines. In Fort Lauderdale, the 15th Street Fisheries at Lauderdale Marina also offers Tarpon feeding every day. Take the unique opportunity to feed the Tarpon with shrimp obtainable at the marina’s ship store.
Feeding these giant Sliver kings is one of the most popular attractions in the South Florida area.
It’s an experience you will get a thrill out of!
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