How to Catch Tarpon and Florida Tarpon Laws and Guidelines
Tarpon, often referred to as the "Silver King," are one of the most exciting fish in Florida waters. Known for their acrobatic leaps and powerful runs, catching tarpon is a thrilling experience for anglers. Today we'll explore the laws surrounding tarpon fishing as well as how to catch tarpon both from a boat and from shore, with a special focus on the exciting mullet runs in Jupiter, Florida, during September and October. And, of course, where and how to feed tarpon by hand.
In Florida, there are specific regulations and guidelines governing tarpon fishing to ensure the conservation of this iconic species. Here are the key laws and regulations regarding tarpon fishing in Florida:
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Catch-and-Release: Tarpon fishing in Florida is catch-and-release only, with the exception of pursuing a Florida state or world record. Once caught, tarpon must be carefully handled and released back into the water.
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Tarpon Tag: Anglers who intend to target tarpon when in pursuit of a Florida state or world record are required to purchase a tarpon tag. Each person is allowed to purchase one tarpon tag per year. The cost of a tarpon tag is typically $50, and it is required for individuals pursuing tarpon in Florida waters.
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Gear Regulations: It's important to be aware of gear regulations, especially if you're fishing in specific areas like Boca Grande, where there are rules related to gear. Florida tarpon regulations also extend into federal waters
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Lifting Tarpon: Tarpon that are more than 40 inches in length should not be lifted out of the water. Handling them carefully in the water is essential to minimize stress and injury to the fish.
It's crucial for anglers to familiarize themselves with these regulations and guidelines before embarking on a tarpon fishing trip in Florida. These rules are in place to protect tarpon populations and ensure sustainable fishing practices. Always check for any updates or changes in regulations as they may evolve over time.
Fishing for Tarpon from a Boat
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Tackle and Gear: When targeting tarpon from a boat, you'll need heavy-duty tackle, such as a stout rod, a high-capacity reel, and a strong leader to handle their strength.
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Bait and Lures: Live bait, such as mullet, crabs, or large shrimp, is a top choice. Tarpon are also known to go after artificial lures like swimbaits and soft plastics.
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Spot Selection: Look for tarpon around bridges, channels, and flats, especially during tide changes when they feed more actively.
Shore Fishing for Tarpon
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Timing: Shore fishing for tarpon can be productive during the mullet runs in Jupiter, which typically occur from September to October when large schools of mullet migrate along the coast.
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Equipment: A sturdy surf rod and reel with a high-capacity spool are essential. Heavy braided line and a wire leader are necessary to handle tarpon. You can also opt for a fly rod for a real thrill.
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Bait: Live mullet or large artificial lures that mimic mullet are excellent choices. Cast your bait into the path of passing tarpon schools.
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Location: Position yourself at known tarpon hotspots along the shoreline, including piers, jetties, and beach access points.
Jupiter's Mullet Runs
The mullet runs in Jupiter, Florida, during September and October are a significant event for tarpon anglers. Mullet schools migrate south along the coast, attracting hungry tarpon. To maximize your chances during this time:
- Monitor Weather: Keep an eye on the weather as tarpon are more active when the conditions are stable.
- Early Mornings and Dusk: Tarpon tend to be more active during the first light of the day and at dusk.
- Patience: Tarpon fishing often requires patience, so be prepared for long waits between bites.
Feeding Tarpon by Hand
Feeding tarpon by hand can be an exhilarating experience. Here's how you can safely feed tarpon by hand:
- Visit a Tarpon Feeding Spot: Head to a dock. Florida has plenty of marinas and waterfront restaurants that also have places where tarpon congregate.
- Get the Right Bait: Typically, small fish or minnows are used as bait to attract tarpon. You can purchase bait at the location.
- Position on the Dock: Position yourself on the dock or platform where the tarpon are known to gather. Wait for the tarpon to approach.
- Hold the Bait Properly: Take a small fish or minnow in your hand, making sure it's securely held between your thumb and pointer finger.
- Extend Your Arm: Gently extend your arm with the bait toward the water, just above the surface. Allow the tarpon to come close to your hand.
- Release the Bait: When a tarpon gets near, release the bait from your hand into the water. Tarpon will typically lunge and snatch the bait from your hand with their impressive gape-mouthed strike.
- Be Cautious: While tarpon don't have sharp teeth, be mindful of their size and power. Avoid any sudden movements, and never attempt to grab or handle them. Feeding them by hand is a safe and exciting way to interact with these incredible fish.
Feeding tarpon by hand is a unique experience that allows you to get up close to these majestic creatures. Always follow any specific guidelines provided at the feeding location to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the tarpon.
Can you eat tarpon?
It is generally illegal to eat tarpon in Florida. Tarpon are protected under catch-and-release regulations in Florida, which means they are not to be harvested for consumption. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) specifies that tarpon is a catch-and-release-only fishery, and there are strict regulations in place to ensure their conservation. While it is technically possible to eat tarpon, it's not common or popular. Tarpon meat is often described as having a taste that falls somewhere between salmon and tuna. Tarpon meat also contains many small, hard-to-clean bones, which can make it less desirable for consumption.
Do tarpon have teeth?
Yes, tarpon fish do have teeth, although their teeth are quite small and not designed for tearing or chewing like those of some other predatory fish. Tarpon have rows of small, densely packed teeth all over their mouth, including their jaws, tongue, skull base, vomer, palatines, and pterygoids. These teeth are known as "villiform" teeth. While tarpon have teeth, they are not considered dangerous to humans. These teeth are not sharp or designed for biting. Tarpon are primarily filter feeders and typically swallow their prey whole. So, their teeth are adapted for capturing and holding onto small prey items rather than for tearing apart larger prey.
Now You Know How to Catch Tarpon, Get Out There
Catching tarpon is not just a fishing trip; it's an adventure filled with excitement and anticipation. Whether from a boat or the shoreline, Jupiter's mullet runs offer a prime opportunity to experience the thrill of landing the Silver King.
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