Science Name: | Megalops atlanticus |
Other Names: | poons, silver king, sabalo |
Ideal Temp: | 75 to 90 |
World Record: | 283 lbs. Venezuela |
Environment: | inshore, coastal |
Techniques: | medium tackle, casting, heavy tackle fly |
The tarpon's powerful leaps, sometimes up to 10 feet out of the water, and bone-jarring bursts of speed test the skill and fortitude of even the most experienced angler. The nature of their high and often frequent jumps is such that many anglers are happy simply to get a few jumps out of a tarpon before it shakes the hook.
Fishing methods include drifting or stillfishing with live mullet, pinfish, crabs, shrimp, or other natural baits, or casting or trolling with spoons, plugs, or other artificial lures and flies. Trolling is generally the least-practiced method; casting is generally most favored, as it involves stalking, spotting, and skillful bait or lure presentations. It may not be appropriate, however, when the fish are deep or unaggressive. The best fishing can be at night when the tarpon is feeding.
Where to Find
The tarpon's powerful leaps, sometimes up to 10 feet out of the water, and
bone-jarring bursts of speed test the skill and fortitude of even the most
experienced angler. The nature of their high and often frequent jumps is such
that many anglers are happy simply to get a few jumps out of a tarpon before it
shakes the hook.
Habitat
Feeding habits
Favorite foods are crabs and fishes such as sardines, anchovies, mullets,
silversides, hardhead catfish, and atlantic cutlassfish.