SPRING TARPON – Going Head to Head with the Silver King

Tarpon fishing is one of the most exciting things you can do on the water. These giant fish jump high and pull hard, making them a favorite for many anglers. If you’ve ever seen pictures or videos of tarpon leaping out of the water, you know how amazing they are. But nothing compares to seeing it happen right in front of you!

Where Tarpon Live and How They Move

Tarpon can live in many different places, from small ponds to deep ocean waters. Every year, they swim along Florida’s coast looking for food and a safe place to lay eggs. In Tampa Bay, tarpon start showing up in April. By May through July, you can see thousands of them swimming near beaches, bridges, and in the bay. They move a lot, sometimes following the same path every day depending on the tide and weather.

What You Need to Catch a Tarpon

To catch a tarpon, you need the right gear:

• Rod: A strong 8-foot fishing rod helps you cast far and fight the fish.
• Reel: A good fishing reel with a smooth drag and a long fishing line is important.
• Line: A 65-pound braided line is strong enough for these big fish.
• Leader: A clear fishing leader (60-80 pounds) keeps the fish from seeing the line.
• Hook: A circle hook (size 8/0) works best for live bait, while a 5/0 hook is great for crabs.

Best Places to Fish for Tarpon in Tampa Bay

Bridges

Bridges are great places to find tarpon, especially at night when lights attract baitfish. The best time to fish is when the tide is coming in. Using a good fish finder can help you see where the tarpon are swimming.

Bay Waters

The bay is where the biggest groups of tarpon gather. Sometimes, there are thousands of them in one spot! A fish finder can help locate them. One way to catch tarpon in the bay is by cutting up baitfish and tossing pieces in the water to attract them.

Major Passes

Passes like Boca Grande are famous for tarpon fishing. When the tide goes out, crabs float on the surface, and tarpon love to eat them. Dropping a live crab in the water and letting it drift can lead to big bites.

Beaches

Fishing for tarpon along the beach is one of the most exciting ways to catch them. The clear water makes it easy to see the fish. But tarpon are easily scared, so you need to be quiet and careful. A live crab, threadfin herring, or pinfish are good bait choices.

How to Fight and Release a Tarpon

Once you hook a tarpon, get ready for a battle! These fish jump high and swim fast. When they jump, lower your fishing rod so the hook doesn’t come loose. Keep the fishing line tight the whole time. If the line goes slack, the fish might get away.

After catching a tarpon, it’s important to release it the right way. Keep the fish in the water while taking a quick picture. Then, hold it by the lower jaw and move it forward in the water until it swims away strong.

Why You Should Flush Your Boat’s Motor After Fishing

After a day of tarpon fishing, it’s important to clean your boat’s motor. Saltwater can build up inside and cause damage over time. Using the Flush Master system helps remove salt and dirt so your motor stays in great shape. The Flush Master makes it easy—just connect it, press a button, and let it do the work.

Taking care of your boat means you’ll be ready for your next fishing trip. The better you maintain your engine, the more time you’ll have to chase after the Silver King!

Flush your motor. Catch more fish. Enjoy more time on the water!