Tarpon fishing in Florida is one of the most exciting experiences in your angling career. The tarpon population in Florida is remarkable not only because of its large size but also because they are so numerous.
How to Fish for Tarpon
You now know where to go. Let’s take a closer look at how to hook and entice a tarpon. It’s a good idea to go with a charter captain like Salty Knots Fishing Charters if you’re new to tarpon fishing here in Florida. There are many ways to do it, so let’s start.
Natural and Live Bait
Natural bait will give you the best results in the ebb tide. You can position yourself high up and let the bait drift towards you. Attach about 8 feet of 100 lb mono to your line with a Bimini Twist. Sharp hooks are necessary to reach the bony mouth of the fish. This is why fishermen only land about 1 out of 5 takes.
Shrimps
Live bait is a great option for shrimps. You can either hook a large shrimp with its horn at the top or thread it to freeline it. Avoid using floats as they make it hard for shrimp to swim naturally. It is a good idea to chum small, chopped-up pieces.
Pilchards and Mullet Fish
Live bait is great for pilchards and mullet fish like pinfish. To ensure that they live as long as possible, hook the bait fish in behind the anal fins or in front of the dorsal fin. Hook the bait fish behind the head and on the top lip if you are anchored.
You can use live or dead fish as bait for the flats as well as large pieces of mullet. To keep the bait fish from the grass, adjust the float. Cast often, and only one tarpon should be seen. Casting into a pod is not a good idea if you see one. Cast near the pod so they can see you but not be startled.
Artificial Lures
Flats are the best place to use artificial lures. Cast a lighter line, and get close enough to the fish to allow them to see your lure. You should slowly retrieve lures or plugs by slowly pulling on the rod tip, letting it sink, and then reeling in the rest.
How to Hook a Tarpon
There are many ways to avoid making mistakes when you are tarpon fishing in Florida. Let’s start with natural bait. Once you feel the bite, pull in the slack and wait until you feel the weight. Then strike twice as hard. You might wait a few seconds longer before you set the hook. Waiting will ensure that the bait is in the tarpon’s mouth. Use hard lures and strike when you feel the fish’s weight.
How to Land a Tarpon
After you have hooked a tarpon securely, you can expect many high jumps, somersaults, and gill-rattling. To give your line a slacker, bow (lower) your rod tip as your fish is about jumping. You can’t hold a large tarpon without “horsing it in”. Your reel’s drag will need your assistance. To pull the fish, press the rod against the rod with your fingers.
Your tarpon will roll on its side when it gets tired. Pass a short-lip gaffer through the lower lip of your tarpon. While someone clips or removes the leader, the fish should be held.
Schedule a Tarpon Fishing Trip With Salty Knots Fishing Charters
Tarpon Fishing in Florida is for skilled fishermen. If you’re ready to experience the challenge and excitement of hooking up with one of these elusive beauties, we’ve got what you need. From baitcasting reels to fighting rods, from live shrimp to live anchovies, and everything in between, Salty Knots Fishing Charters will make sure you’re set up for success with the right equipment for catching tarpon. Contact us or visit our website.
