It’s tarpon time, the tarpon are making their way up the coast and now is the best time to target them! Look for pods of fish cruising anywhere from 10 to 40 feet of water off of the beach. Be as stealthy as possible. The best thing to do is set up ahead of the school and let them come towards you. Live baits have been the best bet, from live pilchards and pogies to even a 5 to 6 inch finger mullet. Rig them on a 6/0 circle hook attached to 80lb fluorocarbon leader with no weight. Pitch your bait out in front of the school and hang on! These fish are anywhere from 50 to 150lbs. and make a great fight! I like to use heavier tackle such as an 8000 Shimano Saragossa paired with an 8 foot xxx heavy Shimano Teramar and 50lb power pro braided line. Be sure to get the fish in as fast as possible and give them a good revival so the fish swim away to fight another day, it’s very critical that we take care of these fish!
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