Tarpon are one of the ultimate fishing targets for many anglers and one I have been lucky enough to tangle with on one occasion. After landing that fish I understood why this great species is so highly prized! The fight is spectacular and aerobatics are the norm as the tarpon tries to throw the hook (quite often successfully!)
Here are some interesting facts about this species of fish:
- There are actually two species of tarpon. However, the Indo pacific tarpon are much smaller than the more famous Atlantic tarpon.
- The Atlantic tarpon can grow to up to 250 cm (98 in) and to a weight of 161kg (350 lbs).
- When water becomes drained of oxygen the tarpon can breathe air from the surface.
- Although they are rarely eaten tarpon are quite edible, but very bony. A permit is required in some places to keep them - stick to catch and release.
- Despite the popularity of fly fishing for tarpon they can be caught with most conventional fishing methods.
- The tarpon is the official state saltwater fish of Alabama