The Florida Keys is one of those destinations that many an angler dream of visiting. Sailfish, blue marlin and other species of game fish are abundant in the waters around these islands. However, if light-spin or fly-tackle angling is more your thing, you will love Key West tarpon fishing.
The species of tarpon found in these waters is the Atlantic tarpon, also called the silver king. Although tarpons are found throughout the Gulf of Mexico, the flats near Key West are one of the best spots to catch them. These silver-colored fish can weigh more than a hundred pounds in Caribbean.
Tarpons have adapted to breathe oxygen from outside the water. Their lung-like organ helps them to survive in water where oxygen levels are low. This makes it possible for them to survive not only in the ocean, but also in the brackish water of estuaries, lagoons, channels and some rivers.
These fish are very popular with anglers. One of the main reasons for this is that they are fighters that will give you a run for your money. When you hook one, it will leap and pull and you'll really have to work to reel it in. Other reasons for the silver king's popularity is that they are big and that it is easy to get to their haunts. However, they are not very tasty.
If you're in Key West but you don't have a boat of your own, you can approach one of the many charter companies on the island. They will not only take you to the silver king's haunts, but their guides and captains will be ready with all the advice you need to hook a big one. They will even take you out at night if you prefer fishing after dark.
There are different ways to catch tarpons. One of the most popular is to head out to the flats or the channels and use a fly rod. Your rod should be a number 10 to 12 or 13 weight, with reel to match. You will also need tarpon taper line and a class leader tippet weighing between 12 and 20 pounds. The best color for the fly will depend on the color of the water, but your guide will be able to give you advice on this.
Another method commonly used is angling with conventional gear and lures or bait. Your line should be between 30 and 80 pounds. Since tarpons eat mainly smaller fish but also shrimp and crabs, these are what you should use for bait.
The prime season for Key West tarpon fishing is from April to June. Tarpons come through this area on their annual migration and can be around from March to July. You may even find some out of season. However, if you want to catch tarpons for dinner, you need a special permit in Florida. If you don't have one, your best bet will be to catch them and then release them.
The species of tarpon found in these waters is the Atlantic tarpon, also called the silver king. Although tarpons are found throughout the Gulf of Mexico, the flats near Key West are one of the best spots to catch them. These silver-colored fish can weigh more than a hundred pounds in Caribbean.
Tarpons have adapted to breathe oxygen from outside the water. Their lung-like organ helps them to survive in water where oxygen levels are low. This makes it possible for them to survive not only in the ocean, but also in the brackish water of estuaries, lagoons, channels and some rivers.
These fish are very popular with anglers. One of the main reasons for this is that they are fighters that will give you a run for your money. When you hook one, it will leap and pull and you'll really have to work to reel it in. Other reasons for the silver king's popularity is that they are big and that it is easy to get to their haunts. However, they are not very tasty.
If you're in Key West but you don't have a boat of your own, you can approach one of the many charter companies on the island. They will not only take you to the silver king's haunts, but their guides and captains will be ready with all the advice you need to hook a big one. They will even take you out at night if you prefer fishing after dark.
There are different ways to catch tarpons. One of the most popular is to head out to the flats or the channels and use a fly rod. Your rod should be a number 10 to 12 or 13 weight, with reel to match. You will also need tarpon taper line and a class leader tippet weighing between 12 and 20 pounds. The best color for the fly will depend on the color of the water, but your guide will be able to give you advice on this.
Another method commonly used is angling with conventional gear and lures or bait. Your line should be between 30 and 80 pounds. Since tarpons eat mainly smaller fish but also shrimp and crabs, these are what you should use for bait.
The prime season for Key West tarpon fishing is from April to June. Tarpons come through this area on their annual migration and can be around from March to July. You may even find some out of season. However, if you want to catch tarpons for dinner, you need a special permit in Florida. If you don't have one, your best bet will be to catch them and then release them.
About the Author:
If you want to experience Key West tarpon fishing as it is meant to be experienced, go to www.keywestflats.net. Full details on booking a charter can be found at http://www.keywestflats.net.
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