Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus)
Florida’s Record is: 243 lbs.
Tarpon, aka Silver King, are one of the most sought after gamefish in the world. While the Florida Keys may boast the highest numbers year round, Central Florida has its share of tarpon too. The Mosquito Lagoon, Indian River, Banana River and Tomoka Basin all hold good numbers of tarpon. The size will vary during the year, with the summer months having the best numbers and the biggest fish. While the average size tarpon in our area is 40-50 pounds, we do get trophy fish that will top the 200 pound mark. Tarpon are known for their aerial acrobatics once hooked and for their ability to destroy fishing tackle. Long, fast, drag screaming runs are normal, and if they are near deep water, they will go down and dare you to try and lift them up. Tarpon have the ability to make even the most seasoned anglers shake. However, a well placed fly, a hungry fish, and good fly fishing tackle, can make for the memory of a lifetime. The Silver King truly lives up to its name and will test your every ability as an angler.
Fly Selection: There is a debate every year, as to what tarpon fly is working best. The argument will usually be about the size, with half of the fishing population wanting big flies, while the other half wants smaller flies. Color is another issue and will vary from location to location. But, here are 12 flies that local guides and our staff recommend using when chasing tarpon in Central Florida waterways:
- Fishient Mirror Image Bunker
- Fishient Magnetic Minnow
- Fishient TranslucyBaitfish
- Deceiver
- Crease Fly
- Seaducer
- Fishient Polar Fibre Baitfish
- Tarpon Bunny
- Enrico Puglisi Tarpon Special
- Enrico Puglisi Pinfish
- Enrico Puglisi Micro Minnow
- Tarpon Toad
Rod and Reel Selection: Tarpon fly rods and fly reels will be put under extreme pressure. It is necessary to cast bulky flies into some windy conditions and the fish require maximum pressure to have the best shot at landing them. The average fly rod for tarpon will be a 10-12 weight. Fly reels should have a smooth drag system, capable of withstanding long runs and should hold at least 200 yards of 30 pound dacron. Weight forward floating lines work well, but there are times when a full intermediate or sink tip fly line is recommended.
