Tarpon Fishing

CAPT. JASON DuBOSE – Outfitters Center Director & Head River Pro When you spend several hours on a boat with someone during a charter there’s quite a bit of time for small talk. One of the questions that I’m most frequently asked by my fishing clients is “What’s your favorite fish to target?” Well…that’s kind of like asking a parent “Which one of your children is your favorite?” It’s just impossible for me to pick one. However, with that said, there are a few gamefish species that get my heart racing a little faster, even just thinking about pursuing them. One of these species is the mighty tarpon, often referred to as the “Silver King”, a term of reverence used by those obsessed with the pursuit of these amazing creatures. What makes tarpon so special to me, and many saltwater sportsmen worldwide, is the fact that there are no “givens” when it comes to fishing for them. Tarpon can be elusive and unpredictable in their patterns. Just when you think you have them figured out they will make a fool out of you. They are big…averaging 75 to 125 lbs in our area. When hooked they will test your tackle and your endurance to the limits. For all of these reasons they are a very challenging species to not only hook …but also land. This means that when you are successful in catching them the feeling of accomplishment is unparalleled. Tarpon fishing is not for everyone though. It is certainly not a high yield type of fishing. In Lowcountry waters you’re not likely to catch a lot of them on any given day…although it can happen. Our record is seven tarpon ranging from 70 to 130 lbs on an afternoon trip. It involves a lot of patience, staying positive, and being ready to capitalize on the oppor- tunities when they do present. There may be days when we don’t even lay eyes on a tarpon, but for those who put their time in, and are lucky enough to see 125 lbs of one of Mother Nature’s most impressive gamefish explode from the water when hooked, those slow days are soon forgotten! My sentiments on tarpon fishing have probably divided you into one of two groups. Group 1: Those who’s interest is peaked and ready to give it a try, and Group 2 : Those of you who realize that there are other more “reliable and coopera- tive” fish species that you’d rather target during your time on the water. If you are in the first group, I encourage you to give me a call about setting up a tarpon charter in the near future. The months of August, September, and early October host some of the best tarpon fishing of the year. For those of you interested in other types of charter opportunities we have plenty of those available as well! Call or stop by the Outfitters Center and we’ll help you plan the perfect day on the water!