Destin Florida Tarpon Fishing

Throughout my adult life, the ones who know me for some time will tell you anytime I wanted to do something, I was always 100% in. My drive and passion means I can’t quit until I achieve whatever I set out to do. My biggest, almost crazy obsession with anything that swims started when I was young and I am constantly chasing my next biggest catch. Most recently, I’ve targeted an elusive fish – one with a beautiful coat of silver, a perfectly put together blend of elegance, grace, power, and strength. Can you guess? I’m talking about the silver king.. The Tarpon.

I finally made the catch of all catches this past summer and it didn’t disappoint. Tarpon is hard to hook; they fight hard and have crazy acrobatics. More often than not you don’t catch that fish, even after you hook it and fight it. You only have about a 37% chance of actually getting that fish to the boat and putting your hands on it, and that’s one of the many reasons why its a prize catch.

Tarpon can grow from 4-8ft and weigh up to 280lbs, another reason they can be so hard to catch. To put that in perspective, the average human adult male weighs 195lbs. Typically when you hook this fish, you’ll lose him in the first 2-10 seconds. If your tug of war makes it past the first 10 seconds, you’re about to be in for the fight of your life. One hour? Two hours? Who will quit first, you or the fish? While you tire by the second, a Tarpon rises to the surface and breathes a gulp of air – You read that right, a fish who can breathe air. They are obligate air breathers, which is why you see them rolling on the surface of the water and if they are not allowed to access the surface, they will die. That breathe of air gives the Tarpon a quick burst of energy to continue the fight.

Fossil research shows that Tarpon have been swimming in our oceans since prehistoric times, meaning in this case, you’re actually fishing for a dinosaur. If you ever have had the opportunity of hooking and landing one, appreciate it. Indulge in the moment, take hundreds of photos, and stare at the beauty of this fish because it may only happen once in your lifetime.

For me, catching something this big, monster-ish, almost dinosaur-ish fish, something happens to me. When I see that silver tip break the surface, my heart stops in anticipation, my brain frozen in awe – and this is how I know I have become addicted to this fish.

Destin Florida Tarpon Fishing is best from mid May to early August when schools of these fish are found migrating South through the Gulf of Mexico to spawn. Get yourself locked in with an angler that has Tarpon experience for your best chance to hook one up. Cost on Tarpon trips will vary, inquire for details.

Shark fishing can occur in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf of Mexico in the United States. This means that Destin, FL is your optimal destination for an exciting excursion –whether or not you’ve ever taken part in this adventure previously. Right off the coast of Florida, sharks are in massive number cruising the drop offs and beaches. You can leave your next vacation with something new crossed off your bucket list. Keep reading to learn more about shark fishing in Destin Florida!

What is shark fishing?

Shark fishing is exactly what it sounds like! You’ll get to experience the thrill of catching this huge fish, both recreationally and commercially using different methods. If you’ve never engaged in this type of fishing, you might wonder why it is of interest to other fish-loving, water-loving individuals. Shark fishing is a focus for both thrill seekers and personal fishermen. The industry has specific regulations to follow, which means that there is a niche for catch and release.

What types of sharks might I catch?

Not all sharks are created equal! You’ll be fishing for a wide variety while in Destin. Some of these sharks include…

Black tips
Spinner sharks
Bonnethead sharks
Mako sharks
Bull sharks
Dusky sharks
Sandbar sharks
Hammerhead sharks
Nurse sharks
Tiger sharks

Black tips and spinner sharks are the top varieties to catch. Spinner sharks are among the coolest to catch because of their aerial display when hooked. They jump and spin at a full 360 degrees (hence their name!). They’re an awesome fish to catch and will make your journey that much more unique.

Bull sharks are also common in the Gulf of Mexico, and they’re a bit more aggressive. You’ll never be bored while fishing in Destin. Dusky sharks also add a bit of a unique flavor because they’re easily over 200 pounds when caught. Be sure to bring your muscles and protein shakes for your post workout!

How does shark fishing impact the environment?

While shark fishing might sound exciting and like something you MUST do, never lose sight of how our individual actions impact the environment around you. Retaining a shark as a trophy may seem crucial to you, but in reality, it may just wreak havoc for the ecosystem you removed that shark from. When everyone engages in shark fishing, we have a responsibility to ensure that we aren’t harming that environment and can continue to enjoy it.

Sharks are known as one of the top predators in the world and in their individual ecosystems. They help to remove the weak and sick from ecosystems to keep them in balance and ensure diversity. When sharks are removed from the ecosystem, it results in an imbalance in our oceans. There’s an overabundance in fish and other species whom they prey on. These species, in turn, deplete coral reefs, seagrass beds, and other fish and throw off the ecosystem entirely.

Protecting sharks is crucial to ensuring the survival of a healthy ecosystem. While your desire to catch one may be high, don’t overestimate that you can snap a picture in a second, and through it back to continue the balance of the world below. The ecosystem and economy are maintained by this fantastic featured, and it’s much more valuable to us alive than dead.

For example, according to Oceana, sharks are worth $250,000 in the Bahamas due to their role in the dive industry. Ecotourism is huge and individuals now look to experience the ocean and its habitat—as well as to preserve it. While this shark may be alive and worth $250,000, when a fisherman sells it at market, it’s only worth $50. Snap your picture and throw it back. Catch and release is always the way to go!

Final thoughts

Interested in shark fishing in Destin Florida (catch and release style)? Lion’s Tale Adventures is your veteran owned and operated Destin fishing charter. We offer a wide variety of services to anyone and everyone looking to have a great time out on the water. Regardless of your skill level, you’ll come away with new knowledge and fun memories. Click here for more information.

https://stop-infections.net

Fishing Tips

Destin Florida Tarpon Fishing