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TEXAS TARPON ON THE FLY
Do you have a favorite time of day?
Morning usually works best. When we are fishing on the inside, we see far more fish early in the morning, just after the sun comes up. Later in the day can also be good inside, but usually the winds pick up and the fish seem to disappear. Out in the Gulf, I still prefer mornings, but late in the day or mid-day can be good if the weather conditions hold.
How about a favorite tidal movement, coming in or going out?
When fishing the inside bays or even jetties for tarpon. The falling tide seems to be the best. When the tide just starts to fall, the fish turn on. As the tide builds to full strength, activity drops off. Again, when the outgoing tide begins to slack off again, the fishing picks back up. On the inside, it is usually best when it starts to fall.
Out in the Gulf, it is not as important. If you are around or near a pass, there is some tidal influence in activity, but generally speaking the Gulf fish are not as geared toward inshore tidal movements.
If you could provide once piece of advise to a tarpon angler wanting to target tarpon in the western Gulf of Mexico, what would it be?
Be patient ! Tarpon fishing on the western side of the Gulf of Mexico is very different than in Florida. We have world class days here, but you have to put in your time. Our coast is very exposed, so weather conditions play a large role in success. Our fish are often large. So be in good shape to cast repetitively and be ready for the fight of your life. If you are ready, and the winds, tides and water quality come together, tarpon fishing on this side of the Gulf can be world class.
KT also explained a rather unconventional way to approach tarpon. As with most tarpon, it is best to approach a rolling school by going way around the school and allow the school to come to you. According to KT, the goal is to not allow your wake to cross over the fish when doing this. However, if you end up to close to the shool, it is best to leave the motor running and not turn it off. If you do, it spooks the fish.