8 October 2017
 Categories: Recreation & Sports, Blog

If you're planning your next fishing trip to Puerto Rico, don't forget to plan for the tarpon. Those beautiful, shiny silver fish are the catch of a lifetime, especially since they can grow to about seven feet in length. If you've never fished for tarpon before, you'll need to be prepared. They take some extra work, preparation, and determination to catch. Here are three tips that will help you make the most of your fishing trip to Puerto Rico, and will ensure that you catch plenty of Tarpon.

Get those Hooks Sharpened

When it comes to fishing for tarpon, you've got to start with sharp hooks. Tarpon mouths aren't like most fish mouths. The tarpon mouth is filled with thick, hearty bones, that can prevent hook penetration. If you don't start with sharp hooks, you're not going to catch a fish. Before you head out for a day of fishing, make sure you've got plenty of sharp hooks.

Don't Skimp on the Hook Setting

If you're used to fishing for trout and salmon, you're probably comfortable with single-set hooks. However, those single-set hooks aren't going to cut it when you're going up against an angry tarpon. For a sturdy hook that's going to catch you plenty of tarpon, you'll want to start with at least two strip strikes, followed by at least two tip strikes. This will give you the strength and stability you need to reel those tarpon right into the boat.

Give the Fish Plenty of Space

Tarpon do not like to give up easily. In fact, they'll fight for hours if given even lead on the line. Unfortunately, they also know how to get away from unsuspecting fishermen. One trick they use is to jump out of the water. Most fishermen will continue pulling on the line once a fish comes out of the water. However, tarpon use that to their advantage. To make sure you keep hold of the tarpon, loosen up on the line when the fish comes out of the water. Give it plenty of space. Once it goes back under water, pull back on the line and start reeling it in again. One thing you should be aware of is that tarpon also like to try frontal attacks. If you've got a tarpon on the line, and it turns to approach the boat head-on, tighten the line, and hold on. That will ensure you maintain pressure on the hook, and don't lose the fish.

Contact a charter company, like Puerto Rico Magic Tarpon, for more help.