From the months of April-August when I’m not in the kayaks I spend my time on the water almost exclusively pursuing tarpon, much of which is done from a power boat. I spend the majority of my tarpon excursions mating for Capt. TommyZ of action-charters and this summer has been no different.
Whether it be by kayak or boat however, the tarpon bite has been excellent with many bites coming in the first few hours of the morning on blue crabs anywhere from 3-6 ft under a cork. Positioning your self is the most important part when pursuing these fish on the beach. After locating a pod, observe them and determine the direction the fish are moving. Stealthily position yourself ahead of the pod of fish, being sure to give them plenty of berth. Cast your baits well ahead of the pod of fish where you think they will be intersected. When fishing with a cork it is especially important to place your bait well ahead of the fish, because often the loud splash created from a cork landing can spook them.
Most bites will come from the lead fish in the pack, so be prepared for that cork to go under! Fishing on the beach is my favorite way to target these popular sport fish. The shallow water of the beach often allows you to see the fish eat your bait, and many times will cause the fish to jump more as well… and as far as I’m concerned, the jumps are the best part of the fight!
The action on the flats is still hot! Redfish schools are around and snook are feeding well on/near local beaches. Call to book your trip today!
By Spencer Goodwin