Save the Tarpon

Save the Tarpon opposes, and is calling for the immediate termination of, the Professional Tarpon Tournament Series (PTTS) in Boca Grande, Florida.

Our opposition stems from the destructive, unethical fishing practices and unsportsmanlike conduct promoted by this for-profit fishing tournament and television show.  The disruptive fishing methods endorsed by the PTTS and employed by it’s participants are causing the tarpon to change their movement, feeding, and spawning behaviors. Behaviors which had, until now, been unchanged for thousands of years. The change in these patterns has already deteriorated the quality of the fishery.

Take a moment and sign the petition to call for the immediate termination of the Professional Tarpon Tournament Series (PTTS). 

Mill, Pallot, Ault, McGuane and Kreh are just a few of the saltwater fly fishing notables who have added their names to the petition.

Save the Tarpon is also mobilizing a boycott of all PTTS sponsors and affiliates.

Big Girls Need Love Too

Silver King: The Birth of Big Game Fishing

Now those of us outside Southwest Florida can watch WGCU's documentary on the Silver King.

In 1885, a single, sensational catch at Sanibel Island's Tarpon Bay made international news - and revolutionized sport fishing. For the first time on record, a mighty, silver-sided tarpon was taken on a rod and reel, a feat that created a frenzy for the fierce-fighting - and made Southwest Florida the epicenter of a brand-new sport. The newly crowned Silver King of fish lured celebrities and presidents, and transformed Southwest Florida into the birthplace of big game fishing

Silver King: The Birth of Big Game Fishing

WGCU in Southwest Florida recently aired what looks like an interesting documentary on tarpon and the birth of big game fishing. Can't tell if this is going to get any broader play but it airs again on 4/25 so tune in if you live in the WGCU viewing area. 

In 1885, a single, sensational catch at Sanibel Island’s Tarpon Bay made international news -- and revolutionized sport fishing. For the first time on record, a mighty, silver-sided tarpon was taken on a rod and reel, a feat that created a frenzy for the fierce-fighting fish -- and made southwest Florida the epicenter of a brand-new sport.

LINK

Let's Save The Boca Grande Tarpon Habitat

Many of the old time guides are saying we need to take another look at the way we are dealing with the Boca Grande tarpon fishery — at least when it comes to weigh-in tournaments as attached to jig fishing.

LINK (Via:Tampa Bay Online)

"He'd look good on the wall but I think he'd look better in the sea"

Some early catch and release ethic shown in this vintage Big Jumpers IGFA footage courtesy of Costa.