- May 1, 2024
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With the month of June fast approaching, the tarpon run won’t be far off. They’ll be following schools of bait up the coastline. It’s time to get out the heavier tackle, dust it off, lube up the reels and replace that old line.
A good all-around spinning outfit would consist of a 7-to 8-foot rod in the 20- to 30-pound class.
The reel would be a 6000 series, spooled with 30-pound braided line. I’m a big fan of braided line, but you can use monofilament line if you desire. If you use mono, I would scale it back to what is recommended by the manufacturer for your reel. On the end of your line, leave about a 50- to 60-pound fluorocarbon leader. I like to tie my leaders directly to the line using a double surgeon’s knot for mono line or a triple surgeon’s knot if using braided line. If you prefer, you can use a swivel to connect the line to the leader. If you choose to go the swivel route, I would use a ball bearing one — a 65-pound test. On the end of my leader, I’d attach a 6/0 light wire circle hook.
If you use a conventional setup (boat rods), use a 7-foot in the 15- to 30-pound class fitted with a level wind reel like the Penn Defiance (DFN20LW) that is braid-ready. The level wind puts the line on the spool evenly, giving you one less thing to worry about while fighting a fish.
Once you have your rod of choice ready, all you have to do is find mullet or menhaden to put in your livewell. Finding the bait typically is pretty easy. Diving birds are one good way to find a bait pod or just look for dark patches in the water if the birds or bait are inactive. Approach the bait pod slowly and as quietly as possible so you don’t spook the bait and drive it deep. One throw of the casting net into a bait pod should get you enough bait for the day. Just make sure your baitwell is well aerated to keep the bait alive.
Now look for a bait pod where tarpon are feeding. Approach the pod quietly using a trolling motor or a four-stroke outboard. Keep within casting distance and toss your bait to the edges of the bait pod. I like to place the hook through the back of the menhaden. You can also try cutting the fins off to make it look like a wounded baitfish. Now all you have to do is hang on and wait for the silver king to eat your bait.
