Win cash while fishing and tagging

tagged tarpon

This will be the third consecutive year that fall tags are placed on Charlotte Harbor tarpon in order to identify exactly when and where these tarpon migrate in the fall/winter.

A large cash prize will be awarded to the first eight captains who catch and successfully tag tarpon near or larger than 100 pounds on the first day of the Challenge. If eight fish are not tagged, then a slightly smaller cash prize will be awarded on the second day, etc. The prizes have been donated by several private individuals who support the tagging project.

During the two previous fall tagging campaigns, Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, working with the University of Miami, has gathered fascinating day-by-day charts of the tarpons’ movement. This knowledge will be the basis of continuing conservation efforts.

“The goal is to learn enough about the Charlotte Harbor tarpons’ behavior so that we can help ensure they continue to return to our waters,” said Challenge coordinator Rick Hirsch.

No fish will be tagged in the Pass due to the high possibility of shark kill. Most tagging will take place in the Harbor, and perhaps a few guides may try on the beach.

Dr Aaron Adams, Director of Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, will run one or two “science boats” to actually perform the placing of the tags on caught fish. He will give out his cell number to all participants. When any boat is about to land their fish, a quick call to Adams will promptly bring his skiff over to properly tag the tarpon. All guides are welcome to participate, whether they have clients or not. All guides and anglers including fly, bait, and plug are welcome.

Any guide or angler wishing to enter the tagging tournament should register by emailing hirschw68@gmail.com. They will be asked to give their cell numbers so they can be contacted once the dates established.

Directors of the program said that spots are filling up quickly.

Contributions by Rick Hirsch