Tarpon on top

[Smallfrye]

Most any day this summer we have had small tarpon rolling behind our house in Port Mansfield. They will slam top waters easily but we never seem to hook up. Most of our top water lures have had the treble hooks replaced with large singles, is this the problem ? Is there any magic to hooking tarpon or are they like fishing musky, where it takes 1,000 cast to hook one.
Any advice ?

[Carp]

please post directions to your house :)


Justin

[Animal Chris]

I don't know what kind of plug you are using, but we used to improve our hook ups on Mirrolures and Zaragossas by removing the front 2 sets of trebel hooks, leaving only the trailing hook. Also, be sure to re-sharpen the hooks after every strike. The other is to not immediately strike back when the fish hits, but point the rod tip down towards the water and let him pull a little line out. Then set the hooks using short guick strikes. By pointing the rod down into the water, it helps keep constant pressure on the line incase he decides to jump immediately. We had good luck with this technique over the years when we fished the Keys. Tight Lines.

[Capt. Lowtide]

You might try removing the treble hooks and adding a single circle hook to the rear split ring.

[Smallfrye]

Thanks guys, I'll try these ideas this week end. Seas are forecast ton be over 3' on Saturday so I'll probably spend the weekend in the bay.

These tarpon are a great way to wake up in the morning. As we are preparing to leave the dock, they allow us to warm up the trout rods and our reflexes before heading out. The only problem is that a trout boil doesn't seem as big after you have had tarpon crashing the topwater.

PS; Carp, the house is in Pt Mansfield and is available for rent, most weekends.

[Capt. Lowtide]

PM me with info, I would be interested in renting in the future or working out a trade for a guided trip for "big" tarpon

[Smallfrye]

http://www.2coolfishing.net/ttmbforum/showthread.php?t=3970&highlight=port+mansfield I also have a small apartment, sleeps 4, on the ground floor for $125/night, two night min. Both have boat slips and plenty of fish.
E-maill me directly if interested. I'll be in Pt M. this week end, your welcome to join me.
Jim