Tarpon

Megalops atlanticus
Silver King

Life History

Description and Diagnostic Characteristics: Bright silvery sides with dark green or brown along dorsal side. Only has one dorsal fin, with a lone streamer coming off the last ray. Has huge scales and a large upward facing mouth.

Size:Normally can range from 40-280 pounds with females being larger than males. Maximum length of 100 inches.

Age at Maturity: 7-13 years old

Range:Florida to Long Island, straggling to New England

Habitat:Live in coastal waters in estuaries, bays, mangrove-lined lagoons, and rivers. Can be found in fresh water or oxygen-poor waters.

Angling Information

Bait and Tackle: Large variety in fish sizes so a wide variety of tackle can be used, from light saltwater to stout. Fly-fishing can also be used. Live baits such as Mullet, Menhaden, Pinfish, Spot or even crabs can be used.

Fishing Method: Still fishing, casting, drifting, trolling

Food Value:None

State Regulation

Daily Limit: 1 (no sale)

Minimum size: 68″ FL