Wednesday, 4/13/11 … hooked a tarpon, but still mostly catching sharks

We were out again this morning fishing for tarpon with cut bait.   We’re getting close to landing that first tarpon of the year!

We managed to hook a tarpon and had it on the line for a long time.  The tarpon broke off just as we were able to bring it close to the boat but before we could land it.  I’ll include a link to the video in the next day or two.

As usual the sharks were biting and we caught and released a  bunch, including a nice black tip.  We also caught a large ray.

While we are get a bit frustrated catching sharks instead of tarpon, we’re a bit spoiled.  Sharks are a lot of fun to have on the line, a great fight, and good for the ecosystem.

We’re lucky to have them in such numbers around Sanibel & Captiva.  My understanding, based on reading various histories of the area and talking to the old time guides, is that during WWII traditional animal hides & leather were in such short supply that shark skins became an alternative source of material.  This led to sharks being over fished and harvested in the bay and gulf.  For a number of years, sharks species virtually disappeared from the local waters.

Captain Joey Burnsed ~ call 239-472-8658 or email captjoefred@gmail to book a charter.