Last Updated on September 26, 2024 by Eric Bonneman
Fishing for tarpon in Mississippi and Louisiana is both a rewarding and challenging pursuit. These waters are home to large, powerful tarpon, known for their acrobatic fighting style and unique adaptations. Below is a thorough guide to targeting these fish effectively in this region.
Tarpon Overview
Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) are some of the largest game fish you can catch in the Gulf.
- They can grow to over 7 feet long and weigh between 100 and 200 pounds, though some have been recorded at even greater sizes.
- They are easily recognizable by their shiny, silver scales, which is why they are called the “Silver King.” These scales reflect light, making the fish visible when they leap out of the water.
- Other notable features include their broad heads and large mouths. They have a distinctively ancient appearance, with a jaw structure that looks almost prehistoric.
Breathing Ability and Adaptation
One of the most interesting things about tarpon is their ability to breathe air. Tarpon have a swim bladder that allows them to gulp air at the surface, which means they can survive in low-oxygen environments like marshes or estuaries. This adaptation helps them thrive in both shallow inshore areas and deeper waters.
Why Anglers Target Tarpon
Tarpon are highly sought after due to their strength and the difficulty of landing them. They are known for their incredible aerial displays when hooked. They leap out of the water, shaking violently to try and throw the hook, making it a real test for any angler. This unpredictable behavior makes tarpon a difficult but rewarding catch.
Many anglers consider landing a tarpon to be a significant achievement, not just because of their size, but because of their stamina during the fight. Tarpon are capable of long, exhausting battles, with some fights lasting over an hour depending on the size of the fish and the conditions.
Best Time to Fish for Tarpon
The best time to fish for tarpon in Mississippi and Louisiana is typically from June through September. Tarpon are migratory, so their presence in these waters is seasonal.
- Peak season is during the summer months when water temperatures are higher, and tarpon are more active.
- Tarpon tend to be most active during specific tidal patterns, especially around high tides when they come closer to shore to feed.
In terms of daily timing, early morning or late afternoon is often best, as tarpon are less active during the hottest parts of the day.
Where to Find Tarpon in Mississippi and Louisiana
In Mississippi, one of the best places to target tarpon is the Biloxi Marsh. This inshore area is known for its shallow waters, rich marshlands, and estuaries, which are ideal environments for tarpon. The low-oxygen conditions in these waters, combined with an abundance of food sources, create the perfect spot to find these fish, especially during peak migration season.
This location offers both shallow water and areas where tarpon can navigate, making it a prime spot for inshore anglers looking to target this species without venturing offshore.
Fishing Techniques and Tactics
Tarpon are challenging to catch, and using the right tactics is crucial.
- Bait: Live bait is often the most effective for tarpon. Popular options include mullet, pinfish, threadfin herring, and crabs. Matching the bait to the season is important because tarpon feeding habits change with the availability of local prey.
- Artificial Lures: Spoons, jigs, and soft plastics can also be used, especially when sight casting to active fish. Some anglers prefer fly fishing for tarpon, using large streamer patterns that mimic their natural prey.
- Casting Techniques: Sight casting is popular in shallow waters like Biloxi Marsh, where tarpon can be seen swimming near the surface. Drift fishing and trolling are also effective, especially when targeting larger tarpon in deeper sections of the marsh.
- Fighting the Fish: Once hooked, keep steady tension on the line, as tarpon will often jump and shake to try and free themselves. Proper rod positioning and using the drag effectively are key to tiring the fish out without snapping the line.
- Landing and Handling: Due to their size, landing tarpon requires proper technique. Always support the fish’s body weight when handling to avoid injury, and use gloves to protect their delicate scales. Since tarpon are often released, handling them carefully ensures they survive after being caught.
Fish With Us
Tarpon fishing in Mississippi, especially in areas like Biloxi Marsh, offers a challenging and rewarding experience for any angler. With the summer and fall seasons being prime time, now is the perfect moment to book a tarpon charter with Legends of the Lower Marsh. Led by Capt. Jeremy McHugh and his experienced team, you’ll learn the best techniques and strategies for landing these powerful fish while creating unforgettable memories on the water. Don’t miss your chance to experience the thrill of tarpon fishing—book your trip today and make the most of what Mississippi’s inshore waters have to offer!
