Watch this episode now on Waypoint TV
S13:E6 - “Tarpon Invasion Bahia Honda” (2018)
Tom & Rich visit a key Tarpon migration spot, Bahia Honda, where they experience an epic Tarpon show
Bahia Honda, located in Big Pine Key, is famously known for their tarpon infested waters. In this area, tarpon are always rolling, meaning they are circulating their bodies out of the water. Tarpons will usually roll as another way to get their oxygen, or to adjust their elevated metabolism when they’re in warmer water. Using chum and live crab for bait, tarpon’s favorite food, the tarpon weren’t ready to feed for the first half of the day. One tarpon gave Tom a bite, but was quickly approached by a hammerhead shark. The hammerhead was massive, as the dorsal fin of the shark was almost as big as the tarpon! After going back and forth in the fight for the tarpon, Tom reeled in an empty line, hoping the tarpon had gotten away from the shark. Once sunset approached, the tarpon were ready to feed, giving the guys quite a few bites on their lines.
As always, we had Jason Stemple with us to document this trip in ultra high quality still photos. Here are some of my favorites. Enjoy!
Tom and Rich set out in Bahia Honda for some Tarpon.
The tarpon invade the waters in Bahia Honda.
Jumping tarpon, this is a favorite here at Saltwater Experience.
See you on the water,
Capt. Rich Tudor & Capt. Tom Rowland
