Also known as: Silver King
Game fish - see bag & size limits The tarpon, a spectacular large fish which rightly carries the name of Silver King, is unmistakable. Characteristics include large flat scales up to three inches in diameter, an elongated dorsal fin, falcate anal fin and large bony underslung jaw. It has been known to exceed 300 pounds, but the Texas record is 229 pounds, 90 inches, 2017. To report tarpon landings or sightings, please contact the Coastal Fisheries Outreach Specialist, Holly Grand, by email at holly.grand@tpwd.texas.gov . Tarpon Observation Network application for everyone interested in following these giant fish.-->
Life History: Little is known of the tarpon's spawning activity or growth. Tarpon of six to 18 inches have been found in river mouths, lakes and bar-ditches and sometimes in polluted areas. Young tarpon often go into the brackish water of small marsh channels, while adults may swim far up the larger rivers of South Texas, perhaps in search of food. Most commonly found off the beachfront in the Gulf.
Distribution: Tarpon may be found throughout the Atlantic Ocean, through the Caribbean to Brazil.
Habitat & Range
Adult tarpon live in Gulf open waters, but young tarpon may be found in brackish water around marsh channels. Adults sometimes may also move up larger rivers that empty into the Gulf.
Tarpon of any size are most often caught off the beachfront in the Gulf. Southern Texas has the most directed tarpon fishing and a number of guides that specialize in tarpon are available.
Life History
Little is known of the tarpon's spawning activity or growth. Tarpon of six to 18 inches have been found in river mouths, lakes and bar-ditches and sometimes in polluted areas. Young tarpon often go into the brackish water of small marsh channels, while adults may swim far up the larger rivers of South Texas, perhaps in search of food. Most commonly found off the beachfront in the Gulf.
License & Regulations
A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers age 17 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations (1-day, 5-day, and annual). Freshwater and saltwater endorsements may be required for certain waters. Purchase online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or at authorized license retailers throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Life History
Little is known of the tarpon's spawning activity or growth. Tarpon of six to 18 inches have been found in river mouths, lakes and bar-ditches and sometimes in polluted areas. Young tarpon often go into the brackish water of small marsh channels, while adults may swim far up the larger rivers of South Texas, perhaps in search of food. Most commonly found off the beachfront in the Gulf.
Habitat
Adult tarpon live in Gulf open waters, but young tarpon may be found in brackish water around marsh channels. Adults sometimes may also move up larger rivers that empty into the Gulf. Tarpon of any size are most often caught off the beachfront in the Gulf. Southern Texas has the most directed tarpon fishing and a number of guides that specialize in tarpon are available.
Fishing Tips
Tarpon will hit trolled spoons and jigs and also will take live pinfish and mullet under a cork and menhaden using drift fishing methods. The ensuing fight is dramatic, marked by leaps from the water and shaking of the body.
Interesting Facts
The flesh of tarpon is edible, but not usually eaten in Texas.
Distribution
Tarpon may be found throughout the Atlantic Ocean, through the Caribbean to Brazil.
Regulations
Texas fishing regulations apply to Tarpon. A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers 17 and older. Bag and size limits vary by species and water body. Some species have catch-and-release only restrictions or special tournament regulations. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Annual for current regulations specific to your fishing location. Possession limits in Texas are twice the daily bag limit unless otherwise noted.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers age 17 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-reside | Link |
