Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) are a large game fish found throughout tropical and subtropical waters. They are known for their substantial size and spectacular acrobatic leaps, captivating anglers and observers.
Tarpon Characteristics and Natural Behavior
Tarpon typically grow between 4 and 8 feet long and weigh 60 to 280 pounds, with females exceeding 8.2 feet and 355 pounds. Their shiny, silver scales earn them the nickname “silver king.” A prominent feature is their upturned mouth and a lower jaw that extends beyond the face, which aids in feeding.
Tarpon are carnivorous, feeding on smaller fish and crustaceans like mullet, pinfish, sardines, shrimp, and crabs. Juvenile tarpon also consume zooplankton and insects. Humans are not their prey. Their small, villiform teeth, which feel like sandpaper, grasp prey, often swallowed whole.
Their jumping behavior helps them dislodge parasites, escape predators like sharks and alligators, or dislodge a hook during angling. They have a modified swim bladder that functions like a primitive lung, allowing them to gulp air from the surface for oxygen, especially in low-oxygen environments. This adaptation, with their muscular build, enables powerful leaps.
Assessing the Risk to Humans
Tarpon do not intentionally attack humans. Incidents of humans being struck are accidental occurrences. These events typically happen when a tarpon jumps unexpectedly, often during fishing or when startled. When hooked, tarpon may leap and thrash vigorously, potentially striking an angler with their hard, bony head.
While their mouths contain abrasive, sandpaper-like structures, tarpon lack sharp teeth that could inflict a severe bite. Injuries from a tarpon’s mouth are more akin to abrasions. The size and power of a thrashing tarpon, especially near a boat, pose the main risk of accidental injury.
Staying Safe Around Tarpon
When engaging with tarpon, anglers should maintain a safe distance and be aware of their powerful, unpredictable movements. Use appropriate tackle to minimize fight times, reducing stress on both fish and angler. If a tarpon jumps while hooked, anglers are advised to “bow” by lowering their rod tip to create slack, preventing line breakage and reducing injury risk from a thrashing fish.
Proper handling techniques are important for the well-being of both caught tarpon and the person. Tarpon over 40 inches should remain in the water to minimize stress and physical damage, as lifting them vertically can harm internal organs. If handled, use wet hands and support the fish horizontally under its belly, with minimal air exposure. Cutting the line as close to the hook as possible is recommended if the hook is deeply set, rather than attempting to remove it.