August 15, 2020

Today is the day I told myself. As I stood at the shoreline looking out over the ocean at Fort Clinch State Park on Amelia Island, I could feel the energy in the water. The tarpon were dancing through huge schools of bait and putting on a show.

For me, it was more than just a show; today was the beginning of a love affair with this bucket list fish. While I have hooked up with tarpon, and helped fight/land tarpon, I had never received the badge of honor. Every angler dreams of the day they catch, fight, and successfully release this majestic creature. Today was my day.

From hooked up to release, I will cherish every second of this epic catch!

Where: Amelia Island – Fort Clinch State Park
When: Outgoing Tide (9am to 12:30pm)
What: The Silver King 👸
Water Color: Clean Money
Winds: SSW 10 mph
Bait: Cut Mullet (Either the fish head or a 4 – 5 inch chunk)
Rigs: Fish Finder Rig
SetUp: Shimano SW Saragosa 25000, floridasurftackle.com 12′ Big Un ♥
Fight Time: 45 minutes plus
Weight: 75 pounds