Tarpon in Boca Grande Pass Florida – Fishing Adventures Florida Season 2 Episode 29

 

Hunting Tarpon in Boca Grande Pass Florida

Join Captain Sergio Atanes and his crew for an unforgettable adventure targeting Tarpon in Boca Grande Pass Florida, one of the most legendary fishing destinations in the world. In this exciting episode of Fishing Adventures Florida, Captain Sergio teams up with Captain Ron, Captain Jeff Hagaman, and anglers Dennis, Rolando, and Sergio to experience the thrill of catching the Silver King in Florida’s most iconic tarpon fishery. This action-packed episode takes you through multiple fishing techniques, from drifting the pass with live pass crabs to spotting rolling tarpon on the flats, giving you an insider’s view of what makes this location so special for anglers worldwide.

Historic Fishing Grounds and Modern Techniques

Boca Grande Pass has been attracting anglers since the 1880s, when people like Thomas Edison discovered the incredible fishing opportunities in this area. Captain Sergio shares fascinating stories about how this small island became a haven for tarpon fishing, experiencing its heyday between 1930 and 1958 when families like the DuPonts built homes along the beachfront. He recalls his own childhood memories of fishing the phosphate docks, catching massive Goliath grouper, oversized redfish, and Spanish mackerel. Whilst the fishing has evolved over the decades, Tarpon in Boca Grande Pass Florida remains a bucket-list experience that draws corporate groups and dedicated anglers from around the globe during the summer months. The episode showcases modern techniques using smaller, more manoeuvrable boats compared to the large wooden vessels of the past, demonstrating how technology has changed the sport whilst the excitement remains the same.

Expert Guidance from Captain Jeff Hagaman

Captain Jeff Hagaman, the guest captain featured in this episode, is renowned for his expertise in catching tarpon in the pass. He guides the crew through the strategic process of finding fish, explaining how they search for rolling schools on the flats and position themselves ahead of the fish. Using live pass crabs rigged with seven-knot hooks, the team lets their baits sink to the bottom in the 42-foot depths, waiting for that heart-stopping moment when a tarpon strikes. The episode captures the raw excitement and occasional frustration of tarpon fishing, with the crew hooking several fish, fighting them for 30 to 40 minutes, only to have some break off. They even encounter “Hitler,” their nickname for the resident hammerhead sharks that patrol the area looking for an easy meal.

Action-Packed Fights and Unexpected Catches

Throughout the episode, viewers witness the incredible power of these Silver Kings as they test the anglers’ skills and endurance. The crew experiences multiple hook-ups, spectacular jumps, and the distinctive challenge of fighting what Captain Sergio describes as “bringing a Volkswagen up off the bottom.” Along the way, they also catch a nice cobia, which provides its own exciting battle even though it wasn’t the target species. The camaraderie amongst the crew shines through with good-natured banter and encouragement as each angler takes their turn in the fighting chair. Whether you’re an experienced tarpon angler or someone dreaming of their first Silver King, this episode offers valuable insights into the techniques, patience, and determination required for success when pursuing Tarpon in Boca Grande Pass Florida. Don’t miss this thrilling adventure that combines rich fishing heritage, expert guidance, and heart-pounding action on the water!