Fish and Wildlife Research Institute

Tarpon Catch-and-Release

The adrenaline-rushing excitement of catching a tarpon is arguably unrivaled in the sport-fishing world. What happens to the fish after it is released? Are post-release responses different depending on tarpon size, environmental conditions or other factors? Learn more about the research exploring these questions.

2002-2003: Incidence of Foul-hooking in FMRI* Boca Grande Pass Tarpon Catch and Release Mortality Study

FMRI recently provided commission staff members with this briefing document regarding the issue of proportions of foul-hooked fish observed in the Boca Grande Pass tarpon study.

2002–2004: Tarpon Catch-and-Release Mortality Study, Boca Grande Pass

Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) biologists have completed a study designed to measure Atlantic tarpon catch-and-release fishing mortality in Boca Grande Pass, Florida.

2005-2006: Tarpon Catch-and-Release Study—TAMPA BAY

The Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) tarpon catch-and-release mortality study moves to Tampa Bay for the 2005-2006 seasons.

Tracking the Silver King

By using acoustic telemetry and geographic information system software, researchers follow and plot the movements of the mighty tarpon.

Stress Effects of Catch-and-Release Fishing on Tarpon

Understanding how tarpon targeted in Florida's recreational fishery react to catch-and-release angling can provide useful information for anglers, scientists, and managers to develop better handling practices.