Late last week many anglers encountered huge numbers of tarpon off beaches up and down the coast. Most were not in the tightly packed schools typically associated with beach tarpon but were spread over wide areas and in large numbers. Single fish could be seen rolling in nearly every direction for a quarter-mile or more. Some would leap while crashing baitfish.
This unusual gathering is believed to be tarpon returning from their offshore spawning grounds after the new moon tides. These movements, also known as "pushes," were discovered off Indian Rocks Beach, Redington Beach, Anna Maria Island, Venice, Englewood and Boca Grande during the same two days.
Needless to say, fishing was incredible. By drifting live baits such as threadfin herring through the area, double hookups were common and tripleheaders were possible. Several fishermen reported landing six or more in a day and losing many others off Indian Rocks. One boat hooked 22 in a trip near Venice.
The fish hung around for few days, then disappeared as quickly as they appeared. Many likely will begin to show up in the backwaters of Tampa Bay and Boca Ciega Bay. The beach fishing season typically slows as we move into July. Most tarpon found there now will be moving north, a sure sign the season is winding down.
