Fort Lauderdale Tarpon Report: Hayes Lands His First Tarpon

Hayes made the trip down from Louisiana looking to check a big one off the list: his first tarpon.

Captain Jeff headed out for a classic Fort Lauderdale evening trip, leaving the dock around 5:00 PM and returning around 10:30 PM. The conditions lined up nicely, and after covering some water and staying with the fish, Hayes got his opportunity.

While it was his first tarpon, Hayes is no stranger to fishing. Growing up and fishing around Louisiana has given him plenty of experience on the water, and it showed. He handled himself like a seasoned angler and made the most of his chance when the bite came.

After a great fight, Hayes landed and released his first-ever tarpon, a catch he'll remember for a long time.

The evening tarpon bite in South Florida  continues to provide opportunities for anglers willing to put in the time. As the sun gets low and the fish begin to roll, some of the best action of the day can unfold.

Now that Hayes has his first tarpon under his belt, the next goal is already set: his first tarpon on fly. Hopefully the next time he's back in town from Louisiana, he'll have a chance to get in a lesson with Captain Jeff and take the next step in the pursuit of the silver king on fly.

Congratulations to Hayes on a memorable catch and his first tarpon release.

Run That Dog,

Captain Jeff Maggio
Lunkerdog Charters
Fort Lauderdale, Florida