Tarpon fishing Gabon
Tarpon fishing Gabon: Philip Pretorius, a seasoned angler and frequent visitor to Sette Cama, demonstrated his expertise during a dramatic finale to the week.
After days of tarpon slipping the hook, the group was fishing at the south point under the cover of darkness. Positioned on a shallow sandbank near the mouth’s drop-off, the anglers battled to keep their tarpon hooked. Finally, Philip succeeded in landing a tarpon after an exhilarating 10-minute fight. Using a circle hook, the fish was perfectly secured by its bottom lip. At an estimated 50 kilograms, it was a breathtaking conclusion to the week.
Tarpon Masters of Survival and Sport
Tarpon, belonging to the genus Megalops and family Megalopidae, consist of two species: Atlantic tarpon (M. atlanticus), found in the western Atlantic and eastern African coasts, and Indo-Pacific tarpon (M. cyprinoides), inhabiting waters from Southeast Asia to Australia. These adaptable fish thrive in both marine and freshwater habitats, often ascending rivers to reach freshwater marshes. Their swim bladders enable them to breathe in low-oxygen environments, allowing survival in brackish waters and even urban settings.
Tarpon go through three developmental stages. Early larvae absorb nutrients directly from seawater, while juveniles feed on zooplankton, insects, and small fish. Adults are carnivorous, hunting midwater prey primarily at night. Predators range from birds during early stages to sharks and crocodiles as adults.
Highly sought after for their size, fight, and aerial displays, tarpon are prized by anglers, particularly for saltwater fly fishing. Despite declining populations, catch-and-release remains common, as their meat is undesirable. Spawning occurs offshore in warm waters, with females laying up to 12 million eggs. Juveniles often develop in stagnant ponds, taking advantage of reduced competition while relying on their air-breathing ability.
The tarpon’s resilience and thrilling fight cement their status as one of the most iconic game fish.
Catch Your Tarpon
Ready to create your own incredible fishing story in Gabon? Join us for the next trip to Sette Cama and experience the thrill of tarpon fishing. Contact us today to secure your spot!
