Spinning reel fishing is the best way to spend a day off of work. It is the fisherman's equivalent of a movie and popcorn. Unlike fly-fishing or baitcaster fishing, using a standard spool and axel reel with a simple bail takes almost no thought on the part of the fisherman. Simply flip the bail back holding the line with your forefinger, just above the reel, arch the rod back and fling it forward releasing your finger and you have liftoff. Spinning reel rods allows you to switch effortlessly between a lure and baited hook so you can enjoy variety.

If you are new to fishing, this is the place to start. Because of its simplicity reel fishing continues to be the most popular style and even for greenhorns of the saltwater, among the most productive. In contrast to other styles, it is hard to make a fishing mistake with the simple spinning rod. Maybe with a baitcaster you get a backlash, not so with spinning reel fishing. Possibly on a fly fishing trip all you will catch is a tree branch. Again, not the case with spinners. All you need to do for a great day on the beach is bait the hook, set the line, find a pitch, set the poll in the sand and wait for a fish to come to you.

Sure, you might not be embracing all the technical challenges associated with fishing, but when push comes to shove, most fishermen will be grateful to just snag a fish. It is not uncommon for folks to return home, after a day on the water, empty handed. Since there is no guarantee that you will be going home with a stocked cooler full of fish, you might as well enjoy the time on the sandy beach.

Tarpon can be one of the most exciting fish to catch for an angler. Tarpon get most of their fame from their gigantic size and fantastic leaps and jumps when hooked. Tarpon, however, are also known to be the most frustrating fish for an angler, as they typically break themselves free as the jump through the air. Tarpon have even been known to jump on trees, the banks and even into boats. Tarpon are also referred to as the Silver King for their metallic shine when swimming through the water.

The Perfect Rig

When tarpon fishing, the rig and its specifications are crucial, as to overcome to fish's tendency to literally fly off the line. An angler should take about 7 feet of line, 80 pound tinsel strength, coupled with a size 9 circle hook. Anglers can go smaller are larger on the hook size, depending on the size and type of bait that will be used.

The Best Hook Solution

I recommend using circle hooks when you are out tarpon fishing. Circle hooks have a tendency to catch a fish in the corner of the mouth. This is not only good for the angler, as the tension remains in the correct place, but for the fish as well. When picking the size of the hook, be sure to consider the bait you will utilize.

Bait Choices

There are a number of good options to use for tarpon bait. Tarpon have a tendency to bite better at night, and this means a good bait choice are creatures that tend to come out a night. Tarpon love crabs, pinfish and live mullet. However artificial bait can also be utilized.

In Summary

Tarpon can be one of the most rewarding and damning fish an angler can battle. Be prepared to lose a fish or two in the quest to catch one of the silver kings. Despite their frustration it's important to remember an angler will never forget his first tarpon.