Game Fish Info
First I want to let the reader know that most of the information published here is available and was extracted from the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust site and other sites providing information about these species. I believe that in order to keep enjoying a game fish we have the obligation to learn about them. By learning the life cycle and characteristics of a species we can ensure that ourself and our children have the opportunity to enjoy them to the maximum. This is why I want to list a few interesting facts about two of the most enjoyable game fish out there.
1. The tarpon can live more than 80 years. That is more that the average expected life cycle of a human and that is why they are so smart.
2. It is believed that they spawn on the full and new moons. It is believed that they will not reproduce every month. This information has been gathered from experienced fishermen and studies performed.
3. The estimated time for this species to reach maturity is between 10 and 12 years. This fact makes the tarpon vulnerable to overfishing and is one fact that forces the responsible fisherman to protect this game fish.
4. The adult tarpon can migrate long distances. It has been recorded that an adult tarpon migrated 1,200 miles from where it was originally tagged.
5. The tarpon uptakes oxygen in a forward moving motion. Most fishermen try to revive fish using a back and forth motion. It is better to slowly drag the fish on the side of the boat. This will help the fish oxygenate and will give it a better chance of survival if any predator is near.
1. The Bonefish is probably the strongest and fastest gamefish (as if you didn't know that).
2. It has the ability to tolerate oxygen-poor water due to its lung-like air bladder.
3. The reason for them to be in grassy flats is that these flats provide abundant small crabs ans shrimps for them to eat.
4. They tend to follow stigrays since they eat small prey disturbed by the rooting rays.
5. They are found primarily is warm waters, however they also live up to 1,000 feet deep.
6. This fish move in schools of similar sized fish, however the larger fish travel separate of the school in pairs or individuals.
The following link provide additional information about the species from the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust.
