Use circle hooks when fishing live bait—they usually set in the mouth, not deep in the throat or belly.

If a hook is deep‑set, cut the line close. Tarpon can expel hooks over time.

Match tackle to the fish and conditions and keep fights short. On adult tarpon, avoid fights longer than 30–40 minutes; go even shorter for juveniles.

Calculate weight from length & girth using a chart—don’t lift fish out of the water to weigh.

Support the fish upright until it recovers.

If needed, move slowly forward in the water to pass water through the mouth and out the gills (front → back).

Release only when the tarpon can swim upright on its own. Shorten your next fight if the fish was overly tired.

No gaffs. Secure boatside by hand or with a sling while the fish remains in the water.

Keep tarpon wet. Minimize handling and avoid removing the protective slime layer.

Fish over 40″ (≈1 m fork length): do not remove from the water. Keep boatside time short.

In‑water photos are best for all sizes. If a small fish is briefly lifted, keep air exposure to an absolute minimum.

Pro tip: If the fish isn’t dripping in the shot, it’s been out too long. Prep camera and framing before lifting.

Tired fish are vulnerable to sharks. Avoid areas with lots of predators or move if they show up.

If a shark appears during the fight, cut or break the line so the fish has a chance to escape.