Tarpon...in South Eastern Pennsylvania?

No, no we don't really have Tarpon in Pennsylvania, but this presentation will make you think we do! Delco-Manning Trout Unlimited sponsors an evening focused on Tarpon fishing. My buddy, John McMinn,  will give a presentation on fly fishing for Tarpon which covers finding, stalking and subduing the Silver King in backcountry waters.​ Tarpon are widely regarded as one of flyfishing's most exciting and rewarding targets.  They can be tough to hook, requiring a good presentation of specialized flies. Once hooked Tarpon can also be a challenge to land - fighting hard, and jumping to throw the hook.  Nicknamed the Silver King, Tarpon have bright, chrome sides darker backs that range from black to green.  They grow to immense size, but unlike some  salt water game fish, even the biggest tarpon eat flies well and are realistic targets for fly fishermen.

---

Alert, on the bow, waiting for the Silver King to arrive.

​Most of the literature and media coverage of tarpon shows fishing in the clear, open water of the ocean.  Instead of that, this presentation focuses on fly fishing for tarpon in the backcountry.  These areas are more protected estuaries or tributaries which often flow with dark, tannic water.  Tarpon behavior is different in dark water and requires different tactics than ocean-side fish.  I will discuss aspects of backcountry tarpon behavior and highlight tactics that will improve your odds in this summit experience of fly fishing.

​John McMinn is a lifelong fly fisherman who enjoys the challenge of tough fish, the exhilaration of adventure travel and the company of good friends.  His first fish on fly was an 11" brown trout from Ridley Creek in 1969.  Since then he has visited a variety of fresh and saltwater destinations favoring opportunities to sight fish.  John is also committed to conservation and education serving as President of the Delaware Chapter of Trout Unlimited for 11 years and a boy scout leader in several capacities for 15 years. 

This event will take place Tuesday evening, April 5th starting at 7:30. The Delco Manning chapter of Trout Unlimited meets at the Delaware County Field and Stream Association clubhouse, 713 Chester Creek Road, Brookhaven, PA 19015. for directions click here. This promises to be a great evening, I hope to see you there. Till Next time...

                                                                                                                                Tight Lines