The Albino Tarpon
In the late spring and early summer months in southwest Florida, experienced tarpon anglers anticipate the arrival of tarpon. During this time, thousands of tarpon, from all over, begin to flood into Boca Grande Pass to breed and feed. Fishermen look forward to the days surrounding a full moon due to the presence of strong tidal movements, often referred to as the “Hill Tides,” which flush crab and other bait into the Pass while tarpon anticipate their arrival as an easy meal is brought to them.Read more...
With this knowledge, Barry Baroudi and a few friends decided to head out to Boca Grande Pass on Friday, May 24, 2013 in the hopes of having the opportunity to hook a silver king. During one of the drifts, Barry hooked a tarpon and was thrilled to instantly see the tarpon display its acrobatic grace as it leaped five feet into the air while simultaneously completing a front flip. The visual performance the tarpon displayed continued as it relentlessly fought with Barry and his friends. But, this tarpon did not appear to resemble a typical tarpon in regards to its coloration. A small gathering of boats had seen the tarpon’s aerial display and drove by to see this one-of-a-kind fish for themselves.
After a twenty-minute battle and many photos later, the tarpon was brought boat side where its unique color scheme confirmed the suspicion of an albino tarpon.
Concerned for the tarpon’s chance of survival, the hook was pulled from the tarpon and without hesitation, the tarpon immediately kicked towards the bottom of the Pass, making for a successful release.
It was not until more information was gathered after this fishing trip that the realization of the scarcity of spotting and, more importantly, documenting the appearance of an albino tarpon through both video and photos came to light.
Albino Tarpon History
Tarpons are prehistoric fish that have been swimming Earth’s oceans for centuries. They are pelagic fish, known for pursuing warm ocean waters, which are why they can be spotted in Africa, South America, and most notably in Florida.
Tarpons are one of the most sought after game fish in the world. Their relentless fight and stunning leaps make for an extraordinary and memorable fishing experience.Read more...
Tarpons are nicknamed “silver kings” because of the silver coloring along the sides of their bodies. Dorsally, tarpons have a dark blue or green/black tint. However, rumors among experienced anglers have surfaced indicating otherwise.
The first albino tarpon was caught in 1936 in Boca Grande Pass. Since then, no reports or evidence surfaced indicating the continued existence of a uniquely colored tarpon. But, seventy-seven years later, once again in Boca Grande Pass, an albino tarpon was hooked. On May 24, 2013, Barry Baroudi hooked an albino tarpon. Video and photos documented this fish.
The significance of this event is that animals that do not camouflage well into their environments are more likely to be preyed upon and removed from the population before they are able to mature. An albino tarpon illuminates in the water making it an obvious and easy target for predators. Thus, witnessing an albino tarpon is a rare and distinctive occurrence. This website is dedicated to the uncommon albino tarpon.