Two types of tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) exist, one found in the Indo-Pacific ocean and one found in the Atlantic. Bonaire has the Atlantic Tarpon, the species which is found in the Western Atlantic ocean, which ranges from Virginia to Brazil, the Caribbean and coast of the Gulf of Mexico.

These fish are often called the “Silver King of the Ocean” due to their dazzling silver color which shines in the tropical sun when they surface. They have an impressive size sometimes documented at over two and a half meters long and can weigh up to 127 kg.

Tarpon features include large eyes with adipose eyelids, fairly broad mouths with an easily identifiable lower jaw that extends further than the rest of their face. Adult Tarpons swallow their food whole and like to hunt nocturnally. Another interesting property of the Tarpon, is that it has both gills and lungs and needs to surface every so often in order to get a gasp of air.

These fish are a firm favorite for sports fisherman, due to the challenge they present when trying to reel one in. Tarpon put up an immense fight and give big-game fisherman a serious run for their money, making Tarpon fishing a firm favorite for Sport Fishers. Tarpon are not great fish for food as they are riddled with razor sharp bones and have a very salty taste. Therefore, after they caught they are neatly thrown back into the ocean as Bonaire’s catch and release principle also applies to Tarpon!