ABOUT US

       The Cape Coral Tarpon Hunters Club History

   The Cape Coral Tarpon Hunters Club began in 1971, the same year that Cape Coral was incorporated. Prior to 1970, the Cape's members were part of the Fort Myers Beach Tarpon Club. The "new" club in Cape Coral continues today with over a hundred members, some of whom have caught over six hundred Tarpon in their "career". Total Club catches and releases at the end of the 2011 season stood at 7,481 which averages almost 200 fish per year throughout our forty years.  Some recent seasons have seen releases of approximately 500 fish. The club also participates in tagging research programs and has tagged over 2000 fish, with some interesting recapture results.

    In 1988 the club became a total "catch and release" club in order to enhance the survival rate of Megalops atlanticus (Tarpon). Steps for additional protection were taken a few years later with rules requiring the use of circle hooks which are much less likely to jeopardize the Tarpon.

    Our club hosts an annual Special Populations fishing day and picnic.   This is an extremely rewarding day for everyone who is involved in the interacting while fishing and having a picnic supper together.  As the fishing day draws to a close and "good-byes" are being said, smiles reflect that this annual event helps our special needs friends.

The purpose of the Cape Coral Tarpon Hunters Club is to create enjoyment, enthusiasm and competition among the members in the spirit and sport of Tarpon fishing. It is a total release club which means we do not encourage nor do we acknowledge any Tarpon that are intentionally killed for any purpose.

"Rookie" Seminars: Club experts will demonstrate and discuss the knowledge and skills you need to know in a single evening's presentation. Information is provided that would otherwise take years to accumulate empirically.

Scheduled "Hunts": Are arranged monthly (March-September) and all club members are encouraged to participate. There is a special " Rookie Hunt" where beginners acquire "hands on" experience teamed up with veteran members and (hopefully) catch their first Tarpon as a club member. Other hunts include: Ladies Hunt, Junior Hunt, Light Tackle and Memorial Hunt.

A Club Picnic: is held each year, generally the day after our Rookie Hunt for members and their families. It is a great time to socialize and tell fish stories!

Awards Banquet: Awards are presented at our annual banquet where trophies are presented for most Tarpon released during the club season, rookie Tarpon released, ladies division, junior division, light tackle division, and other categories.