Cape Coral Tarpon Hunters

Cape Coral Tarpon Hunters Club has been Southwest Florida's destination for tarpon fishing since 1970. Now entering their 56th season, the club boasts over 10,000 documented tarpon catches and maintains detailed records of member accomplishments across multiple competitive categories.

Membership includes: - Access to nearshore Gulf, Pine Island Sound, and Caloosahatchee River fishing grounds - Monthly educational meetings featuring speakers on tarpon fishing techniques - Weekend on-water "hunts" and social events - Annual Awards Banquet celebrating seasonal successes - Detailed instruction on rod/reel selection, terminal tackle rigging, and bait preparation - Witness verification for official record catches

The club operates as a catch-and-release organization with circle hooks required when fishing with bait. Their approach reflects conservation principles, emphasizing that anglers should "subdue the fish by his skill with rod and line" rather than relying on excessive tackle or endurance battles.

Prospective members attend an introductory presentation in February covering club history, tarpon behavior, and ethical fishing practices. "Rookies" participate in the full spectrum of club activities including mentorship through their Rookie Mentorship program. Monthly meetings throughout the season provide in-person updates on on-water action and detailed instruction.

The club maintains comprehensive record categories including Grand Master/Master Anglers, Top Angler, Top Women's Angler, Top Fly Angler, Top Junior Angler, and specialty awards like the Don Brown Memorial Award, Jerry Geyer Award, and Rookie of the Year. Season results dating back to 2011 are documented online.