Large live mullet (8–10 inches) free-lined in the main channel during June-August dawn windows. 50 lb leader, 6/0 circle hook, heavy spinning or conventional gear. When the tarpon rolls on the surface, cast 20 feet ahead of the direction it's moving. Let it eat — don't set on the jump.

Live mullet (10–12 inches), live crab, or threadfin herring on a 7/0 circle hook with 80 lb fluoro leader, fished on heavy spinning (50 lb braid) or conventional gear. Free-line in the channel current at the T-end. When the tarpon eats, reel tight and DO NOT set the hook — circle hooks do the work. Clear the area — tarpon runs and jumps will cross every line around you.

If large shadows roll through, stop blind casting and watch direction. Pitch a live crab, pinfish, or large threadfin ahead of the travel lane on heavy leader. Most pier tarpon shots are one-cast opportunities.

If tarpon show on the outside bar, stop casting at smaller fish. Position ahead of the travel direction and lead the fish with a live crab, threadfin, or soft-plastic eel profile on heavy leader. Do not drop the bait on their heads.

Live crab, large mullet, or threadfin on a 7/0 circle hook with 80 lb fluoro leader on 50 lb braid. Free-line in the main channel during dawn hours in June-August. Watch for rolling fish on the surface — cast 20 feet ahead of the roll. 100+ lb fish are common.

Live mullet or live crab on a 7/0 circle hook with 80 lb fluoro leader on 50 lb braid or conventional gear. Free-line in the main channel current during dawn in June-August. When tarpon are rolling on the surface, cast ahead of the roll direction. The eat is a sudden, heavy weight — don't set on the jump.

Large live menhaden (pogies), mullet, or blue crab on a 8/0 circle hook with 80 lb fluoro leader on 50 lb braid or heavy conventional tackle. Free-line or use a large float in the channel current during dawn and dusk windows in June-September. Expect fish over 100 lbs. Clear the area when hooked — tarpon runs and jumps will cross every line around you.

Large live mullet or crab (blue crab, half-shell) on a 7/0 circle hook, 80 lb fluoro leader on 50 lb braid. Position upcurrent of the channel and let the bait swing through freely. Tarpon follow the bait school migration through the pass in early morning. Expect a 30-60 minute fight — clear the area and let the fish run.