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Snapper
 
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Great fish!!! I have seen them swimming on the bottom in that size range usually around the Rhoda (I was diving) They remind me of the biggest menhadden in the world and smell about the same. I can't imagine battle'in one like that on a rod!!!!
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Sailfish
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prgault (9/8/2008)
So it is not illegal to remove a tarpon from the water?
It is, but who cares?
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Snapper
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Xanadu (9/8/2008)
prgault (9/8/2008)
So it is not illegal to remove a tarpon from the water?It is, but who cares? Well said!
Emerald Coast Fishing Excursions www.fishtheemeraldcoast.com Contact: brant.peacher@gmail.com
Phone: 850-450-3878 2020 Blazer Bay 175 Suzuki 4stroke
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Ruby Red Lip
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| Great... and then we wonder why fishermen (& hunters) get a bad rep.
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Sailfish
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prgault (9/8/2008)
Great... and then we wonder why fishermen (& hunters) get a bad rep.
I certainly don't think it's guys like Capt. Rivers giving fisherman a bad name...quite the opposite. I imagine those folks he takes fishing have a pretty good feeling for fisherman after they leave...and he takes a lot of people fishing.
And also remember, he had a tarpon tag, so he was well within his rights to keep this as a trophy fish if he had wanted to....much less just pull the damn thing out of the water and release it alive(which still is within his rights, the laws are too vague).
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Sailfish
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Statewide Regulations • There is a two fish possession limit for tarpon. You must purchase a tarpon tag from the FWC to lawfully possess a tarpon. • Tarpon tags can be purchased from your local county tax collector. • Dragging tarpon to weigh stations is considered possession. • The intentional snagging or snatch-hooking of tarpon is prohibited. For questions concerning tarpon regulations contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Division of Marine Fisheries Management at 850-488-6058 or on the Web atMyFWC.com. What's the Problem?????
Mark Pensacola,FL
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Ruby Red Lip
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"I certainly don't think it's guys like Capt. Rivers giving fisherman a bad name"...nor do I ,I was refering to "who cares" if it is illegal and "well said", that attitude about wildlife laws in general seems to be held by many.
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Sailfish
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Halfmoon (9/8/2008)
Statewide Regulations • There is a two fish possession limit for tarpon. You must purchase a tarpon tag from the FWC to lawfully possess a tarpon. • Tarpon tags can be purchased from your local county tax collector. • Dragging tarpon to weigh stations is considered possession. • The intentional snagging or snatch-hooking of tarpon is prohibited. For questions concerning tarpon regulations contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Division of Marine Fisheries Management at 850-488-6058 or on the Web at
MyFWC.com.
What's the Problem?????
Define possession?
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Mingo
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| As regards Captain John and the tarpon caught on his boat- when he says the fish swam off in good shape, I expect that's what happened. I fish with John Rivers a lot, and I know that he has forgotten more about fishing and the care of caught fish than I know. He knows how to handle big fish, and I don't think that tarpon was damaged at all. That is a catch of a lifetime- especially here in Pensacola Bay where tarpon are so rarely caught. I think he did a good day's work in making that young man happy. That catch may be enough to make a lifetime angler out of the kid, and that's a very good thing. Congratulations on the tarpon- the only thing wrong with this whole picture is that I didn't catch that tarpon. If I'd have caught him, I would have the same pictures in the same way. Good fishing to all- Ed Mashburn
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Ruby Red Lip
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| Sorry, just asked a question. The OP was legal, he had tarpon tag. If he did not, having the fish on the boat is possesion or taking; according to NOAA and FWC officers with whom I have discussed the topic. I deal with wildlife laws daily, and my contention that they are easily ignored by many stands.
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Sailfish
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| Possession: a possessing or being possessed. 2 anything possessed. Owned, belonging to one. Clear to me. Next time keep the damn thing and I will use it for crab bait.
Mark Pensacola,FL
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Trigger
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Another FWC rule defines the proper catch and release techniques for all reef fishes, including goliath groupers. It states that "Harvest means the catching or taking of a fish by any means whatsoever, followed by a reduction of such fish to possession. Fish that are caught but immediately returned to the water free, alive and unharmed are not harvested. In addition, temporary possession of a fish for the purpose of measuring it to determine compliance with the minimum size requirements shall not constitute harvesting such fish, provided that it is measured immediately after taking, and immediately returned to the water free, alive and unharmed if undersized." Further Catch and Release Information |
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The latter part of the above definition describes temporary possession for the purpose of measuring for compliance of size requirements. Since the harvest of goliath groupers is prohibited, there is no reason to measure the fish, except for scientific purposes. Because of this, the release of the fish must be immediate. The skeletal structure of large goliath grouper cannot adequately support their weight out of the water without some type of damage. If a large goliath grouper is brought on-board a vessel it is likely to sustain some form of internal injury. Thus, if the fish is harmed it could be considered harvested by definition. As stewards of our resources, this is something we should avoid. It also means the fish is "harvested" according to the rules, and goliath groupers may not be harvested. Removing smaller goliath groupers from the water to remove hooks is not necessarily a bad practice, but this process must be done with care, using proper fish handling techniques, and as expeditiously as possible. 
WPTV |
The taking of photographs after removal of hooks and posing for pictures with goliaths is not considered an immediate release of the fish. The number of goliath groupers in Florida state waters has increased since its designation as a prohibited species. Because many anglers are encountering and catching these unique fish, FWC law enforcement officers will initially be taking an educational approach to discourage the "boating" of large goliath groupers for photo opportunities and will also educate the public that the retention of smaller goliaths for photographs is not considered an immediate release. Photographing your big catch without removing it from the water will ensure that you are acting within the regulations. Understanding the importance of your contribution to marine resource management and conservation is vital to maintaining healthy fish stocks. You have a direct effect on the resource every time you go fishing. Adhering to fishing regulations means healthier fish populations. Good fisheries management means better fishing in the future! FACTS YOU MAKE THE CALL....POSSESSION...Maybe!!!!!!!
   
Ken,Tammy & Sean SEE YA AT THE FISHING HOLE!!!!! & WOODS!!!!!!
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Snapper
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prgault (9/8/2008)
"I certainly don't think it's guys like Capt. Rivers giving fisherman a bad name"...nor do I ,I was refering to "who cares" if it is illegal and "well said", that attitude about wildlife laws in general seems to be held by many. I wasnt directing that comment at you. I just think you have to use a little common since on certain laws. I should have said that Captain John is a respected boat captain in this area and Im sure he knows how to handle a tarpon of that size. Im sure they all got excited when they had the fish boatside and like any other normal human, wanted to bring the fish on board to get some good pics. IMO there is nothing wrong with that if you are an experienced fisherman and know how to handle a fish like that. I dont know if its a law or not. Ive put lots of tarpon on my boat and have taken pics with them. They have all been released to fight another day. I love regulations and laws on fish and I will be the first to support them. I hardly ever kill fish even to eat. I will however use a little common since on issues like this. Law or not Captain John did what any other fishing guide in the state of Florida would have done in that particular situation with a young boy like that. Sorry I did not mean to offend you by the "well said" statement. I should have explained myself better. Great report capt John!
Emerald Coast Fishing Excursions www.fishtheemeraldcoast.com Contact: brant.peacher@gmail.com
Phone: 850-450-3878 2020 Blazer Bay 175 Suzuki 4stroke
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Snapper
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| job well done capt john! the law as i read it says he was with in the law. tight lines!
capt wes rozier
inshore fishing guide
850-982-7858
http://www.captwesrozier.com
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Grouper
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| I am embarrassed, by the negativity expressed regarding Cap'n John Rivers, who by the way I have never met and don't know! The subsequent assinine comments regarding these pics are out of line.  This is not some "jerk-off'' hell bent on killing fish, he is a businessman trying to make living, show his clients to a good time, and how about it, have some fun himself!!!!!!!! How about we don't allow pics and reports doesn't that sound like fun???? 
   
KEEP AN OCCASSIONAL RED HERE AND THERE FOR DINNER, BUT FOR THE REST, PRACTICE HEALTHY CATCH & RELEASE TECHNIQUES SAVE SOME FOR THE FUTURE!
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Trigger
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| I wish I had caught that monster Tarpon in the Bay, even if he died from the fight or the celebration. Most of us (including me ) have released far more fish than we keep. I've caught more than my share of Blue Marlin, never killed one; way more than my share of whites, killed the first. ; released two tarpon (finally!). Give the guy a break and applaud the effort. Isn't that what we are here for?
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Pin Fish
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| I was fishing beside Capt. Rivers and was fortunate enough to witness this rare event. My charter included a 15 year old young man who wanted to catch a King Mackerel and a Bull Redfish. We anchored in "The Shark Hole" because Capt. John & myself have caught a few Big Reds there. My boy was half-way to his goal having boated an 18 pound kingfish earlier. I told my anglers that we might catch a few sharks(we caught 18) or a huge stingray and not to be surprised if Capt.John hooked a Tarpon. He is a close friend to me and we had discussed this possibility since Capt Rivers fishes Fresh Menhadden on the bottom frequently, which commonly produces tropy Tarpon in Mobile Bay. Capt.John was confident that he would encounter a Silver King and took my advice and purchased a Tarpon Tag. I assureyou all that Capt.Rivers is very coservation oriented and follows ALL Laws and handles fish with TLC......They DO provide his living! The magnificent Tarpon was quickly returned to the water.....remember....Tarpon DO GULP air like an ancient LUNGFISH. I saw the beast quickly revive when returned to the bay, and lunge away from Capt. John's grasp. THAT FISH IS ALIVE TODAY! I do know what I am talking about, having released several hundred Marlin myself. I have a Marine Biology degree and have 30+ years fishing experience. Congratulations To My Good Buddy,Capt. John Rivers on a great catch! PS: Right after Mega-Bite released the Tarpon, my angler said he had a Tiger Shark hooked-up. I asked him if he saw Strpes, but he said no, but his big fish was ORANGE! Quest completed! 42" Bull RED! Tite Lines Capt.George P. Ballard Offshore Animal Too TRITON 240LTS
CaptGeo TRITON 240LTS/250HP VERADO
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Sailfish
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Administrator
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Awesome fish John!
To those who posted negative comments on here, or are trying to stir up crap, STOP! Why do it? This is why there are limited reports anymore because of you guys who have to derail someones post because you are jealous and/or stupid and don't know what happened!
I will be putting new rules in place soon that will stop this! You shit on someones post, your done! I'm tired of it!
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Chris Couture
Pensacola Fishing Forum Administrator
SOUTHBOUND
32' Albemarle with twin 3126 350HP CATS
Member of the NRA
Supporter of Campaign For Liberty
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Trigger
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I have fished with Capt John many times and know firsthand how much he cares for our sport. I am sure he took great care to take to avoid injuring such an awesome fish. CONGRATS Capt John on a well deserved catch, I know how much hard work you put in. I for one am more concerned about John's back lifting that monster in the boat than am about the tarpon Glad your doing well John
I LOVE MY WIFE
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Snapper
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Great fish and great trip for a great kid!
Not like he chased the tampon down the bay and shot it a bunch of times or anything.
He released it after pictures!! Hell my kids would have wanted to keep it.
As for the sharks, my 12 yo girl LOVES to catch the sharks in Pensacola bay. It's her favorite trip. PLEASE don't tell her about the tarpon, she'll HAVE to catch one.
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Mingo
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Great Report and Pictures! Thanks for sharing.
1996 CAPE HORN 19' W/ 150 YAMAHA
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Trigger
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Well done Capt John, that's no easy feat to catch a tarpon of any size much less a stud like that 
___________________________________________________Will the Gulf State Park Pier REALLY open July 23, 2009? 
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Grouper
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| Hey John, dont worry about this crap,,, just people playing devils advocate,,, this is exactly why there are not more fishing reports on this forum, like there used to be,,,, Yes everyone has their opinions but they wernt there, when they catch fish like these they can handle the situation however they want to.. Just be happy for your clients and yourself, this is a fabulous fish,,, be proud... As for thos ragging on John,, get away from your keyboard and go fishing,, and make your own fishing reports. so we have some more good reading...
________________________________________________Kenny Mann Almost Anything Computer Owner (co) computer repair and service
Ms Penny Fishing Team video and audio conversions
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4610 Saufley Field Rd
Pensacola, Florida 32526
ph # 850-456-8196
fax# 850-455-8318 Kenny_Mann-ECM@cox.net Sequoiha@cox.net Sales@emeraldcoastmarine.com www.emeraldcoastmarine.com 
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Snapper
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Nice job John! Another satisfied client with a lifelong memory. Great pics as well. Hope to see you soon.
________________________________________________________________________________I'm going to paraphrase Thoreau here... rather than love, than money, than faith, than fame, than fairness... give me truth. 
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PFF Moderator
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| don't worry about the yahoo's John, as I said before....nice job as always! I went back 4 months and couldn't even find a "fishing" report from those who posted negatively......just as sign of the times I guess. the forum and the US in general used to be "if you don't have anything good to say, don't say anything at all" but it seems as though many have taken a completely opposite approach. we're turning into a version of the FS I guess
**********************************************************
Scott
http://www.forumpictureprocessor.com/gallery.asp?gallery=351
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Grouper
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| wow, I was out for a few hours yesterday (Monday). I saw NOTHING like this fish (I never have). Congrats, That young man will remember this for the rest of his life! Great post. Must have been a last to watch this boy struggle with a fish of a life time. Jim
Jim Summers www.PensacolaHouseHunter.com
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Grouper
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Snapper
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| That is the biggest sardine I have ever seen!!!! Grats on the catch.
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White Marlin
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| Again, that is one awesome catch! The next time I go to one of the P'cola meetings I am going to make you a drink! I got some of the same responses when I caught my little tarpon. I called and spoke to the FWC office and was told that I was fine as long as the fish was immediatley released. But like you said, you had a tag anyway so no worries. I also found this on the FWC website http://research.myfwc.com/engine/download_redirection_process.asp?file=tarpon2.pdf&objid=5641&dltype=article Since 1989, tarpon have been managed using a permit system that requires anglers to purchase a $50 tag for each tarpon that they intend to possess. If a tarpon is caught and immediately released, it has not come under possession and no tag is required.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>-
2007 "Unofficial PFF Fall Shark Tounament" Winners
PRFA Member -
- "I'm konztipated....I just can't give a sh!t"
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- http://www.forumpictureprocessor.com/gallery.asp?gallery=1159
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