While some fishermen search the world's waters for giant Tarpon, those that weigh well over 100 pounds-perhaps even more anglers look for areas where schools of small Tarpon are found. Their reason is sound. First, it is not as tiring to land a small Tarpon, as it is to land a giant. Secondly, the sporting challenge is preserved by using light tackle.
The Tacarigua Lagoon, called Rio Chico, harbours a remarkable Tarpon fishery and houses thousands of scarlet ibis and other bird species; so, each day begins and ends in an unforgettable rookery. This breathtaking nesting area is near the exit of the lagoon and the small harbour where native guides launch their skiffs. Protected from commercial fishing since the turn of the century and separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a strip-shaped beach and larger lakes. It is because of its richness in small baitfish and other foods, makes this an ideal habitat for small Tarpon and Snook. Most of the Tarpon range from five to ten pounds, so bass-type tackle works well and light fly rods. There are also bigger Tarpon, from ten to thirty pounds and occasionally a person hooks a trophy fish of over fifty pounds on light tackle, which turns the challenge from exciting into spectacular.
All of the above makes this area and ideal destination for the beginner, presenting you each and everyday the opportunities not just to cast to fish, but to hook and even land them. If you have never fished for Tarpon or Snook this is an excellent training ground before moving on to other destinations where you may only get 2 or 3 shots at bigger fish each day.
New sixteen-feet boats powered by outboard motors, casting platforms, swivel chairs and rod holders, skippered by native guides who will take you to the Tarpon grounds. You typically begin casting the mangrove pockets with a fly or plug. Surface lures will often work, and a strike on top water is a great thrill.
FISHING METHODS
Saltwater Fly Fishing, Spinning
SPECIES TO CATCH
Tarpon
Season: All year
Peak: April to May
Weight: 1lb to 50lb
Average Weight: 10lb |
Note: these figures are complied with catch reports over 5 years, however they can be affected by adverse weather.
TOUR INCLUDES
Flights (WT), accommodation and guided fishing.
WHAT’S EXCLUDED
Holiday insurance, personal items, airport transfers, fishing licences, fishing tackle and local tips (recommendation $30 USD per day).
OPTIONS
Seat upgrades available with British Airways.
VISA
A machine-readable passport with at least 6 months before expiry. No visa for UK citizens required.
Note: Because your flight will involve traveling into the USA, you will be required before travel to complete an Electronic System Travel Authorisation (ESTA) online, which is compulsory for all USA Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) travellers before boarding an air or sea carrier to the USA. For full information and apply online visit our ESTA information page.
MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
No vaccinations currently required.
PLEASE NOTE
All details of visa and medical requirements are correct at time of press. However, please check these requirements for changes.
DEPARTURE TAX
There is a US $30 USD departure tax payable upon leaving Venezuela.
FLIGHT ROUTE AND FLIGHT TIME
UK - Madrid (approx 4 hrs)
Madrid - Caracas (approx 9 hrs)
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
(WT) 2 checked in items 23 kg (WTP) 2 checked in items 23 kg (C/F) 3 checked in items 23 kg. British Airways permits each passenger to check in one piece of sporting luggage i.e. a rod holdall, but must not exceed 23 kg.
TRANSFER TIME
Caracas - Tamanaco Hotel (approx 30 mins)
Tamanaco Hotel - Tortuga Lodge (approx 2 hrs)
CARACAS PARK
This beautiful park with variety of flora and fauna, nina lakes, a cactus garden, aviary, planetarium and more, is a true oasis for anyone who wants to walk, jog, row a boat, picnic or visit its attractions.
WALKING / SIGHT SEEING
A great opportunity to view the beautiful landscape as well as a great opportunity for stunning photography.
