One of Florida’s most prized gamefish remains one of the most mysterious. Researchers are still unsure of where tarpon spawn (though new evidence shows some sites may be off either shelf), or their migration routes around the state and beyond. Research findings by Bonefish & Tarpon Unlimited have begun to shed some light onto migratory patterns through tarpon-tagging studies. See “Tracking Tarpon” in the upcoming Shallow Water Angler issue for the latest research.

Now, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) and Mote Marine Laboratory need anglers to help collect genetic samples of tarpon. FWRI provides a free, simple-to-use sampling kit which contains an abrasive pad used to remove skin cells from the outer jaw. Tarpon can be of any size and from any location. Anglers should leave the fish in the water unless they have a harvest or possession tag to attach to the fish, says the FWC.

The DNA will be catalogued by biologists. The unique “fingerprint” is then compared to previously sampled tarpon DNA data. It’s a means of tracking tarpon that requires a bit of luck but without the expensive costs of satellite tags. Researchers use the information to determine movement of tarpon in waters off the coast of Florida. The more anglers participating, the higher chance a sampled fish will be recaptured.

To participate, you can obtain a tarpon DNA sampling kit by e-mailing TarponGenetics@MyFWC.com, calling 1-800-367-4461 or visiting http://research.MyFWC.com and search for “tarpon.” Tarpon DNA should be returned directly to FWRI or collection centers statewide. Anglers who collect and return DNA become eligible for various prizes through drawings. If your tarpon is recaptured, FWRI will notify you.