The Best Equipment to Fish Baby Tarpon in Brazil

Why do Fishermen Love Baby Tarpons?

Anyone who's ever had a chance to see a jumping baby tarpon knows how explosive this fish is. Even below 15 kilos, he delivers acrobatic jumps and a fight that challenges any fisherman.

In Brazil, these “camurupins” are present in urban rivers, mangroves and coastal bars, and the Capibaribe River, in Recife, is the main destination recognized worldwide.

But to harness all this potential, the secret is to choose the right equipment.

The ideal set for baby tarpons

Based on the experience in different Brazilian rivers, here is what cannot be lacking:

Poles

• Average fast action to balance accuracy and power.

• Length between 5’6” and 6’ for pitches in mangroves and narrow areas.

• 16 to 20 pounds power to withstand the strength of the tarpons without losing sensitivity.

Carpets and Molines

• Low-profile, saltwater resistant trailers.

• Molines of size 2500 to 4000, light and robust.

• Reliable brake to hold the acrobatic jumps.

Lines and Leaders

• Multifilament of 25 to 30 pounds (0.23 to 0.27 mm).

• Fluorocarbon line from 40 to 60 pounds, essential against abrasion of the bone mouth.

Artificial baits

• Small, between 6 and 10 cm.

• Half water and surface plugs: poppers, sticks, zaras.

• Soft bays: shads and silicone shrimps.

Fly Fishing Baby Tarpon

For those who seek even more emotion, fly fishing is the most sought-after modality:

• Poles #8 and #9, fast, for short and sharp pitches.

• Seat belts with at least 100m of backing.

• Short and aggressive headlines, floating or intermediate.

• Small flies: streamers, clousers, seaducers, poppers.

Pro tip: Keep the hooks sharp. The hard mouth of the tarpon requires maximum precision.

Practical tips for success

1. Use two sets: avoid setbacks and speed up bait exchange.

2. Adapt to local conditions: wind, tide and fish behavior influence the choice of the line.

3. Be patient: the conversion rate is low. Many say that with every 10 hooks, only 1 results in capture.

4. Trust the release: baby tarpons are fragile. The correct management ensures the survival and perpetuation of the species.

Where to find baby tarpons in Brazil?

Although the Capibaribe in Recife is the most consolidated destination, there are records of baby tarpons in other northeastern rivers and estuaries, such as Jaboatão, Ipojuca and Sirinhaém.

Each river has its particularities, but all require the same principle: tough but balanced equipment.

Conclusion: the right equipment improves the experience

Fishing for baby tarpons in Brazil is one of the most authentic experiences of sport fishing. These small fish in size, but giants in sport, challenge even the most experienced fishermen.

With the ideal equipment and guidance from specialized guides, your chances of success increase greatly.

Meet our guided fishing operation on the Capibaribe River and get ready to live the baby tarpon show in Recife.