“The fish are coming on the left, probably going to be a 10:30 shot,” David Mangum, salt water fishing guide, says in a totally controlled voice. “Ok, start that cast for me…shoot that one,” as his tone becomes a little more rushed.
“DO NOT TOUCH IT!”
“Ok, start moving it now.”
“Little strips.”
“Touch it.”
“Stop.”
“STOP!”
“Start moving it again now.”
[EXPLOSION]
What's a Tarpon?
With a size ranging from 4-8 feet and 60-280 pounds, Tarpon are known for their unique color and strapping stature. Their large scales are a combination of dark blue and greenish-black, resulting in a metallic like silver when the sun hits them just right. Tarpon are even nicknamed the Silver King because of their flashy appearance. Due to their powerful build and resilient endurance Tarpon have been habitants of the Atlantic Ocean since prehistoric times. Tarpon’s attraction to shallow coastal waters has contributed to them becoming the Atlantic’s premier game fish.
At this point, any number of things can happen, most of which end in more slightly raised voices, a glimpse at a dinosaur, and some collection of slack line in and around your rod. Other times, you get connected to this prehistoric mirrored rocket that weighs as much as you do and you marvel at every ounce of the world around you.
It’s a sensation that makes Mangum’s dedication to tarpon totally understandable, almost logical.
Mangum’s obsession with tarpon is well documented. There are films, photographs, and stories that outline his decades of prowess on the water, helicopter research flights, and shall we say “alpha” tendencies. But, nothing gives you the full picture like being on the bow of his skiff, a string of fish approaching, and his instructions coming firmly from the back of the boat.
I’ve known Mangum for a few years now and have been lucky to photograph him in different parts of the world chasing fish. Our trip this May was the first time I was able to put the camera down and fish from the front of the boat.
He is one of the best in the world at what he does and I don’t say that lightly. No matter the pursuit or skill, it’s enriching to be around someone who undeniably qualifies as a true master.
