Feed the Leap: Experience Tarpon Magic at Robbie's in Islamorada!

Feed the Leap: Experience Tarpon Magic at Robbie's in Islamorada!

In the heart of the Florida Keys, the vibrant tradition of hand feeding tarpon at Robbie’s in Islamorada continues to attract thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Since its inception in 1976, when owner Robbie and his wife Mona rescued a tarpon named Scarface, thousands of visitors have flocked to Robbie’s each week, eager to experience this unique interaction with these magnificent fish. The activity has grown into a local phenomenon, and significantly, Robbie’s has become a mini industry offering tarpon-related merchandise and watercraft rentals, alongside its dining options.

As Bay News 9 reports, the average adult tarpon measures between 4 to 8 feet long and weighs anywhere from 60 to 200 pounds. Fascinatingly, these fish are not only prized as game fish but are also celebrated for their spectacular leaping ability, making them a delight for those fortunate enough to witness the feeding. With nearly 1,000 pounds of bait being used on busy days, including treats like Ballyhoo and Threadfin Herring, it’s no wonder that guests come prepared with cameras to capture the sight of tarpon leaping for their food right from the dock.

The Unique Experience

Visitors to Robbie’s can expect more than just fish feeding. They sit at the dock, purchasing bait for just $5 a bucket, while basking in the laid-back vibe of the Keys. Activities abound, with options for dining, shopping, and rentals such as kayaks and jet skis, allowing for a full day of enjoyment on the water.

Billy Williams, the Marina Director at Robbie’s, has been overseeing the feeding tradition for seven years. He notes that the behavior of the tarpon can be quite unpredictable, adding an element of excitement to the experience. The presence of around 100 tarpon at the dock, often accompanied by nurse and lemon sharks, creates a vibrant spectacle that captivates young and old alike.

About Tarpon

Beyond their captivating feeding habits, tarpon belong to an intriguing family of fish known as the Megalopidae, and they thrive in both marine and freshwater environments. According to Wikipedia, these fish can survive in varying conditions, including brackish water and environments with low dissolved oxygen, thanks to their unique swim bladders. This allows them to gulp air at the surface, demonstrating just how well-adapted they are to their habitats.

Tarpon are generally nocturnal and prefer warmer waters. They can grow impressively large, sometimes weighing as much as 280 pounds. As adults, they are strictly carnivorous, preying on smaller fish and insects. Their shiny, silvery scales and broad jaws are just part of their appeal as prized game fish, often released back into the water by sport fishermen.

It’s clear that the allure of Robbie’s tarpon feeding goes beyond mere entertainment; it’s a connection to Florida’s rich marine life. This cherished tradition serves as a reminder of the natural wonder that surrounds Florida’s coastal environments, inviting everyone to partake in a unique, hand-on experience with one of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures.

For those who haven’t yet made the journey, visiting Robbie’s for a chance to hand-feed these leaping tarpon is certainly worth adding to your list. As Nolan Winterhalter, a long-time visitor, can attest, “It’s simply magical being up close with such incredible fish.” Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Keys or a newcomer, there’s something to be said for getting a closer look at the iconic tarpon in their natural habitat.