594 | Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit Habitat Conservation with Mark Rehbein of Bonefish & Tarpon Trust

Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/594

Presented By: Togiak River Lodge, Northern Rockies Adventures, Yellowstone Teton Territory, Togens Fly Shop

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to reel in a massive tarpon? Or perhaps you're curious about the critical factors in preserving bonefish, tarpon, and permit populations?

Today, we dive deep into the conservation with Mark Rehbein from the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust. Join us as we unravel why these three species are important for conservation efforts and explore the key habitats that need protection.

Show Notes with Mark Rehbein on Bonefish & Tarpon Trust.

2:40 - Mark Rehbein started fly fishing at a young age due to his father's involvement in making Potomac River bass fishing videos. This project led them to connect with Lefty Kreh. His journey eventually took him to Alaska, where he lived in a tent and worked at a fly shop.

Mark Rehbein's Journey to Bonefish & Tarpon Trust

09:25 - After following BTT for years and growing up with a love for bonefishing, Mark transitioned from a corporate job and internships to landing an entry-level events position at BTT.

Despite having no prior events experience, Mark embraced the challenge and grew within the organization, eventually becoming the Director of Development.

Mark also highlights two upcoming major events hosted by BTT: the Circle of Honor in May and the New York dinner in October, where notable individuals like Captain Rick Ruoff, Captain Joe Gonzalez, and Travis Holeman will be honored.

Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit Conservation Efforts

19:38 - BTT focuses on the conservation of bonefish, tarpon, and permits. These species are crucial because protecting them also ensures the preservation of their habitats and benefits other marine life.

BTT's initiatives involve extensive research, including tagging programs and mark-recapture studies, to gather essential data for informed conservation strategies.

The focus revolves around three key areas: habitat preservation, water quality improvement, and effective fisheries management.

"You gain credibility by the thimble full and lose it by the bucket full."

- Dr. Aaron Adams

In places like the Florida Keys, BTT utilizes tournament catch records and collaborates with organizations like the IGFA, Lower Keys Guides Association, and Florida Keys Fishing Guides Association to track trends in tarpon encounters, releases, and jumps.

Life History of Tarpon

33:40 - Tarpons start with their offshore spawning in deep waters, where they release eggs that develop into Leptocephalus larvae. These larvae drift with ocean currents until they reach suitable habitats.

As juveniles, tarpon thrive in mangrove estuaries, where optimal habitat conditions support their growth and development. Tarpons can live up to 80 years and spawn multiple times.

The Importance of Mangroves

45:37 - Mangroves serve as crucial habitats for various juvenile fish species. They provide protection, food sources, and growth opportunities. Mangroves also contribute to coastal resiliency and are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems.

Lefty Kreh's Legacy and One-Liners

53:35 - Mark shares anecdotes about Lefty Kreh's humorous and multifaceted personality, highlighting his knack for memorable one-liners. Despite his fame as an angler, Lefty's true legacy lies in his kindness, passion for fishing, and impact on those he encountered.

Mark reflects on the impact Lefty had on him and how he strives to uphold Lefty's legacy by emulating his positive attitude and dedication to angling.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/594