The Hunt For Big Fish with Larry Dahlberg

Since watching your series, I've become inspired to travel the world in search of explosive inshore action. Thank you for exposing me to the opportunities that exist.

I'm currently plotting my next trip and have heard that Panama is unreal. It seems like there's access to Roosterfish, Giant Trevally, and big Cubera's all from shore. Is it as good as advertised? And if so, what specific areas in Panama do you think offer the best surfcasting action?

Also, what other areas do you recommend for explosive surfcasting action? Gabon, Africa looked pretty wild based on your show!

Thanks, Larry.

-Danny

I'd imagine most of the rivers and rocks adjacent would have good fishing in Panama. East coast too. Not sure about the GT's, but lots of jacks and other smaller trevally species.
Big snook, and opportunity for Tarpon on the west coast of Panama as well.
You are correct, Gabon surf fishing is unreal.
best,
L

Thanks, Larry. What are some good areas for GT's?

Not to steal the thread ...but I would like to do a destination trip for GT myself and my understanding is the best GT fishing is half-way around the world for us here in the US - Larry (or other members) have you ever been to Christmas Island?

Regarding Gabon,

What camps/outfits are recommended for targeting the giant tarpon and other in-shore species? I have seen a couple camps on the Internet, one is run by Francois, a Frenchman.

If the camp is run by Francois Horent you've located who I believe is the best angler on the coast!
best
L

Larry,

Yes, it's Francois Horent. Thanks for the input! I have added this area to my life list.

regarding GT's, most of the atolls in both the pacific and indian oceans have GT's. The south africans call them kingfish.
best,
L

Larry,

Have you fished the Ozuri or Iguela Camps that Francois runs? What's the tarpon fishing like? I like the idea of both surf casting and trolling. I'm contemplating a trip there someday....

Thanks,

Dan

Been to Iguela. When the tarpon are there, they are usually big. It's a very good spot and Francois is one of the very best, period!
L

Thanks Larry, I'm looking at 2014 to go there. I'll contact Francois about the best season for tarpon.

Larry,

I contacted Francois Horent today via email, and he says he hasn't guided for 7 years. He says the tarpon fishing has gone downhill, but didn't give a reason why. I suspect commercial fishing or intense local fishing is to blame, I'm not sure. Just wanted to pass this one. I suppose the Iguela and Ozuri camps don't exist anymore.

Francois responded regarding the decline of tarpon fishing in Gabon:

"Yes : trawlers outside the embouchure, and local netting inside which is the main raison of their disappearance.
Sorry for that Dan…"