Scientists: “Tarpon Actually Smallmouth Bass”

Those of us who’ve fished extensively for both tarpon and smallmouth bass have noticed similarities in the way fish feed, fight and even sometimes look (witness the “bronzebacks” of the Everglades). But hardly anyone would expect a close scientific connection to be made between what were thought to be completely separate species. Today’s announcement from a major Florida University has delighted some and angered others, but one thing is for sure: fly fishing for tarpon — or smallmouth — will never be the same.