Save the Tarpon Shindig pro
vides a taste of Boca Grande
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Save the Tarpon founder Jennifer McLaughlin displays one of her original artworks offered during the silent auction.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
A Save the Tarpon supporter places a bid during the silent auction.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Capts. Franks Davis (left) and Tater Spinks prepare to dish up hot soup.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Capt. Tom McLaughlin speaks about Save the Tarpon.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Lew Hastings, the executive director of the Boca Grande Chamber of Commerce, delivers a few remarks.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Hot gumbo kept many warm despite chilly weather Sunday.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
FWC Lt. Michael Frabts and Capt. Phil O'Bannon listen to a speaker at the Save the Tarpon Shindig.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Capt. Van Hubbard digs into a bowl of gumbo.
Save the tarpon. It is a message created by Save the Tarpon, Inc., a not-for-profit organization created to advocate for ethical angling and promote the stewardship of the Boca Grande Pass tarpon fishery. In slightly over a year, the Boca Grande-based organization has gathered an impressive following, evident by its 13,000 Facebook followers.
More than 300 people showed their support for the organization on March 3 at the Louise duPont Crowninshield Community House on Boca Grande. The event was dubbed “Save the Tarpon Shindig” and included both silent and live auctions, informative lectures about the history of the Pass and the purpose of the organization. There was also food. Good food. From gumbo to fish stew, frog legs to hot dogs, everyone who showed up got a taste of some fine grub, and a taste of what Save the Tarpon is trying to achieve.
