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I'll add a tidbit (and hope some of the other 'experienced' guys will also).
One thing that takes some getting used to is how quickly your boat will move when a tarpon hits your line. We've all felt how an 8 pound redfish can move your kayak. Now imagine how a fish 10 - 15 times larger will move your boat.
If you're lucky the fish will hit straight off your bow and it's immediate move will be straight away from you. That rarely happens. Probably the main reason most guys use 8 foot rods is to get the rod tip to the bow of the boat to turn the boat to the fish. In the first few minutes you really want the bow pointed at the fish because it will be dragging you. Besides, the sleigh ride is one of the fun parts of the deal.
In the beginning of the battle, fighting it off the side leads to the fish taking a lot of line and/or the fish ending up behind you. You're better off going with the fish and letting the boat be the drag. Later in the fight when it isn't going to be taking blistering runs - or if it seems the fish really wants to go visit Mexico - you can put out a drift chute and slug it out.
Over every mountain there is a path, although it may not be seen from the valley
I have heard they are further south in a few numbers. Planning to hangout in Fort Myers for about 10 days next month so hopefully this year is the year.
Hobie Pro Angler 14
"Calling fishing a hobby is like calling brain surgery a job"
Dave, hearing that makes me feel a lot less bad for barely making it out there this summer. Got out a couple times with ideal mornings, but didn't see a single poon. Almost time to start hitting some bay spots though.
