Pirogue: The Trinidad and Tobago Tarpon Tournament is a trick-taking game inspired by big game Tarpon fishing in the warm, blue waters of Trinidad and Tobago. The name of the game references the local hand-made flat-bottom wood boats used for fishing in the shallows of the surrounding Caribbean and Atlantic waters.
The play of Pirogue will be challenging play and good fun for gamers who enjoy games such as Tichu, Sticheln, Pinochle, Mü & Mehr, Spades, or Oh Hell! The game will also be a great companion for sportsmen who want to play a card game which couples concentration and skill with the same sense of anticipation and suspense found in a real big game fishing tournament.
One of the most important things for the first-time Pirogue player to learn is the abilities of the SPECIAL cards. Each SPECIAL card adds a different and subtle tactical twist to the game. Some cards even have different strengths depending on whether the card is the lead card in the trick or a following card.
Unique to Pirogue is the HOOK card. The HOOK card is a unique trick-taking device specific to the game. The HOOK card addresses the unpredictability and surprise found in sport fishing while adding another level of tactical play. The HOOK card also assists in removing the predictable run of the table for the strongest of hands because even the lowest SUITED card is a dangerous threat. Recognizing the strength of a well balanced hand over what may seem like a traditionally strong hand is an important part of understanding Pirogue play and key to successfully making a bid.
Also distinctive to Pirogue is linked play between partnerships and individuals. In big game fishing tournaments, prizes are awarded for both best boat and best angler. The game of Pirogue is played in partnerships called Pirogues as well as by individual players called Anglers. Pirogues and Anglers compete in an intertwined, and sometimes entangled, opposition to win Game Trophies that count towards taking home the ultimate prize: The Trinidad & Tobago Tarpon Tournament Trophy!