Salt Water Fly Fishing

Salt water fly fishing is an adventure by itself. While traditional fly fishing has been practiced for many years all over the globe, saltwater fly fishing is the new frontier of the sport. More fly fisherman are catching trout one day, then catching saltwater species the next day on the fly.

Saltwater fly fishing can present abundance of fishing environments and species. You might be standing on the deck of a boat polarising for permit fish on the flats or several miles offshore chasing marlin or shark.

Depending on the species and size of fish you are targeting, an 8 or 9 weight rod might do the job. This size will handle most salt water conditions, for larger fish a 10 to 12 weight rods might be used.

Salt water anglers generally use an intermediate and sinking line, so the wave action doesn’t hinder the sinking fly’s ability. Floating lines are also a bit more limited for deeper waters.

When selecting a fly reel, make sure it is good quality as the cheaper ones corrode easier and are not as smooth when the fish is running. A poorer built reel might shake to pieces, or seize up if it gets too hot. The superior quality saltwater fly reels are generally more corrosive resistant to the harsh salt environment as well. Make sure that the size of the reel has enough room for plenty of backing as you might just need it for big fish!

The tide and current can affect the fish’s feeding actions, as it carries small baitfish and marine organisms along with it. Knowing the timetables for the tides can make selecting a fishing time easier, as some species ambush the smaller baitfish on drop offs, heading in and out with the tides.

Another aspect that affects the fish feeding patterns is water temperature. When the water is too hot, some fish head for the deeper thermal layers. If it is too cold, some species are sluggish and don’t feed as aggressively.

To get the most out of your saltwater fly gear, you should clean your equipment after each outing. The salt and sand can be harsh on your reel, line and rod. Use fresh clean water, to rinse off your equipment or give it a wipe with a wet rag after each trip. Leave your fly box open to dry the saltwater flies.

Salt water fly fishing can be taken to the extreme. Like chasing exotic species all over the globe, or just laidback, like catching a salmon of the local beach on a nice day.

While some of the fly fishing gear is a bit more specialised, the rules are the same for ordinary fishing, that is have some fun and if you catch a fish that is a added bonus.