Saltwater Fly Fishing
Venturing into saltwater fly fishing can open your eyes up to a whole new experience
beyond any other. It is the new frontier.
While saltwater fly fishing has been practiced by some pioneers for many years, it has only
recently become more main stream for more fly fisherman. Great saltwater fly fishing can also be found in the
Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Texas and Florida. Internationally, the places are limitless. Places like New
Zealand, Argentina, England and Australia are great places to get away.
Saltwater fly fishing can offer plenty of variety in species and environments. You might be wading in the tropical
flats for bonefish, beach fishing for salmon. Also you may be standing on the deck of a boat polaroiding for permit
fish or seven miles offshore hunting billfish, like marlin and sailfish.
The best length of fly rods to use would be those in the 9 foot range. Some fly fishers use shorter rods, however,
there is less leverage when playing a big fish. Fly rods 9 feet or longer, have an advantage on flats and
beaches, where long casts may be needed.
The most versatile saltwater rod size would be about an 8 or 9 weight rod. This will handle most
situations.While 10 to 12 weight fly rods are used for the big game fish, such as tuna, shark and billfish.
If you only have a trout rod like a 6 or 7 weight rod this is enough to get started, but I would not recommend any
lighter unless you are chasing smaller targeted saltwater fish.
When choosing your line, it is certainly a matter of preference. Some people like to have brighter colored
lines for easier visibility while others think its important to blend in when it comes to the line, so the fish
wont shy away from it. Intermediate and sinking lines are the choice for saltwater. While floating lines are more
limited for depth and the wave action can make it difficult to cast.
When considering reels, the quality of the reel and the drag system is important. With the possibility of
landing some big fish, a cheaper reel might shake to pieces, or seize up. Better quality saltwater reels are
generally more corrosive resistant to the salt water as well. Dont forget to have extra length of backing on the
reel, you might just need it!
When you are saltwater fly fishing, the current and tidal action can dictate the fishs feeding actions. The tidal
movements carry in different types of marine life that live in the channels as the tides roll in and out. Knowledge
of the tides is essential to making a fishing trip safe and productive. Some species of fish will ambush bait fish
on the incoming and out going tides. Especially around drop offs, which is a good place to start searching.
Water temperature is another factor in saltwater fly fishing. When it is too cold, the fish are sluggish,
when it is too warm, the fish are going to the cool spots and deeper water.
Cleaning your gear should be a priority with salt water fishing. As sand and the salt can play havoc with
your reel, line and rod. When the salt dries, it leaves a coating of crystals on your runners and line, slowing
down and wearing your equipment out. Use fresh water, to rinse off your equipment, after each trip.
Saltwater fly fishing isnt for everyone, but it can be a great way to experience a different aspect of the
sport. If you are looking for a challenge, fly fishing in saltwater is it. Exotic locations, the opportunity
to explore untouched waters and the chance to land a trophy fish, surely saltwater fly fishing is worth giving it a
cast!
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