Saltwater Fly Fishing

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 it’s important to blend in when it comes to the line, so the fish won’t 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. Don’t 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 fish’s 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 isn’t for everyone, but it can be a great way to experience a different aspect of the sport.  If you’re 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!