By Bob Ives
Stopping by the local stream with a spin casting reel, a hook, line,
sinker and bobber doesn’t require much more skill than the ability to
relax. But saltwater fly fishing requires much more skill and technique.
If you want to become great at it, get on the right track with these
basic tips.
- Don't use your freshwater fly fishing gear to go saltwater
fishing. Saltwater is hard on reels and it is best to get a fly reel
that is designed for the job. Additionally, saltwater gear is
typically heavier than freshwater, and you will need a heavier fly
rod (like maybe a 10 weight) and reel to handle bigger fish, bigger
flies and bigger winds. You may want to spend a lot of money on your
prized freshwater gear, so don’t ruin it on the briny. Even with fly
tackle made for saltwater, you should still clean it after a fishing
trip.
- If money is an object, invest the most in the fly fishing rod.
This is where the most action is and you need to be able to count on
it to have more control over casts, flies and fish. An inexpensive
reel will suffice, but a cheap rod will have too much flex in it.
- Invest in good fly fishing line. Cheap fly line won’t last long
and won’t perform well. Casting is the biggest part of this sport
and good line makes the difference. Also, make sure to use a good
line dressing on your fly line and always keep them cleaned up.
- Always keep your rod tip directed down toward the water and
maintain direct contact between the tip and the fly by keeping the
slack in check. Saltwater fish can strike in a flash and you need to
be ready for them. If you have slack in your line, it will be very
hard to set the hook. You will probably have greater success with
the hook set if you keep the fly rod tip down and set the hook by
stripping line from the reel.
- The majority of the time it is best in saltwater fly fishing to
stick with flies that resemble the forage and traditional big game
fish baits, such as injured bait fish, shrimp, and other saltwater
creatures. But it’s also good to keep in mind that if they are not
biting on what usually works; something completely different and out
of the norm may arouse their curiosity enough to inspire a bite.
- Join a fly fishing club. This is especially important if you are
a beginner. You may even have to join a few before you find a good
one, but keep trying. Fly fishing clubs will have all levels of
saltwater fly fishermen, and a beginner and even an intermediate
level angler can learn from the other members. Not only is it fun to
‘hang out’, fish and talk shop the other members, but it gives you a
lot of insight that would take you much longer to achieve on your
own.
Fly fishermen love to stay on top of the latest equipment and how to
use it. This can help you make good choices when purchasing equipment.
If you belong to a club that has tournaments and they fly fish with
partners, your partner is always going to be will to give you tips about
fly casting and using the right flies.
By default, you will learn some great saltwater fly fishing spots. This
can save you an enormous amount of time. Most new anglers know a few
good fishing spots, but by joining a saltwater fly fishing club you will
likely learn more than places to go.
Some clubs even have members that will be willing to teach you the art
of making fly fishing gear and tying flies. If you’re looking for a
hobby, this is as big as the fishing itself.
These aren’t tips you have to work your way up to; you can get started
right away with all of them and be on your way to becoming an
experienced saltwater fly fisherman. |
