Chasing well-known salt water or brackish water fish isn't terribly complicated, but being prepared for the experience can make the endeavor more rewarding.
In North America, fly anglers are blessed with ready access to three coasts and a bounty of salt water fly fishing targets ranging from salmon in the Northwest, stripers and blues in the northeast and bonefish, redfish, tarpon and even bill fish ranging from the Mid-Atlantic region down the coast and into the Gulf of Mexico. Couple the sheer breadth of the North American coastline with ready plane access to Mexico and the Carribbean, and salt water fly fishing afficianodos have limitless choices.
Ask any angler who casts a fly into the salt--the fish in these waters are simply tougher. They fight harder, they last longer and they'll test even the stoutest fly tackle. Inland anglers who ply the backcountry for trout or bass will be surprised at the sheer power salt water fish display.
Here are some tips to ensure basic preparedness when casting in salt water:
- Make sure you have the proper gear. Redfish, bonefish and permit, as well as stripers and bluefish can be pursued with a 7-weight rod, minimum, and an 8-weight is likely more appropriate. Don't skimp on price--in salt water fly fishing, you truly do get what you pay for.
- Reels are vastly more important in salt water angling than they are in fresh water fishing, largely because the fish are much more powerful. Shop around for a good titanium-based reel and, again, don't skimp on the price. Bonefish and permit will run into the backing, and traditional reels often seize up or simply fall apart under the pressure.
- Take care of yourself. You will need sunscreen, regardless of the weather. Light, long-sleeved shirts are also best, and quick-dry clothing helps. Hats and polarized sunglasses should be considered required accessories, not optional.
- If you're fishing from a boat, go barefoot or wear deck shoes. Don't wear shoes with laces or Velcro straps--they'll catch piles of fly line and hinder the cast. If you're wading, wear good beach shoes or sandals with toe protection. Beaches or flats, sadly, can hide broken bottles or spiny (and sometimes venomous) fish anglers just don't want to step on.
- After a day on the water, wash your gear--rods, reels, hemostats, clippers--anything that might have touched salt water--with clean freshwater. Salt will erode even the best equipment.
- Be prepared for inclement weather--wind and rain can be tolerated with the proper clothing.
- Don't forget a camera--preferably a digital waterproof model.
Most fly fishers with reasonable casting and angling skills can enjoy success on salt water, but being prepared for the fish, the elements and sheer size of the salt water environment will ensure a better experience.
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