FLY FISHING THE INSHORE SALTWATER FLATS

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I jokingly refer to fly fishing as an expensive way to catch less fish. But it is absolutely the most rewarding way to catch many saltwater species. Sometimes fish will turn down everything you throw at them. But the natural, weightless, flowing presentation of a fly always triggers a reaction. It's the next level of your angling career.

A skiff is a boat that floats in very shallow water and allows us as guides to "push" or "pole" you through the flats as silently as possible. That way we can sneak up on these fish and get you in range to make a great cast. It's like hunting, where you are stalking your target waiting for that perfect moment to strike. There is nothing more exciting than a skinny water eat and long run!

Not really. It's like going from riding a bicycle to riding a motorcycle. Kind of the same but also drastically different. But it is incredibly rewarding and with some simple tips and patience you can get it down rather quickly. I help a lot of clients out with tips while we are out on the water. I also offer lessons if you are thinking about getting into it. I can definitely show you the basics.

The biggest difference between an inshore sight fishing charter with spinning gear and one with a fly rod is patience. There is little to no "blind casting" with the fly. You are diligently waiting for a fish to show themselves and then it's time to make the perfect cast. Most times you will miss more than you catch. But the ones we land are more than enough fuel to keep us going!

Boy do they ever! Tarpon, like snook, love to feed up from underneath the bait. The love to see a weightless fly just running away from them and chasing it down. They are some of the most aggressive eats you will see and feel. 

Fly fishing for tarpon is an absolute thrill and a bit of a grind. Throwing an 11wt all day is not for the uninitiated. There will be Advil and a few beverages in the future! 

Start with finding a great local fly shop. They will be your best resource through your fly fishing journey. If you are local to the Tampa area, then I suggest Tailwater Outfitters in Clearwater. They are hands down the best outfitter in the state, The next step would be getting a lesson to see if it's something you will like. 

After that its time to open the wallet and start buying some equipment and then using it. Practice, practice, practice!