Saltwater Fly Fishing Tackle Advice

Saltwater Fly Fishing Tackle Advice

As the sport of fly fishing continues to become more popular, experienced anglers are trading in their spin casting reels and heavy-duty poles for saltwater fly fishing tackle and going after the big game fish. The flies being used will be determined by the time of year and the species of fish targeted, with the rod and reel being the most important parts of the saltwater fly fishing tackle taken to the ocean.

The cost of quality saltwater fly fishing tackle can be expensive for durable items, with rods ranging from $100 to $500 or more. With most fly fishing rods it is true that you get what you pay for, but for those just starting out fly fishing in salt water, spending a fortune on saltwater fly fishing tackle just to see if you like it is considered foolish. Spending about $100 on a rod will be enough to determine if it is something you want to continue.

When selecting a fly fishing rod, you will want one that is capable of fighting and lifting a heavy fish. Fishing in the deep oceans, it is not unusual to hook a tarpon that can weight between 40 and 150 pounds, something that could spell trouble for smaller rods. Your saltwater fly fishing tackle should include a 10-15 weight rod, about 8.5 to nine-foot long with a bend that goes from the butt to the tip.

Reel Needs To Hold Plenty Of Line

Another important piece of the saltwater fly fishing tackle is the reel and there are many varieties to choose from, including those large enough to hold all the line you might need. Consider that the reel will need to hold between 100 and 300 yards of backing, 15-feet of leader and another 150 yards of 10 to 15 weight line, the reel will need to be larger than those used in mountain streams for trout.

Reel measurements are announced in three areas, the inside and outside diameter of the reel and the width. When choosing saltwater fly fishing tackle, the best reel will be at least three-inches wide and large enough to hold all the line. Additionally, you will want a reel that allows for rapid reeling in, at least 11-inches per revolution of the handle, for when that giant tarpon decides to turn and take a run at your boat.

Tall of your saltwater fly fishing tackle will need to be durable against the harsh environment of fishing in saltwater. Remember, that as the temperature rises, the effects of corrosion on the line and reel will be accelerated.