Fly Fishing

flybuckaroo

Next week I will be heading to Texas to wade fish for redfish, I have a guide going and did my homework and what I need but then again I've never been fishing in the salt before, Is there anything that I would need while out fishing that most new guys don't think of? I have the basics, rod, flies, glasses, hat, wading shoes, boca grip. just wondering what else is nice to have while on the water? thanks

72Twenty · Location: Wyoming

I am by no means a salt water veteran (I live in Wyoming), but in my few trips to the salt I have learned a few things as far as what to take. I fished near Corpus Christi last summer.

Get one of those high-quality waterproof boxes for your phone/camera/license, etc. They are great for keeping salt water off of these things.

Also... GET A BUFF. Nothing else works like them; they are great for keeping the sun off of your neck, face, ears, etc. Even if you do have a good hat.

If you are with a guide, you may not need to carry all of your flies, tippet, etc. (or maybe you do), but a small/light sling pack works well for me. I have a William Joseph Equinox and it is just the right size for carrying a moderate amount of gear but light enough to not be too bulky or hot. I like the big back pocket for a water bottle and even a light shell jacket.

I also suggest wearing light long pants and flats style shoes/boots that go over the ankle. You may step on sharp stuff and also possibly encounter jelly fish. I find that it is best to keep the skin covered.

Be sure to shuffle your feet when wading. In Texas you will probably get into some grassy/muddy bottom where you can't really see where you are stepping. You DON'T want to step on a ray. I was told multiple times to shuffle my feet and not take big steps. Also, try not to walk backwards if you can help it.

Another tip I have been told (and it was a big help) was to overweight your line to your rod. For example, use a 9wt line if you have an 8wt rod. It helps with casting, especially in the wind. It also helps to fully stretch out your line before heading out. One of my guide friends told me to tie off my line to a tree or something and pull on the other end and stretch it out as much as possible.

Again, I am no salt water expert, but these are a few things that I found to be helpful for me and my occasional trips to the salt.

Good luck and have fun!!!

kory_k · Location: New York, NY

A stripping basket can be extremely helpful, but I don't think a lot of guys use them down there although I know it would work quite well. It keeps your line out of your feet and makes it much easier to control it while casting. They also work great in the boat especially if it is windy.