Fly fishing in saltwater has developed fast in the last few years. The bass fishermen have been using flies in the clear water off the UK coastline for some time now but lately the lure of the bonefish has been strong. in saltwater is mainly focussed on bonefish fishing which has its appeal in that it takes place in tropical paradises and if you can cast a fly you will catch bonefish which are strong fighters which get into double figures. The fisherman wades in crystal clear water over the flats just off the mangrove swamps searching for bonefish-with a guide who will see them long before the fisherman. As you wade all sorts of rays and sharks amble by! The weighted fly is cast in front of the bonefish and then retrieved-you soon know if one grabs it! In only a few feet of water you can catch permit up to10lb, jack travally up to 15lb and tarpon up to 100lbs! You will need a hat that protects your neck from the sun and some good Polaroid sunglasses to spot the fish. It is also a good idea to get some wading shoes to ensure you don’t step on anything that is sharp or stings-although these are very rare. These can all be bought online.
Saltwater flies for bonefish are readily available in the UK- some imitate prawns, others crabs, but leave it to the expertise of the boatman to chose when you get to your desired location - he will often have some of his own.
There are venues were you can combine a fantastic beach holiday for the family with in saltwater on the flats - one is Caya Major in Cuba- but fix up the fishing before you go since fishing is usually booked for a week. Some destinations can rent you rods and reels but you can take your own- check with the tour operator There are several companies specialising in in saltwater all over the tropics. Since you can saltwater fly fish in March and April- a trip can be a fantastic pick-me-up after a British winter.
The Bahamas and the Florida Keys are great, as well as venues in the Eastern oceans such as the Seychelles. Saltwater fish seem to be the same across the tropical oceans. in saltwater in the tropics is a must have experience - a combination of and a holiday.
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