Friday, March 21, 2014

Year Round Miami Fly Fishing

By Gwen Lowe


Talk about Florida fishermen and most people will probably think of groups of tourists on the flying deck of a fast boat racing out to deep sea waters in search of giant tuna or sailfish. However, Miami fly fishing trips take people to inland salt flats, Biscayne Bay, the Everglades National Park, Flamingo, or the Keys. There are also canal systems throughout Florida that present good fishing opportunities.

The prey is both freshwater and saltwater species. Although casting an artificial fly into the quiet waters of a lake takes tackle and techniques that are different from the equipment and skills needed to fish in the surf, many sportsmen enjoy both challenges. Since the experience is just as important as the catch, both the peace of a quiet shore and the exhilaration of the waves make for memorable times on the water.

Tackle needs to be different when the prey is a large striped bass or redfish. Reels and hooks need to be made for saltwater, which is very corrosive. Lines need to be heavier, which works since the movement of the waves help conceal the thicker line from the prey. Wet flies are used, since the lure works near the bottom rather than on the surface.

Technique needs adjustment, as well. It takes more force to cast against on-shore winds and to place a fly on distant waves that may conceal fish. This more aggressive approach is matched by the greater fight that many ocean species can put up against the pull of a hook and line.

A chartered trip comes with boat, tackle, ice, license, and expertise. Guides know the best fishing spots, which change according to the season, the weather, and the presence of migratory species. They also have the knowledge to help visitors catch trophy fish. The tour guests bring their own food, drinks, lots of water, sun hats, sunscreen, and cameras. The most important thing to take along is a good pair of polarized sunglasses, since the glare of the sun off the water can actually be harmful after a few hours.

Florida provides excellent fishing all year long. Some species of game fish are seasonal, but many spend their whole lives in Biscayne Bay, Everglades National Park, or in the ocean off the beaches of the mainland and the Keys. The inland flats attract many fish that also live in the sea. Catching a shark in the surf will make a great story back home.

If you need more incentive, read up on stalking the elusive and easily-spooked permit, an ocean fish that comes to the inland flats to feed on crabs. This is considered by many to be the ultimate challenge of saltwater fly casting, since the fish must be stalked, enticed, and finally hooked. Of course, catch and release is practiced by most sportsmen these days, especially with this great game fish.

If you think that Miami means catching fish from the flying bridge of a deep sea boat, you are missing a whole world of sport. Check out what anglers are doing in Florida waters for amazing new visions and adventures just waiting to broaden your horizons.




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