How to Salt Water Fly Fish

Fly fishing requires casting a line with an artificial fly on the hook. Often viewed as an art, fisherman spend years perfecting their fly casts. While most commonly used on lakes and rivers, adventurous fisherman fly fish in the ocean as well. Since saltwater fly fishing targets larger fish, a heavier line is necessary. When you saltwater fly fish, you can catch a bevy of different fish, including tuna, bonefish, salmon, marlin, striped bass and sailfish.

Things You'll Need

  • Fly fishing rod
  • Fishing line
  • Wet flies
  • Lure
  • Waders
  • Wading boots
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Pick a fishing spot. While you can salt water fly fish in any ocean, it's best to scout areas that are known for their fishing, such as Seattle, San Diego and Fort Lauderdale. Many areas even have designated fly fishing spots. For beginners, bays will offer calmer waters, making for good learning spots.

    • 2

      Choose a sturdy rod. Whereas many fly fishermen use light, flexible rods while fishing rivers, you need a heavy rod to withstand turbulent ocean waters. The rod also needs to be strong enough to stand up against large, brawny fish.

    • 3

      Opt for thick fishing line. Thin fishing line is generally preferred so fish cannot see it but you need thicker fishing line in the ocean. The waves help to disguise the thicker line, making it more difficult for the fish to spot it.

    • 4

      Buy saltwater reels and hooks. Saltwater is incredibly corrosive to metal. In addition to resisting corrosion, saltwater hooks and reels are also made to handle large fish.

    • 5

      Invest in a pair of fishing waders. Most saltwater fly fishing is done from the shore, with the fisherman wading into the water. High-quality waders cover your body from your chest down to your feet, protecting your body from cold and wetness. Wear specialty wading boots over the waders to avoid slipping on slick rocks.

    • 6

      Use wet flies rather than dry flies. Saltwater fish respond better to wet flies since they resemble bait fish.

    • 7

      Try different casting techniques. Saltwater's turbulence will require changes in your casting technique, such as a more powerful release of the line. This will ensure your line gets enough distance in the waves. You may need to use a hook-free lure to draw fish to your area.

    • 8

      Rinse all your fishing equipment with clean water before storing it. If you store it with saltwater on it, your equipment will be greatly damaged.