The best saltwater fly fishing gear can withstand the sun and spray for a more productive and enjoyable day on the water.
For most people, fly fishing conjures up memories of crystal clear mountain streams and rainbow-colored trout sucking in tiny flies. But fly fishing can encompass so much more than just chasing stealth trout – if you can catch it with a traditional spinning rod, you can catch it with a fly rod, whether largemouth bass in fresh water or the abundance of fierce fish. in salt water. It’s in the ocean that you’ll find some of the fly fisherman’s toughest challenges, as the quarry can range from fast and strong yellowfin tuna to tough bonefish.
Although these are just a few examples of the hundreds of species of saltwater fish available to avid anglers, to properly track fish that live in the sea with a fly rod, you need equipment similar to your usual freshwater fly fishing setup. . But there are special items and sturdier upgrades you’ll need to take on bigger, tougher saltwater dwellers.
We’ve rounded up some of the best saltwater fly fishing gear to buy right now.
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1. G. Loomis NRX+ Fly T2S Fly Rod
Upgrade your quiver this year to reach more saltwater fish with the recently released G. Loomis NRX+ Fly T2S fly rod. It’s handcrafted in Washington State using a unique blend of materials and technologies designed to increase casting distance without compromising the delicacy needed to stick short casts. Titanium guides and an aluminum reel seat protect against corrosive seawater.
Take a piece of art with you on your next tarpon trip with Abel’s new Rove Series reel. Not only is it a total look, but it uses Abel’s super smooth cork drag system that can be used on the beach or on a boat. This high capacity, ultra-durable reel can become your one and only saltwater killer.
Hitting through bays in skiffs brings a lot of salt spray to your face. Throw your gear in Fishpond’s Thunderhead Submersible Backpack to ensure nothing gets soaked, in the boat or on the flats. The fully waterproof pack offers plenty of exterior attachment points and includes gear straps for attaching a fly rod tube.
It’s always handy to have a knife by your side when fishing, and the Spyderco Pacific Salt is the one you want on the ocean. Clip this bright green blade into your pocket and the ultra-corrosion-resistant LC200N special steel (available fully serrated or with a plain edge) will handle any fishy task without rusting or breaking down over time.
Removing hooks from saltwater fish can be more difficult than with a typical freshie, so attach Simms’ Flyweight Plier to release your catch cleanly. Anodized aluminum construction keeps corrosion away, and the ergonomic design lets you easily maneuver the textured jaws into tight mouths.
Fly fishing on the coast means being bombarded with relentless rays all day long, which is why light and airy protection like the Howler Brothers Loggerhead Hoodie is essential. Made from 50% recycled polyester and rated UPF 35+, this hoodie features a microfiber-lined stash pocket, kangaroo pocket and thumbholes for hand protection.
When the sun beats down relentlessly on flat terrain, it’s nice to have the legs and the tops of the feet covered with a physical barrier. Enter the Orvis pants. Not only do they offer 50+ UPF protection, they’re treated with a water-repellent coating to keep them dry all day and use a soft, four-way stretch fabric to ensure any movement on board is comfortable and hassle-free. restriction.
For a more secure position on a rocking boat, switch from barefoot to the new SeaKnit boat shoes from Grundens. They have a non-marking gum rubber outsole with sipes for slip-resistant quality, as well as a shock-absorbing EVA midsole to provide your dogs with all-day comfort. The upper is a seamless, breathable nylon knit treated for lightweight water resistance.