Saturday, March 15, 2014

The Thrill Of 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.

Fly-fishermen have such a large selection of places to go and fish to catch that a lifetime might be too short. Just learning how to use both light and heavy tackle, cast into both quiet and turbulent water, and entice large, strong fish that live in the ocean as well as smaller fish like mackerel that populate the freshwater lakes and canals takes time and dedication. Fishing, after all, is more about the experience than the catch.

Saltwater tackle is made of different materials, since saltwater is very corrosive to metal. Fish in the ocean are often heavier, larger, and stronger than freshwater fishes, so hooks also need to be stronger. Line needs to be heavier, which is OK since the movement of the waves helps to keep it from being noticed by the fish. Wet flies are used rather than dry, since the lure will be set on the bottom rather than perched on top of the water.

Surf fishing means learning how to be more aggressive when casting into waves, fighting strong currents, and coping with in-shore winds. Waders are recommended to combat the chill of sea water, with non-slip boots for sometimes treacherous footing off the shore. For atmosphere, think about surf casting in the evening light, with the brilliant skyline of the city behind you.

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.

It's absolutely true that there's no time of year when the fish aren't biting in Florida waters. It's a year-round sport which is especially nice when winter months bring cooler temperatures and the sun is a friend rather than a threat. There are always different species of food and game fish, as well as places to go, for many different experiences.

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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