Salomone: Essentials for saltwater fly-fishing beginners.
Michael Salomone/Courtesy photo
When fly fishers reach out beyond their comfort zone and embrace saltwater fly fishing, there are numerous saltwater specific rods and reels from which to select. Fly rods are usually fast action, requiring the angler to use speed and timing to enhance casting ability, fight the ever-present winds and push their casting as far as possible. They are also designed to fight saltwater beasts strengthened by tides. Sealed drag fly reels are preferred if not demanded. Beyond the rod and reel, fly fishers rely heavily on an essential set of tools and equipment designed for use in harsh environments.
Travel takes me to a lot of Do-It-Yourself locations where there isn’t a fly shop, bait store or even a Walmart. When circumstances place me in a self-sufficient situation, DIY takes on a whole new meaning. Now it pertains to my equipment and gear, too.
The basic necessities may vary from angler to angler, but for the most part a select set of gear is necessary for success. Any fish in the salt that eats a fly is worthy. Even the common yet brutish jack demands an elevated degree of attention as these fish fight like heavyweights, testing knot strength and drag. Essential tools for saltwater fly fishing help you achieve your goals.
Tools need to perform a few tasks really well. Mediocre equipment can — and will — fail. Line cutters are a necessity. Saltwater lines are often high-pound test requiring sharp edges to cut efficiently. Leaders and tippet need to be tied together with reliable knots that have been practiced or tied repeatedly to hold correctly. Most saltwater pliers have magnificent cutters incorporated into the construction.
Pliers are a must-have tool in the salt. Line cutting and gear maintenance can all be completed with a good set of pliers. They are also used for seating knots down tightly and removing hooks from non-toothy fish. Barracudas and sharks require a hook removal tool, not pliers.
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Coral, tough jaws and repeated exposure to saltwater dulls even the sharpest fly hooks. A small, flat hook file reduces lost fish with a few attentive strokes. Missing a tarpon or snook because your hook doesn’t penetrate crushes your morale.
Terminal lines used to construct leaders and attach bite tippet are not found on the shelf easily when traveling. I rely on a rack of leader and tippet spools to keep me in the game. Monofilament gets replaced yearly. Fluorocarbon lasts indefinitely.
Saltwater has a way of cutting fingers unlike any experience in freshwater. Sand, salt and the strength of the fish combine to make a fly line efficient at slicing. There is a reason saltwater fly fishers have tape on their fingers. Good gloves made for the job exist but friction and time will wear through. Athletic tape is a cheap alternative but don’t count on finding it easily when you arrive — pack some.
Foot protection is often overlooked. Saltwater beaches and flats hide dangers that can ruin a vacation. Jimmy Buffet wasn’t just writing a song when he sang about stepping on a pop top and limping on back home. Glass, rusted metal and hooks give me all the reason to take care of my feet. Coral is sharp. Sand burrs between your toes hurt. Rocks can shred cheap booties. Invest in a reliable pair of flats boots. You will be glad you did.
We are slinging hooks through the air in unpredictable winds, and thus, sunglasses are a must. Eye protection should not be an afterthought. Polarized lenses are necessary to cut through surface glare and enhance sight fishing opportunities. Purchase a pair of sunglasses with purpose. A headache induced by squinting through cheap glasses is preventable.
Coming from altitude, where sunlight damages skin easily, prompts Coloradans to wear sunscreen. That same mentality needs to carry over to the beach. Faces and feet are two places where a little attention goes a long way.
A good bottle capable of keeping water cool can save an outing. Some bottles allow water to heat up. Drinking warm water in the heat can make you nauseous.
Saltwater will ruin your fly fishing gear. A functional pack makes for an efficient angler. Waterproof is key. Whether it is a backpack, waist pack or sling, keeping important items dry in a harsh environment is a necessity.
From the freshwater to the saltwater, some things are just essential.
Michael Salomone has lived in the Eagle River valley since 1992. He started his professional guiding career in 2002 and currently guides for Vail Valley Anglers. He lives on the bank of the Eagle River with his wife, Lori, his youngest daughter, Ella, and a yellow Labrador named Poppy. His published writing has appeared in Southwest Fly Fishing, Fly Rod & Reel, Eastern Fly Fishing, On the Fly, FlyLords, the Pointing Dog Journal, Upland Almanac, TROUT, American Fly Fishing, USA Today Hunt & Fish and Fly Fisherman magazines.
