The challenge and niche gear selection of the fly world is pretty remarkable. I'm a spin guy for exactly the reasons you mention, I'm rushing to and from places and the ability to tie on almost any bait and catch (in florida) anything from a peacock bass to a grouper on the same set up is worth the lack of mental devotion. I'm also the stalwart who carried a long bow or kentucky long rifle for deer and refused to use a tree stand, opting to belly crawl through palmetto thickets and come home empty.
My first crevalle jack. I was shocked at how hard it fought. I don’t deep-water fish and do not have a watercraft, so saltwater is tough fishing for me. In 2025, I have hooked up with a Captain who specializes in baby tarpon and snook on the fly. I am optimistic that I’ll check one of both off my bucket list.
I can imagine saltwater is tougher so hence why I was intrigued to ask. You inspire me my friend. I cannot wait to hear about your 2025 adventures. I maybe moving down to FL so I am sure I will need your fishing expertise to help guide me in such unknown territory for myself.
I have a great list of vetted Captains for SW Florida I can share. Also, I highly recommend one if the first species you go after is peacock bass in the Everglades. I have an amazing Captian (Debbie Hanson) who will put you on peacocks.
Joe Mahler in Fort Myers is a nationally renowned casting instructor. He is a friend and I have taken a few lessons from him. He is actually affordable. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=MvaTGTmbSUw
The challenge and niche gear selection of the fly world is pretty remarkable. I'm a spin guy for exactly the reasons you mention, I'm rushing to and from places and the ability to tie on almost any bait and catch (in florida) anything from a peacock bass to a grouper on the same set up is worth the lack of mental devotion. I'm also the stalwart who carried a long bow or kentucky long rifle for deer and refused to use a tree stand, opting to belly crawl through palmetto thickets and come home empty.
We all are purists on something. It shows you have real passion for the art of deer hunting.
I’ve been known to cast a spinning rod from time to time, but I get what you’re saying.
I also want to buy a bamboo rod to enhance the experience, but so far my wife has said no.
Whats the most prized fish you have caught in the ocean on your fly rod?
My first crevalle jack. I was shocked at how hard it fought. I don’t deep-water fish and do not have a watercraft, so saltwater is tough fishing for me. In 2025, I have hooked up with a Captain who specializes in baby tarpon and snook on the fly. I am optimistic that I’ll check one of both off my bucket list.
I can imagine saltwater is tougher so hence why I was intrigued to ask. You inspire me my friend. I cannot wait to hear about your 2025 adventures. I maybe moving down to FL so I am sure I will need your fishing expertise to help guide me in such unknown territory for myself.
I have a great list of vetted Captains for SW Florida I can share. Also, I highly recommend one if the first species you go after is peacock bass in the Everglades. I have an amazing Captian (Debbie Hanson) who will put you on peacocks.
I would love that! Now I just need to get better at casting lol
Joe Mahler in Fort Myers is a nationally renowned casting instructor. He is a friend and I have taken a few lessons from him. He is actually affordable. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=MvaTGTmbSUw
I would love to grab his info as well. Thank you!