Most people think that Miami means deep sea fishing, with fast boats taking people out of sight of land to catch giant sailfish or tuna. However, Miami fly fishing charters take people inland to the salt flats, to freshwater canals, or to sheltered bays. Fishermen also find the adventure of casting into the surf an exciting challenge.
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.
Tackle needs to be different when the prey is a large striped bass or redfish. Reels and hooks need to be made for saltwater, which is very corrosive. Lines need to be heavier, which works since the movement of the waves help conceal the thicker line from the prey. Wet flies are used, since the lure works near the bottom rather than on the surface.
Technique needs adjustment, as well. It takes more force to cast against on-shore winds and to place a fly on distant waves that may conceal fish. This more aggressive approach is matched by the greater fight that many ocean species can put up against the pull of a hook and line.
Guides take their clients to Biscayne Bay, Flamingo, the Keys, or to Everglades National Park. They know the best spots for seasonal sport. Although there are many permanent fish, there are also migratory species that give great sport when they’re around. A boat trip includes a license, ice to preserve food fish that will be kept, tackle, and an experienced guide. Guests bring their own food, water, drinks, sunhats, sunscreen and protective clothing, and cameras. They also absolutely have to have a good pair of polarized sunglasses, since the glare off the water is murderous.
Florida provides excellent fishing all year long. Some species of game fish are seasonal, but many spend their whole lives in Biscayne Bay, Everglades National Park, or in the ocean off the beaches of the mainland and the Keys. The inland flats attract many fish that also live in the sea. Catching a shark in the surf will make a great story back home.
It’s fun to explore the online sites that concern the fish, the waters, the scenery, the skills to be used or learned, and the memories that can be made in southern Florida. Magazine articles posted online can open up new avenues for even experienced fly fishers to explore. Apparently stalking the elusive and shy permit, an ocean fish that comes to the flats to feast on crustaceans, is a life experience to be coveted, while actually catching one is a great achievement.
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.
You can visit www.gladesoutfitters.com for more helpful information about The Thrill Of Miami Fly Fishing.
