Saltwater Fly Fishing

[jdwrn4]

We are leaving Friday for South Carolina. In the last year or so I have realy goten into fly fishing. I am planning on bringing my 8 weight down with us to do some fishing from the shore and hopefully from a boat if i am lucky. I was wondering if any one on here has any experience with saltwater fishing from the beach and if they had any advice or me. I know that there the normal species, red fish, sea trout and so on but were we are staying there is also a decent population of bonnet heads, i would really like to catch one of them if possible. Any help is appreciated,

thanks jdwrn4

[Jason R.]

I am about to try the same thing down in Gulf Shores, AL. Last year I caught a few reds and ladyfish from the beach- but mostly with my spinning rod on jigs and plastics. This year I am bringing my 9wt with a Rio Outbound sink tip line- I couldn't cast very well into the wind last year so I think this setup will help. I have researched a bit and I plan on throwing large clousers, shrimp patterns and deceivers. I think the idea is to look for any structure on the beach and fish around it and be on the lookout for and fish or bird activity. I am still going to bring my spinning rod in case my Dad and brother are out fishing me and I can't stand it.

[Flysmallie]

Took an 8wt to Gulf Shores last year and had a blast with the ladyfish. Only used clousers but never had an issue hooking up with one each morning. We must have been down at the same time because the wind sucked. But it didn't matter to the fish.

Fish the edges of the deeper cuts that run farther in and watch the birds. It's a blast. One month to go and I'll be at it again.

[marcusearlt]

I'd really practice your double haul and your strike sets, two things that in my opinion are very important in the salt. Clousers and little shrimp flies are all you will probably need, make sure your hooks are sharp.

[Justin Spencer]

I have caught several bonneheads in the keys and they cruise around at the surface on the flats. I'm sure there are some patterns on the internet for them I would think a cuda type tube fly would be the ticket. Fun to catch and good eating for sure, take a little wire for a tippet if targeting them specifically.

[jdwrn4]

thanks for all the help we leave tomorrow wish me luck

thanks jdwrn4

[Jason R.]

Just got back from Gulf Shores- caught several flounder, a pompano and a ladyfish- also got a wicked sunburn.

[Kayser]

Headed to Marco Island in late June, might have my 8wt finished by then. Worth taking it?

[Feathers and Fins]

3wt for the first and second troughs throwing out a shrimp or crap imitation was always fun for me, Flounder, Whitefish and Pompano this time of year on the Atlantic. If Jacks, Tarpon and Redfish are possible target then an 8wt with a Cloz or a Shrimp imitation work.

If you are going with a spinner or baitcaster you will want to rig up a "fish finder rig" and try and hit the 3rd trough if one is there or find the channels by watching and reading the water.

As for Marco Island I only have two words ( Back Country ) God on the 8th day said let there be the back country for anglers to appreciate me and spend time with me, let it be plentiful in bounty and bring peace to all's hearts. It is one of the few things I miss about Florida