Frequently asked questions

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An 8-10WT saltwater rod will suite you well, with a 9' 9WT serving as the jack of all trades. For most shore fishing a clear intermediate line will have you covered, for deeper spots a sink tip or full sinking line will be beneficial. For a leader, 9 feet of fluro or mono terminating with 20lb tippet works well.

If you can see the bait, match the hatch. When in doubt, clousers and deceivers (4-6 inches) are a good bet. I like olive over white, chartreus over white, white and gray. In low light conditions don't be afraid to throw an all black pattern. Dragging an olive crab pattern along a sandy beach requires patience, but can lead to a surprising tug on the other end.

When  using a single hand retrieve, 18-28 inches with different cadence, strip strip pause.... strip pause... strip strip strip... is a good starting point. I often use an overhand retrieve with the rod placed under my arm, using both hands to "swim" the fly. If a fish is following your fly, DON'T STOP, keep moving it. If a fish rejects your fly, cast back out and try a different retrieve, then consider a fly change.

Think about this even before you make your first cast. If you landing a fish will require dragging it up over rocks find someplace else to fish. You will be doing the fish a favor and keeping yourself safe. Land fish quickly, keep the fish in the water whenever possible, and revive tired fish. To revive a fish, support its stomach an hold its tail, keeping it fully in the water.  Avoid moving the fish forward and backward unnecessarily.