http://www.tampabay.com/sports/outdoors/captains-corner-as-weather-and-water-warm-use-the-correct-fly-line/2283331
Your fly pattern is very important, but not putting the fly in the proper location is even more instrumental for success. If casting with your normal setup is giving you poor results, your fly line is probably the culprit because of much warmer weather and especially water. One well known fly line company makes more than 1,000 different fly lines for a good reason. In the spring when gulf water temperatures were in the low 60s a line that performed perfectly will not do the same now when the same water temperature is above 85. I see this frequently with clients from northern states and find they are trying to cast line that behaves like limp spaghetti. A line that performed perfectly for striped bass in New York in the spring will be a disaster now. Some fly lines will have designations such as tropic or warm weather on the box. Fly fishing guides understand this and will have the proper lines on their reels. When clients are having difficulty with the equipment they brought with them, I frequently give them a reel to use with a suitable line on their rod that they feel comfortable with. This will restore their confidence and go a long way to eliminate their frustration resulting in a successful day.
Fly fisherman Pat Damico runs charters in lower Tampa Bay and can be reached at captpat.com and (727) 504-8649.
Capt. Pat Damico, fully licensed and insured guide, specializing in light tackle and fly fishing in Tampa Bay and surrounding area. Master Certified Fly Casting Instructor with International Federation of Fly Fishers, who teaches and writes articles on fly casting and fly fishing. Tied flies and fly fished since age 10 with years of fresh and saltwater experience. Past Area Coordinator for Florida, Mississippi and Alabama for Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing. Active member of TBFFC and Suncoast Fly Fishers clubs. Frequent radio guest and fishing companion of Capt. Mel Berman.
- Capiains Corner. Damico - December 26, 2023
- Pat Damico - December 21, 2023
- CaptainsCorner: Pat Damico - November 27, 2023
