The Tampa Bay Times
Aside from freshwater rivers and ponds where can you find fish that are fly-friendly during our disruptive red tide event? This is especially important to some of our newer arrivals who may not have many contacts with similar fishing interests. We are fortunate in Florida to have many fly fishing clubs. Start by doing a search of your zip code for a fly fishing club near you. Contact one of the officers for further information and go to their next meeting, usually a week evening. The first hour is usually an informal get-together with some members tying flies, a few giving casting instructions and everyone talking fly fishing. After a short business meeting, a guest speaker will present a topic of interest. The following Saturday is usually a fishing trip to local waters where you can join others either wade fishing, using a paddle craft or a flats boat. A lunch break is usually provided where you will hear about the morning’s results. If new to saltwater fly fishing, you will need help with the learning curve and this is the place to get it. Some of the things you may want to know are: do I have suitable fly fishing equipment, how to safely wade fish, the importance of tides, sun protection safety, and are casting instructions available? Some clubs have over 100 active members. Local fly shops will also be recommended for equipment, supplies, and hand-holding during what will be a continuous and enjoyable learning experience.
Fly fisherman Pat Damico charters Fly Guy in lower Tampa Bay and can be reached at captpatdamico.com and (727) 504-8649.
- Capiains Corner. Damico - December 26, 2023
- Pat Damico - December 21, 2023
- CaptainsCorner: Pat Damico - November 27, 2023
