FlatsRoamer

Bob, did not know that. Will definitely give it a try and let you know how that goes... I think slot limits are great, just wish that more people followed them. Also, an estimated 17,000 snook from Florida alone die from mishandling techniques. That isn't very good, especially now when we have a lot more research that shows how to properly how to handle a fish.

So sick!!! Louisiana reds is definitely on the list.

Thanks for all the helpful advice, gents. I will definitely try and apply this when not if I get into a situation where I simply don't know something. Sounds like a good idea to not BS my way out of something and rather come honest and learn something in the process. Poopdeck, that makes perfect sense. I'll try and stay in my "wheelhouse" lol. I remember one time I got a little "too cozy" and decided to sit in a chair behind the register/counter where only employees are allowed... safe to stay I haven't made that mistake again. Also, don't think that I'm taking this lightly, or as summer camp. I am an employee, and I will be professional (heck, might even wear a polo) and not childish or complain about stupid things. This is a job, and it motivates me even more that I am working for some of the best dudes I know, one of my favorite places, and definitely in the industry I am thinking about pursuing. I've already seen how doing a bad job/having a bad relationship with the boss can go south quickly (last summer), and am determined to not let that happen again. Thanks everyone!

Ok guys, so really wanted to make sure this summer (job-wise) was much better than last year. Some of you may remember that it did not go well lol... The Fly Shop of Miami decided to hire me and give me a chance, and I am truly grateful to them for that and everything else they have given me. They have also been buying my flies for over a year now, and have been patient when I wasn't as good at tying and taught me lessons when I needed it or messed up (lots of them). I really want to be good at this job, and I have spent enough time in the shop to know that it will get busy and I will be required to set-up a lot of reels, sell rods, offer advice about everything, call and make orders to companies such as Nautilus, maybe even some casting lessons here and there. Tying nights are also supposed to start up this summer, so I will be expected help with that and assist some of the beginning tiers that need help. Basically, I would really appreciate any help/advice you guys would be willing to share. I've made enough mistakes to know that by making them is the best way to learn, but as you could imagine, if I mess up too much then I could (and should) be fired. I've been tying and learning some new knots (like the Bimini) and refreshing myself on some that haven't used in a while. Also, if any of you guys ever swing by and I happen to be there (I'm 16 y/o... you'll know) make sure to introduce yourself and say hi! Flats

Good stuff Caloosa. I've always thought that pound for pound, mayans fight harder than peacock bass. The problem is that they are invasive and considered a pest amongst many anglers, and they also do not grow to the size of peacocks. Still a cool fish though, of course except when they steal the fly from a fat 5lb peacock...

Something that you should know about FL is that "no fishing zones" are usually good spots. Just use common sense and get there early. Once the beachgoers and snowbirds arrive, it's usually a sign that the snook are going to turn off. Saltybum made a trip there last year I believe, so he may be able to help you out with beach locations. I would focus on throwing heavier baitfish flies in the beach for jacks, ladyfish, trout, etc. Think clousers, deceivers, even a popper if you're seeing action on top. There are plenty of sand fleas in that region, so it may be worth a shot to bounce an imitation on the bottom...

If you want to take your girlfriend fishing one day, consider City Pier in Anna Maria Island. Just across the street is an excellent ice cream shop and a nice beach around it. Also some good fishing, throw spoons and you'll catch a bunch of spanish mackerel. Lots of good memories there...

You may want a decent 8wt for the beach, as it can get pretty windy. However, you're 7wt might get the job done, just practice casting. You're on the west coast so it won't be as bad as over here on the east coast, but still... definitely practice your double haul into the wind. Sometimes if you are blind casting and trying to get a jack, mackerel, bluefish, etc many casts will be required, so also get used to casting a lot. It may be to early for the beach snook run to be in full force, but you should see some. Throw small white flies (Schminnows, DT Special, anything in the #4-#1 area and small, white, and baitfishy...). These are spooky and smart, long leaders (preferably flouro) are helpful, just make sure you don't let them see you and approach them with your shadow going the other way. For the exotics, you will have a blast. I know there are some peacock bass in that area, but they will be scarce and not as plentiful as in South Florida. You will still find all kinds of cichlids, bass, grass carp, etc. I like to throw small clousers with a lot of flash. Just make sure to NOT overthink it. The key to exotic fishing (for me) is simply finding where the fish are holding and/or willing to eat flies. Spend some time on google earth and find some spots to get you started. Good luck on your trip!

Thanks for the kind words Swamp, but don't give me too much credit! If it was just me and a buddy in the skiff, you would find us going anywhere and probably get very lost. That's part of the fun though, except when the mosquitoes roll in at dusk... Capt. Bob, thanks for the advice. I'm not very "fluent" in the spin-fishing world but I am going to try and get better at it, or at least know more about it...

Great report as always Capt. Bob! I regret not doing the triple tail/crab pots thing, but I wasn't too comfortable running offshore of the Everglades with a crappy GPS and not a whole lot of experience... I think I'm doing the right thing there, but next stone crab season I'll definitely try for some TTT's. I was inside around southern WW bay the other day, and we must have missed over 20 snook and a small red. Did end up keeping a smaller trout and a nice mangrove, but those snook just didn't seem to stay on. I was poling and had my buddy and my dad casting into the trees with a 4in soft plastic and a 3-4/0 hook, I was thinking maybe it was too big for these smaller juvenile snook? What would you recommend as a general spin-casting bait for the everglades, targeting snook, reds, baby tarpon, etc. Flats

Ep fibers (deleted content), no need to spend extra for a subpar material Thanks for sharing and hopefully some people pick up on this...

Who needs a Jacuzzi when you can go to the beach during summer? Oh, and the bikinis are out in full force... ))

Islander is located in SWFl... I don't know much about gar, but apparently they are from up north (considering I'm in Miami). Keep in mind that we have a LOT of exotic species down here in South Florida, some invasive and some introduced (like peacock bass). Redtail catfish, arowana, jaguar cichlids, etc have all been caught down here. Florida is awesome...

Nice man! Beautiful fish You're going to hate me a little, but it was 92 degrees earlier this week... and I've never been in snow lol.

We could have kept it, but we were strictly catch and release. The reason salmon are in Chile, is because of all the fish farms. Naturally, some escaped and over time the population has flourished. Nature has a knack of finding her way... However, we did enjoy some farmed salmon at some local restaurants!

Just beware that it is very bendy and thin wired. I had a peacock bass open up a #2 the other day, and he was only around 3lbs. I think you're going to Louisiana right? May want to use something stronger like a mustad or if you like gamakatsu then Sl12s

Yep, been back in the States for a couple weeks now. Although, they almost didn't let me leave (flew back alone, dad stayed for work) and had to go through extensive questioning. It's funny because you see it in the movies but you never think it's going to happen to you lol I was fine though, not sure a 16year old with fly rods and barbless flies would cause much trouble anyways...

Guys, help a brother out and test some flies for him!! Even if you enjoy tying as much as I do, I always enjoy trying new patterns especially if someone is asking me to I'll happy to throw some of those. We have a decent largemouth population, but I know that the firetiger scheme will crush peacock bass (I'm in Miami). Flats

I just saw this and welcome to the forum. Just followed you on IG, I'm @saltflies btw. Good stuff on there! Nice looking bass flies, those look deadly

Thanks, I figured that out after a couple tired lol. Just got a little messy It actually really doesn't matter if there's excess glue. After a couple minutes of fishing they were spot clean... Although probably not good for the environment I must say

What do you fish/tie for? And welcome to the forum!

Good idea with the sharpies on the water. However, I would imagine it would take a couple minutes for the marker to dry or else it'll come off. Sometimes, you only have a couple minutes before the fish leave and whatnot. It is a good idea though, I might try putting some black bars on some peacock bass flies after I see some and seeing how that works out.

Maybe tie something with a dragon tail (or similar), brush, lead eyes. It'll push water and move nicely. 3 materials as well... Don't overthink it

Hahaha! Food was amazing!! Really good meat from a real hand made fire with all the scenery, truly amazing. Puts food in the states to shame really...

Matter of fact I did! A couple browns and the rainbow in the first pic. All on barbless fishskull zonker streamers!