What To Bring When You Fish With Us
Most fly fishing for red fish is done with an 8 weight rod and reel. Here in South Louisiana theres not much to block the wind and since we do most of our fly fishing in open unprotected waters we tend to use 9 and 10 weight rods to combat the wind.
Much of our fly fishing is done in cold water in the winter months; therefore cold water fly lines are recommended in these months. Red fish don't have the best eyesight so they are not leader shy. Since reds aren't leader shy we use 30 and 40 lb. short 5-7 foot leaders to help our heavy eyed flies turn over into the wind, Fancy tapered leaders are not needed at all!
The greatest thing about reds is they are not picky eaters. As long as they can see the fly they will usually attempt to eat it. As far as flies go, we use dark flies in dirty water and bright and natural color flies in clean water. It is good to have an assortment of both color combo's. "The heavier the weight of the fly the better". Tie your own flies with heavy eyes so they will sink fast. Most bait fish, crab, shrimp and any other critter patterns will work with a well placed fly and some good stripping to the fish.
Clothes
The bugs can be bad at times in the South East Louisiana Marsh so long pants & long sleeves are recommended. some type of Buff face mask and fishing gloves will help as well. Our guides will not always have bug spray on the boat, so if you want it you need to pack it in your bag. Rain gear will not be provided as well so pack your rain gear as well just in case. Expect long boat rides from 30 mins to an hour in an out from the flats. When its cold ( October - March ) you need to make sure you bring cold weather gear that will keep you warm on those long boat rides. It is best to dress in layers because it is not uncommon to go through a 30 degree temp change throughout a fishing day.
Polarized Sun Glasses
As essential as your pants are you sun glasses ! The key to sight fishing is seeing the fish so its imperative that you have quality glasses, we use Smith Optics with copper and amber lenses. But any quality polarized glass will work as long as there Polarized with copper lenses.
Fishing License Information
- Louisiana: If you are coming from out-of-state, please make arrangements to obtain a 3-day non-resident license (Code 79) before you arrive. It costs $8.00, and can be purchased by calling toll free: 1-888-765-2602 (operators standing by 24/7; Visa or M/C only). You will receive a confirmation number, please make sure you bring it along with you on the trip.You can also purchase the license online by going to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ website.