SSFF 12 Fall 2019

Southern Saltwater

Fly Fishing Magazine Edition 12 Fall 2019

Close Look: Southwest Florida

www.southernsaltwaterflyfishing.com

From the Editor From the Editor

Editor Jimmy Jacobs jimmyjacobs@mindspring.com Publisher Don Kirk don@southerntrout.com Associate Publisher Claude Preston, III claude@southerntrout.com Managing Editor Leah Kirk leah@southerntrout.com Field Editor Polly Dean pollydean22@gmail.com

Southern Saltwater Fly Fishing is a publication of Southern Unlimited, LLC. It is produced in conjunction with Southern Trout Magazine and Southerntrout.com.

Copyright 2019 Southern Unlimited, LLC All rights reserved.

2 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

ow that cold is us ovember nowweather is upon making appearance and it an seems the long overdue arrival of fall conditions may not befinally the best for fishing in the brine.Portions But, is making an appearance. whether not that affects of the or South now are the getting angling depends crisp on the mornings. species some cooler, Whether that affects the of fish youorarenot pursuing. fishing, depends onfish the out species, Still, there are there but certainly to be caught. fly So,casters it's not welcome time to hang up the rods.

Rather, hit the respite from the blazelet's of the the water! summer.

In this edition of SSFF the Close Look section focuses on the southwest coast of Florida from Port Charlotte south to Fort Myers. An additional feature of the coverage is directed at fly casting from kayaks. Field Editor Polly Dean details several days of action around Manasota Key at the town of Englewood with the gang from Hobie Fishing. A variety of species were targeted, with the angling taking place from several new Hobie kayak models.

The crew from Southern Saltwater Fly Fishing Magazine was originally scheduled to head down to Acklins Island in The Bahamas the first week of September to report in this edition on the do-it-yourself options for catching bonefish there. However, Hurricane Dorian threw a wrench

N

into that plan. As a result we stopped short in Fort Lauderdale, rented a car and headed to Miami’s Biscayne Bay for bonefish action with Capt. Martin Caranza. From there it was on into the Keys for some casting to baby tarpon around Big Pine Key. Rounding out our coverage, we we have have our SSFF Associate SSFF Associate Publisher Claude Preston III paying a return visit to Turneffe Flats in Belize to boat some permit, while Capt.

J.P. Morel takes you

to do battle with some giant redfish in the south Louisiana marshes.

In closing, I want to encourage you to keep in mind the victims of Hurricane Dorian on Grand Bahama and Abaco. Many lost everything and the need for help continues.

Pay a visit to the Red Cross, Salvation Army or other relief organization websites to provide whatever aid you can spare for those hard-hit areas.

Jimmy Jacobs Editor

This Issue Editor's Letter

2

Solarez

6

Louisiana Bull Fights

10

Soft Science

20

Saving the Day in South Florida: Phase 1

24

Rheos Floating Sunglasses

36

Saving the Day in South Florida: Phase 2

38

Back to Turneffe Flats

48

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida

20

10

36 38

24

59

Blind Pass Condominiums

60

Manasota Key by Kayak

64

Featured Fly Tier: Dave McKenna

78

Featured Shop: West Wall Outfitters

90

Hobie MirageDrive Kayaks

98

60 64

End of the Line: Sandbar Tiki & Grille

106

4 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

78

98 Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l5

On September 30, 2018, Solarez, in partnership with Southern Trout and Southern Saltwater Fly Fishing Magazines, Dr. Slick Fly Tying Tools and FlyTyer Magazine launched The Solarez UV Revolution World Tour. Rock Concerts? NO. Instead, an awareness program exploring all of the different types of flies that can be tied with Solarez UV Resins.

So, just what is this Solarez UV Revolution World Tour? It is a contest and social media tour directed at the fly tying and fly fishing world that will generate awareness and the unique application value of using Solarez in constructing flies. This program is running from September 30, 2018, through April 1, 2019, and will create an opportunity for fly ters from all over the world to showcase their fly tying abilities.

REQUIREMENTS: Tyers will be required to post a photo of their fly with an accompanying Solarez UV Product and pattern ingredients for the fly on one of the four Solarez Facebook pages: North America, Europe, Australia or New Zealand. Entrants should select the Facebook page that geographically represents them.

Posts that do not include the Solarez product with fly and pattern will be deleted immediately.

Only those posts meeting the requirements will remain.

So, what happens next?

The top 5 contributors with the most Facebook ‘likes’ at the end of each month will receive a t-shirt and an additional 5 t-shirts will be awarded via a random drawing from those who posted likes. Drawings will be held on last day 6 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

SOLAREZ

UV Revolution World Tour Contest

Summer

of each month and winners will be announced during the first week of the following month. (All t-shirts will be size XL to manage inventory) On October 1, the first drawing wasfrom individuals who “likeed” the Solarez Page from September 19 - September 30. This contest will be announced “softly” via Solarez Facebook pages, shares, Pro Team Members, and partner posts.

For the final drawing in April, we will start the whole process over again. October will set the stage for November, December, January, February, and the last on in March, for a total of 7 months in each geographical area. TWO (2) GRAND PRIZES, will be randomly drawn from tyers who have submitted flies for the World Tour and all those who have provided likes.

Votes will only be collected for flies posted on Solarez Facebook pages. Contributor flies will be shared with Partner Facebook pages.

Partners will also be encouraged to offer monthly prizes from random drawings from monthly ‘likers’ of their own individual Facebook pages.

Winners will be shared/posted on all Solarez Facebook pages.

Southern Trout and Southern Saltwater Fly Fishing magazines will be featuring some Pro Team and consumer flies in each issue over the next 6 months. Of course, they will be respective of either trout or saltwater patterns.

Dr. Slick will provide fly-tying tools monthly. Flytyer Magazine will be supporting this tour program by highlighting flies.

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l7

Louisiana Bull Fights

he skiff slowly glides across the aqua green waters barely making its presence known, as angler and guide both scan the waters ahead for any telltale sign of a bull red - a tip of a tail, a slow-moving wake, or the best sign of all, a bull crashing on bait. It’s late November with a high bright sun, light winds, clear water, and prime time to chase bull redfish in the shallow bays near the Gulf of Mexico and the best time to catch a 20-pound-plus red on the fly. The marsh areas from Cocodrie to Venice are prime spawning grounds and and anglers anglers in in the the know know flock flock to to them them each each fall fall to to hunt hunt the the Louisiana Louisiana bull Bull reds.

Reds. grounds Technically any redfish over 28 inches is considered a bull red, but for the fly crowd the mark is set a bit higher. When speaking amongst ourselves of catching large redfish on a fly, a 20-pound fish is the goal.

T

The first step is spotting the fish, or the wake it is pushing.

Photo by Jimmy Jacobs.

10 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 11

When redfish reach the length of around 30 inches, they spend the majority of their time roaming the Gulf of Mexico and only come near shore to spawn, usually starting sometime in September. The last three months of the year are when the majority of redfish over 20 pounds are caught by fly anglers with the mindset and skill level needed to achieve such a feat.

Conditions are perfect as the sun rises slowly revealing a marsh filled with bait, birds, and a huge shallow flat that for now you have all to yourself. The guide poles a zig-zag pattern, always keeping the sun at your back in order to maximize visibility. A crab raises his claws in defiance, not knowing we mean him no harm, as he then scurries away to his safe place, also not knowing there is no safe place on the flat.

12 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

The giant reds most often show up on the shallow flats in the last three months of the years. Photo by Capt. J.P. Morel.

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 13

Then like magic a wake appears on the port side and the guide says those three words you’ve been waiting to hear, “that’s the one.” You go into predator mode as the heart rate increases and you fight “bull fever,” no less intense than buck fever, as the mind races with anticipation of the coming battle. A little closer, 55 feet, 50 feet, and then the redfish moves slowly as he now feels the presence of an intruder into his domain. The guide stops the boat and in a hoarse whisper says, “get him now.”

It’s not your first rodeo, but all the things that can go wrong flood your mind and the first cast falls short. Regroup, take a breath, and the next cast is perfect. When the fly hits the water, a large bronze colored head turns towards the tiny splash and at that moment you know it’s going to happen. Three short strips and the fly disappears as gills flare and the line goes tight. He’s on! You somehow manage to remember to strip strike and bring the rod up, as a now upset bull red is rapidly leaving the flat with a trail of sand and mud left behind.

The battle rages on as you see your backing, and another gremlin comes to mind. You hope that knot holds, and it does. The runs get shorter as line is gained and soon the mighty bull red rolls over in defeat. The guide slips the net under a magnificent specimen with a snow-white belly contrasted with a bronze back and head, along with the signature black spot near the tail. A few quick photos are taken and the bull is released for another day and for another angler to enjoy.

Getting within 40 feet of the fish before casting offers the best chance of success.

Photo by Jimmy Jacobs.

14 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 15

After a couple of high fives and a short recap, it’s back to looking for another bull red as the rush slowly fades away. The sun is higher now and visibility is stretched out a bit more giving you slightly better odds of seeing a fish before he knows you’re there. A fish that doesn’t know you’re there is much easier to get a hook up on, rather than one that is spooked from getting too close or a bad cast. Now days you might get two to three shots at a fish, then he’s gone.

One constant I have found when chasing large redfish, they will be near deep water, with deep being relative to the area. For instance, if you have a flat that stretches 60 yards from shore to a deeper channel, your efforts should be concentrated on the half of the flat near the deeper water. The half towards shore will more than likely hold smaller fish, but there’s no harm in taking a peek up there every now and then. These fish are here to spawn and they do so in the deep passes, not on the flats, so it makes sense to spend the majority o your time near those passes.

f

The author with a 20-pound-plus redfish.

Photo courtesy of Capt. J.P. Morel.

The author with a 20-pound-plus redfish. Photo courtesy of Capt.

J.P. J.P. ccouCourtesy of Capt.b

16 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 17

Most of us use 8- to 10-weight rods with appropriately sized reels with disc drags loaded with about 100 yards of backing and weight forward floating line. Leaders should be 20-pound strength with a 9-foot taper being my choice. If you’re in an area with heavily pressured fish and few oysters, then by all means scale down and use fluorocarbon. Leave the fly selection up to the guide, but if doing it on your own a crab pattern on a size 1 or 2 hook would be hard to beat in most areas.

As the day winds down the angle of the sun diminishes visibility and eventually even the most diehard among us has to bow to Mother Nature and call it a day. But that’s fine, if it’s been a good day. Such a day would see two 20-pound-plus bull reds boated, others seen and casted to, with yet others seen and slipped away before a cast was made. On a good weather day if you can see a half dozen bull reds and get a couple of shots at them, then it’s been a good day of chasing the Louisiana bull red.

About the Author Capt. J.P. Morel of Slidell, Louisiana owns Southern Coastal Outfitters LLC guide service. He has been guiding the water near New Orleans from Lake Pontchartrain to Delacroix for more than two decades. He can be contacted at captjpmorel@gmail.com.

Once hooked up you are in for a real battle. Photo by Polly Dean.

18 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 19

T

here is no worse feeling than being up on the casting deck, hooked into a good fish, and suddenly realizing your feet are slipping from under you. At best, you may lose the fish, but you also could find yourself overboard and into the drink!

Having a good foundation under you is the first step in a successful day of fly casting. The new Soft Science Cruise Canvas Boating Shoe can go a long way toward insuring you can concentrate on the fishing and and not now worry worry about about sliding sliding around. around. fishing Their classic, comfortable boating shoe has been updated with a slimmer outsole, along with enhanced styling. These are shoes that look just as good in the evening as they are functional during the day. The shoes feature a classic boating collar, breathable washed cotton canvas uppers and leather laces to customize the fit. More important to the angler is the trademark Trileon, non-marking outsole that is slip resistant.

Theselightweight lightweightshoos shoesarearecushioned cushionedand These offer The Universal Comfort Platform andgreat offer stability. great stability.

The Universal Comfort construction providesprovides a roomy, relaxed offering Platform construction a roomy, relaxed comfort for the entire day on the casting deck. The minimal change in height from heel to toe allows your foot to stay level. The Trileon inner sole of closed-cell copolymer Trileon cuts down on weight, while being impact absorbent and odor resistant. The shoes also provide breathability, ventilation, and room for healthy foot circulation.

The shoes come only in whole sizes 7 to 13, offer four colors and have a MSRP of $69.95.

soft sci ence

Crui s e Canv as Boating Shoe

20 2019 2019 20l lwww.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.coml lFall Summer

Fall2019 2019l l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com l l21 21 Summer

SAVING THE DAY in SOUTH FLORIDA

P HA S E 1

BY JIMMY JACOBS

T

he crew from Southern Saltwater Fly Fishing Magazine was scheduled to fly into Acklins Island in The Bahamas for some do-it-yourself bonefish action on September 7. Unfortunately, on the first day of that month Hurricane Dorian beat us to the island nation. Our trip had to be canceled, despite Acklins and the rest of the southern Bahamas having been missed by the storm.

Pastor Felton Rolle was to host us at Salinas Point Bonefish Lodge, but as a man of the cloth, his first duty was to the people of Abaco and Grand Bahama islands that were both devastated, so that was where he needed to focus his attention. Also, as it turned out, though Nassau airport was open for business, the flood of relief flights funneling through there would have made our connections impossible.

Capt. Carranza with Polly Dean’s biggest bonefish of the day.

Photo by Jimmy Jacobs.

24 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 25

It is worth noting now that we are a couple of months past the disaster, the two Bahama Islands that were hit still need support from the fishing community to rebuild. Meanwhile, the economies of other islands of the nation also will suffer if anglers do not realize that they are open for business and the fishing is great as usual. If you planned or are contemplating heading down there, know that the other out islands are ready to host you in spectacular style.

Still, the situation left us in a bit of a lurch. While we could switch our airline reservations into Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale, prior the islands, islands, the the bigger bigger problem problem was into Fort priorto tohopping hoppingover overto to the wassimple simpletiming. timing.

When you have carved out a few days from busy schedules, it usually is very difficult to shift those around. Thus, we opted to fly to south Florida and look for some alternative angling.

A few years back we’d met Capt. Martin (pronounced Marteen) Carranza at a fly fishing show and he had encouraged us to come fish his home waters of Biscayne Bay. We lucked out because he did have a free day just after we would arrive. Early on a Sunday morning we met him on Key Biscayne at the very busy boat ramps of Crandon Park Marina.

Running past the early morning skyline of Key Biscayne. Photo by Polly Dean.

26 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 27

Once on the water, the towering high rises of Key Biscayne and even bigger ones of Miami in the distance provided a stark contrast to the distant flats of the south Bahamas we had planned to fish. Even more surprising, was the number of bonefish bonefish we wesaw sawatatour ourfirst first stop.

A 3-foot-deep flat flat framed by by thatthat urban skyline. of stop.

It was a 3-foot-deep framed urban skyline.

The 8-weight rod was quickly rigged with a 20-pound tippet and a fly named the Boner that Capt. Carranza created and ties. The heavy tippet was due to the fact that bonefish of double-digit weights sometimes show up. If you got a shot at such a fish, you didn’t want the leader to fail. As to the fly, it reminded me of a cross between a Bonefish Gotcha and a slider with barbell eyes for quick sinking.

FOXY CLOUSER

Photo by Jimmy Jacobs

BONER

Photo by Polly Dean 28 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Soon SSFF Field Editor Polly Dean took her turn on the casting deck and planted the fly in front of a pod of smaller bones. The first “urban” bonefish of the day took the offering and came to the boat. It was a good omen for what was to come.

Next we headed south through Biscayne Bay past Soldier Key and farther south to the region near Elliott Key. This is the “out back” of the bay that one would expect to offer less boat traffic and some seclusion. Along the way, Capt. Carranza gave us some insights into the fishery on Biscayne Bay. “I can’t believe how strong the bay is,” he said. “We do everything in our power to destroy it, but this guy keeps coming back.” The captain began fishing the bay in the 1980s while in college. Over that long haul he has seen the fishery decline and the amount of trash in the bay increase, but the bonefish, tarpon and permit still offer plenty of shots.

“Fishing died off after the 2010 freeze,” he added, “but by 2014 bonefish came back strong.”

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 29

Our next stop was on a flat bordering a channel on the approach to a cut between a couple of mangrove shores. We were, however, not alone. Across the channel on a sandbar dozens of pleasure boats were anchored, playing music and partying.

Yet, we soon were again on bonefish, and this time some that had broad shoulders. We now were tossing Foxy Clouser patterns and both Polly and I had our fly rods and reels tested as we were able to boat bones in the 5- to 6-pound range.

All in all, our day was an eye opener with regard to just how good the “urban� angling of Biscayne Bay really is.

About The Captain

One of the big bonefish from the southern end of Biscayne Bay. Photo

by Polly Dean.

30 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 31

About the Captain Capt. Martin Carranza is a native of Argentina, but has a long history in South Florida. In his youth he fly fished with his family for trout in Patagonia. Martin first arrived in the U.S. when he received a scholarship to the University of Miami to play rugby. During his academic years, he also cut his saltwater fishing teeth by catching bonefish from the shore in the parks on the Rickenbacker Causeway.

Surprisingly, those early catches came mostly on Wooly Buggers!

Returning to Argentina, he became the owner of Chime Lodge Returning to Argentina, he became the owner of Chime Lodge in Patagonia, which he he continues to operate, offering angling forfor huge in Patagonia, which continues to operate, offering angling huge trout. However, when the Argentine economy collapsed around the millennium, he moved his family to the Miami area in 2001.

Subsequently he has been guiding the waters of Biscayne Bay, the Everglades and Florida Keys for the last 15 years. Additionally, he leads destination angling trips to Patagonia and Cuba.

He can be contacted throughhis hiswebsite websiteatCaptian Contacted him through CaptianMartin MartinC.C.Fishing Fishing Adventures at www.captmartinc.com.

Capt. Martin Carranza on the poling platform.

Photo by Polly Dean.

32 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 33

Rheos Floating Sunglasses Y

ou are a lucky angler if it’s never happened to you. In my case, it’s been twice.

The first time I was looking sporty with my sunglasses mounted on top of the visor of my cap.

But when the boat accelerated across the flat going onto plane, the wind ripped them off and they sank to the bottom.

The second time I was bending over the gunnel to pick up a redfish for a photograph, photograph,not notrealizing realizingone oneside sideof ofthe thelanyard lanyardhad hadcome comeloose loosefrom frommy my sunglasses. sunglasses.As As I looked down, the glasses fell off and I watched them disappear into the depths of the channel.

In instance, it made made the the rest restof ofthe theday dayaasquinting squintingand anduncomfortable uncomfortableangling anglingexperience. experience.

In each instance, Fortunately, the new Rheos Floating Sunglasses now make such mishaps avoidable. Even better, they deliver that security at an affordable price.

The basic principles of buoyancy apply: when an object displaces water the heavier of the two sinks. Meaning, if 2 ounces of water is displaced and the water weighs just barely more than the object, then the water sinks and the object floats. If a second object weighed the exact same amount and displaced only 1 ounce. of water and the water weighed less than the object, then the object would sink and the water would “float”.

With that in mind, the Rheos frames are made of the highly durable and ultralightweight specialty polycarbonate material. Due to its unique manufacturing process, these frames weigh approximately 30 percent less than similar sunglasses molded in polycarbonate. The frames also maintain a hyper-durable structure to ensure comfort for long-term wear and floating capability. Additionally, the frames feature screw-lock hinges and a ComfortGrip nosepiece with inset logo.

Rheos sunglasses are the only complete line of sunglasses fully dedicated to their “Water Junky” community, taking care at every stage to focus on the features that matter most to those who spend time on the water. This means you enjoy the benefits of a fullyfeatured frame and lens at a moderate price point, without sacrificing an inch on quality.

36 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

It also means that just because your shades float doesn’t mean they are bloated with extra buoys or air injection. They are stylish and comfortable on the water or the shore.

Rheos Floating Sunglasses come in eight styles for adults and three for kids, as well as four options for lens colors. Check them out at www.rheosgear.com.

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 37

W

ith our trip to the Bahamas blown away

by Hurricane Dorian and a day of angling on Biscayne Bay behind us, we still had a few days to look for some fishing action in South Florida. But, we were encountering another of nature’s phenomena that affected the angling. A September “king” tide was taking place. This is when the moon is at its closest to the Earth and either a full or new moon phase is taking place.

In our case the new moon was approaching.

Add to to that that a a stiff stiff ing.Add 20 knot wind pushing ashore and the water levels from Miami to the Middle Keys was exceptionally high.

We first tried a bit of do-it-yourself bonefishing on the western shore flats of Biscayne Bay at Matheson Hammock to the south of Miami. There we found parking areas inundated and closed, along with choppy surface conditions. The high water stifled any hope of fishing the area.

At this point, our luck again kicked in.

SAVING THE DAY in SOUTH FLORIDA

38 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

P HA S E 2

Scanning the water for the rolling tarpon.

Photo by Polly Dean.

BY JIMMY JACOBS

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 39

Once hooked the fish immediately take to the air, against a back drop of dead mangroves left behind by Hurricane Irma. Photo by Polly Dean.

40 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l

A call to Capt.

Scott Yetter of Sight Fish Charters down on Cudjoe Key paid off. Capt. Yetter had just returned from Montana and had not yet gotten his Florida Keys guiding up and running.

As a result, we were able to line up a last minute day of fishing with him.

When we met at the public boat ramp on the western end of Spanish Harbor Key, our goal was to find some bonefish. Unfortunately, the extreme high tide, coupled with on-again, off-again cloud cover, soon proved that to be impractical. Spotting the fish, if they were there, was impossible until we were practically on top of them.

Like any experienced guide, however, the good captain had a Plan B up his sleeve. If we couldn’t see the bonefish, we’d go after something we could see – in this case juvenile tarpon. These fish ranging from 15-inches up to 30 or 40 pounds are year-round residents of the Middle Keys.

Soon we were searching the lee side of mangrove islands, looking for the rolling fish to give away their location. www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com l 41

At one stop, we had a short window of sunlight coming over our shoulders that made it possible to see a dozen or more even more or fish infish theininthe the 3- to 4-foot length range cruising a cut tight against the mangroves.

But, the fickle side of fishing kicked in. These tarpon ignored all our best efforts and flies, leaving us still fishless.

Again making another run, we now embarked on Plan C. This time Capt. Yetter put us along a very different looking stretch of mangroves. This shore was a reminder of just how powerful and destructive hurricanes can be. It had been two years since Hurricane Irma had blasted through this area, stripping the mangrove islands of all their greenery. Still today, only occasional patches of leaves were visible, with most of the shore lined with the gray stems of dead mangroves appearing like a skeleton.

Our attention soon turned from the aesthetics of our surrounding to the swirls appearing on the surface of the water just off shore.

42 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

The baby tarpon are plentiful and fun to catch. Photo by Jimmy Jacobs.

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 43

From the casting deck Polly Dean launched a Gurgler toward the bare bones of the mangroves. Twitching it across the surface soon produced a reaction as the water boiled and a baby tarpon rocketed into the air, twisting wildly.

For the next half hour we missed strikes, jumped tarpon and got a few solid hook sets.

These fish were smaller than we had seen earlier, with the largest probably only in the single digit weight range, While most of the strikes were the result of sight casting to where the tarpon showed themselves, we also found that if there was a lull in their movements, blind casting in the vicinity often would also produce strikes.

The bottom line was that despite Mother Nature’s best efforts to ruin our fishing plans, being flexible and getting lucky at hooking up with some good guides still salvaged the trip.

As Capt. Yetter proved, some days you have to have multiple plans to work with. But, in this case, South Florida really did save the day for us.

44 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

Capt. Scott Yetter on the poling platform checking the mangrove edge for tarpon.

Photo by Polly Dean.

About The Guide Capt. Scott Yetter guides out of Cudjoe Key, offering fishing adventures for fly and spin anglers from Marathon to Key West. He targets tarpon, permit, bonefish, redfish, barracuda and sharks.

For more information, visit his website www.asightfishfloridakeys.com. www.sightfishfloridakeys.com.

About the Author Jimmy Jacobs is the editor of Southern Saltwater Fly Fishing Magazine.

The Gurgler is a great pattern for attracting the feeding fish. Photo

by Polly Dean.

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 45

Back to Turneffe Flats!!!

By Claude Preston III

“...It’s not just fishing - there’s a focus on the sustainability of the lodge and their efforts in promoting the growth of the sport...”

48 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

E

arlier this year in the cold depths of February, I was sitting at my desk working away as my mind slowly drifted back to what it was like to travel to Belize and cover Turneffe Flats the year before. Yes, the corporate world of my past had drawn me back, and with that my opportunity to travel had greatly diminished. I had been on shorter, closer trips since then, but had just not made it back to tropical climates where some of my most prized targeted species dwell. Later that month, I called and touched base with the crew a Turneffe just to check in on some of the projects going on, and learned that, as I expected, things had not slowed down.

Turneffe Flats is highly regarded in the fly fishing community and widely celebrated for their efforts in sustaining the local fisheries, while leaving as small a footprint as they possibly can. In fact, Turneffe Flats has won numerous Green Globe awards for their efforts in sustainability.

Since supply runs are made only twice a week, owner Craig Hayes made it priority to be as self-sustaining as they can be. Rain water is Turneffe’s primary source of freshwater, and checks are made weekly to maintain safe drinking water standards.

In efforts to cut down on water usage from their primary source, toilets are serviced with brackish water from a shallow well, and low flush toilets were added to minimize the water consumption. In efforts to kick plastic, all sodas and beers are purchased in returnable bottles and they do not purchase water in plastic bottles. Turneffe Flats is considered “off grid” and is totally dependent upon their own power sources. Up until recently, Turneffe was completely powered with diesel generators and they had to continually monitor the power loads to meet the needs of the lodge, all while regulating the use of diesel.

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 49

Fortunately, my call led to a return visit to Turneffe Flats. The purpose of my trip (besides tangling with some fish on the long rod) this time was to get my eyes on the new state of the art solar panel field that will take on the heavy workload of providing power needs for an all-star eco-resort.

The ladies of FlyandFlow on the dock at Turneffe Flats. Photo courtesy of Jenny Tatelman.

50 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 51

The owners of Turneffe Flats, Craig and his co-owner/wife Karen Hayes, have always been very “hands on� when it comes to the lodge and its projects. This mantra is evident with staff at Turneffe as well. During my trip down, I had the opportunity to sit down and chat with the team in from Gietzen Solar. They said it had been a great experience to work on this project with Turneffe Flats because the staff had been so hands-on. On a couple of afternoons, I saw the General Manager, Jad, and you could easily tell he had been working in the solar field. The solar field where the panels were being installed was on a back lot, out of sight and earshot from lodge guests. It is impressively large. The 288 photovoltaic panels generate power that is stored on more than 40 lithium ion batteries. These batteries then supply direct current to a wall of converters that transform it into alternating current ready to meet the needs of the lodge.

52 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Permit are one of the glamor species that has made Turneffe Flats famous.

Photo by Claude Preston III

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 53

It is estimated that the new solar panels will provide enough power to handle 75 to 80 percent of the lodge needs and lead to drastic cuts in the yearly expenses of the lodge. Turneffe Flats is not stopping just with the physical environment. Welcoming hospitality also is a specialty.

Outside of the guests that come down in singles and doubles, Turneffe also welcomes larger groups and has an impressive lineup of shops and guides around the world that bring groups on hosted trips many times throughout the year. During my trip down there this year I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jenny Tatelman, an industry veteran who makes time to introduce other women to the sport of fly fishing.

Jenny grew up just outside of Boston, fishing the coast of New England with her dad. Jenny states that while her very first fish on the fly rod was a bonefish, it was really the striped bass from her home waters that helped her become the angler she is today. Jenny is the founder and creator of FlyandFlow. FlyandFlow is about connecting and encouraging more women to get on the water and tap into fly-fishing.

From our time together it was really evident that this sport has deep roots in her and really moves her. When I asked her about what drives that feeling she summed it up perfectly. “Every time I stand on the bow with a fly rod in hand, I feel empowered.”

It was a feeling she wanted other women to experience and share with her.

FlyandFlow hosted trips are specifically designed for women who are completely new to fly-fishing. In fact, most of her trips involve women who have never picked up a fly rod or have been out only a handful of times. She has a great motto - all Jenny asks is that you bring a positive attitude and good vibes!

After chatting with Jenny it was immediately evident to me why she chose Turneffe Flats. Turneffe Flats has some of the best reputations in the fly fishing world for its quality of fishing for both beginners and advanced anglers, along with its accommodations. Jenny went on to add that Turneffe was exceptional when it came to communication, hospitality, and nutrition as well.

Turneffe Flats is very laid back and there is the option of fishing out front of the lodge from sun up to sun down, literally as much as you want or as little as you want. I can report that all the ladies on the trip caught multiple bonefish, and a couple of permit were taken as well. One of the bones was well over 7 pounds!

As for my trip, despite the numerous amount of species to chase, I gravitated to chasing permit whenever I could. There is just something about the hunting of permit.

For me, there are few things that rival the feeling of having one of those fish push over to a perfectly presented fly and nose down to the fly – whether it actually takes it or not.

The new solar panel field at Turneffe Flats. Photo by Claude Preston III.

54 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 55

For more information on connecting with fellow lady anglers or learning about FlyandFlow hosted trips, check them out at flyandflow.net.

More details on Turneffe Flats are available at www.tflats.com, or via telephone, call their U.S. number at (623) 742-3920.

The author with a Turneffe Flats permit.

Photo courtesy of Claude Preston III

56 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 57

Southern Saltwater Fly Fishing

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida

Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 59

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

T b l ind p as s condominiums

By Claude Preston

60 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l

CLOSE LOOK

he Sanibel and Captiva area of southwest Florida is blessed to be surrounded by some of the best long-rod fishing in Florida. They lie adjacent to J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge that offers some of that action and is one of the best places to see Sanibel’s variety of wildlife.

The 4.25-mile Wildlife Drive that loops through the preserve offers great points to spot and stalk rolling tarpon or fish the culverts for snook. Outside of Ding Darling there are several beaches, including Bowman’s Beach and Lighthouse Beach to name a couple.

The two islands feature numerous options when it comes to lodging, from small beachfront condos to large mega homes that offer the finest in creature comforts.

The Sanibel area is known for its world-class fishing, beaches, and family friendly activities. Checking all of those boxes are Blind Pass Condominiums. Situated at the northeast end of Sanibel, Blind Pass Condominiums prime location is conveniently located on Bowman’s Beach one of the top 10 in the U.S. Bowman’s Beach is known to be a favorite haunt for snook in the summer months. www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com l 61

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

CLOSE LOOK

During our visit down to the Sanibel area, Blind Pass Condominiums served as the perfect launching point for all of our activities. Only 10 minutes from the great dining at the Shoppes at Sanibel and in the other direction it is only 10 minutes from Captiva.

The Islands of Sanibel and Captiva are a great place to visit and there is never a bad time for a visit. Offering some of the most accessible fly fishing and family activities in the Southeast, go when you can. Blind Pass Condominiums is centrally located and serves as a launching point for the islands. As you are planning your next trip to Sanibel, let us make it easy for you, give Blind Pass Condominiums a call or check them out at www.blind-pass.com

Blind Pass Condominiums opened for business in 1975 and have been serving new and returning guests for over 45 years. property offers years. The Blind Pass Condominiums offers multioffers multiple lodging ple lodging setups from setups spaciousfrom two-bedroom condos and townhomes to three-bedroom condos and townhomes. Some units offer screened in porches.

All of the lodging options at Blind Pass Condominiums are just a short five-minute walk from the world famous Bowman’s Beach and Clam Bayou. Some of the great amenities offered are tennis courts, one of the largest swimming pools on the island (completely redone in 2019), and an outdoor cooking area with gas for their their guests' guests use. use. grills for Also on the property are complementary kayaks that you can reserve and launch into Clam Bayou from the property. From there you can explore all of Clam Bayou and make your way down to Blind Pass between the isles of Sanibel and Captiva.

62 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 63

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

CLOSE LOOK

A

Manasota Key by Kayak "....standing in the cockpit of the Hobie Pro Angler 14, I had a bird’s eye view of the slender silhouette exiting the shaded cover of the mangrove to follow my fly..."

by Polly Dean by Polly Dean

lready having a couple of snook turn and swim away, I was reminding myself to stay calm, strip steady and hang on tight for the take.

It worked! I stripped-set the hook, felt the line pull taut, and raised my 9-weight rod to draw the fish closer. My kayak was pointed toward the mangrove island, within 30 feet or so.

Just as I got a good look at the bucket-shaped mouth facing upward toward me, the fly was freed and coming back at me.

Darn! That was a good one.

As I worked the Puglisi fly, experimenting with the speed of my retrieve, other snook would periodically appear out of the shadows in pursuit. I managed to entice a few takes - as I kept my retrieve steady while holding the line tight with my stripping hand. A few misses also occurred as “buck fever” consumed me.

Most of these fish were not little guys. Many were upwards of 24 and 30 inches or more.

Manasota Key

Boating a snook near the mangroves. Photo by Jeffrey Fortuna/Hobie.

64 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Tucked between the larger and better-known fishing destinations of Boca Grande and Fort Myers to the south and Sarasota to the north, Manasota Key is the quiet and laid-back neighbor.

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 65

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

CLOSE LOOK

Located in Charlotte County, the word Manasota is formed from the names of nearby counties of Manatee and Sarasota just to the north.

It is no secret that this portion of South Florida's Gulf coast is a fishing mecca, drawing anglers from all over. World-class tarpon fishing, along with snook, redfish and seatrout are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to available species to bend a rod. Spanish and king mackerel, pompano, tripletail, cobia, snapper, grouper and flounder are just a few more willing targets. With outstanding fishing, often comes crowded waters.

The small community of Manasota Key is geographically enveloped in this fine area of fishing, but a world away.

More reminiscent of the Florida of years ago it lacks the high-rises, traffic and heavily populated beaches of its crowd-drawing neighbors.

Kayak Fishing For kayak anglers, Manasota Key provides the ideal conditions, not to mention a bounty of fish. A narrow strip of land flanked by the Gulf of Mexico to its west and the estuary of Lemon Bay to the east, this 11-mile-long peninsula is the perfect launching point.

66 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

The author casting to the mangroves, Photo by Jeffrey Fortuna/Hobie.

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 67

CLOSE CLOSE LOOK LOOK Southwest Carolina Florida Coast - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Carolina Harbor Coast CLOSE CLOSE LOOKLOOK Located on the tapering southern end of the island, the property of WannaB Inn - our angling headquarters spans shore to shore, from the beach to to the the bay bay offering offering very for beach easy fishing access. Mangrove islands, shallow flats, deeper channels and sandy beaches are within easy reach by kayak.

A key advantage for kayakers, is that much of the accessible fishing areas are very shallow, and many many of of the deeper channels and deeper channels are “no-wake” zones for boaters due to the population of manatees that inhabit the area.

Stump Pass, the waterway connecting Lemon Bay to the Gulf is just a short paddle – or pedal - to the south.

The The Fish Fish

SSFF Editor Jimmy Jacobs with a Manasota Key snook. Photo by Polly Dean.

68 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l

Snook seemed to be the most prevalent species for our group of anglers as we headed out in various directions from the docks of WannaB Inn. Fishing around a full moon, the water seemed to always be moving at a good clip with the exception of the peak high and low of the tides. The moving water along the mangrove edges of the islands provided the ideal spots for snook to be hunkered down waiting on their next meal to come washing out or escaping to the masses of tangled mangrove roots. www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com l 69

CLOSE CLOSE LOOK LOOK Southwest Carolina Florida Coast - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor We tossed our flies as close as possible up under the overhanging branches.

Monofilament weed guards helped in retrieving most of our flies with a strong tug, when we cast too far. For the more stubborn “grabs,” the ability to reverse with Hobie's new MirageDrive 360 made it a cinch to approach the mangroves, retrieve our fly, and back out.

We succeeded in enticing a number of these linesides to eat, as well as seeing a number of them that weren't so hungry. One fellow angler had a particularly successful morning in bringing several to his yak, by targeting the pockets of water along “laydowns” or overhanging mangroves along the shorelines.

During his early morning success, I overheard him exclaim, “There are some big ones. I mean, some of them are scary big!”

Depending on the depth of the water and the stage of the falling or rising tide, the snook may hold tight in the mangroves, or they can be found 10 or more feet out from the edge. Also look for them to be cruising over the shallow flats.

70 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Carolina Harbor Coast CLOSE CLOSE LOOKLOOK

Targeting the mangroves in a tight mangroves in tight channel. Photo by Polly Dean.

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 71

CLOSE CLOSE LOOK LOOK Southwest Carolina Florida Coast - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor Snapper and small grouper occupy the same locations and are quite aggressive in their “takes,” providing a lot of fun as well.

Targeting the mangrove edges will also produce a redfish or two.

Schools of large bull reds can often be found on sandbars in and around Stump Pass, the inlet at the southernmost end of Manasota Key located just off of Stump Pass Beach State Park. These are ideal for sight-casting, as are the pods of snook also known to cruise the white sandy beach areas.

The “catching” is almost always better with a moving tide. When the water is at a standstill during the peak low or high phases, try casting into the deeper channels.

There are a number of species that will hold in these areas that are willing to take a fly.

Pompano, a favorite for the dinner table, can be picked up this way, along with snapper, grouper, barracuda, or gafftopsail catfish in addition to a variety of other fish.

72 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Carolina Harbor Coast CLOSE CLOSE LOOKLOOK

A pompano taken by casting to the channel.

Photo by Polly Dean.

With the great variety of fish to be found in the area, the greatest challenge can be to know what fly to tie on.

Having more than one rod rigged and ready to go is a good idea. And fortunately, since most of your targeted species are feeding on the same bait, a fly good for snook will likely work for a redfish or another species.

Both baitfish and shrimp patterns are worth a try.

White is a favorite color in the usually clear water.

Darker colors are preferred when the water is cloudy.

Grab your kayak, a fly rod and hit the water to see first-hand, why Manasota Key's locals believe their “Best Side is the Outside.”

About the Author Southern Saltwater Fly Fishing Field Editor Polly Dean is an award-winning writer and photographer from Athens, Georgia.

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 73

CLOSE CLOSE LOOK LOOK Southwest Carolina Florida Coast - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Carolina Harbor Coast CLOSE CLOSE LOOKLOOK

WannaB Inn

For a taste of Old Florida, the WannaB Inn is a laid-back resort spread out on five acres of land. The property is nestled between the beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Mexico on one side and Lemon Bay on the other. Located on the southern end of Manasota Key, Stump Pass Beach State Park borders WannaB Inn's southern boundary.

The resort's 80 units come in a variety of styles including efficiency, one, two- and three-bedroom units. All have a full kitchen. Brightly colored buildings and retro-style dĂŠcor emphasize the resort's Old Florida charm. The units are arranged in seven unique areas, accommodating guests whether they seek easy access to the beach, pools, cabanas and courtyard, or the boat ramp and lighted boat docks for night fishing.

Boasting 900 feet of wide sandy beach, guests can search for shark's teeth among mounds of seashells or lay back and relax watching the dolphins.

For those who choose to be more active, bicycles and kayaks are available for rent.

In addition to spectacular fishing, golfers can choose from any of eight public or semi-public clubs within just 10 miles.

During the spring months, baseball fans can enjoy watching the Tampa Bay Rays as they hold their spring training at the nearby, newly renovated Charlotte Sports Park. The Charlotte Stone Crabs, the Class A Advanced affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays, call this family-friendly park home.

74 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 75

CLOSE CLOSE LOOK LOOK Southwest Carolina Florida Coast - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Carolina Harbor Coast CLOSE CLOSE LOOKLOOK

D

A bonefish taken on a Dave Dave McKenna fly. McKenna with a bonefish that took one of his creations.

Dave McKenna gu id e

78 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

fl ie s

ave McKenna proves you don’t have to live in the southern clime in order to create and tie flies that are deadly on the fish found there. This native of Hackettstown in northwest New Jersey grew up fishing both the salt and fresh waters of that region in the early 1980s.

Whether it was trout and bass, or bluefish and striped bass on the Jersey shore, McKenna chased them with both conventional and fly gear. Dave’s first fly rod was a hand-me-down Daiwa that he used to catch sunfish and bluegill. From there he progressed to wading for trout.

Gradually, his dad’s devotion to the long rod drew the younger McKenna to serious fly fishing. By the time he reached high school, he was casting flies into the brine. “My dad make sure we fished every opportunity we got when stripers were running.”

“Growing upup mymy dad, grandfather and their “Growing dad, grandfather and their friends were my mentors when it came to saltwater fishing,” Dave offered. “We spent a lot of vacations visiting family in Florida when I was younger, so I got exposed to a lot of different species from an early age.

“We’d fishfish for for snook andand redfish in in thethe “We’d snook redfish Hillsborough River around Tampa and larger species like tarpon and jacks out at Johns Pass,” he explained. “We took some trips down to the Keys when I was in middle school, that’s when I really got hooked on flats fishing.”

At a quite young age McKenna also discovered fly tying. “I had the most fun when I could catch a bluegill on one my creations that were usually a piece of cut-up shammy cloth, some rabbit fur dub and a craft bead.

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 79

CLOSE CLOSE LOOK LOOK Southwest Carolina Florida Coast - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Carolina Harbor Coast CLOSE CLOSE LOOKLOOK “For me fly tying and fly fishing went hand in hand. “I was always running around in the woods and creeks behind our house catching bugs and crayfish. The fly tying was a cool way for me to make my own bugs.”

Not all of McKenna’s fly tying was self-taught. “I’ve always had mentors in fly tying,” he noted. “Lenny Rugia was the guy who started teaching my dad and me to tie basic caddis and scud patterns when I was a little kid. He’s still the head guide as Shannon’s Fly Shop in Califon, New Jersey.

80 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 81

CLOSE CLOSE LOOK LOOK Southwest Carolina Florida Coast - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Carolina Harbor Coast CLOSE CLOSE LOOKLOOK

“I was also lucky to have the International Fly Tying Symposium close by my house every fall,” Dave continued. “There I’d get to meet a authors of of books book I Ihad lot of the authors hadcollected, collected,like likeJoe Joe Humphrey and Dave Whitlock.” Meanwhile, having a job working in a fly shop also helped by exposing him to a number of incredibly talented local tiers.

“The first saltwater flies I started tying were your standard Clouser Minnows and Deciever patterns,” he said. “The Clouser is a genius fly that works everywhere. There’s endless variations to the pattern and it works in the surf, as a bonefish fly, as a streamer, you name it. Everything eats it.”

That background led to the launch of his company Guide Flies in 2018. “Most of the flies we offer in the Guide Flies catalog are custom designs and only available from us,” McKenna said. “On the flats side side of of things, thinks,I’ve I’vereally reallyfocused focusedononmaking makingbetter better crab and flats crab and shrimp patterns. The last two seasons we’ve had tremendous success with the Psycho Mantis and Crusher Buster flies.”

The McKenna Crusher Buster is a crab pattern, while the Dave’s Psycho Mantis imitates a mantis shrimp.

82 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 83

CLOSE CLOSE LOOK LOOK Southwest Carolina Florida Coast - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor OK

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor Carolina CLOSE Coast LOOK CLO

Most of the flies are now produced at the Guide Flies headquarters at Fly fish Guanaja in Honduras. McKenna makes regular trips down there to work with their tiers on fundamental and new patterns. As time permits he gets out to fly shops, hosts fly tying classes or works with people on getting custom flies made.

So, what advisedoes doeshehe have would-beflyflytiers? tiers?“My “Myfirst firstpiece pieceofof adviceisis So, what advise have forfor would-be advice to get really consistent with one or two fundamental patterns,” he emphasized.

“Focus on getting the proportions right and not using too much thread.

“When you first get into tying it can be tempting to buy the materials for 10 different patterns, or every new video that comes out,” McKenna added. “Just be patient.

“The second big thing is to invest in the best tools you can afford. Skimping on the vise and tying tools ends in frustration and wasted money. You don’t need to spend $500 on a rotary vise, but something like a Regal or Renzetti will last a lifetime.”

84 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 85

CLOSE CLOSE LOOK LOOK Southwest Carolina Florida Coast - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Carolina Harbor Coast CLOSE CLOSE LOOKLOOK He then concluded with a third and final bit of advice. “There’s a lot of great fly tiers on YouTube and some not so good ones,” he pointed out. “I’d say pay attention to Tim Flagler’s videos and the Orvis Fly Tying Videos in their Learning Center. They have topes like some great videos that focus on tying fundamentals and help explain complex topics like thread and hook selection.”

For more information on Dave McKenna and Guide Flies visit www.guideflies.com.

86 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 87

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

CLOSE LOOK

rofiling the West Wall Outfitters Fly Shop is appropriate for this edition of Southern Saltwater Fly Fishing Magazine. The theme of this issue is fly fishing from kayaks. West Wall owner Capt. Josh Greer saw a need in his area of southwest Florida and stepped forward to meet it. In the process, West Wall was established as a fly shop and kayak shop. “The shop has been in business four years,” he noted. “I started it out of necessity, because there was no fly shop around.”

That need sprang from the quality of the fly fishing opportunities around Charlotte Harbor. “Variety by far sets us apart,” Capt. Greer said.

“We have almost endless options for the fly angler, with giant tarpon in the spring, snook fishing the beaches and back country, redfish and possibly one of the best juvenile tarpon fisheries in the world.”

From a business standpoint, it doesn’t hurt that this area is an emerging market for fly-fishing interest. “I’d say it is growing,” Greer agreed. “We gain new fly anglers all the time. Hopefully, it will continue.”

A key to that future can be found in the shop’s business philosophy. “We have to be full service,” the owner pointed out.

“There is no one else around here. We are responsible to the sport to teach new folks and keep fly fishing growing.”

P

We st Wall Outf i tters Port Charlotte, Florida

90l l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com l lFall Summer 90 2019 2019

Summer 2019l l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com l l91 91 Fall 2019

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

CLOSE LOOK

That is reflected in the West Wall’s clientele. “We have a few experienced customers, but most of our folks are learning, or at least new to the saltwater game.”

The shop’s services are thus tailored to the needs of those anglers walking through the door.

“We“We offer offerfree freecasting casting classes classes the first Saturday of the month and free fly-tying classes the last Saturday of the month,” Capt. Greer said. Additionally, he offers guide services. “I have been guiding here for over 10 years, and we have a couple more guides that work out of the shop. We always recommend new anglers spend some time with an experienced guide.”

The fishing available locally and having so many newcomers to the sport both play a part regarding the inventory the shop maintains.

“Our flies are an important part of the business, because we only carry stuff we know works. Also the TFO rods, because having so many new anglers the price to performance ratio is great on the rods.”

Other lines of rods carried are Lamson, G. Loomis, Allen and St. Croix.

Their reel lineup includes Galvan, Nautilus, Cheeky, TFO, Lamson and Allen, which can be matched up with Royal Wulff or Jim Teeny lines. For anglers wanting to fly cast from a kayak, a full line of fishing models from Native Watercraft is offered, along with the lightweight Hurricane kayaks.

92 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 93

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

CLOSE LOOK

As to the mission of West Wall Outfitters, Capt. Greer said, “We try to keep it real. We are honest with our customers and try to help them as much as possible through the free classes and them stopping by and asking questions.

We find that goes a long way and keeps them coming back.”

The captain finished off by pulling out the crystal ball to look at what he sees as the future for fly fishing in the Port Charlotte area.

“It’s growing and seems to be getting younger. We have a lot of young people getting started in fly fishing,” he said, “which I love to see!”

Check out West Wall Outfitters at www.westwallflyshop.com.

94 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 95

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

CLOSE LOOK

Hobie MirageDrive Kayaks Range & Maneuverability

T

he crew from Southern Saltwater Fly Fishing Magazine recently got to put a couple of new models of Hobie fishing kayaks through their paces. The results of having the Passport 12 and Pro Angler 14 360 series boats on the water were quite impressive.

The Mirage pedal drive system offers several advantages over paddle models when it comes to fly casting. The first has to do with range. Using the pedal drive makes covering water much easier, thus expanding the range of your outing. Similarly, the ability to turn requires much less effort. Matching either of these vessels with the PowerPole Micro anchoring system that is available makes for excellent angling conditions.

98 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 99

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

CLOSE LOOK

In the case of the Pro Angler 360 series, the 360-degree swivel of the MirageDrive offers unparalleled agility for the boat to travel in any direction, including sideways. The Passport 12 model, when equipped with MirageDrive 180 pedal system, joins the Pro Angler models in offering a solution to the only major problem I had encountered in the past with the MirageDrive boats.

When you toss your fly back into the mangroves and got it hung, pedaling in to retrieve it was easy. On the other hand, getting back out could be a pain in the rear, so to speak.

With either the MirageDrive 180 or 360 set ups, you now have a “reverse� gear to allow easy backing out of such situations.

100 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 101

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

CLOSE LOOK

While it is easy for most anglers to stand up and cast from the Pro Angler boats, the Passport requires a pair of young, strong legs. Fortunately, both models can be set up with an H-Bar that allows seasoned anglers to pull themselves up, while then providing a leaning bar while casting.

The Pro Angler MirageDrive 360 comes in 12- and 14-foot lengths. Both offer wide, rock-solid standing platforms that are decked out with EVA traction pads to reduce noise. Additionally, the all-new Kick-Up fins automatically retract when you hit an underwater obstruction. Other features are the adjustable Vantage ST seat, dual steering controls, Guardian Retractable Transducer Shield and 12-sided Hobie H-Rail bars for mounting rod holders and electronics.

102 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 103

CLOSE LOOK Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

Southwest Florida - Fort Myers to Charlotte Harbor

CLOSE LOOK

The Mirage Passport comes in 10.5- and 12-foot sizes. It has a breathable mesh seat, EVA floor pads, along with cargo storage in both the front and back areas. An 8-inch Twist-n-Seal hatch also provides more below deck access.

The Passport 12 can accommodate fishfinders and Power-Pole Micro anchoring systems. Rounding out this model’s features are a steering system with stowable rudder, two rod holders, accessory track and under seat and gunnel tackle storage.

Truly a pair of ultimate fishing machines, these Hobie boats are set to revolutionize kayak angling in 2020. For more details visit www.hobie.com/fishing-kayaks/.

104 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 105

End of the Line

SandBar Tiki & Grille

W

ith a beachy vibe, the SandBar Tiki and Grille has you feeling like you're on vacation the moment you walk in. Sitting on a canal, this casual spot is loaded with atmosphere, from the thatched roofs of the tiki huts to the sand under the tables.

The atmosphere is inviting with outside seating on the water, near the bandstand, or off to the side in a quieter covered area. Fire-pits add a nice touch to the cozy and friendly vibe, particularly in the winter months.

Corn hole sets and other beach games are available for the young and the old to enjoy.

Live music is featured every day of the week with plenty of room for dancing under the tiki hut.

106 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

The Place to Be on Manasota Key Article & Photos

by Polly Dean

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 107

End of the Line The music and guests are lively with bands covering playlists covering classic and southern rock, country, beach music music and andmuch more.more.

Children will enjoy the music just as much as the adults.

Two Two outdoor bars outdoor are and serve barsinviting are inviting and an extensive serve up a variety variety of of margaritas and tropical concoctions. The craft beer list is more than generous with about 20 different brands and a full bar completes the offering of cocktail options. Happy Hour prices are available for patrons sitting at the bars.

The menu is extensive with a variety of sandwiches, burgers, of sandwiches, burgers, tacos, pulled pork and more. Seafood options include shrimp, grouper, oysters, crab cakes, fresh catch and fish & chips. Ribs, brisket French dip and hot dogs are just a few more of the many menu items.

108 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 109

End of the Line

Desserts such as key Key lime Limepie, pie,coconut Coconut creme creme pie pie and and pina Pina Colada cheesecake cheesecake colada are just a sampling of delicacies to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Come as you are, right off the beach or the water.

Whether telling water.Whether telling fish tales or opting to just sit back and enjoy a cold cocktail, while enjoying the fabulous weather, this will be your new go-to tiki bar and grille.

Check out at Check themthem out at www.sandbartikigrille.com

110 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l Fall 2019

Fall 2019 l www.sosaltwaterflyfishing.com

l 111