Fly fishing for Reds - southeast Texas Area

[flyfisher]

I usually fly fish fresh water streams / rivers for trout.  Looking to do some flyfishing for Reds in local marsh areas etc.

Question: Can anyone recommend a rod / reel / line / fly set up for me.

Thanks

[tvc184]

I like an 8wt fast rod with a weight forward floating line (WF8F). I like the fast/stiff rod because of the wind usually present on the coast (which is why I like a WF line) and the fight in the reds. I have used 9wt and 10wt but the 8wt is more enjoyable to cast for long periods. I know that some people like a 9wt more because of the wind.

The reds and trout will hit various styles of deceivers and poppers. For poppers I like the short big mouth saltwater poppers. Flies with chain bead eyes like the Crystal Minnow will sink a bit faster if you want to get it a bit more under the surface. I also have some sinking crab flies and they look great but I usually catch reds more shallow than on the bottom. Part of the problem may be my patience and where I fish. Sight casting for reds that are tailing will be good with crab flies where you are actually looking at a specific red that is slow moving and trying to draw a strike.

As far as tackle, what are you looking to spend. As you know, you can get a decent casting outfit for $100 or spend $3,000. I like TFO for mid range tackle and that was the last rig I bought for red fishing but so much of it is preference and budget.

[flyfisher]

Thanks tvc - very helpful information. TFO rods have a lot to offer and I have always liked Lefty Kreh.  The BVK series looks reasonable.

Thanks again.

[tvc184]

[quote name="flyfisher" post="1353305" timestamp="1355195632"]
Thanks tvc - very helpful information. TFO rods have a lot to offer and I have always liked Lefty Kreh.  The BVK series looks reasonable.

Thanks again.
[/quote]

I watched Lefty tie flies at Orvis in Houston a few years ago and also went to the fly casting lessons that he was giving there. I had read his saltwater flyfishing book where he talks about casting like 100 feet just with the tip section. Then I witnessed it firsthand in about 15 mph winds. Unbelievable.

[flyfisher]

Thanks TVC - got a 9' TFO BVK 8wt with a BVK III reel for Christmas.  Feels great together.  Can't wait to try it out on some reds and trout in the flats.  Any recommendations on time of year and location for some good fishing in this area?