Winter weather still has its grip here in Colorado. We’re not complaining, there has been great fishing on our tailwaters, and winter weather keeps pressure to a minimum. But as we look out the window of Mystic Outdoors HQ at the snow, we can’t help but dream of warmer fly fishing adventures…

In fact, this is a great time of year to think about saltwater fly fishing opportunities; and not simply because those of us in snowy states are getting cabin fever. From skinny water redfish to tarpon migrations, this is the perfect time to plan a saltwater fishing getaway. 

Whether you’re planning a DIY adventure, or hiring a local guide to help you find some hard-fighting saltwater fish, any of these trips are sure to make lasting memories: 

Louisiana Redfish

This is a great time of year to make your way down to the Big Easy to chase redfish on the fly. Spring conditions can be great for finding good numbers of redfish in shallow, clear water. There are still plenty of big bull reds in the marshes this time of year too. But for numbers and quality shots at fish in skinny water, the spring season can be hard to beat.

Florida Tarpon 

If you’ve never done it, put a trip to Florida on your list. Jumping a tarpon is something every angler should experience at least once. The problem is, once is never enough. It may just become a lifelong addiction. 

Seasonal timing will vary based on different locations in south Florida or in the Keys. While some areas hold tarpon year-round, the best fishing of the year happens between March and July. The peak time to find big migratory tarpon is in May and June. Ask a friend or ask your local fly shop for guide recommendations. Don’t wait too long to experience this one.

Grand Slam in Mexico and Belize

At the southern end of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and continuing southward into Belize, you’ll find the world’s second-longest barrier reef. The islands and atolls along this reef create incredible fly fishing conditions. Expansive flats and miles of mangroves are home to schools of bonefish, permit and tarpon. Here’s your chance to land the grand slam.

In addition to being grand-slam territory, this can be a great destination for both new and experienced saltwater anglers. If you’re not ready to tear your hair out making casts at skittish permit, anglers can hone their saltwater skills casting to schools of tailing bonefish. But remember, it’s not “just” a bonefish – these unassuming creatures can tear line from your reel like nothing you’ve ever experienced.

There are ample opportunities for DIY fishing in both Mexico and Belize. However, if this is your first trip to the flats, we’d highly recommend starting with a highly reputable guide service. This will cut the learning curve tremendously and you’ll make the most out of your limited vacation time. Inquire at your local fly shop for first-hand recommendations.

Saltwater Fly Rod Recommendations

You can find our entire lineup of saltwater fly rods here. But for your next trip to the marsh, mangroves or flats, we can’t help but recommend our saltwater flagship, the Tremor Saltwater Fly Rod.

Our Tremor fly rods feel light in hand and are a pleasure to cast throughout a long day on the flats. They hold a ton of power, giving anglers the ability to punch flies into the wind and make accurate casts at cruising tarpon or tailing permit.

Using our proprietary carbon fiber blend and multi-modulus blank design, we’re able to add more carbon fiber material to the rod’s high-stress points. This creates a rod that’s lightweight and responsive, yet powerful and incredibly tough. 

Our Tremor Saltwater Fly Rods are available in 7-weight through 10-weight. Click here to learn more and find yours now.

By Ryan McSparran