b'SALT FLY For anyone interested in getting intoREELSsaltwater fly fishing, one of the bestThe saying a reel is only there to places to start these days is the internet,hold the line can be heard every so from researching gear and local retailersoften from an avid trouties lips, in this to investigating likely locations it has allinstance it will fall short on many levels. you could ever need in one spot. ButA good saltwater fly reel will consider dont be fooled into thinking x amounta high-quality smooth drag, able to of computer time will equate to xwithstand long bulldogging runs and number of fish, this simply isnt the case.salty conditions without binding up There are also some great New Zealandunder pressure. Anodizing will stop the based Facebook pages, some goodunwanted pitting and corrosion on your starting points are Salt Fly Taurangaaluminium salt fly reel so make sure it is and Salt Fly Club NZ, these have regionof good quality also. specific info and feature a great deal of talent and experience to draw from. The chance to meet up with others for a fish is also of huge benefit and should not beRod Selectionoverlooked, especially for newcomers or those in unfamiliar surroundings. 0-4wt Ultra-light set up, suitable RODSfor smaller baitfish.A lot of saltwater fly fishing is done in6-8wt Good for snapper, trevally, conditions harsher than most freshwaterkahawai etc. environments. Faster action rods will load and shoot line better in the often- 8-10wt Perfect starting point for windy conditions you will face. Theymost. Capable of tackling kingfish also handle the bigger, bulkier flies thatand casting comfortably all day. are presented to the quicker moving10-12wt Heavier gear for stopping target species. For most situations, a 9ftbigger fish around structure and medium to fast action rod will suffice,reefs. follow the rough guide to rod weight specifications listed in the opposite box.12wt+ Offshore fly fishing, you There is some wiggle room but dont getdont cast these often, but when caught out taking on a big pelagic with ayou do its for the big stuff. 4wt and expect a miracle.FLY LINES, BACKING AND LEADERS An intermediate sink tip line will suit a high percentage of most fishing applications from fishing deeper channel edges with heavy flies through to surface splashing poppers. One with a floating running line is especially helpful for those wading on foot and for quicker, easier line pickups from the water. You will see your backing regularly so make sure its connection to the fly line is solid and The writer poses with a harbour king and usessmooth. A minimum of 150m of 50lb a Minn Kota for stealth in the shallow flats. braid is a good starting point for most 20FISHING IN GODZONE JUL/AUG 2021'