“Grand Slam” saltwater flats fishing destinations such as Belize, Mexico, Cuba, and the Bahamas offer anglers the chance to chase and target bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, barracuda and other species in shallow water with fly fishing tackle. These are fast paced, harsh and demanding environments where being prepared with the right gear can allow you good shots at the fish of a lifetime. Practice makes perfect, but it all starts with the right tools for the job. How you prepare can make or break your trip.
Many of these destinations are extremely remote and don’t offer access to fly gear, backups or replacements so it falls on you to show up prepared. Take a look below at the Western Rivers 2026 Saltwater Gear Guide and as always; reach out to any one of our expert shop staff to help you gear up for your next saltwater fly fishing adventure!
The difference between a "Saltwater" fly rod versus a typical, or more "trout-y" fly rod is going to lie primarily in the action. Saltwater rods typically lean fast-ultra fast for powering heavier flies, through more variable conditions and fighting larger fish. Saltwater fly rods will also have upgraded hardware including (but not limited to) anodized reel seats, heavy wire snake guides and recoil stripping guides.
The typically regarded saltwater quiver would be an 7wt or 8wt for Bonefish, 9wt for Permit and 10wt or 11wt for Tarpon. Of course, these are suggestions and anglers may benefit from upsizing or downsizing per their target species depending upon the destination. For example; Bonefish in the Yucutan are smaller on average and may be more fun on a 7wt whereas the large bonefish that Hawaii is known for may be better suited for a 9wt.
Saltwater fly reels can be characterized by two specific features: heavy duty sealed drag systems and large diameters & arbors. Salty water can wreak havoc on gear so having a sealed drag system is imperative (as is washing everything in fresh water after use) and these fish actually pull line so you’ll need some solid brakes. Reel sizing can be ambiguous so you’ll want to size your reel to accommodate your fly line size as well as 200–400 yds. of quality backing.
Saltwater (tropical) fly lines have coatings that keep them from getting limp and rubbery in tropical water temperatures. The variety of available tapers can be narrowed down to the size of fly you’ll be casting, the wind and your skill set. Bonefish tapers will have a longer head for presenting flies delicately in shallow water and Permit lines may be have their weight more condensed for turning over heavier flies. Of course, the right line is always the one you can cast!
The appropriate leader & tippet is determined by the fish you’re targeting and the situation. Bonefish: 10’ 8-12lb. leaders- Permit: 10’ 16lb. or 20lb. - Tarpon: 60lb. bite with section of class or Straight shock depending on the approach. I always keep some wire leaders around for barracuda too!
Strong and comfortable footwear is a must while wading the flats as you’ll encounter coral, shells, and a myriad of other small sharp and spiky things. If fishing from a boat, something quick and easy to put on and chase fish on foot is a must.
Lightweight, breathable and quick drying clothing will keep you comfortable and the sun off of your skin on the flats. Humid and sunny environments can be harsh so it pays to remain covered. UPF rated clothing will keep you protected from the sun and having a lightweight and packable jacket will keep you protected when things turn.
As with any shallow water fishing endeavor, a quality pair of polarized sunglasses is a must. For durability and clarity; glass lenses are a bonus as salt will take a toll on lenses. Brown & Copper bases are preferred for sun and a mirrored finish will cut additional light transmission. Look for a rose or yellow base for low light and cloudy conditions. Having a pair of each on the boat with you allows you to stay nimble and spot fish in quickly changing conditions.
Arrive prepared with a variety of well-organized flies in multiple weights to make the most of any trip. We stock (in-store) a wide variety of bonefish, permit and tarpon flies and any one of our expert team members can help you build a selection of flies for your specific trip and destination.
