When most people think of saltwater fishing, they think of “deep sea” fishing. Big boats fishing far from shore in search of marlin, tuna, sailfish, grouper, snapper, and a variety of other species. Here in Florida, as well as other parts of the country, there is a whole other side to saltwater fishing. The many inshore salt waters throughout the state afford anglers the opportunity to catch big saltwater fish in shallow protected waters.

Flats fishing is a common term for fishing these shallow saltwater areas. The fishing is usually done from a small skiff which is pushed across the “flat” by using a long pole. This allows the anglers to get close to the spooky fish giving them a chance to see the fish before they cast to them. Wading or the use of a canoe or kayak is also popular.

Most Florida anglers use spinning or fly tackle sized to match the species they are targeting. For popular species such as the redfish (red drum) and spotted seatrout, medium action spinning rods with 10 pound braided line is sufficient. Redfish can reach sizes of over 50 inches and 35 pounds and are frequently caught in less than three feet of water. If you are chasing big tarpon, some sturdier gear is necessary. Tarpon can easily top 100 pounds and provide exciting aerial displays as they jump out of the water in an attempt to shake the hook. Other species targeted while flats fishing can include permit, bonefish, pompano, flounder, snook, jacks, and ladyfish.

Flats fishing in Florida is popular because it gives fishermen the chance to catch much larger fish than you can in fresh water while still being able to use small boats in protected waters. As a Central Florida Fishing Guide, most of my fishing is done within ten minutes of the boat ramp. Sea sickness is not an issue like it can be on offshore trips and the ride to the flats is short and comfortable. If you are considering doing some saltwater fishing while in Florida, give flats fishing a try!

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